This was our third cruise with Viking, and met our high expectation in every way. My ratings of the various aspects of the experience reflect my views. The Viking longships are spectacular, and very well appointed and maintained. Our suite was very comfortable, and provided ample room to relax in privacy when we wanted it. The public areas are all very pleasant, and always kept immaculately clean and neat. Viking provides very good food and complimentary wines in its dining room, served by very friendly and attentive servers. The local guides for every shore excursion were consistently well-informed and entertaining.

I have learned to be careful in the dining room because the servers never say no, and the result can be more food on the table than I should eat. But it is all so good. Especially all roast meats, soups, and baked goods. The servers don't offer second portions, but if you want more of anything, it will appear very quickly.

I occasionally hear from someone who is considering a river cruise that the photos and videos on the Viking website seem like a fairy tale because everything is so beautiful and the people are so friendly. I tell them that what they see in the photos and videos is exactly what we have experienced on all three of our cruises with Viking. Some reviewers have said that the Viking staff members seem to be able to anticipate their needs, and I think this is true due to their excellent training and enthusiasm for their jobs.