We were excited about taking our first cruise on a river plus we wanted to learn more about Eastern Europe and see key cities such as Berlin & Prague. Our one disappointment was to find at the last minute there would not be a short cruise which we had expected, but no cruising due to low water on the Elbe. We were docked at Wittenberg for 4 days and then switched to the sister ship in Dresden for the final 3 days. It was a very efficient & smooth transition which was tied in with our touring.

Having said that, it was an absolutely fantastic trip! The ships Fontane & Schuman were very nice, clean ships. The staff personnel were so friendly and helpful, especially those on the Fontane. We cannot say enough good about them and Candy, our Program Director. They kept us laughing and had very high positive energy. Dining was very good and the entertainment was fine.

Viking shined with their shore excursions providing us with additional tours due to not cruising. Our added day in Leipzig was a definitely high point of the week. The tour guides overall were very high quality and so informative about the cities' and peoples' history. What particularly impressed us was some shared their personal life stories of what it was like to live under communist rule. Read more