This was not what I expected. It is nothing how the commercials portray it. Our cruise was the last cruise of the season, and it was evident by some of the staffs behavior, they were done entertaining the masses. Cabin clean up was superb,.... Alise was very tentative and did an excellent job at meeting our cabin needs. Dining ....only one wait staff (Alex) was superior to his colleagues. He went above and beyond providing us with excellent service and making our dinning experience a memorable one. The food that was provided was plentiful, made to order and excellent. Beer and wine is also included with meals. Only dry white and red wines provided. One of our travelers is a sweet white wine drinker, not a big deal, but something to consider.

Beware! When the ship is docked you are tethered side by side to other Viking ships. Therefore if you have a room with a view you may be looking into another travelers room. Entertainment on the ship, most nights was a pianist. Last night in Budapest viking provided a string quartet and two opera singers, whom were excellent. Some of the ports were better than others, not enough time at some ports.

Shore excursions and guides were difficult to understand and sometimes boring to listen to. You had to wait until the end of the shore excursion for the guide to tell you, you had 45 minutes of free time and where to meet the bus. They should offer this up front before the walking tours begin, should one want to break away from the group to do their own thing for the 3 or 4 hour duration instead of being stuck with the group. It should be optional. Victoria was our cruise director kudos to her for what she does, give this girl a raise. I would not do another river cruise nor would I recommend one.