This was our first river cruise and a disappointment after having experienced ocean cruises with Regent and Silver-sea. First impression upon arrival was that the boat appeared to be an over-sized houseboat. Our veranda suite was clean and well appointed, but was small and more cramped than suites we were used to on ocean cruises. The lounge area was the meeting place each day for briefings on dinner and the next days schedule of activity. You had to arrive early to get a good seat and folding chairs were brought in to accommodate the 180+ passengers on board. The dining area was adequate and very nice. Open seating was available but all tables seated six or more people. We prefer to have multiple dinning options which include a "romantic dinner for two". The food was average.The complimentary wines were the highlight of the dining experience. On a positive note, Viking did an excellent job with handling transfers and transportation. Michael the cruise director was excellent and perfect for the job. The "Paris at night" excursion is a must do as well as the "Normandy beaches and memorial".