We chose this cruise for three reasons: first, my mom had always wanted to do a river cruise, second, the reviews for Viking were very good,and third, the itinerary was what we were looking for. We started in Prague with the 3 day extension and stayed at the Sheraton. The pick up at the airport was seamless, the concierge specific to Viking in our hotel was excellent. The tours in Prague were informative and our guide was very knowledgeable and entertaining. This was easily the best part of the whole experience. Embarkation was super easy, and our room was neat, clean and ready for us. So far so good. Our first meal was not so great. Three of the ten of us had tough grisly meat, my mom's was way over cooked. I'm not that picky about food, but it just wasn't great. Throughout the week, we sat at the same table every night. The server didn't even try to learn our names, didn't pull out our chairs for us (I would have especially expected this for my 80 year old mother), never refilled my water glass without being asked, and just generally didn't anticipate our needs. All week long the food was just ok; I would have expected better for the ratings the ship received and for there only being around 170 passengers. Also, the deserts were not even worth ordering and if you like fresh fruit or good salads, good luck. Also, once it was nine or so, there was no food to be found anywhere on the boat. You had to learn quickly to take something back to your cabin if you wanted any evening snacks.

Speaking of the cabins, The beds, linens, pillows, showers and TV were great. The service was just so-so. The first night the AC wasn't working and we only had heavy feather comforters. I requested a sheet which they brought the next day but didn't bother to put it on the bed. Also, we were out of TP in our cabin for 2 days-certainly something the room steward should have been attentive to without having to request it. One day I had a migraine so I stayed in bed until noon. When I left, I directly asked the steward to go ahead and make up our room. She said ok but when we returned around 5, nothing had been done. To me, these kind of things just are not first class. Also, the first 2 nights there was a sewer smell.

Entertainment. The staff brought on some fun entertainment that featured local dancers, singers and opera singers; all were well presented and very good. However, on the other nights, there was nothing. I mean, set up some card or board games, bridge, rummy, etc. Have a Bingo night, have a karaoke night, etc. I'm not looking for Vegas style shows, just something fun to do for the crowd that is under 60 and doesn't go to bed by 9. Read more