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We embarked in Budapest. Since we had previously sailed on the Odyssey's sister ship, the River Explorer, and coincidentally, were assigned the same cabin, we were well familiar with the ship. The cabin, at 150 square feet, feels larger. The beds, two narrow single beds pushed together to make a queen, were more than comfortable for this 300 pounder and his normal-size wife. There was more than enough storage space for our overpacked suitcases, and the sliding doors brought in the sights and sounds, as well as the breezes, of the passing river.
The tours, all included, were comprehensive, paced for older travelers, but with lots of walking, and lots to see. Heidelburg Castle, Schonbrunn Palace and a concert just for us at the Kursalon, a venue where Johann Strauss performed (Vienna), Siegfried's Misikabinet (Rudesheim), and all the cathedrals you'd want to visit.
The food was excellent, with a sumptuous buffet breakfast and a served lunch and dinner every day. Dinners included a choice of hot and cold soup, salad, three entrees, and three desserts; chicken and steak were also available every night. Wine was served with dinner twice, and there were two or three cocktail parties; otherwise, drinks were a la carte, but at reasonable prices. Coffee, espresso and cappuccino were available 24 hours.
On two excursions, we had lunch in port, but were given 30 Euros per person to spend anyplace we chose. With four program managers/tour guides per 40 passengers, we had personalized service; all four seemed to know everyone's name.
This was our sixth Vantage trip, and we have just booked our seventh - a Hurtigruten Ferry trip north of the Arctic Circle in February. This cruise will include 34 ports in 13 days - twice!
Lest you wonder, I do not work for Vantage, but I am so happy with their travel managers on their tours, that I love to rave about them.
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