Just came back from our first river cruise. We had done many ocean cruise but this was a first for us and it was wonderful. We started our Grand European Tour in Amsterdam. As soon as we got to the ship we felt that we did not have a care in the world, the program Director, Edna, was in charge and would solve any problem. Our cabin was on the first floor, small window, but just beautiful. Of course the fact that the ship is new helps, but a lot of attention to details was already apparent : heated ceramic floor in the bathroom, lovely toiletries (L' Occitane), bottled water etc. I do not travel light and there was just enough space for my stuff.

We visited the ship and saw on the second floor the dining room, guest relation desk, concierge desk. On the third floor : lounge, terrace, library and snack area ( cookies, coffee and tea). The top deck was where you found the captain, terrace, herb garden, putting green and shuffleboard. It was very small compared to ocean liners but the show was the scenery on both sides of the ship !!

The food was excellent, the best I have ever had on a cruise ship, and it also reflected the region we visited. There was good wine and beer with lunch and dinner, and an extended choice of dishes every meal. For lunch, there was also a buffet in the lounge area, same for breakfast. One evening we had a buffet in the galley highlighting every Austrian specialty you can think of. Read more