We were herded like sheep along with hundreds of other tourists into the St. Stephan's church in Passau- then the doors were locked and the BOOM - the organ began to play. Afterward our tour guide said that it was standard to lock all doors during public events and services. I found it inexcusable that it this age of terrorists plots that more than 500 individuals would be locked into a church with no ready access out or in by police or firemen and that the lock-up would not be disclosed by our Cruise Program Director. What is Viking thinking ?

The last two days of our river cruise became a bus trip as the vessel is too TALL to pass under bridges during the rains during the spring river flow. Other than spending hours in coaches, they were well organized. The crew went out of their way to accommodate their guests - one desk clerk even accompanied me to the local train station to inquire about train schedules! The food was similar to what one would expect at a Golden Corral buffet but served as plated entrees. After a full day and Cruise Directors daily review we found that the two hour plus dinner service was too long and took the majority of our meals in their casual Aquavit deck where the food can only be rated as fair. .

Drip, drip, Tip,Tip. Although beverages including beer and wine are served during meals as part of an all-inclusive experience, Viking requests that everyone receives tips including the bus drivers, local guides, and even the Program Director which we would expect to be on competitive salary and would not have to demean herself by a personal plea for tips. Read more