Our third ocean cruise. We had sailed on two previous Viking River Cruises (Russia and Christmas Markets on the Danube) so were familiar with Viking as a company. As soon as this ship was announced, we booked the Viking Homelands cruise. It did not disappoint. The ship is beautiful!. Unlike the big ships like Diamond Princess, you feel more at home on this ship. Many small cozy areas from the living room to the explorers lounge and the wintergarden where you can curl up and read a book or join in some casual socializing. I think Viking nailed it on what their customers want - we are an older, more traveled group interested in where we are going rather than the casinos and night life. This ship is not for the "party" crowd or small kids.

The crew was great. Even in the World Cafe on Deck 7, the chefs prepare the food in front of you so they could handle special requests and address food allergies for us. There were always lines at the Pool Grill which had really good burgers, dogs, and Reuben sandwiches as well as a salad bar. Our cabin stewards were always on top of things and were there to help. We even got the steward servicing the mini-bar to leave only what we drink, not the usual assortment.

We were in a Penthouse Junior Suite on Deck 7 and it was quite and spacious and very close to the Explorer Lounge, WIntergarden, and World Cafe. The spa was very nice- you can even get a full sauna with snow if you wish. The spa was very popular on sea days. Read more