We joined the Mani at Basel, had an escorted tour around town before reaching the Mani. We had a lower deck room very adequate for our needs. Needed ear plugs to reduce the water noise, only to be expected at that level. Good shower room and plenty of wardrobe space huge television. Very attentive cabin steward.

We took part in most of the trips, unfortunately the Black Forest trip was marred by inclement weather (snow falling). My husband wanted to go on the forest trail but was turned back due to worries about the bridge considering we are used to such weather at home he was not concerned but no doubt the company has to be aware of wimps. I did not go to Marksberg castle as warned it was difficult terrain, borne out by husband on return who said I would not have managed.

The food on board was excellent, the chef came and explained each main meal (lovely Irishwoman) and demonstrated some recipes. The entertainment was fine but could have been more exciting. A magician would be good. The quiz was good. Visiting musicians superb. Worried by glass blower in case he set the ship on fire. Very pleased that there was no casino on board and very few opportunities to be parted from our cash, a distinct drawback on other cruises. There was only one child on board who was very well behaved and very pleasant considering she was in adult company all the time. We enjoyed the wine at meal times and the freedom to make coffee or hot drinks at any time during the day. The freedom of free seating in the restaurant was lovely and allowed us to mix with many different people from many countries. Many of the staff were from the Phillipines and I was surprised that there was no way on board that I could donate to an appeal to mitigate the suffering of the Islands after the devastating hurricanes which had destroyed so much of their infrastructure. I feel that this would have been a feather in the cap of the company if they had supported such an action. After all Saga and many of the airlines collect on behalf of charities, why not Viking? We were amazed at the efficiency of the disembarkation system full marks.