Until 2015, having never experienced either cruising or a crossing with a major company, I was hesitant to try. Because of friends, we first signed on for a crossing in June 2015 on the QE2, which was an excellent experience; however, this created doubt about how good could a river cruise be? But, because of other friends, we signed on for the Rhone River cruise this past October. Our week was beyond expectations, from the moment we boarded the SS Catherine in Lyon to our disembarkation in Avignon a week later. Everything, the ship which was practically brand new and maintained as she had been delivered on her first day, our very nicely appointed cabin, the crew who was professional and very attentive, the excellent meals, the options for entertainment, etc, were all perfect. The only negative was that it came to an end.