Having conducted 2 Viking River Cruises we were looking forward to our first Ocean Cruise of any sort and were not disappointed. Initially concerned when we read reviews of the early cruises any problems had been sorted by the time our cruise took place. Staff were friendly and approachable; food was excellent and so much choice; tours were well planned and ran smoothly with disembarkation and embarkation, even by boat, well timed and executed as long as people turned up at the times specified and did not try to go on tours earlier than they were supposed to!

The only downside about the tours is that if you choose to go on one of the paid tours you receive no compensation for the included tour you did not take and this can work out expensive. That said the included tours were generally fine for getting a feel for the places visited and are similar in style to those included in River Cruise tours.

Cabins are a good size and the veranda is lovely even in the autumn weather. Bathroom a good size and storage is good. Public areas have enough seating and the 3 pools and SPA are just great. Despite autumn we ate breakfast and lunch outside every day (though some found it cold) and had no problem dining in the evening at the times we wanted. Unlike river cruise you eat at a time that is good for you and can eat as a couple or join in with others if you wish. Read more