We chose this cruise after taking several Viking River Cruises, all of which were absolutely wonderful. Like the river cruises, Viking Ocean gives great value for the money. Wine and beer is available with all meals, so any drinking along those lines is virtually free from 11 am until 2 pm! In addition, the cocktails are very reasonably priced -- no need to upgrade or buy a drink package.
Food on Viking is EXCEPTIONAL. There is really no need to book up to get access to the specialty restaurants. The main restaurant is magnificent, with quality cold water Lobster, Filet Mignon and high end cuisine offerings. If the tours run long and you don't feel like dressing, the buffet restaurant can't be beat. They even offer cracked crab and boiled shrimp every night. And yes, you get beer or wine for free at the buffet.
So why did I give the cruise a 4 and not a 5. Actually if 3.5 were available, I would have chosen that. My disappointment with Viking was the way they handle the tours. On other cruise ships, if I was particularly interested in a tour, I could book it when I booked the cruise. With Viking, excursion booking is done in scaled fashion based on the level of cabin for which you are paying. Consequently, I ended up booking a cruise in order to see my family home in Palermo only to find out that the tour was fully booked before I had a chance to sign up. On the ship, I was able to get a spot, but --- very needless stress.
A bit narrow at the foot of the bed and limited storage. Awkward placement of the hanging clothes right next to one side of the bed -- only one person can access at a time.
Chose to take the shuttle and view the cathedral on our own. Bought tickets which included an audio tour -- exceptionally pleasant. Glad I didn't take the included tour which only spent a short time in the church.
Wanted to spend more time in the exceptional Central Market. Would go there on my own next time and skip the included tour