We loved our Viking cruise. We have cruised with a number of cruise lines on both ocean liners and small ships but this was our best experience so far. We loved the casual attitude and the friendliness of the staff and fellow passengers. We sailed from Budapest to Passau on the Danube. We took the optional pre-cruise extension in Budapest. We were met at the Budapest airport and the two of us were given a taxi ride to our hotel with a driver who pointed out the sights along the way. The hotel had perfect location in the Castle District. Our room had a "picture-postcard" view of the Fisherman's Bastion, the Danube and the city. It was a very convenient location for sightseeing on our own. The Viking concierge in the hotel lobby was helpful. The hotel restaurant was good. We were impressed by the fact that foods were labeled with any common allergens they contained. This was a big help since my daughter has food allergies. On sailing day we were transported from the hotel to our longboat.

Embarkation and disembarkation was easy since there were fewer than 200 passengers. We enjoyed our fellow passengers. They all seemed to be experienced travelers who were on the cruise to absorb as much of the local culture as possible. It was interesting to talk with them about other excursions that they took if there different from ours and about other cruises they had taken.

Entertainment was limited to music in the lounge in the evenings but every day before dinner there was an interesting presentation on where we were going the next day. Service was excellent. The staff quickly learned our preferences. We were especially impressed with the maitre d' and chef who met daily with my daughter to determine what foods would be safe for her to eat. If there was nothing suitable on the menu something was prepared especially for her. The food was good but not gourmet. Because of the small number of passengers the menu selections were limited but if anyone did not what was offered he could always order some items like steak that were always available. The inclusion of unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks with meals was cost-saving. Read more