We wanted to see Paris, Amsterdam, Strasbourg, Heidelberg and cruise down the Rhine. It was a perfect choice for us. We have take many ocean cruises but this was our 1st River Cruise. There were quite a few people on our river cruise who were also experience ocean cruisers on their 1st river cruise. We all felt the same: That this was a better experience because the service was outstanding and the smaller boat and fewer passengers made it really special. The excursions, the meals, the staff and the special experience of cruising down the river made this especially memorable.

We're not done taking ocean cruises but Viking and their river cruises are definitely in our future. The intimacy of the riverboat and special treatment by the staff really sets them apart. I think a Russian cruise from Moscow to St. Petersburg or a visit to Iceland & Norway might be next.