My husband and I had never, ever been on a cruise before. We wanted a river cruise which would offer the two of us a leisurely, romantic and "educational" experience. We chose a Viking Rhine Getaway river cruise. I have to say, for our first cruise ever, what a way to go!!

The entire ship was designed in modern Nordic style with multiple spaces for relaxing, including a lounge, library, dining room, and Aquavit Terrace in the bow for casual European style breakfasts and lunches. We were on the highest stateroom level, and the ship's movement was smooth and rather quiet. On each level, there was a counter area serving cookies, pastries, water, and multiple types of delicious hot beverages from an automated machine. I had my daily fix of madelines and hot chocolate! The top level had the wheelhouse, outdoor carpeting for sure footing, which I appreciated, tables, chairs, chaises longues, a walking track, even an herb garden.

We took advantage of the choice in dining. We could choose to eat in the Aquavit Terrace, where the entire wall of glass doors was opened during the day, or the dining room which did not seem crowded despite the number of staff and passengers. There was one general seating with no preassigned table or companions or formal dress code. The food was incredible, delicious, varied, and planned around the geographic location of the tour. We enjoyed breakfasts on the terrace where we enjoyed the passing sights as we ate. I enjoyed the more relaxed nature of the dining experience as opposed to other cruises I have only heard about. The only thing I didn't enjoy about the dining was one evening when strolling musicians played accordion and violin while we ate. The music was a little too intrusive and that combined with the noise of conversation made for a rather loud evening. Read more