We decided this Viking Cruise would be an excellent venue for celebrating 50 years of marriage. We also added a 2-day pre-extension in Budapest to the beginning of our cruise.
From the moment we landed in Hungary, Viking staff assisted and guided our travels deftly. During our stay at the Budapest Hilton, Viking staff informed us of daily excursions and were helpful in making dinner reservations in the area. Once aboard the Viking Var, the crew and staff from the Captain to the Cabin Steward were eager to communicate how we could optimize our time in each port.
The meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) were superb in every venue on the ship. We were astonished that by the second day of our trip wait staff and servers not only knew us by name; but also recollected our cocktail of choice! Every one throughout the dining experience was attentive to every person at our tables, and very willing to offer details about the local dishes. By the final days of our experience, they could also advise which we would find enjoyable and those we probably would not care to sample.
Our cabin was delightful. With the suite we had room to breathe and to entertain a friend who made the journey with us, We were supplied with fresh water and fruit each morning. Our suite was truly our home away from home for the duration of our river cruise. Sailing on the river through the night was very tranquil and relaxing. While this was our first "river" cruise, we determined it would not be our last.