We cruise a lot and this was our first VIking cruise. We have done two river cruises on AmaWaterways. While we like them, we like VIking more. Viking is a great deal for the money. We loved everything about it! The packaged airfare was unbelievably affordable. The Southeastern Europe itinerary was awesome. We did both a pre and post extension. The Viking hosts were incredible! From the hotel host, to the cruise director, and all the rest of the crew, they were terrific! We love the focus of the trip on cultural experiences. The home visits were very educational. The ship was really nice and the crew, service, and food were world class. The lower Danube is currently an unknown jewel. Our pre extension included Transylvania and the Black Sea. We visited Dracula's Castle! Going on a Viking ocean cruise in Feb 17! We're going to try a Viking smaller ocean ship in the Southern Mediterranean.