The ship is new the crew are great the room is bigger than my hotel rooms in Stockholm and Bergen. They don't have art auctions, photographers at every turn or watch displays all over the public areas. They don't lure you with discounts into Diamonds International while on shore. They don't push beverage packages (you can order a premium package in advance if you want). There is no extra charge for specialty restaurants. My room - Jr. Suite - included laundry service. The one draw back here is that there is one lounge with nightly music which charges for drinks even if you have the drink package. The entertainment was very good.

One note about the crew. They have said that other cruise lines makes them pay for their uniforms and some other things which makes them work for free for the first two months. Viking does not charge for their uniforms and they are paid from the first day with no deductions. That makes the crew very happy.

We were met at the dock by several crew members. They took all of our baggage including carry on items right from the taxi and delivered it all to our room. Check-in was very quick with no cue. Just inside the ship we were greeted with a glasses of champagne and lively music from a live band.