My wife and I, and family, have taken a number of cruises on a number of different lines. These trips were chosen for a variety of reasons, including a family vacation for ten of us for our 50th anniversary. And so many factors came into play, such as opportunities for our grandkids to have appropriate activities. But for us alone, this cruise was clearly the best we have had and we have decided that the only cruise line for us at this point will be Viking.

First of all, the service is spectacular, not like a number of lines where the staff looks at the floor as you pass them by. This is not the case for Viking; everyone is very gracious and very present for you. The food is terrific--really good--and there is no extra charge for their two specialty restaurants. The lounges are comfortable and beautiful. There are NO art auctions, thank the Lord; there is no gambling: thank God; there are no incessant hall loud speakers blaring during the trip--thank Goodness. And while there are stores on the ship, no one is hawking jewelry or taking cuts from shopping at the ports. It is, as many of our on-board friends noted- the most civilized cruise they have ever taken. And it has been this for us.

While there are servers roaming for drink orders, they appear to be much less present and intrusive than other lines we have travelled on. While the entertainment is modest, it is enough. We would, however, appreciated more and better lectures around the areas we were visiting. Read more