We love cruising so we can see many places, but stay in just one "hotel." We found ocean cruises to be rather hectic with crowded shows and activities on board to keep you busy when you just want to relax, and too much time where the view is just the ocean. This river cruise had exactly what WE were looking for. Comfortable, relaxing, always a lovely view, staff were friendly and helpful, the excursions were well-planned and interesting, food was plentiful and delicious and always plenty of wine flowing (so you always slept well! hahaha) There were some interesting activities and talks on the ship, even a glass blower! If you wanted to stay in your cabin, you could also hear the talks over your TV which was very convenient. Of course, it would have been fabulous to have 3-4 days at many of the stops, but Viking did a nice job of planning many small village excursions as well as the larger city excursions. The staff could not have been nicer, from the room steward to the dining staff... everyone felt like family by the time the cruise ended. We would love to take another river cruise soon.