Being I was alone, I wanted a smaller ship with a smaller number of passengers. Viking had the European Cruise I wanted & a the ship size, plus the accomodations were excellent. The food, service people and the planned port & excursion trips worked beautifully. I would most certainly plan another river cruise with Viking. The seating arrangement worked out well for me. I got to sit with different guests at the smaller table of 6 and got to know people quicker. The staff was more than helpful when I lost contact with my phone or i-pad to keep in touch with my family. Two couples I met , more or less took me under their wing because this was my first cruise and they were well traveled. From not knowing anyone on the first night to becoming good friends before the trip ended was a wonderful experience!
The staff all spoke english and went out of their way to be helpful.