We had a great time on this cruise. Viking has small boats - only holding up to 190 passengers which is perfect for this type of cruising. There was a new port every day and the shore excursions were led by someone who lived in the immediate area. We each had our own listening device so there was never a problem trying to hear what the tour guide was saying. They also provided bottled water for each excursion. The ship was clean and our room was in tip-top shape. The crew was always friendly and professional. There were two locations from which to choose for breakfast, lunch and dinner - you could have a light meal on the Aquivit Terrace or eat in the dining room. Either way the food was very good and plentiful. Wine (white or red) was served with both lunch and dinner. There was a coffee/tea station (with cookies/treats) on each level of the ship.that was always well stocked. Ben, our Program Director was a hoot. He was always available to assist and his English accent added a bit of flair to the various games and entertainment activities that were available.

I first saw a Viking advertisement on PBS. A Viking longboat sailing through the Wachau Valley. I thought that it was a nice bit of photoshop but that is EXACTLY what the valley looks like. Stunningly beautiful with the ship serenely floating down the river, with castles and quaint towns on either side. And no, this was not the wine talking. The trip was very relaxing. The scenery gorgeous. You could sit on the deck and watch the world go by, all the while being waited on by Viking staff.

Was everything perfect? Well no, it was way, way too hot, and of course we prepared for 60 degree weather per my reviews of weather predictions for the time of year. And some off the venues had way too many tourists. But, as my husband pointed out - the tourists would have been there anyway - whether we planned the trip ourselves or had Viking take care of transportation and ticket purchasing. So let Viking do the work for you. It is well worth the money.