We chose this - and the follow-on cruise from Rome back to Barcelona - to (1) try out Viking's sea-going ship, and (2) see some new-to-us ports, particularly those in the southern Mediterranean/North Africa.

We especially enjoyed the fresh design and décor, and the arrangement in the dining areas that avoided the mob scenes more typical on cruise ships. I think we were sailing at less than capacity anyway the first week, but nonetheless all the public areas felt uncrowded and intimate, much like a smaller ship.

The food and service was quite good, although I think the quality of food on Oceania is a step above. We appreciated the low-key, quiet vibe of the cruise: no casino, no art gallery, no constant sales pitch, no extraneous announcements. The entertainment was OK, and the staff was consistently polite and helpful. It was distracting to have the port talks scheduled so close to dinner. We were more interested in where we were going and what we were going to see on the cruise than watching some so-so song and dance. Read more