Chose Viking because the ship was smaller than other ocean going cruise ships. The ship was spectacular. I feel like Viking really "went to school" on the design of their ships. All cabins with balconies! All cabins with comfortable bathrooms, with glass shower stalls with plenty of room! Common areas that invited you to sit down and listen to the classical trio, or a pianist, or the the guitarist. Food, eating areas and staff that were 5 star for sure. Shows were so much fun - ABBA, The Beatles salute of The Long Road. Not a huge cast but very talented and friendly. The lecturers on board were an added attraction - a prof from Berkeley, a historian from the Isle of Man, an astronomer and a retired British commodore - definitely something for every passenger,

Took the pre-trip to Iceland which was fascinating with an excellent local guide, great hotel accommodations and a friendly small group of fellow travelers.

We especially enjoyed the optional shore excursions, after discovering that included panoramic tours really didn't fit our style of travel. Guest Services were very cooperative in helping us find excursions which better fit our style. Seeing the coastal towns of Denmark, traveling to the interior of Poland to visit Malbork Castle which dated to 1200 were favorites. Read more