We chose this cruise because we had been on a Viking River cruise and loved it so we wanted to experience the small ocean ship. We had been on several of the larger ships (Royal Caribbean, etc.) and wanted a smaller, more intimate ship. The Viking Sea fit the bill. It was large enough to have many amenities including two specialty restaurants in addition to the main dining room, a full service spa, fitness center and theater but still felt intimate. The selection and quality of food in the restaurant was perhaps the best that we have ever experienced.The ship itself was beautiful, with an understated Scandinavian style that we loved. We appreciated the all inclusive aspect of the cruise, with at least one excursion at each port included as well as the beer and wine at lunch and dinner (and they weren't stingy with either!). The ports were all very interesting-we loved Copenhagen, Stockholm and St. Petersburg especially. The cruise was 15 days and we didn't want it to end. Looking forward to another for sure!