The all-inclusive price makes sailing aboard a Viking ship or riverboat that much more enjoyable. One does not have to worry about how much more a meal or activity or entertainment would cost. The ship is constantly kept in immaculate condition inside and out. It was good to see our ship looking to clean and sharp when she was docked next to another cruise ship. Because the ship is not packed with passengers, it is very easy to relax anywhere onboard. All in all, there is always room to breathe, relax, and enjoy. Security is taken seriously upon embarking and disembarking. However, their security checkpoint is handled professionally, smoothly, and without fuss by ship's personnel.

Shore excursions offer a general overview of the ports of call. However, if the bus ride would be longer than 30 minutes, the destination ought to be considered worth the trip. A photography scavenger hunt would make walking around a small town that much more interesting. Guests would be given a list of items or ideas to photograph. Photos could then be shared at the Atrium, similar to the Munch Moments. A brief photography workshop on board would offer great tips on how to take that great shot. Or a dine-around where guests would visit different restaurants for their appetizers, entrees, and dessert. I, personally, like to try the local flavor at each port of call. Any hands-on activity that a guest could participate in would be much more rewarding than arriving at a spot and just listening and watching.

How about giving an ukulele workshop at the start of the cruise? Ukuleles are inexpensive. Guests could borrow an uke for the duration of the trip. Or if they're informed ahead of time, they might bring their own. Guests could get together with a ship's entertainer to learn a song each day and practice in the privacy of their cabin. Then an uke jam session with a sing-along could be held close to the end of the cruise as part of the musical entertainment. A good example of guests singing along was at the last cruise when our cruise director, Aaron Syfert, sang some favorite songs.