We had been on two Viking River Cruises before and wished to try the new Ocean cruises. Friends of ours raved about the Viking Ocean cruise they took so we booked it. The ship itself is the highlight. The food is fantastic and even includes lobster. The service is great. The included internet is wonderful. The spa with a snow room, a sauna, a salt water whirlpool, etc. is included and hardly ever used but we used it almost daily. The stateroom is typical but has a heated floor in the bathroom and a larger than usual shower. Dining in the two specialty restaurants is a special treat. We enjoyed the wine and beer service included at lunch and dinner. The evening entertainment is just okay although the Liar's Club sessions were not to be missed. As well, the evening when the cruise director, Gene Young, filled in for a sick staff member was memorable. He is a very talented singer. The major disappointment was the included shore excursions. We could have skipped the excursions in Belem, Manaus and Barbados and not missed much. However, the Boi Bumba Folkloric performance in Parintins is not to be missed. The frequent port lectures were another highlight, especially those by professor Morton and David Burgess. There are more Sea days than on most cruises, which may be a plus or a negative. Bottom line, we have booked another cruise on this same ship in Scandinavia are are looking forward to another great time on a special ship.