We loved the ambiance of this new 2017 ship, which included the many locations for quiet reading or conversation, the classical music, the entertainment options, the excellent service, the small size of the ship (about 950 passengers), the absence of a casino and children, the many educational lectures, the excellent food and restaurant options, the self-service laundromat on each deck, the afternoon tea in the relaxing Wintergarden, the free hot pool and snow room in the spa, and the free unlimited wi-fi.

The main restaurant was divided into smaller "rooms," so it was quieter than a large open space. The food choices were delightful. When we wanted a quick meal, we used the World Cafe. We didn't try the room service.

Viking offered a free excursion at every port, but we often chose a different excursion that cost money. We were very happy with the included tour to the Altun Ha Mayan ruins in Belize, the paid Gumbalimba Park on Roatan Island off Honduras, the included canal cruise near Tortuguero in Costa Rica, the paid rainforest and aerial tram tour in Panama, the paid gentle river rafting on a bamboo raft in Jamaica, and the paid tour to pet the stingrays in waist-deep water in the Caymans. The paid tour of Cartegena wasn't exactly as described because of the guide. We liked going through the Panama Canal locks and floating on Gatun Lake. Read more