This was our fifth Viking Cruise. Two River Cruises and three Ocean Cruises. Viking has great ships, both river and ocean. The Viking crews are all excellent: well-trained, knowledgeable, friendly, professional, always willing to go the extra mile to keep guests happy. The food is superb, presentation, variety and absolutely taste, by far the best cruise line food we have ever enjoyed. The restaurants are nicely furnished and never so crowded that seating is unavailable (try saying that on Royal Caribbean, Carnival, or even Celebrity). Most excursions are included, a rarity in the cruise line industry. Additionally, Viking always ensures guides are English speaking, extremely knowledgeable and very entertaining. Beer, wine and soda are all included complimentary, not something you find on most other cruise lines. Viking provides free bottled water on all excursions, again something terribly missing on other cruise lines. Viking never pressures guests to purchase photos or drink packages, a real annoyance on other ships. Basically, Viking charges a little more upfront but then doesn't "nickle and dime" passengers for things that should be included. If you want an above average cruise experience, give Viking a try. I am sure you will be pleasantly surprised at how wonderful luxury cruising can be.