First river cruise. - everything was efficient, well-organized, great staff, interesting on-board activities (silk industry / wine tasting / piano player in lounge - very talented and amiable) inspiring excursions with knowledgeable tour guides. Very pleasant to have only about 180 fellow travellers, a more personal experience. I would definitely cruise with Viking again.

We were made welcome even before boarding - as we walked toward the ship, staff came to take our baggage. Attention to detail included a special rich chocolate drink on our return to the ship after a chilly day on shore; another day we were treated to a local aperitif; on another day, we were presented with a Provençal lunch comprised of various cheeses, several entrees including ratatouille, many desserts including eclairs, and tables set with Provençal tablecloths (and staff dressed in French fashion). Wines and beers were provided in abundance at lunches and dinners; table staff were friendly and helpful and did their best to enrich our dining experiences - getting to know these people certainly added to our cruise experience.