We loved the two river cruises we took with Vikilng, and were looking forward to this ocean cruise. And mostly it fulfilled our expectations. But there were a few problems that should not happen on any cruise, much less one with a reputation as stellar as Viking. The good was very good. Cabins are excellent, great bathrooms (especially the heated floors, which feel good for feet and helps hand washing to dry quickly), nice sized balconies with comfortable chairs. Beds are great, pillows fascinating - soft, yet can be squished into all kinds of wonderful shapes. Lots of plugs, both USB, American, and European - didn't need our power strip that we always travel with. Beware, the outlet in the bathroom is American, but does not accept polarized plugs (my waterpik wouldn't work). The TV is the only real drawback in the room - the menus are a bit confusing (especially finding the bridge cam and reruns of ship talks). And it doesn't swivel, so all but impossible to see from the desk area. Small fridge, with some snacks and drinks included, and may be replenished depending on the type of room. Public spaces are gorgeous, with plenty of seating for all, some in noisy areas, and a few quiet areas (on deck and in Wintergarden) for those who don't enjoy a lot of background noise. Public bathrooms are plentiful and beautifully clean, there is a walking jogging deck on 2, and a walking area on the top of the ship on the sports deck.There is a free laundry on each floor, which we used once - after a gentleman took out my laundry to wash his pair of pants, I went back to doing laundry in the sink. Watching your laundry during a cruise is not my idea of a vacation. There is a reasonable laundry and dry cleaning service you can also use on board.

Our major problems were in the food areas. Food was generally OK, not great. Pastas were great, as were much of the meat. Desserts were generally pretty and tiny, but little flavor. Same breads every day, all ok, but not much flavor. It would have been nice to have a bread of the day. Soups were generally poor, which was a huge disappointment after loving all the soups on the river cruises. Ice cream and smoothies were a big hit.

Mamsen's in the Explorer's Lounge was great, but needs a better pick up system on crowded days. The special Norwegian waffles take a few minutes to make, and someone who didn't know the system grabbed ours one day. They have great pastries up there too, much better than any of the other restaurants. Afternoons/evenings bring great open faced sandwiches and cakes. Read more