We took this cruise with a couple we met on a Viking River Cruise. Everything from the embarkation to the transfer back to the airport was run with professionalism and care. Embarkation was quick and easy and took about ten minutes. Our cabin was ready as promised and we enjoyed exploring the ship. Over the course of the cruise we ate at the two specialty restaurants as well as all the other dining locations, depending on what we were in the mood for. We especially enjoyed the pool grill for a quick lunch. Plan to eat at least once in the main dining room at a shared table. You will meet the most interesting people and have a wonderful evening. A couple of mornings when we had early excursions we ordered room service and it was delivered as ordered. The entertainment and enrichment programs gave us plenty to do in the evening, but our most memorable evenings were spent in the Explorer's Lounge watching the sunsets (which lasted for hours!) and being spoiled by the fabulous bartenders. Every day was a new adventure as we explored the different ports of the Baltic. We did most of the included excursions and a few optional ones. All but one of the guides was very informative and friendly, helping guide us when we wanted to explore more on our own. We loved the scenery and the history at every port. We appreciated the free shuttles Viking offered when the port wasn't walking distance to the town. We were especially impressed with how efficiently and organized they ran the departing for the excursions, especially in Berlin. Getting 700 people into groups, off the ship and onto a train without incident was amazing! The greeting we were given upon our return was one I will never forget!! This was one of the best vacations we have taken. We could have stayed another week! We have booked another river cruise and plan to book another ocean cruise soon.