I had previously taken a Viking River Cruise and loved it. I like smaller ships (previously having sailed many times on the Star Clippers, and a couple of times on the Windstar Line). I was a little worried that 900 passengers would be too big for our tastes. I was wrong. It never ever felt like 900 passengers. The public spaces are well designed and there were always plenty of places to hang out without feeling crowded. Loved the Explorer Bar. On the whole, loved the service. The only complaint I would make is about the wine service which was definitely lacking. We bought the silver beverage package to upgrade the wine choices, but in the main dining room and in the World Café it was difficult to get a wine list and they just seemed interested in pouring the included wine. The specialty restaurants did have good and upgraded choices with a wine steward who knew what he was doing.

Loved Viking Ocean Cruises. Already booked our next one.