My DH and I chose this cruise for the itinerary, and the ship. Both exceeded our expectations. Viking incudes a night comming and going which offered us a chance to explore both Bergen and Greenwich. Our original travel plans were disrupted by airline mechanical issues so we disconnected in Amsterdam. What a welcome surprise to see so many red coated Viking agents when we arrived in Bergen. We had not arranged ground transportation but Viking let us take one of their busses and handled our luggage for a $50.00 fee. We stopped at duty free and got a bottle of wine for the cruise.
The ship is everything and more. We loved our cabin 8012, DV1. It was a short walk up to the lounges and games on the sports deck. Down the hall was a back door to the Explorers Lounge. The theater was a quick elevator away, as well as the awesome spa. I had two wonderful massages and attended yoga twice. (sign up early) The reservation system is a bit cumbersome but we worked it out. We mostly ate at the World cafe which offered great service and a wide variety of choices. They had fresh king crab claws every night! This is the only cruise I felt like I did not pack on some extra weight because there were so many healthy alternatives. For example one night they had a table of heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella, balsamic and herbs and you got to choose your own tomatoes. Let me not forget Mamsens with the waffles, fresh berries and yummy brown Norwegian cheese. We had oatmeal and coffee on our balcony every morning. Can't say enough about the little touches, like birdsong in the public bathrooms. Elevators quick and noiseless, We did not buy the drink package and felt we came out about even. The mixed drinks were all under $10.00. The wine served ok. All coffee drinks, and water included which is huge.
We loved the cruise director Adam and the entertaining shows There was always seating available, caught a movie or two under the stars, went to some lectures and enjoyed the most excellent classical guitar player, pianist and string quartet. The tv system had many choices as far as movies, BBC offerings and tv series. Our excursions were varied between the ship's offering and some booked by ourselves. We booked a 4 hr private taxi donald@orkneytaxis.uk.com for Kirkwall. This was a good call as we missed the crowds and saw the remarkable neolithic sites and still had time for St Magnus and the Italian chapel. We took a ship Bergen tour with the gondola up the mountain, WOW what an introductory view.
Loved the location. Loved the big bathroom. Cabin attendants Mohammed and Miko were very good. Only cruise I have never had to ask for ice, it was always refreshed. I did laundry once, located on 6th floor. The directions for the machines were a bit confusing but it is free and included soap. Many folks complain about lack of storage but I brought a hanging storage for the back of the bathroom door and it helped. Not fond of the coffee maker, and it takes up space. Bathrobes and slippers included.