The Viking Sea was our choice because it is an all balcony ship, compact in size ship (around 900+ passengers) and has lots of included features that cost extra on other cruise lines. Having 24/7 assess to espresso - with an espresso maker right in our cabin was a big plus. No extra charges for wine, beer, or any other drinks with meals. A reasonably high quality shore excursion in every port also a big plus. With only one exception (because the particular guide we had was a dud) all the included shore excursions were excellent. Food was best we have ever had on a cruise (we have cruised about 20 times on at least 3 other competitive cruise lines). Even the specialty restaurants are not charged extra. The Buffet food was spectacular - better than what most cruises we have been on serve even in their dining rooms. Entertainment was pretty high-brow and might not be to everyone's taste, but since we like classical music and nostalgic pops - we were happy. There is also no casino (which was fine with us). Been previously on a Viking river cruise, but this was our first sea cruise with Viking - would certainly be happy to do more in the future.