We chose this cruise because of the itinerary. We wanted to go to Scotland, Ireland and Wales and this cruise offered it all. The best thing about the cruise was the staff. It was the most competent, caring, friendly and attentive staff we have ever experienced. Next, the ship is beautiful. The design, the furniture, the stateroom layout and all the appointments are very well done. We were very happy to have been upgraded to a penthouse veranda which is quite a bit larger than the deluxe veranda. The food was plentiful and very good. We loved the sushi. We actually preferred the Restaurant and the buffet to the specialty restaurants. The entertainment was perfect, and it was nice to see the performers around the ship. They were always out there right after the shows. It was just right and not over the top. We also enjoyed all the shore excursions, always wishing there were more time in each port. Judy did an amazing job with her organization of the shore excursions.

We were less impressed with the pre and post excursions. We did not realize that Viking farmed these out to other companies. The pre excursion in Oslo offered nothing except a hotel room and train ride. No effort was made to contact the participants and by the time we saw the Viking desk there was no reason to even check in. All they did was give info regarding tours that were available at an extra cost. The post excursion in Edinburgh at least offered some interesting excursions which were included. A meeting was held when we arrived and information was dispersed. Pick up and drop off at the airport was totally inadequated. Our pickup person was 15 minutes late and no one knew what to do. Our drop off was not near the entrance to the airport and we had to drag our luggage quite a ways. All in all, we would no consider any pre or post excursions in the future.