I had cruised only on large ships before and vowed never to cruise again. I detested the crowds, the noise, the hard sell of 'art', photography, etc. I detested the noisy silly games, music so loud that I couldn't stay in pool area, no quiet spots for conversation or reading and most of all the crowds. A friend told me about Viking and since I wanted to sail the Norwegian fiords, I booked. It was a revelation...no crowds, plenty of quiet lovely spots to converse, read or simply contemplate the sea. There were comfortable area to have drinks, view the sea, listen to lovely music especially a classical guitarist. A small shop with necessities and a few luxuries but no 'selling'. The spa was lovely. I did not go to any of the non included speciality restaurants as the included restaurant and the buffet were lovely. There is one included excursion at every port. They were pretty basic but gave an overview. I did about 11/2 and 1/2 of included vs purchased. All were excellent. The highlight was kayaking (not included) in a fiord!

I ad one of the less expensive staterooms. It was spacious and lovely, a very nice balcony and a large wonderfully appointed bathroom. The crew starting with room stewards, waiters, chefs, everyone were excellent. Not a single glitch!

I liked it so much that while on board I booked a Viking cruise to Australia!