We wanted to experience Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands without continually unpacking and repacking. Once we landed in Zurich, we never had to handle our luggage in going from one location to another, including pre- and post- river journey stays. So, this trip was perfect in that respect. There was a wonderful, insightful excursion to Colmar, Strasbourg was charming and the Heidelberg visit was fun. I wanted to return to Heidelberg after 50 years when I was stationed there in the US Army. The ship was a perfect size for this cruise, had great amenities and was sparklingly clean. The food on board was well prepared and well planned as to specific local cuisine. The onboard staff was extraordinarily helpful and knowledgeable. Our pre-trip extension in Lucerne was a delight, with local Viking staff being most helpful, Ms. Radke especially. The post-trip extension in Amsterdam was not quite as interesting as Lucerne but the museums made up for it.