The special-ness of Viking began before we even set foot on the ship. Because of a death in the family, we called to see if we could board the second day when the ship was still in Puerto Rico. It was not only allowed, but a Viking rep arranged for a new flight and someone met us in baggage claim, took our bags outside to the taxi and loaded them for us, and sent us off with the taxi driver to our ship. This was above and beyond and we will never forget Viking's kindness.

Although we had been to the U.S. Virgin Islands on a previous cruise, we hadn't been to the other islands and wanted to see more! The cruise was seamless--our captain even commented at the Farewell event that he had never seen such calm seas as we had for the entire trip. The islands have similarities, but they also have differences. We (2 couples) enjoyed all the "included" excursions on open-air buses (younger people might like more active excursions but we are heading toward 80 now) and they gave a great overview of the area without requiring a lot of walking. We did an extra excursion in St. Kitts, on the historic scenic railway, and saw some really beautiful country from the open-air train cars. Just gorgeous.

This was our first Viking ocean cruise. We took the Viking river cruise down the Rhine River a couple of years ago and that's what introduced us to the Viking style. The ocean cruising did not disappoint... I can't believe how perfect everything was. Our Deluxe Veranda cabin was sleek and beautiful and cozy, I loved having a balcony with table & chairs, the bathroom in the cabin was gorgeous and roomy, the special touches, like a bottle of wine and 2 wine glasses waiting for us when we arrived, the quick attention at the Guest Services desk, the excellent staff everywhere, the smaller size of the ship meant no crowds for anything!, how spotless the ship (including the bathrooms) is kept, the beauty of the ship, and the food was excellent whether it was in one of the specialty restaurants or the pool bar -- all special and delicious. I particularly liked the chocolate croissants every morning with the great coffee, and the GELATO!!! What a surprising and delicious treat that was -- every day for lunch and dinner and sooooooo good. Oh, and a special thank you for the beautiful wash basins available just outside the restaurants, always spotless of course. Read more