This was our 2nd Viking cruise, and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Viking always impresses with the number of free and optional shore excursions, learning and cultural experiences. We really feel like we get our money's worth for an 8-day cruise.

The food was very good; one or two meals were so-so, but the rest were memorable. I really enjoy the European breakfast buffet and cook-to-order breakfast items. The chef, kitchen crew, and servers were very friendly, conversant, and personable; really felt like we got to know some of them. We enjoyed the nighty table-side visits by the chef.

The weather was great the first two days, then was unseasonably cold and windy (the notorious Mistal winds), with occasional light snow, so it was not feasible to take advantage of the upper deck and Aquavit Terrace most days. But we completed all shore excursions, because, who knows when we might get back to these out-of-the-way (for us, anyway) places. Read more