We chose Viking based on a recommendation from friends. 4 couples, all 60 somethings, were looking for a cruise line we could retire with. We did not find it with Viking. 2 days before we all left North America, we received a note from Viking that the Rhine River was running low and may cause disruptions. Rather than allow us to reschedule the trip, we all made the trip. Viking obviously knew the chances of low water were high and should have given use the opportunity to reschedule. Instead 8 of us flew a long way for a "bus tour". We are all very disappointed in Viking. They clearly put profits ahead of customers and there is clearly a lack of willingness to be open and truthful with customers. Viking should have at least offered vouchers for future trips since a big chunk of the middle Rhine was lost.

On the positive side, the Viking tours and tour leaders were great. We appreciated their knowledge and energy around the places we saw. Food we okay, but not to the caliber of premier ocean cruises. "Germany night" in the dining hall was a train wreck. Food was not good, waiters did not know if we were to be served or a buffet and everyone sat everywhere! You need assigned seating for groups! We never got to know our waiters because we had to move tables because 2 random couples would take our table for 8. We eventually realized we needed to have one of us "hang out" a the dining hall when it opened and run in and hold a table.

Overall I think Viking is a first class outfit. I believe they tried to "make up" for the low river. We all do believe they could have been more up front and honest about the potential of a "messed up" trip and allowed us to make other plans. We expected more from Viking.