We cruised with Viking from Athens to Istanbul. Our experience far exceeded our expectations. Everything was so outstanding that we've signed up for two more trips - one ocean and one river. The accommodations, the staff, the staff, the entertainment, the Port Talks, etc etc could not have been better. This company understands client service and logistics as good as any. Plus, they have a spa on the ocean liner that is absolutely incredible. The sauna and steam room and cold dips are outstanding. So are the workout facilities.

A good friend of mine in the travel business has told me for years to take a Viking cruise. His comment was if you take one you'll take four. Dismissing that comment has been one of my bigger mistakes in selecting vacations. Viking really gets it. They're very good at details - heated floors in your bathroom, heated mirrors so they don't fog up after a shower, daily updates delivered to your room and 24/7 customer services.

The excursions are very well done and the options are superb. The guides that we had were very good and the time spent in the area after the excursions was rather flexible to your schedule. You can spend all your time in the area or you can go back a little early and hit the spa or the 4 pm tea room. Read more