We chose Viking for a South American sea cruise after having a wonderful experience on their Baltic Sea cruise. South America is different, with more time at sea and different kinds of port visits, but it was still a good experience. The Viking experience is consistent: excellent service; friendly crew; good food and entertainment; strong educational content; nice cabin/balcony; always right on time. The excursions were a little less consistent this time, partly because this is a fairly new territory for Viking and partly because the local providers were not always reliable (especially during the holidays). We were fortunate that weather allowed us to visit the Falkland Islands (great penguin experience in Bluff Lagoon!) - we heard most cruises were not able to make that port due to rough weather/seas. There were some good shore excursions elsewhere, but two of ours were canceled. Much of the cruising time included amazing scenery, with the Andes, fjords, glaciers, and birds. Visits in Patagonia also included beautiful scenery. I am glad we did the cruise, but it would have been disappointing if the weather was worse and we had missed the Falklands. I would say to set expectations a little lower than for European cruises (more risk of missing some things; not as consistent on excursions; not the same amazing cities you visit in Europe) - but still a unique and rewarding experience.