Chose Viking based on its reputation and the recommendations of friends. Really appreciated how they went out of their way to accommodate us when COVID saw us have to reschedule our cruise two years in a row!

Yes, its "upscale" in terms of pricing compared to some other river cruise lines, but its well worth it. Excursions were well organized and efficient, informative. Really appreciate the free familiarization walking tours in each port and the variety and appropriateness of the paid excursions. Checking aboard and disembarkation were seamless -- even with COVID testing protocols still in place. Front desk staff was very helpful in booking our post-cruise train trip to Munich (we prefer to make our own air/hotel arrangements).

But, what puts Viking over the top is their top notch staff. Very customer-focused, friendly and highly efficient. Was impressed by their ability to "flex" smoothly when the inevitable little things go awry (bus running late, rain, etc.). Read more