Cruise dates: 2 - 12 Jan 2022; Cruise name: West Indies Explorer. This was our first Viking cruise and we couldn't have been more pleased. Everything from arranging airfare, to boarding, to onboard experience was first rate. Our Explorer Suite (ES1) was bigger than our first apartment and incredibly comfortable. The two stewards we had were very accommodating and attentive. Apparently because of Covid impacts/restrictions, there were only approximately 425 passengers onboard, but a full complement of crew. We were never inconvenienced or felt crowed, and actually felt like we had the run of the ship. The ports of call and included excursions were very well managed and informative. Meals onboard were always well prepared and with varied menus. The World Cafe became our go-to dining venue, but the specialty restaurants are worth booking in advance. The Explorer Lounge was our favorite place to visit after shore excursions. While there are wonderful excursions you can pay extra to enjoy, we determined that the included excursions are plenty enough for your off-ship wandering. Everything about this cruise was exactly what other friends have gushed about with Viking, i.e., Viking has figured out how to make your cruise outstanding and memorable. We had such a fantastic time, we booked and subsequently enjoyed the Grand European River Cruise in July 2022, and have just booked the Panama Canal & Central American ocean cruise for Nov 2023. And we're looking into 2024 for more sailing with Viking. Go. Enjoy. Viking will take care of everything.
As stated earlier, the ES1 suite (#4000) was bigger than our first apartment. Spacious, very well appointed, excellent steward service, very large outside veranda (table for four and two recliners), substantial closet and storage space, minibar stocked daily, and much more. Well worth the price, especially on extended cruises.