This was our first Viking cruise of any type (ocean in this case). Embarkation was very frustrating. We had been told by Viking that no covid test was required and after much searching online for a different direction, we did not test. When we arrived to embark we were told that a test was indeed required and we were then charged $45 each for a rapid test (our luggage had already been taken aboard). We later learned this was a NSW Port Authority requirement, clearly a scam as Viking was unaware of the requirement. Viking later made good on this by granting us credits on a future cruise. On our first full day aboard, during our excursion a cabin on our deck caught fire, leaving a terrible smell on our deck. Luckily our cabin was not impacted but the smell lingered for several days. The crew handled the incident extremely well. We left port on time and had a terrific first half of the cruise. As we reached the north island of NZ Cyclone Gabrielle made an appearance, leading to the ship's diversion around the west coast and our having to miss 2 of our last 3 ports. Eventful indeed! Viking has since (& quickly) compensated us for this as well and we are extremely happy with the outcome. Viking left a very positive impression on us. Their service, cleanliness, decisiveness, communication, and overall customer service are outstanding. We have since registered for 4 more cruises, 2 river and 2 ocean. Looking forward to all of them!