We chose Viking because of the well-deserved reputation it maintains. We chose the Rhine getaway because it has all of the places and things, we wanted to see for our FIRST trip. We would go on this cruise again except that we want to experience some of the other trips that Viking has to offer. Our trip began when we landed in Zurich and were whisked away to Lucerne for our pre-excursion stay in an absolutely beautiful city. The accommodations (Radisson Blu) were great and our Viking hostess (Andrea) was warm, resourceful and energetic. She equipped us with enough knowledge to find our way around the city on our own after we did our walking tour with her. Bused to Basel for embarkation was smooth and boarding the Alruna was a breeze. Day 2 in Breisach was beautiful as we motored to the Black Forest, with Uri (our guide) briefing us on the terrain, culture and rich history along the way. Day 3 and we are in France (Strasbourg) our guide (Sophie) was a fount of knowledge and history. Day 4 in Speyer, taking the walking tour with Sophie (not the same Sophie from Strasbourg) another gem, her knowledge of his history and culture is inexhaustible. Day 5 was a day of sailing up the Rhine and enjoying the spectacular views (many, many castles) arriving in Koblenz we went for the Moselle wine tasting excursion in the afternoon, our guide (Jurgen) was very informative and entertaining and the wine tasting at a family winery was superb. Day 6 Cologne, a beautiful city with a lot of character and a sense of humor. Our guide Christine was charming, knowledgeable and feisty. Day 7 Kinder Dijk, and a walking tour of windmills with our guide Margaret was both entertaining and informative. Day 8 Amsterdam, unfortunately for my wife and I we didn't plan so well and so our Amsterdam experience was an early morning drive to the airport, but our driver was again informative and competent. All of the personnel both on and off the boat were very welcoming and skilled! The Staff from the Captain on down were consummate professionals who were approachable and entertaining and thoughtful.