Having taken the Viking Spirit from Vienna to Amsterdam 13 years ago, we booked a cruise through Normandy this summer - in the same cabin - #311. After all, if once is good, twice had to be as good or better.

This time we took along friends! This time it was a little more crowded but we all enjoyed each other, smiled a lot, and developed great camaraderie. There were multi-generational families, young people, retirees, mid-lifers on vacation, and everything in between. The food was very good - as were the meals arranged while on shore excursions (just as the 2002 trip had been), excellent entertainment - especially the young Parisienne operatic singers. As before, cabins were well-appointed and cared for by a superior staff - the excursions well organized with very good guides. Use of the wireless tour guide speaker system used on the excursions are an excellent modern touch. Our ability to independently know what was what was made more obvious contrasted to other groups trying to listen to a speaker over a crowd. Best surprise of all is the well organized post-trip hotel complete with Viking personnel on site to answer questions, get everyone acclimated to Paris & then to their departure planes, etc. Sorry Viking Spirit is retiring! Love the intimacy of the size.

Have traveled to/lived in Middle & Far East, Antarctica, Alaska, Europe, Caribbean. HOWEVER, may I suggest to you and to Viking - United Airlines is the last airline you want to book on. Despite traveling Business/First class, our trip was delayed in both directions; where ever we were we were surrounded by others awaiting delayed, late, or replacement flights! (In our case, 4 out of 4 flights). Next plan: Viking among the Tulips!