We chose this cruise initially for its its itinerary, as we have never visited any of the towns or cities along the route. The ship is new for the 2017 season, operated by Scylla of Switzerland with 2 Riviera reps on board - Leslie and Inken who were excellent.
We traveled to the ship via Eurostar from St Pancras to Brussels and were then taken by coach to the ship moored in Cologne. We did not have time to visit Cologne. At St Pancras we were able to deposit our luggage and not have to deal with it again until our arrival in Brussels. We then took the the bags out to the waiting coach where they were loaded by the driver and guide and then delivered to our cabin door on arrival.
The food at all meals is excellent, couldn't fault it at all. The head chef did an amazing job creating 15 different evening menus (a choice of meat, fish or veggie + chicken or salmon if you didn't fancy the dishes of the day). There was a hot buffet at lunch time but I can't comment on this as I stuck to salads (and a dessert). The breakfast buffet was very comprehensive. The wines and beer were not over priced but of good quality. You could also book the evening bistro on the top deck, which accommodates 24, at no extra cost, for a quiet meal; at lunch time the bistro offers pizza and posh burger type meals. All the staff are well trained and friendly.
We had a mid deck cabin which was spotlessly clean, with twin-linked beds which were very comfortable and the high quality bedding was changed regularly. The bathroom is compact but well designed with a fairly large walk in shower, excellent hot water and Crabtree & Evelyn toiletries. Being able to look out of the open the cabin window as you float down the river is lovely. Enough storage space for our 2 weeks of clothes, safe in one of the wardrobes, Nespresso machine & kettle and a good supply of coffee capsules and tea bags. There is also a diy, free coffee/tea station near reception.