Chose this cruise because it took us to places we hadn't been, except for taking a 2 hrs cruise on the middle Rhine a couple years back. But didn't mind because the vineyards and castle area is beautiful. Excursions included in the cruise were very good. Took the two wine tasting excursions as extras but disappointed with the one. Dinner was included and the food was just ok, had better food on board. It took forever to be served which was around 8, which is way too late for me. Ship was very nice and clean. Overall the food was tasty and well presented. Loved having the choice of dining on the Aquavit at lunch. Entertainment was a trio one night who sang 50's and 60's songs, very talented. The other night was a man who played the guitar and the woman played the violin--both VERY talented. Played a variety of tunes. All of the crew were friendly and welcoming throughout the entire trip. I'd say 95% of the passengers on our cruise were first-timers on Viking.

We did the post tour in Basal. The hotel Montana was an older hotel but very nice. The view from our room was spectacular of the Lake Lucerne. The one Viking rep at the hotel was very helpful in providing info to take 2 tours on our own. We stayed in Amesterdam a couple extra days on our own and managed to get a hotel close to the port so we had no trouble getting to the ship. Viking saw to it that we were taken care of upon boarding the ship until the bus ride back to the airport for the trip home. Overall the cruise was very relaxing and the fact that it's only a small group. Would definitely go on another river cruise. In fact, we're going to try the Viking Mediterranean cruise in the fall 2020.