When we took our very first Viking cruise in Dec. 2017, we saw this one in the itinerary book and it looked amazing! So when we actually decided to 'go away' for Christmas for the first time ever, we knew it would be this amazing itinerary AND with Viking. We've only ever done one other 'large cruise line' and while it was an amazing adventure with lots of friends, we'll never choose any of those lines again. We love the Viking way! We love not traveling with children and are not gamblers, so the lack of those two major features is quite relaxing for us. This was our third time on the 'Viking Sea', and we could envision all parts of the ship long before we began our cruise. The ship is beautifully decorated and meticulously cared for from 'fore to aft'! All of the dining venues are outstanding and the specialty restaurants have never disappointed! On this particular cruise, we feel that the entertainment was more superior to our prior cruises, but that's not to say the others were lacking. This was just an extraordinary group of talented folks. The staff of young adults who wait on you at all of the dining or entertainment venues are just outstanding! We met so many of them from all over the world and they are just a delight to chat with. Always smiling and happy, despite the fact that they are 'working'! We love the variety of places to hide when away from our cabin. It just feels like home. We have booked another 'winter cruise', but will be on the Viking Sky next time! We already look forward to packing for that one! Keep up the great work Viking!