The incentives to book the cruise at this time was really the clincher for us - the price, while high, was attractive and the included airfare seemed enticing. We had never been on a river cruise before and this seemed like a good way to visit numerous stops with great ease, comfort and worry-free. Plus, being a regular viewer of programs on public television where Viking does a lot of advertising - we were curious and interested.

Reservations and Booking Process - very easy and problem free.

Pre-trip extension - we opted for a two-day extension in Amsterdam. Here is where you will encounter a problem if you book airfare through Viking. You would need to book and extensions through them as well since they are arranging your arrival - this also means that you will not likely get the best-priced property and will spend a good deal more than if you did yourself. My advice - do not fall for the "included airfare" promotion. Arrange your own airfare and your own pre- or post-cruise extension at a property of your choosing. Traveling in the Netherlands is soooo easy whether by taxi, public transportation or renting your own car - don't think you can't do it - you can! If we could do it all over again, we'd arrange our own flights and our own pre- and post-trip extensions. Read more