Overall, a fantastic experience.  Having a full sized Mercedes bus pick us up at the Amsterdam Airport (we were the only two passengers) made us feel like royalty. We were met at the ship by a friendly gentleman named Nicholas Hale. Only later did we learn he was the cruise director! The ship was immaculate and the crew was extremely helpful and friendly. Everyone working on the ship made you feel like their personal friend to the point where you wanted to invite them along on shore excursions. However, they never lost sight of their duty to Viking and the ship and usually had to decline and stay onboard. In retrospect, I believe traveling against the current on the Rhine is a bit of a disadvantage for the tourist. Viking does its best to give its passengers access to historic points of interest along the route but you can't help notice that the boat must fight the current to stay on schedule. The timetable becomes a factor. Perhaps traveling downstream would be the more advantageous route? The food is delicious, the service is superb. You are so pampered you won't want to go home! If you are fortunate to have Mr. Nick Hale for your cruise director you are in for a treat. He could easily have his own televised standup comedy show if Viking had not secured his services. One last kudo to Viking; their use of headset for the guided excursions is a great benefit. They allow you to hear everything your guide has to offer even if you are at the back of the group.