Just getting back to reality after a wonderful holiday on the Viking Ingvi, during which we were pampered every step of the way. Great as it was, however, the cruise (Tulips and Windmills from Amsterdam) was not perfect, and as I struggled to find a realistic view of what to expect before departure, I hope what follows will help future passengers.

To put my comments in perspective, here’s a little bit about us to set the scene…We’ve been keen travellers all our lives, and for many years organised our holidays independently. Then about 10 years ago we discovered cruising – and like many before us were hooked on this effortless way of seeing new places. Since then we’ve been on some 12 cruises with different companies, though mainly with our favourite, Cunard.

In other words, our days of budget holidays are past…but though we’re lucky enough to be on a bigger budget these days, value for money is still a prime consideration. Read more