Viking Lif Review
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This was our second Viking cruise (first one was to Egypt two years ago), so we were aware of their standards of "care/service". They continued to impress on this Viking Grand European Cruise. We took advantage of the transfer process at the airport in Schipol (we were met on time and transported efficiently) and of an additional 2 days in Amsterdam, staying at the Renaissance Hotel. It was in a great location and the Viking staff were always available to assist in maximizing our experience in Amsterdam.
The Cruise itself met all expectations (and more). The "long ship" experience is great, with beautiful on-board surroundings. We tended to have breakfast and dinner in the Main Dining Room, and lunch on the Acquivit terrace.The meals were varied, with attention to vegetarian choices, and appropriate in size. The "regional" menu choices were great. The wine flowed! The Chef was always available and we gave many compliments, particularly to his soups. The "coffee station" with baking was a hit!
The shore excursions were really excellent, with use of local guides whose pride in their countries was evident. There was only one guide that did not meet Viking standards and we shared that with the Concierge (very helpful). What we really appreciated was the 'variation' in some of the excursions (e.g. walking tour in Budapest, church architecture). Also there was time for freelance visits to other sites in each city. We did not access the optional tours, but as this was a re-visit to Europe we did not have particular interest in these options. They appeared good, and there was no "hard-sell" like we experience on larger cruise ships.
Cabin Review
Veranda Superior
Our cabin was quite adequate for 2, with plenty of closet and drawer space. The bathroom was also well-designed. The access to the balcony meant for lovely views of the river shore and countryside.
What made the room a superior experience was the attention of the Room Steward, Elena to cleaning of the room and ensuring we had sufficient supplies. She was simply excellent.
Port Reviews
Amsterdam
Hotel location leant itself to easy walking access to most city sites. We had an Amsterdam Pass for this trip and saw several museums: Rijks, Van Gogh, Amsterdam, Di Nieu Kirk, Willet-Holthusen, Geelvinck, Van Loon) while we were there. Also had a canal boat cruise, which is recommended (either Blue Boat or Grayline)
Cologne
The local guide was excellent, and we explored the old city in a timely manner. We explored the Dom on our own after the walking tour as well as the Roman archeological museum. Both were excellent.
Koblenz
The guide was adequate at the Marksburg Castle.
Nuremberg
The Guide made the visit an exceptional experience, beginning with a bus tour of the city sites, and then a walking tour of the Old Town. The Guide was a member of a Guide "school" and it showed! His knowledge of history, and deft handling of the Nazi era was excellent.
Regensburg
Again we had an excellent guide who was a member of the Guide "school". We had a great walking tour and visit to St. Stephen's Cathedral. We had hoped to visit the Bishop's Residence in the free time, but due to the Captain's commitment to getting us through the river in a timely manner, our time was shortened. We are glad he did!
Passau
This walking tour would have had an "excellent" rating except for the Guide. He was so poor that we abandoned him and explored on our own. That worked well with the Viking city map and our preparation beforehand on places we wanted to see.
Melk
We took the included Viking shore excursion and were pleased with the Guide, and her knowledge. It was a sunny day which only enhanced the spectacular nature of this Abbey. We were there 5 years ago, and may enhancements have been made in the tour.
Vienna
We took the bus portion of the included tour (excellent guide who provided a thorough overview of Vienna), but then explored Vienna on our own (Historiches Museum, Peterkirche, St. Stephen's Cathedral and Jesuite Kirche). A wonderful visit.
Bratislava
We had a great guide, and were taken with the rustic beauty of this city. We visited St. Martin's Cathedral. For us this was a new venue, but some fellow travellers would have preferred longer (2 days) in Vienna. We really like Bratislava, but can understand people's interest in a longer Vienna experience.
Budapest
We took the "varied" included City tour, and instead of the bus option, took the walking tour, across the Chain Bridge, up the funicular to Buda, and seeing all of the sites, and access the Fisherman's Bastion for great views. We then took a small bus to Pest and completed a walking tour to the Market and then took the tram back to the Boat. The walking tour in Pest was a bit long.