We chose this Viking River Cruise (VRC) because of the destinations, Switzerland to Paris. Our group was large (14 family members) and we were celebrating my mother's 85th birthday. The entire staff of the Viking Hild catered to us superbly and in a very professional manner. We really appreciate and commend the service of the Maitre De (Teresa) and her entire dining staff, and our Program Director (Susi).

The only real negative about this cruise was the pre and post hotel accomodations. We were booked in Zurich at the Renaissance Tower Hotel. The hotel was nice enough but the location in the industrial section of Zurich made sightseeing on our own difficult. VRC could have picked a hotel in a central location near the shopping and dining areas of Zurich. In Paris, we were booked at the Pullman Eiffel Tower. The location was excellent, but the hotel itself was not 4 star quality. Our room was located on the first floor, but it felt like being in the basement/garage. The hallways were dark and claustrophobic. Our room was average and it showed a lot of wear and tear. The in room safe did not work and there was no ice bucket. We contacted the front desk to remedy the situation but it was not resolved. Since we were only there for two nights we just let it be.

VRC should also review the Lorelei shore excursion. This excursion was a waste of time. It appeared this excursion was just to take the cruisers to the gift shop. There were other locations on the Rhein and Moselle Rivers which were more interesting and worthwhile. Read more