We have managed approximately 35 cruises on several lines all over the world, including numerous Viking River Cruises. This was the most pleasant, most well-appointed ship we have experienced. Beautiful design throughout. Good food. Convenient size. Very smooth sailing. Wonderful top front lounge (or crow's nest.) No casino (big plus.) Excellent itinerary. Tours were informative and easy to navigate. Exceptionally nice bathroom. Loved the artwork throughout the ship and in our room (including the child's sketch from them elementary school in China which we had visited on a Viking river cruise in 2009.) We had some difficulty with the specialty restaurant bookings but, once we understood the system, the problems were solved. We traveled with long-term friends who were not veteran cruisers. They too were impressed with the quality of the ship itself, the staff, the service and the ambience. Overall, this was our favorite ship and one of our favorite cruise experiences to date. We hope to travel again with Viking Oceans.