We wanted a guided tour because of health issues last year. I thought it would be easier to travel and have someone else plan it. Also, we have not been to any of the countries on that tour (and even Key West) and I thought we could check them out to see if we wanted to go back and stay a week or two. We normally travel on our own, making all of our own reservations and private tours. This was our first big ship cruise ever ( we are in our 70's). We have traveled the world, driving in Greece, Italy, New Zealand, etc.,etc. Because we are used to being on our own, the 900 passengers on Viking Sky were too many for us. However, we thoroughly enjoyed dining and talking with other passengers. The ship did not feel crowded, but navigating the shore excursions, the busses, waiting in the dinner line. That was not something we enjoyed.
The food was too upscale for me...I know this sounds weird, but I am used to eating where the locals eat when traveling. I missed the ethnic foods. I probably am a food peasant. We are mostly vegetarian, would have liked more interesting and spicy vegetarian food. We did manage to get some vegetarian Indian food on request one night, and that was super nice. I don't eat lobster, steak, pork, ham, calamari, fish, etc. The Chef's table was wasted on me. I thought the meal we had was pretty bad (jellied cucumbers, ox tail soup -yuck), The lamb was okay, but the only really good part was dessert. Since you have to sign up ahead of time and the menu is fixed, I didn't think we had much choice but to go on our scheduled night. I think some other nights the food would have been more to our liking. The Italian specialty restaurant (Manford's?) was delicious. Actually, I ate a lot of pasta on the ship and it was delicious. I had a hamburger one day at the pool grill and it was dry. I do eat hamburger once in awhile. I liked the sit down dining as opposed to buffet style. I couldn't have any wine during the cruise because of health issues, so can't comment on that.
The cabin maids were wonderful. Actually, all the staff on the ship were extremely caring and hospitable, always smiling no matter what, every single person. Service was superior everywhere.
Loved the cabin. The closet had more room than I expected. The bathroom was beautiful too and that heated floor was so nice. Maid service was exceptional. The veranda was big enough for the 2 of us and the room service was appreciated. Nice big TV and all the information you need right there.
Enjoyed the Indian village and crafts.