We chose the cruise for our 50th anniversary because of recommendations from friends. Everything ran so smoothly from the wonderful dining to the cabin care to the excursions. The crew went above and beyond to make the trip wonderful. We met several couples the first day who we enjoyed sitting with each evening. The Lounge was a wonderful gathering place. We would go there each evening before dinner to hear a review of the next day's activities. Also in the lounge we listened to presenters on the economics of Germany, enjoyed different food tastings, watched glass blowing and listened to special musical groups brought on board to entertain us. There was always a talented duo who entertained in the lounge after dinner. The bus and walking tours were lead by upbeat knowledgeable guides. It was easy to hear the presentations. Because of the locks and bridges, we didn't get to sit on the top deck very often, but we could sit in the lounge and watch out the floor to ceiling windows. We have already booked a Viking cruise to Russia for next year.