We chose this cruise explicitly because there were no “at sea days”. We chose Viking because of stellar reviews with no casinos nor children. Being a very new boat, just 4 or 5 years old added to the allure.

The airfare (which was included right from Victoria) was a bonus. Connections were in the acceptable range, but actual flights were hardly direct. It took 24 hrs pretty well both ways door to cabin door & back - very long. The boat itself was near perfection. Very clean and extremely well kept. Crew was exemplary in almost every way. The organization of the entire cruise was near to flawless. The food was exceptional, and all the restaurants (not cafeteria) were very well managed. Very limited wait times for seating & service were always acceptable. The stateroom, penthouse balcony, was spacious & well thought out. The head was lovely - only room for 1 person at a time, but that was to be expected. I thought the balcony was a little small, but still offered us lovely moments to enjoy the sea air & magnificent views. The included excursions were informative, didn’t love the giant coach drives, but they had their good points. Most of the optional excursions were terrific. Especially the catamaran trips.

On the downside weather became a problem right from the cast-off. We left a few hours behind schedule which could have been an issue with our 1st port of call, however that became moot when we couldn’t even dock at our 1st port of call. Nor the 2nd one! All other ports were achieved. Another weather issue disallowed us to experience our most highly anticipated excursion. This was further exasperated when my husband & I got separated when I returned on board after the cancellation of our excursion to unload our gear, only to be denied at the gangway to leave the vessel as it was about to be repositioned. We were given inaccurate information as to a timely disembarkation notification. Many of us were very upset not knowing how long this would take. It took over an hour for us to reunite, almost ruining our ability to see any or much of the island. The crew worked hard to try to correct anything they possible could - that must be said. My only negative comments regarding the food & beverage aspect would be the World Cafe, & the overburdened Wintergarden. Workers could not seem to keep up with busing tables every time we went there. In the Cafe we sat at dirty or unset tables in order to have a meal. Drinks also either took a long time to get or there was no table service apparent. I went to the bar to get our alcoholic beverages each time we went there except once. Ted talks were well liked as were various cinema or theatre activities. I will try to go on another Viking Cruise for sure, however I cannot say the same for my husband.