It has been several years since we have taken river cruises. 1st with Uniworld- Vienna to Amsterdam; then the others were with Viking: Avignon to Chalon-sur-Saone and Paris to Honfleur.

Enjoyed the scenery and daily city walks. We received small booklets focused on the cities we would visit. -- Uniworld issued us a red "travel bag"/basic square catch-all; Viking gave us sturdy luggage tags on first trip and on the 2nd one a travel wallet.

If you mention a past passenger, as I recall for a referral, both parties get some sbc or modest fee deduction. We don't have to be sailing together. Returning past passengers were getting a $100 off their fare.

DH enjoyed seeing the local bakeries delivering fresh baguettes and croissants early in the AM when we sailed in France. Early risers often would take a stroll in the villages/cities where we were docked by; return in time for breakfast, then the local tour guide would take the guests to local sites -walk or by pre-arranged buses. Back on-board for lunch soup/sandwich or a hot entree. The ship would sail further on to the next destination. Very idyllic and easy to enjoy the heartland of Europe.

Europeans who traveled with us had assigned seating and I think they were part of a tour group with an escort. The Americans had open seating. I recall having 2 choices for entree, besides soup and dessert. Tasty. Alcohol drinks & soda were extra--not too expensive.

We enjoyed these small ships. Modest amenities. Good value. Hardworking staff. In the PMs, a local singer or a folk dance group may be asked aboard to entertain. Relaxed atmosphere, casual outfits most of the time. The Captain's Welcome aboard was the "dressy" night, and DH had a jacket and I was "smart-casual +".

Viking has our vote!