5 days to Viking Treasures of the Rhine

[bella c]

We are almost ready for our Sept 20th cruise on the Helvetia and have some last minute questions.
I must admit that I was shocked to read some of the bad reports on Viking. Breakdowns, service etc. But I am going with an open mind knowing human nature.
Some questions: do they provide hair dryers and are they any good,
what is the deal with buying wine in a port and drinking it at dinner
I am a health inspector and somewhat concerned about disease prevention. Was anyone sick on other cruises and how was it handled.
We generally like to eat off the ship so any recomendations would be welcome. We disembark in Basel any suggestions as to how to work that. Going to Train station.
Thanks in advance for any help.

[jacksonnh]

We did this cruise last spring on the Viking Sun. No breakdowns, service and food was fine as were the tour guides. Hair dryers are connected either to the dresser or wardrobe shelf and worked w/o any problem. I believe the best way to get from the ship to the trains is to take a cab. Some people bought wine on shore and drank it at dinner. There maybe a fee if the Viking staff has to open the bottle but not sure.
Enjoy!

[no fuss travel]

Nobody was sick on our cruise.
You only have to pay a corkage fee if the ship personnel open the bottle for you. Bring your own corkscrew.
Remember the Legend problems are because it is a brand new ship that has never been tested before therefore they have not ironed out all the kinks yet.

Have a great cruise and enjoy yourself.

[jr_fuel]

If it still offered, don't miss COLMAR.

[pacmom]

Hi Rod,

Glad to see you posting again. How was your trip on O? We really enjoyed your company on the Viking Sun this spring. People have been complaining about the food on Viking this summer and it seems that the Legend is becoming one. Hope you and Shirley are well. Pat

[jr_fuel]

Actually Shirley sailed on the Oceania Nautica with her best girlfriend (40 years). I got to stay home and mind the kitties. She (they) had a wonderful time. Started with 3 days in Athens and ended with 4 days in Istanbul.
I have read a lot of complaints about the food, but I never went hungry. If you compare the food to what I make at home or get in the drive-thru it was very good.