Our room didn't have a balcony per se, but a slider that opened. I liked it even though we really didn't spend much time in the room, except to sleep. When on board, we spent the majority of our time up top catching rays and watching the beautiful scenery go by. But in the a.m., it was really nice to be able to open the door and get some fresh air. Then again, we lucked out with wonderful weather, and I'm not a fan of a/c. If it's not nice, you'd not open the window anyway. However, be aware that the river boats dock right next to each other and sometimes, your view is of the side of the next boat, about 18" away. Also keep in mind where your cabin is...the lower down, the more likely you are to have engine noise. RoseAbbey, you won't get seasick on a riverboat cruise. The only time we ever felt the boat even moving at all was when they were turning it about to dock. Otherwise, it was less motion than even riding in a car...smooth as glass.

I know 3 couples who recently did the Viking cruise on the Danube - one in the fall, one in the summer and another one last year. They all thoroughly enjoyed the vacation. They also added extra days at the beginning and/or end of the cruise to explore surrounding areas. Two have cruised with Viking several times but it was the first for one of my girlfriends and she commented that her DH was worried about the absence of lifeboats. They usually take ocean cruises where the passengers are used to the lifeboat drill.

You mentioned being a little claustrophobic, I am not, but I see that Viking has nothing but veranda rooms or suites and I think that will help a lot. It’s great just to be able to go out on the deck and get out of the state room without having to be “in public.” Personally I went into my first cruise very skeptical, but I absolutely love being on the ocean and escaping from the Canadian winters. I have only been on two Caribbean cruises with a limited number of ports, none of the ports you are going to. I think the best way to set yourself up for success is to research each of the ports to know what the strong points are and what might interest you. Viking has a resident historian who gives talks before each of the ports and I have always enjoyed these kind of talks on other ships. For me, not a shopper, so I try to stay away from the markets and shopping excursions. For packing, my advice would be similar to any other trip to hot weather areas: bring stuff that you love and feel comfortable in, realize that there is laundry on the ship but it might be expensive, bring a couple of slightly nicer outfits for any dressy evenings, and absolutely bring very comfortable walking shoes or sandals for your excursions. If you enjoy swimming, the demographic on a Viking ship is going to swing older just because it’s more expensive, and no one will be taken aback by how you look at all. Everyone’s there for the same reason. Most ship excursions are very accessible for people with mobility limitations, if you read through the description of the excursion it will usually outline the physical demands. There are no formal nights on your ship, in fact they’re pretty much being phased out everywhere, and I did find the dress code here: https://www.vikingcruisescanada.com/oceans/frequently-asked-questions.html

Hi Seagrass and all. Long time lucker (joined Gardenweb several years ago) and first time poster. Chiming in kind of late but I wanted to add my endorsement of Nelly's Suits You Swimwear shop in Hyannis that Jojoco posted. I live just north of the Cape and found Nelly a big help. She's an expert in fitting swimwear! I was very self conscious about my older (late 60s) apple shape body, etc. but I needed something for our trip to Costa Rica for a niece's wedding. Nelly helped me find two swimsuits, a one-piece and a tankini (top and bottom different sizes), that fit well and were flattering- one week before we were to leave! Colors were navy blue and white Solid and print combos. Also bought two solid colored button-up swim cover ups that are below the knees. One blue, one white. I use them for summer bathrobes, too. You've received great suggestions and I like what you've found for yourself. I'm going to check out Cran's suggestion to go to Seabreezes in Hyannis for myself this year. I understand your concerns. We enjoyed the one family cruise we took in the Caribbean more than we thought we would. So enjoy the shows and activities aboard the cruise ship and any side excursions you take. It will be fun!