Scenic's 2020 programme

Scenic have revealed their 2020 Europe River Cruise Collection, featuring journeys along the Rhine and Douro as well as exciting new adventures along the lower Danube and southern France. On the 10-night ‘South of France’ sailings round-trip from Lyon, guests discover the sights, sounds and tastes of this region of France on a luxurious five-star all-inclusive journey along the Saône & Rhône Rivers where highlights include Lyon, Avignon, Viviers and Beaune. The 7-night ‘Lower Danube Explorer’ cruises round-trip from Budapest, offer a serene sailing along the banks of the lower Danube though the Great Hungarian Plain before arriving in Belgrade. 

All Rhine, Main and Danube vessels have had a number of innovative upgrades, including Salt Therapy Lounges for an invigorating boost.  Each of the Royal Owner’s Suites have also been renovated with contemporary furnishings and décor, including baths with a view to the outside, allowing guests to relax and unwind but still enjoy wonderful riverside views. 

Scenic refers to its vessels as ‘Space-Ships’ to emphasize a higher than usual space ratio. There’s also a very high ratio of staff to guests. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the open seating Crystal Dining; additionally there are two alternative dinner venues - Portobello's for Italian cuisine and Table Le Rive, which offers a six-course tasting menu served with wine pairings. Occasionally, a barbecue lunch will be served on the Sun Deck. Unusually on a river vessel, room service is available for all passengers. Another break from the norm is that each of Scenic ships has two lounges. 

Accommodation is classed as suites and on most vessels includes ‘Sun Lounge’ balconies - retractable glass windows that fold out to provide fresh air. All have flat-screen televisions and a complimentary mini-bar that is restocked daily. Innovative GPS-activated headsets, called ‘Scenic Tailormade’, allow passengers to hear the commentary or to choose any of dozens of pre-recorded tours as they walk or cycle through the towns they visit. The device also has a screen that shows both a map of the route and photos of the specific attractions being discussed. 

Guests will relish the utmost in all-inclusive service and amenities: personalized butler service; an array of dining options; complimentary beverages available all day; and Wi-Fi. Also included are return flights from a selection of up to UK airports with free return airport chauffeur transfers. There’s also a no-fly option via Eurostar which includes travel in Standard Premier and First Class.