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Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, an Australian luxury brand launched in 1986, has expanded over the past decade to become not only one of the leading river cruise lines in Europe and on the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia, but also a growing player in luxury expedition cruising. All of Scenic's river ships are purpose-built, company-owned, and constantly renovated so they maintain a modern look that's luxurious and elegant, without being too over-the-top.
On the rivers of Central Europe, the company’s fleet includes its signature 163-guest Scenic Space-Ships — such as Scenic Jasper and Scenic Opal — known for their contemporary décor and multiple dining experiences, while slightly smaller but no less luxurious Space-Ships, accommodating 96 to 149 guests cruise the rivers of France and Portugal. On the Mekong, 68-guest Scenic Spirit is also appealingly modern, with spacious suites and four dining options.
In addition, Scenic launched its first luxury ocean and expedition ship, the 228-passenger Scenic Eclipse I, in 2019. Its identical twin, Scenic Eclipse II, debuted in 2023. Designed with two helicopters, a seven-seat submarine, five restaurants, a movie theater, a deck-top teppanyaki grill, and a 5,000-square-foot spa, the ship sails to the polar regions of Antarctica and the Arctic as well as Europe and the Americas — giving the brand’s river-cruise clientele an opportunity to broaden their horizons.
All-Inclusive Really Means All-Inclusive: Even before you step aboard one of Scenic’s river ships, everything is taken care of for you, starting with your airport transfer. This means all meals, butler service, open bar with top-shelf liquor, in-room minibars, entertainment, excursions, and even gratuities are included in the fare.
Butler Service for All: Each floor has its own dedicated butler ready to help with any request, from restocking your minibar with soft drinks and chips, to packing your bags before you disembark, bringing you pillows from the pillow menu, shining your shoes for you before dinner, and delivering 24-hour room service to your cabin.
Gorgeous Spas: Scenic’s river ships feature steam rooms and saunas, but most guests spend so much of the day sightseeing on land that you may never see another person there if you take advantage of these features. (The sun deck pool and complimentary laundry room are more popular amenities.)
Five-Star Luxury: Scenic’s Space-Ships are like high-end floating hotels, where you can unpack once and visit several countries in Europe as you enjoy amenities that include pillow menus, 24/7 room service, and a chef's table with a six-course tasting menu.
Top-Notch Excursions: Scenic began as a tour operator, so it's no surprise the tours aren't your typical shore excursions. All of the coaches and guides are part of the company, and you can choose from a selection of free daily excursions that range from active to slower-paced to suit all types of travelers. In addition to cultural tours and museum visits, look for cooking classes and even trips to temples to receive blessings from monks.
Energetic, Well-Traveled Retirees: While Scenic’s ships skew slightly on the younger side of the typical river cruise demographic, the average age still hovers around 65 — but don't let that fool you. These Baby Boomers have traveled the globe a few times over and lead the pack on the more active excursions.
English-Speaking Travelers: While you may find the majority of your fellow cruisers are Australian or British, everyone on board is likely to speak English on your sailing. What’s more, the onboard ambiance is quite energetic and social.
These Cruises Are Expensive: That said, you do get what you pay for. Once on board, you don't have to worry about whipping out your wallet for anything — from wine to Wi-Fi and laundry detergent — unless you book a spa treatment.
