What to Expect on Your First Cruise
Scenic River Cruises offers an ultra-luxury, all-inclusive experience tailored for travelers seeking top-tier comfort, exclusivity, and cultural immersion. As the sister company to Emerald Cruises, Scenic shares a dedication to service and design while offering a more opulent experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you can expect on a Scenic river cruise.
Ship Size and Layout
Decks
When I hear “Space-Ships,” I imagine something straight out of a sci-fi movie—but Scenic’s fleet takes the name to a whole new level of elegance and comfort (no alien encounters here, though the experience is out of this world!). These beautifully designed ships accommodate up to 163 guests, making them some of the larger river cruise ships in Europe, with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the journey.
The Sun Deck is an open-air paradise with loungers, shaded seating, a walking track, and even a putting green—perfect for soaking in those panoramic river views, especially during scenic cruising days. The Diamond Deck is the vibrant hub of the ship, home to the Panorama Lounge & Bar, River Café, and the most luxurious suites. On the Sapphire Deck, you’ll find even more suites, the main dining venue (Crystal Dining), and a wellness center for a bit of onboard pampering. Lastly, the Jewel Deck on the lower level offers cozy, budget-friendly standard suites with waterline views and access to the fitness center.
Scenic’s Space-Ships aren’t just spacious—they’re thoughtfully crafted to give you a stylish and unforgettable river cruise experience. Beam me aboard!
Cabins and Suites
Scenic’s suites are among the most spacious on Europe’s rivers, with floor-to-ceiling windows that convert into “Scenic Sun Lounges,” an innovative, enclosed balcony allowing you to enjoy open-air views regardless of weather. Every suite category includes luxurious touches such as pillow menus, plush bedding, and stylish furnishings. Larger suites, including Royal Panorama and Owner’s Suites, come with enhanced amenities like private dining areas, upgraded minibar selections, and expanded living space.
Additionally, Scenic offers butler service for every cabin, with levels of service increasing based on suite category. Butlers can assist with everything from unpacking your luggage to arranging breakfast in your suite, making it easy to enjoy a seamless and pampered stay.
Dining Experience
Dining on a Scenic cruise is more than just a meal—it’s an experience designed to highlight variety, quality, and the rich flavors of each destination. The main dining venue, Crystal Dining, offers something for every palate, from buffet and à la carte options at breakfast and lunch to an elegant multi-course dinner in the evening. Regional and international dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients bring the culinary essence of your destinations straight to your plate, adding an immersive and delicious dimension to your journey.
For a touch of exclusivity, the specialty restaurant Portobellos (or L’Amour, depending on your itinerary) serves fine Italian or French-inspired cuisine. This intimate venue requires a reservation but is included in your fare, making it an absolute must for anyone craving a more refined dining experience with dishes that showcase local specialties.
If you’re after something more casual, the River Café on the Diamond Deck is perfect for grabbing light snacks, pastries, or coffee throughout the day—great for those busy excursion days when you need a quick bite or a caffeine fix.
For suite guests seeking an extra touch of luxury, Table La Rive or Table d’Or offers a private, six-course menu designed by Scenic’s chefs and paired with premium wines. It’s an indulgent treat that will thrill any foodie.
And since Scenic embraces an all-inclusive philosophy, you’ll enjoy premium wines, beers, spirits, and soft drinks throughout the day—not just with meals. Whether it’s a glass of local wine during dinner or a cocktail at sunset, Scenic makes it easy to savor every moment, both on your plate and in your glass.
Onboard Amenities and Activities
Scenic’s Space-Ships are designed with an impressive range of amenities to make your river cruise as relaxing, rejuvenating, and entertaining as possible. For those craving a little self-care, select ships feature a unique salt therapy lounge, where you can unwind in a microclimate of salt particles known for promoting relaxation and wellness. If you’re looking to treat yourself, the onboard wellness center has you covered with a gym, massage services, and even a hair salon—perfect for some mid-cruise pampering.
For more active travelers, Scenic offers electric-assisted bicycles (e-bikes) on many cruises, making it effortless to explore ports of call. Whether you prefer pedaling off on your own or joining a guided bike tour, the e-bikes are a fun way to see more of the countryside and soak in the beauty of each destination. They’re especially handy in places with scenic paths or charming villages just waiting to be discovered.
When it comes to entertainment, Scenic pulls out all the stops. Each evening, you can enjoy live performances inspired by the region you’re visiting, such as classical music in Vienna, flamenco dancing in Spain, or folk traditions along the Danube. They also host enriching onboard activities like lectures and cooking demonstrations, giving you deeper insight into the history, culture, and flavors of your destinations. Scenic’s thoughtful mix of amenities ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether you want to stay active, indulge, or simply be entertained.
Overall Atmosphere
Scenic offers a refined, sophisticated atmosphere that balances elegance with a relaxed sense of exclusivity. The ship’s decor is modern and upscale, blending plush textures with sleek finishes, giving the feel of a luxury boutique hotel. The all-inclusive experience fosters an environment where guests can fully unwind without the distraction of additional fees, creating a carefree and luxurious cruise experience. The vibe is social yet calm, with most guests being couples and groups looking for an immersive cultural journey.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Just like their sister company Emerald, Scenic is deeply committed to sustainability through their Cherish the Planet Program, making them a great choice for eco-conscious travelers. They’ve invested in advanced engine technology to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, ensuring their ships meet or exceed environmental standards. Scenic’s culinary team also embraces sustainable sourcing, prioritizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients to reduce food miles and support local communities. Onboard, water conservation is a priority, with eco-friendly technologies and wastewater treatment systems designed to minimize the environmental impact on the rivers and regions they explore. These thoughtful initiatives allow Scenic to combine luxury with sustainability, so you can indulge in an unforgettable cruise experience while treading lightly on the planet.
Price and Value
Scenic’s all-inclusive experience makes luxury cruising effortless and indulgent. All meals and premium beverages are included, from fine dining to handcrafted cocktails and local wines—no extra fees required. Every guest enjoys butler service, with added perks like room service and complimentary minibar restocking.
Scenic’s shore excursions go beyond the standard, with exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences like a private concert at Vienna’s Palais Liechtenstein. And with gratuities, transfers, and tips covered, you can focus on soaking up every moment of your trip without worrying about hidden costs. It’s luxury made simple and stress-free!
Specialty Cruises
Scenic’s specialty cruises are perfect for adding a personal touch to your river cruise, offering experiences tailored to a variety of interests. For food and wine enthusiasts, their Culinary and Wine Cruises are a dream, featuring onboard cooking demonstrations, guided tastings, and vineyard visits that celebrate the region’s unique flavors and culinary traditions. If you’re all about the holiday spirit, their Christmas Market Cruises take you straight to Europe’s iconic markets, where you can sip mulled wine, sample festive treats, and shop for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. For culture buffs, Music and Arts Cruises combine exclusive concerts, cultural events, and themed excursions, giving you a deeper appreciation for Europe’s rich artistic heritage. These specialty cruises add an extra layer of excitement and personalization to your journey, making every moment unforgettable.
Who is This Cruise Line Best For?
Compared to its sister company, Emerald Cruises, which focuses on value-oriented luxury with a relaxed vibe, Scenic stands out for its ultra-luxury approach, covering every detail to create a highly polished, all-inclusive experience. Scenic offers an elegant and immersive way to explore Europe’s rivers, providing unmatched service, luxurious comfort, and a commitment to sustainable travel.
