Scenic River Cruises – A True Luxury River Cruise

Over the past few years there has been a significant increase in interest in river cruises in Europe.  I have to admit that much of it has arisen out of a huge marketing effort by Viking River Cruises, and while I have much to say on that topic, just as with traditional ocean cruising there is a huge difference between the more mass market brands, such as Viking, and the premium brands, such as AmaWaterways, and a relatively new category:  Luxury River Cruises.

Scenic Gem Sails through France with only 128 Guests

Scenic Cruises is, in my opinion,  a true luxury river cruise brand.  Based in Australia, this company has recently spun off its river cruises from its Scenic Tour operations and is making a real effort to establish itself independently and as an international brand.  I am pretty excited about it, as I have been booking quite a few of my luxury travel clients on Scenic Cruises since its North American operation was essentially one person sitting in an office in New Jersey!

The comparison of river cruise lines to ocean cruise lines that I give to my clients is this:  Scenic is to Seabourn as Viking is to Carnival.  Yes, the differences are that significant.  But, alas, they do come with a price tag.

Scenic Jasper The newest of the Scenic river ships

In typical Scenic Cruises fashion, it has produced two videos that really explain its experience in a way far more effectively than one can write about it.

The first is a general explanation of the Scenic Experience and ships:

The second is about its Free Choice included shore experiences:

If you are looking for that luxury river cruise experience with a wonderful dining experience (special orders, unlike most river cruise experiences, are not a problem!) and the freedom to enjoy independent or small group exploration with the assistance of the ship (rather than impersonal Viking group tour with 50 people) Scenic Cruises may be perfect for you.

Interested in a Scenic River Cruise?  Call me:

United States:      (877) 2GO-LUXURY
United Kingdom: 020 8133 3450
Australia:             (07) 3102 4685
Everywhere Else: +1 732 578 8585

Or email me at eric@goldringtravel.com