Things are shaping up for what appears will be a banner year in 2013 for Scenic Tours. Not only will the company take delivery of its newest vessel, Scenic Jewel, but 2013 will also mark the introduction of a number of exciting firsts for the Australian-based line.
Beginning next year, Scenic Tours’ sailings will go all-inclusive, meaning unlimited complimentary beverages will be available onboard including wines, beer, soft drinks, bottled water and select spirits. The only things not included in this new policy are premium spirits, French champagne and selected wines.
In staterooms, complimentary in-suite mini-bars will be replenished daily, along with a large bottle of both still and sparkling mineral water.
Also new in 2013 is the addition of butler service to guests in all staterooms, regardless of cabin category. What can your butler do? As it turns out, nearly everything from organizing on-shore arrangements or assisting with any needs that may arise during your river cruise. With a champagne welcome and personal escort to your stateroom, there’s plenty to like about this new feature. The only caveat: Butler service is not available on river cruises in Russia.
For those who like their river cruise ships new, the seventh vessel in Scenic’s highly successful “Space Ship” class, Scenic Jewel will enter service in 2013 on a maiden voyage that will take her from Amsterdam to Budapest along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.
Like her sisters, Scenic Jewel will continue Scenic’s tradition of offering staterooms that feature full, step-out balconies – a rarity in an industry where the vast majority of ships feature French balcony staterooms.
Scenic may have made its name through the land-based tours the company has offered since its founding in 1987, but it seems likely with the launch of Scenic Jewel next year that the company’s river cruising foundation is solid indeed.
More information about Scenic Tours and the Scenic “Space Ships” can be found by visiting our complete company and fleet overviews here on River Cruise Advisor.
