In 2017, Scenic introduced a new ship design for its two Space-Ships sailing on France’s Saône and Rhône Rivers. The concept will be brought to Europe’s Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers for 2019. All eight of the Space-Ships plying these rivers – Scenic Ruby, Pearl, Jasper, Opal, Amber, Crystal, Jade, and Jewel – will be remodeled this winter.

The reconfigured Scenic Diamond. Photo courtesy of Scenic

Highlights include reducing the number of cabins and guests to 81 and 161, respectively (Ruby and Pearl), and 83 and 165 (on the six others) while keeping the same crew count. The remodeled ships will feature two new 520-square-foot Royal Owners Suites; larger wellness centers that include gyms, massage services, and hairdressers; and Salt Therapy lounges. On-board yoga and stretching classes will be added as well as more active excursions such as bike tours on the company’s e-bikes and hikes up Buda Hill for a view of Budapest. Every itinerary will offer a host of active excursions in 2019.

The three-station Salt Lounge offers guests a way to feel energized and healthier while relaxing. The humidity and temperature-controlled room is handcrafted from salt bricks and creates a micro-climate of a natural salt mine. Its three inclined lounging chairs are separated by light curtains for privacy; low-level lighting and music promote the natural effects of the salt. Guests on board the two ships are free to use the rooms as they wish, spending up to a recommended 45 minutes in the environment. The negatively-charged salt ions bear a very high kinetic energy and offer the same feeling that one might find when standing on a beach. The ions also increase the efficacy of healing, improve respiration, skin conditions, and boost the immune system.

Scenic has also announced offers for guests booking a 2019 sailing by August 31, 2018, including:

• Free air on every cabin and itinerary, including free Premium Economy for some stateroom categories on 11+ day sailings; $1,000 or $1,500 Scenic savings in lieu of free flights
• $595 Premium Economy upgrades; Business class upgrades are also available
• Up to $1,000 savings per couple for full payment by August 31, 2018
• No single supplements on select sailings of 11+ days in April/May/July/Aug/Oct/Nov and 50 percent off in June and Sept and as well as all season long on 8- to 10-day departures

The specials are capacity controlled. Free flights revert to $295/$495 per person, depending on itinerary and stateroom category, once capacity limits are met.

Scenic Space-Ships offer all-inclusive experiences – from private butler service and unlimited complimentary beverages and spirits including mini-bar re-stocked daily, to full-size private balcony staterooms – all making use of Scenic’s unique Sun Lounge technology – where the walkout open-air balcony can convert to an all-weather lounge with a push of a button, expanding the living area of the stateroom. On-board river highlights and on-shore experiences feature handheld GPS guided tour systems, which are provided to every guest.