I recently returned from the inaugural sailing of Scenic Tours’
newest ‘Space Ship’, the Scenic Jewel. This luxury ship offers so much,
with Scenic’s ‘all inclusive’ product meaning once on board there is
absolutely nothing to worry about.
So what is included, you might ask? Pretty much everything – all
meals, a mini bar replenished daily and unlimited beverages (with
just a few exceptions). Then there is the private butler service for
every guest. Your butler can even bring you a cup of tea each morning
if that’s how you like to start the day.
Sightseeing excursions are also a major part of your free inclusions
– choose from a variety of tours in each port, from guided walking
or cycling tours or excursions further afield. For the independent
traveller who likes to explore on their own, the personal GPS device
in each stateroom allows for self guided exploration in most ports.
Each stateroom is elegantly decorated with quality linen, plush
robes and much more including an Australian power point! Not
to mention the television linked to a Mac mini computer. Wireless
internet is complimentary so you can check your emails or surf the
net from your TV screen or your personal device.
And for us Aussies who struggle with the whole ‘tipping’ thing – all
gratuities are included.
Although we all travel to see the sights, being onboard a Scenic
vessel is an experience to be very much enjoyed in itself. The public
areas are spread over three levels: The Sun Deck on top, the lounge
area and bar in the middle and the dining room on the lower level. On
a balmy day it is a delight to watch the little villages and towns go by
from the Sun Deck.
The lounge area is very cosy with lounges and arm chairs making it
a great place to relax at any time of the day. A cappuccino machine
and tea making is available 24 hours a day. The bar is located
adjacent to the lounge; this also incorporates the River Café, new
to the Scenic fleet from 2013. Guests can eat here for a more casual
dining experience most of the day. Breakfast is served here for the
early risers. A delicious array of cakes and sandwiches, and other
delights are available all day. And for a lighter lunch guests can have
soup, salad or gourmet pizza.
The lower deck is home to the Crystal Dining room, which is open
for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For breakfast you can choose from
the buffet, including an egg station where a chef will make you an
omelette or eggs any way you like. Or you can choose from the a la
carte menu.
Lunch is a real treat – the buffet includes a variety of hot and cold
dishes, with a local dish for guests to try using fresh local produce
each day. An a la carte menu is also available. Dinner is a four course
a la carte menu with some nights themed along with entertainment.
Portobellos fine Italian and Table La Rive are also an option for
dinner. Table La Rive is new for the 2013 season. This 8 course
degustation meal with paired wines is only available for guests
travelling in Junior Suites, Royal Suites or the Royal Panorama Suites.
Portobello’s is located past the bar area. Guests need to pre book for
their degustation experience. The food and wine are delicious and a
must at least once on the cruise.
With such wonderful food and wine each and every day my bag was
not the only thing that came back weighing more! But with loads of
great activities, spectacular scenery and fabulous service a Scenic
European river cruise is a great way to travel.
