MY balcony is so big, I could’ve rented it out to a third passenger.
And it’s not due to an upgrade to a fancy suite: this is the standard
space on 80% of cabins on Scenic Tours’ Scenic Ruby.
Unlike the average ‘French balcony’ on many river vessels, this
one has room for a small table and two chairs from which to admire
the canal city view as we depart Amsterdam.
When a chilly breeze starts blowing, I press a magic button that
closes the upper section, sealing the warmth in to my new private
‘sun lounge’. It’s like a slow-motion secret room makeover. But it
also makes me a hermit: I want to stay in there all day.
The crew do their best to lure me out, with reminders about the
gourmet meals, free shore excursions and free drinks.
Eventually we emerge for a gelato from the River Café, where the
mostly Australian passengers are socialising.
Inside, the most impressive area is Portobellos Italian restaurant.
Smaller and classier than the main dining venue, it makes good
use of floor-to-ceiling windows.
So often on a cruise – river or ocean – you can’t easily see outside
during meals, but this ship is all about the views.
As a sister to Scenic Sapphire and Scenic Diamond, the Ruby is
certainly a shiny jewel of Europe’s rivers, fresh from a refurbishment
earlier this year.
Changes include new furniture, soft furnishings and carpet, high-definition
TVs linked to Mac computers in every cabin, free faster
speed Wi-Fi internet, and a revamped reception.
All passengers also enjoy the services of butlers who are on call to
shine shoes, deliver snacks and assist with activities on land.
Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style, while dinner is a single
seating at 7pm. In summer, a BBQ may be held on the top deck.
The 15-day ‘Jewels of Europe’ itinerary also stands apart, with free
shore excursions that are often at additional cost on other cruise
lines.
On the first full day, choices include a sightseeing canal cruise,
a bus trip to the windmills of Zaanse Schans, or a bicycle tour of
Amsterdam.
“All passengers also enjoy the services of butlers”
The next day, in Cologne, a private medieval banquet is held in the
12th century Marksburg Castle.
Other highlights include a cable car ride in Rüdesheim, baking
cakes in Miltenberg, wine-tasting in the underground cellars of the
Prince Bishop’s Residenz Palace and a tour of beautiful Bamberg.
Passengers can also see the infamous WWII sites of Nuremberg,
and explore Salzburg, the spectacular setting for ‘The Sound of
Music’ and birthplace of Mozart.
Two days are spent in Vienna to savour the city’s architecture, a
classical concert, a guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace or a visit to
the Spanish Riding School.
Finally, in Budapest, options include a city tour or a relaxing day in
the famous thermal baths.
As with all Scenic cruises, fares include unlimited complimentary
drinks, butler service, shore excursions, airport transfers, tipping
and gratuities.
For details, see www.scenictours.com.au or call 1300 723 642.
