Royal Panorama Suite 337. © 2015 Ralph Grizzle
I spent six nights on Scenic Jasper, sailing from Budapest to Vienna. Along the way I met the company’s owners, Glen Moroney and his wife Karen; key executives; and a slew of North American travel agents and journalists. The consensus, and I am in agreement, is that Scenic serves up a quality experience at a high level.
The Australia-based company may already represent the most-inclusive river cruise company in the marketplace, though Scenic must contend with the likes of Tauck and Uniworld. In addition to a long list of inclusives, Scenic bundles in all gratuities, even those for guides ashore. Scenic isn’t skimping either. Champagne is poured, not sparkling (except Prosecco in the alternative dining venue, Portobello), top shelf spirits are included, single malts, for example. You can belly up to the bar for a bottled European beer or a draft, at no extra charge. About the only thing you can dig into your wallet for is a massage.
There are five dining venues if you include room service, something rare on river cruisers but offered on Scenic. The company’s FreeChoice program offers guests a wide-range of excursions, all free of charge. And Scenic’s electric-assist bikes are arguably the best in the business.
Yep, we like this company, and we’re looking forward to what is to come. Here’s a look back at my coverage for the week.
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