Scenic details cruise offerings, new destinations

New river cruises in Portugal and South Asia are among the new developments Scenic Cruises has in store for 2016.

The line is currently in the midst of its 2015 road shows, bringing the company’s products and itineraries to agents across Canada. Scenic’s sister brand Emerald Waterways (which debuted last year) is also on the road, with a series of similar presentations detailing that line’s itineraries.

According to Derek Legault, senior director of sales – Canada, Scenic’s shows have been drawing approximately 100 agents at each stop, eager to learn more about the line’s cruise packages.

Neil Dudley, Scenic’s director, business development for Canada and Lisa McCaskill, vice-president of sales and marketing, detailed the line’s offerings, which traverse the many waterways of Europe, including the Rhine, the Danube and the Moselle Rivers, among others.

Private balconies (some featuring a Sun Lounge through the use of sliding glass panes) are featured on 84 per cent of cabins, McCaskill said, while personal butler service is offered in all cabin categories.

On-shore excursions are also included on sailings, Dudley said, with travellers aided through the use of the Scenic Highlights device, a portable screen with a headset which allows travellers to follow their guides while receiving information about the various sights and landmarks at each stop. The device can also be used aboard the ship to receive information about the local area through which cruisers are passing. During shore excursions, Scenic also offers free use of e-bikes for guests.

For 2016, Scenic has added new cruises in Europe, including the Douro River in Portugal and a sailing to Bourdeaux, France. Next year, Scenic will also sail out of Europe for the first time, with offerings in South Asia such as the 13-day Treasures of the Mekong through Vietnam, with new ship Scenic Spirit. Dudley said the vessel will carry 68 passengers on the trek from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City. He added the wider waterways of the region allow for larger ships, with the Scenic Spirit featuring an 861 square-foot Royal Panorama Suite.

Photo: Of Scenic: Neil Dudley, director – business development Canada; Derek Legault, senior director of sales – Canada; Lisa McCaskill, VP – sales & marketing.