There are of course many factors that contribute to the perfect holiday.
Gorgeous scenery, delightful surprises, making new friends, quality food and wine and indulging in the experiences of a lifetime to name a few.
The highlights and the lingering memories will vary for everyone but there’s one constant that’s part of every great travel experience. It’s that little something extra that’s hard to define, the “Nth degree” that makes the holiday feel very, very special.
It’s one of the reasons Scenic enjoys such a loyal following among travellers who have experienced what going the extra mile feels like.
The European river cruise specialists are renowned for an unmatched level of service, ease of travel and depth of experiences on offer. In fact, the company prides itself on the Nth Degree that guests rave about.
So what does it look and feel like when you are travelling on one of the 5-star Scenic Space-Ships?
Well, it actually starts even before you board. The special touches begin the moment you arrive at the airport of your departure destination city. That’s right, as soon you land ready for your spectacular river cruise, a Scenic representative will personally greet and transport you to your hotel or cruise departure point.
Right from the outset, you are made to feel special and that feeling stays with you right throughout your journey exploring the great waterways of Europe.
Expect ‘money can’t buy’ experiences that only Scenic can deliver with local experts who accompany you all the way.
Scenic’s Cruise Directors have no peer when it comes to guest service and they will make sure every facet of your journey is seamless and any questions you have will be answered and accommodated.
As you watch the breathtaking ancient castles and sweeping vineyards roll by, enjoy butler service in every one of the elegantly appointed suites that also have a mini-bar fully restocked daily, including snacks. There’s even an after-hours menu for night owls.
More like a five-star hotel than a cruise stateroom, the suites are replete with luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets, a pillow menu to choose your optimal level of comfort and bath products are complimentary.
That’s one of the great features of a Scenic cruise. The Nth Degree means you can comfortably leave your wallet alone, everything is included and that means gratuities as well.
No need to worry about the hassle or embarrassment of trying to work out what and who to tip, it’s all taken care of. You won’t sign an invoice on board either.
With that peace of mind knowing your holiday is fully paid before you even board, you can relax and savour the dreamy vistas from the Sun Deck as you cruise past timeless villages and ancient hilltop castles with a cocktail in hand.
When you go ashore, the Nth Degree continues with incredibly knowledgeable local guides who escort you to the places only locals know about as they share their unique insights and stories of historic towns and villages.
Scenic offers a range of Scenic Freechoice activities to select from and once-in-a-lifetime Scenic Enrich experiences. These carefully curated events will take you into the private rooms of castles, give you exclusive access to intimate performances and many more events not open to the public.
Your time on shore is further enhanced by Scenic’s own Tailormade App that offers self-discovery touring, an Audio Guide System, Riverview Commentary, Independent City Tours and off-line Navigation System.
Guests can also view the Daily Cruise Program, the range of shore excursions and the entire Travel Guide Book. There is also a Travel Wallet and a Badge Scan option for easier access.
On select Scenic Space-Ships, you’ll also find a collection of e-bikes. These easy to operate bicycles offer electronic pedal assistance.
Guests on the Jewels of Europe cruise between Amsterdam and Budapest for example can enjoy the e-bike tour along the river from Melk to one of the most enchanting villages in the region, Dürnstein.
This is all part of the Nth Degree which as you’d expect of a luxury holiday experience, also extends to the food and wine which is often paired with regional specialties.
There are up to five dining options on board with Crystal Dining the main restaurant.
With open seating for 2 to 8 guests, here you’ll enjoy a wide range of cuisines from local signature dishes to a Seafood Gala evening. Buffet and á la carte menus are available daily along with in-room dining.
Guests sailing the Rhône or Bordeaux regions on Scenic Diamond or Scenic Sapphire have the option to participate in a unique culinary experience called “Scenic Culinaire”.
This immersive gastronomic experience begins at the start of the day as you join the head-chef browsing local markets, boulangeries and patisseries in search of the best produce and accompaniments.
Then it’s back to the ship where you’ll prepare your French-inspired dishes under expert tutelage.
Whether it’s a delicate pastry, a rich dessert, hearty bouillabaisse or classic French dish, you’ll enjoy the bold flavours that you and the chef have created.
Together, this range of thoughtful, inspired, unique and unforgettable moments and forensic attention to detail all adds up to the magical Nth Degree.
It’s those priceless, extra special touches that keep so many travellers coming back to Scenic again and again.
