Scenic

Scenic is an Australian-founded travel brand offering river cruises, Discovery Yachts and land tours. The Scenic Group also includes the independent sister brand Emerald Cruises. The company says it takes guests to more than 60 countries and every continent.

River Ships and Discovery Yachts

For river cruises in Europe and Southeast Asia, Scenic operates purpose-built Space-Ships. In 2012, aboard the Scenic Crystal, the company introduced the Sun Lounge: at the touch of a button, its glass front lowers, opening the glazed seating area to the surrounding scenery. The design combines a sheltered spot on board with unobstructed views of the river. Scenic describes its ocean-going vessels as Discovery Yachts. The Scenic Eclipse, launched in 2019, was followed in April 2023 by the Scenic Eclipse II; according to the company, both ships are designed for remote destinations and voyages around the world. The Eclipse yacht accommodates 228 guests.

The Brand’s Development

Scenic began in 1986 with coach tours in Australia. By 1992, the regional travel business had expanded to land tours in Australia and New Zealand. Since 2008, the group says it has offered all-inclusive river cruises in Europe and Southeast Asia. Emerald Waterways was established as a sister brand in 2013; today, under the name Emerald Cruises, it offers both river cruises and yacht voyages. Both brands belong to the Scenic Group but operate independently within its travel portfolio.

Services and Experiences

Scenic’s all-inclusive concept includes, among other things, gratuities, airport transfers, fine dining, drinks and selected experiences. Headsets and adapted GPS devices help guests find their way on river excursions. Scenic Culinaire refers to cooking demonstrations inspired by the destination, which the company offers on river cruises in France. Scenic Freechoice and Scenic Enrich are also available for excursions and special experiences. The elements included in each itinerary combine onboard services with guided shore visits and culinary experiences in France. For an overview of the different ways of travelling along inland waterways and on the open sea, see the comparison of ocean and river cruises. For river routes, the relationship between water levels and seasonal navigability is also relevant.