Scenic Cruises announced the building of its sixth luxury river cruise vessel in four years. The 'Space-Ship,' Scenic Crystal, will be launched April 2012 and will offer 85 staterooms for a guest capacity of 169.
The 135-meter Scenic Crystal offers staterooms and suites up to 25 percent larger than the norm, with 85 percent of them having the exclusive Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ balconies – balconies that become fully-enclosed with the push of a button; three dining choices, one with a window into the galley and a private chef’s table; butler service throughout the ship; and a vastly quieter propulsion system. Initial sailings include the eight-day Gems of the Danube ($3,245 to $5,615 per person, double), 11-day Gems of the Danube and Prague ($4,415 to $6,785), and the 15-day Jewels of Europe sailing between Budapest and Amsterdam ($4,895 to $10,915). Prices are all-inclusive including gratuity.
New to the river cruise scene and exclusive to the Scenic Crystal are balconies known as the Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’. A press of a button allows a guest to convert their balcony from an outdoor good weather lounging area to a fully-enclosed, all-weather room extension as a hidden panel of glass rises up. The ship’s extended length of 135 meters allows for staterooms and suites ranging from 164 to 315 square feet, and a choice of three dining areas: fine dining at Portobello, casual breakfast and lunch dining at River Café or the main restaurant, Crystal Dining, which features a Chef’s Table.
Staterooms and suites come equipped with 27 inch and up Apple TV monitors, a wider range of thermostat temperature settings, wireless Internet, Egyptian linens, large walk-in showers, L’Occitane products and a glass-front bar fridge. Twenty-five percent of Balcony Suites are a new larger category, Deluxe Balcony Suites, with 225 square feet of space. Bicycles and electric assist bicycles are free to use.
For more information, visit www.scenictours.com.