Scenic Cruises

Scenic Tours ship photo

ABOVE: A Scenic Tours "Space Ship" on the Rhine.

Scenic Cruises suite with balcony Scenic Cruises is owned by Scenic Tours, an Australian company that entered the European river-cruise market in 2008 with what it described as a "five-star" standard of accommodations and service. More than 80 percent of suites and cabins have balconies, all guests have personal butler service, and passengers can choose among three restaurants on all but one of the company's vessels.

The company has a growing fleet of new "Space-Ships," which tend to be larger than most river ships in Europe. Itineraries on these ships include cruises on the Rhine, Danube, and Moselle. (Other itineraries combine cruises with touring by bus.) During 2012 and 2013, an additional chartered ship--ms Symphony--is cruising in France.

Fares include airport transfers, unlimited complimentary beverages, free Wi-Fi, and all gratuitites. (Even tips for local tour guides are included in the fares.)