Luxury river line, Scenic has upgraded its fleet of eight river ships sailing the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers in Europe with bigger suites and better onboard experience.

The move means fewer passengers with more space for those on board the all-inclusive five-star line.

The eight ships include Scenic Ruby, Pearl, Jasper, Opal, Amber, Crystal, Jade and Jewel, now have larger but fewer staterooms, including two new 48 sq m Royal Owners Suites. All ships will be equipped with state-of-the-art and expansive wellness centres including a gym, massage room, salt therapy lounge and hair salon.

“The suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable space, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an over-sized bathroom,” said a Scenic spokesperson.

The two Royal Owners Suites now range from 29sq m to 48 sq m in size, and will have a Nespresso machine each, unlimited complimentary laundry, morning delivery of newspapers, packing and unpacking of luggage, a complimentary bottle of champagne, Euro200 per cabin on board credit for use in the wellness centre and private arrivals and departure transfers in Europe.

“The Royal Owners Suites are often the first suites to be booked on our popular itineraries,” says Scenic.

With the upgrade, Scenic Ruby and Pearl will be able to accommodate 161 passengers instead of 167. The remaining six ships will have their capacity reduced from 169 to 165 passengers. The same number of crew will be maintained in all the ships.

The upgrade and remodelling of its fleet of space-ships to include the more expansive Royal Owners Suites was in response from guests who wanted a high level of service.

“We reduced the number of our lead in cabin categories to allow more staff to be accommodated in line with the changes in work regulations in Europe. These amendments were made to ensure we comply with local regulations and provide our guests with more choice when booking with us rather than due to any issue relating to perceived over-crowding on the rivers,” Scenic spokesman explained.

The size of the wellness centre will be boosted to include a salt therapy lounge, a gym, hairdresser and massage room. Highlight of the extensive design will be the humidity and temperature controlled salt therapy lounge. It will operate like a natural salt mine “which is said to give curative effects,” Scenic said.

There will be three relaxation chairs in each lounge with low-level lighting and calming music. Guests are free to use the rooms as they wish.

The eight ships will now be in line with Scenic Diamond and Emerald sailing on France’s Rhone and Saone Rivers which underwent the same redesign and upgrade the previous year.

For more, see www.scenic.com.au