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Rhine Christmas Markets with Switzerland

Rhine Christmas Markets with Switzerland

About This Cruise

Christmas markets delight

Admire festive decorations and twinkling lights along streets and squares – even your Scenic Space-Ship will be decked out in all the Christmas finery.

Delight in the charms of a European Christmas as you cruise along the Rhine. Visit charming Strasbourg, take in the spa resort town of Baden-Baden and Heidelberg Castle. Marvel at the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, explore Cologne’s Christmas markets, and discover the canals of Amsterdam. Throughout your journey, you will be enchanted by the magical traditions of Christmas, including the fragrant aroma of Gluhwein, roasted chestnuts and bustling markets bursting with festive excitement.

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

Scenic Amber

Departure Date

6 December 2027

Cruise Line

Scenic

Duration

7 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Itinerary

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Your journey begins in the picturesque city of Amsterdam. A labyrinth of narrow laneways adorned with twinkling lights, canals lined with beautifully preserved 17th century buildings and Christmas trees decorating historic squares. A wanderer’s delight, Amsterdam is steeped in history, art and an undeniable festive atmosphere.This afternoon, board your all-inclusive luxury Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views of ever-changing landscapes and life along the riverbanks. Relax and raise your glass to the days ahead at this evening’s welcome reception.

Germany

Düsseldorf

Take the morning to enjoy the luxuries of your 5-star Scenic Space-Ship. Perhaps enjoy coffee in your suite, delivered by your personal butler, followed by breakfast in Crystal Dining.This afternoon you’ll arrive in Düsseldorf. The city comes alive during the Christmas season with lively markets, festive music and the scent of mulled wine sweetening the air. The Old Town is brimming with festive revelers, and the famed Konigsallee is lined with traditional market stalls.Enjoy a walking tour of Düsseldorf with a local guide. Discover traditions of the festive season before free time to explore the city’s Christmas markets.

Germany

Cologne

Today you will arrive in Cologne.Cologne is a city known for its liberal and laidback lifestyle, its unique beer culture, thriving auto industry, and the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland.Take the time to discover Cologne on a walking tour. Visit the city's centrepiece and icon, Cologne Cathedral, and its magnificent Christmas markets, where local vendors sell delicious treats and decorations.Your Scenic Space-Ship will depart after dinner, allowing you plenty of time to be immersed in the tastes and scents of Christmas like hot chestnuts, freshly baked gingerbread and mulled wine.

Germany

Rüdesheim

Cruise into the Rhine Gorge, one of the most picturesque regions on this journey. The stunning 65 kilometre stretch of river is punctuated with a constellation of some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Look out for the Lorelei statue, dedicated to the tragic legend of a beautiful maiden. Disembark in Rüdesheim, a quaint town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for a staggering two millennia.Take a mini-train from the pier to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, where some 350 musical instruments from the 18th and 19th century play themselves for your enjoyment. You will have time to wander through this beautiful town before returning to your Scenic Space-Ship.

Germany

Mannheim

You will arrive in Mannheim early this morning. Known as a ‘chessboard city’ for its methodical grid of streets, it is also home to some of the world’s most brilliant engineering minds, including Carl Benz, founder of Mercedes-Benz.Scenic Freechoice: Today you can choose from the following Scenic Freechoice excursions on offer:Orientation tour of Heidelberg with free time: From Mannheim, you will transfer by coach to Heidelberg. Enjoy a brief walking tour of Heidelberg, including the old town, and then enjoy ample free time to explore on your own. The town is particularly charming at Christmas, with elaborate decorations, a traditional market, ice skating rink and plenty of festive treats to try.Historical tour of Heidelberg: As well as a guided tour of Heidelberg, visit Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Explore the courtyard, the balcony that offers an incredible view over the Old Town and view the great Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest wine barrel located in the castle’s cellar.Scenic EnrichPrivate classical concert at Bruchsal Palace: Enjoy a private evening concert at Bruchsal Palace. Be greeted at the Palace with a welcome drink before witnessing the grandeur of the theatre room and taking in a fabulous classical concert. Your memorable performance will feature accomplished musicians and a soloist.

France

Strasbourg

Arrive in Strasbourg today. Strasbourg is located on the border of France and Germany, making it a unique mixture of both French and German architecture and culture. Over Christmas, the city is home to almost a dozen traditional markets as well as the largest natural Christmas tree in Europe, standing over 30 metres tall in Place Kléber.Scenic Freechoice: Discover more of the city on one of these excursions:Guided walking tour of Strasbourg: Join your local guide on a walking tour of the city, visiting the cathedral and the charming Petit France district. After your guided tour, you have free time to explore the magical markets. Strasbourg has some of the largest and most popular Christmas markets in Europe with the town squares and pedestrian zone coming alive with festive cheer.Alsace Christmas beer - brewery visit: The cherished tradition of Christmas beer or Biere de Noel dates back to the Middle Ages and blends local brewing heritage with festive spirit. Learn about this regional tradition in the Alsace, considered to be Frances most prominent beer-producing region, during a tasting.

Switzerland

Basel

Arrive in Basel (Huningue) today, the cultural capital of Switzerland. With its cobblestone streets, historic buildings and a picturesque riverside setting, it’s one of the most charming cities in Europe at any time of year. Over Christmas, it is even more appealing – the beautifully decorated Old Town glows with twinkling lights, while the scent of roasted almonds and mulled wine drifts from the traditional Christmas markets on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz.Enjoy local festivities with the following Scenic Freechoice options:Guided tour of Basel with market visit: Step into the festive charm of Basel on a guided walk through the Old Town, where cobbled streets twinkle with fairy lights and historic facades shimmer with seasonal cheer. Discover the majestic Basel Minster, wander past elegant boutiques and galleries, and admire the tree in Münsterplatz. Your tour culminates at the famous Basel Christmas markets – a feast for the senses with handcrafted gifts, gourmet treats and warming mulled wine.Läckerli baking workshop: Immerse yourself in a sweet Basel tradition at a Läckerli baking workshop. Under the guidance of a local baker, you’ll learn the art of crafting these iconic spiced honey cookies, a cherished treat dating back to the 15th century. Experience the rich aromas of cinnamon, cloves, candied peel and almonds as you roll, shape, and decorate your own batch.

Switzerland

Basel

After your river cruise concludes in Basel (Huningue), travel across the Swiss Alps to the picturesque lakeside resort town of Montreux. Take a short orientation tour of the town to admire the lakeside promenade, cobblestone streets and historic buildings. Check in to your luxury hotel for a two-night stay.

Switzerland

Montreux

After your river cruise concludes in Basel (Huningue), travel across the Swiss Alps to the picturesque lakeside resort town of Montreux. Take a short orientation tour of the town to admire the lakeside promenade, cobblestone streets and historic buildings. Check in to your luxury hotel for a two-night stay.

Switzerland

Montreux

This morning, visit Chillon Castle. Set on the shore of Lake Geneva, it was first built in the 11th century and is one of the most visited medieval castles in Europe. Join a tour with a local guide and learn how this iconic castle has inspired poets and writers like Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, Gustave Flaubert, Mary Shelley and Lord Byron. Scenic EnrichChaplin Museum: Learn about the life and work of one of the most influential early film stars, Charlie Chaplin. Experience an exclusive after-hours visit to the Chaplin Museum, set inside his former home.

Switzerland

Montreux

This morning, travel to Bern. Set on the River Aare, Bern is World Heritage-listed thanks to its medieval Old Town, charming Renaissance fountains, and landmarks like the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) and Bern Cathedral.Scenic Freechoice: Explore Bern with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:Orientation tour of Bern: Your Scenic Tour Director will take you on a short walk to explore this delightful city. See its many fountains, sandstone facades and narrow streets, and visit Bear Park, home to a family of bears that have lived along the river banks since 1857.Swiss chocolate tasting: Switzerland is known for its chocolate, which is considered to be some of the best in the world. Enjoy a tasting of different praline and other varieties at a local producer as you learn about chocolate production and its importance for the local economy.

Switzerland

Bern

This morning, travel to Bern. Set on the River Aare, Bern is World Heritage-listed thanks to its medieval Old Town, charming Renaissance fountains, and landmarks like the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) and Bern Cathedral.Scenic Freechoice: Explore Bern with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:Orientation tour of Bern: Your Scenic Tour Director will take you on a short walk to explore this delightful city. See its many fountains, sandstone facades and narrow streets, and visit Bear Park, home to a family of bears that have lived along the river banks since 1857.Swiss chocolate tasting: Switzerland is known for its chocolate, which is considered to be some of the best in the world. Enjoy a tasting of different praline and other varieties at a local producer as you learn about chocolate production and its importance for the local economy.

Switzerland

Bern

Today you’ll depart for Lucerne. Its lovely Old Town, brightly coloured houses, covered bridges and cobalt blue lake make for the quintessential Swiss resort town. Your morning will start with a guided tour of the city, touching on its well-preserved and highlights such as the Museggmauer and Türme (Town Walls and Towers), Hofkirche, and the Jesuit Church.Afterwards, you’ll travel by coach to the cosmopolitan city of Zurich. The largest city in Switzerland and a global financial centre, it hugs the shoreline of the spectacular Lake Zurich. Set off on foot for a walking tour. Zurich is one of the world’s great walking cities, with a flat centre, many pedestrian-only streets and historic bridges. Wander along the Bahnhofstrasse, the city’s main street lined with glamorous boutiques and international flagship stores. Check in to your luxury hotel and enjoy some free time to explore the city after dark.

Switzerland

Lucerne

Today you’ll depart for Lucerne. Its lovely Old Town, brightly coloured houses, covered bridges and cobalt blue lake make for the quintessential Swiss resort town. Your morning will start with a guided tour of the city, touching on its well-preserved and highlights such as the Museggmauer and Türme (Town Walls and Towers), Hofkirche, and the Jesuit Church.Afterwards, you’ll travel by coach to the cosmopolitan city of Zurich. The largest city in Switzerland and a global financial centre, it hugs the shoreline of the spectacular Lake Zurich. Set off on foot for a walking tour. Zurich is one of the world’s great walking cities, with a flat centre, many pedestrian-only streets and historic bridges. Wander along the Bahnhofstrasse, the city’s main street lined with glamorous boutiques and international flagship stores. Check in to your luxury hotel and enjoy some free time to explore the city after dark.

Switzerland

Zurich

Today you’ll depart for Lucerne. Its lovely Old Town, brightly coloured houses, covered bridges and cobalt blue lake make for the quintessential Swiss resort town. Your morning will start with a guided tour of the city, touching on its well-preserved and highlights such as the Museggmauer and Türme (Town Walls and Towers), Hofkirche, and the Jesuit Church.Afterwards, you’ll travel by coach to the cosmopolitan city of Zurich. The largest city in Switzerland and a global financial centre, it hugs the shoreline of the spectacular Lake Zurich. Set off on foot for a walking tour. Zurich is one of the world’s great walking cities, with a flat centre, many pedestrian-only streets and historic bridges. Wander along the Bahnhofstrasse, the city’s main street lined with glamorous boutiques and international flagship stores. Check in to your luxury hotel and enjoy some free time to explore the city after dark.

Switzerland

Zurich

Depart after breakfast for your onward journey, taking your memories of beautiful Switzerland with you.Due to new restrictions on cruise ships at Amsterdam’s city docks, your cruise is now likely to embark and/or disembark at a port outside central Amsterdam. If your ship does not have a central Amsterdam docking, Scenic will provide a central Amsterdam meeting point and transfers to your ship as required. These changes are required by local authorities and are in line with our booking terms which allow changes to berthing or dock locations and ports where operationally necessary. You will be advised of the confirmed docking location prior to departure.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.

Overview

Christmas markets delight

Admire festive decorations and twinkling lights along streets and squares – even your Scenic Space-Ship will be decked out in all the Christmas finery.

Delight in the charms of a European Christmas as you cruise along the Rhine. Visit charming Strasbourg, take in the spa resort town of Baden-Baden and Heidelberg Castle. Marvel at the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, explore Cologne’s Christmas markets, and discover the canals of Amsterdam. Throughout your journey, you will be enchanted by the magical traditions of Christmas, including the fragrant aroma of Gluhwein, roasted chestnuts and bustling markets bursting with festive excitement.

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Suite

Royal Owner's Suite

These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Suite Highlights

  • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
  • Separate lounge area
  • Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities.

Amenities & Features

  • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
  • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
  • A complimentary welcome bottle of Champagne (750ml)
  • €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
  • Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*.
  • Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Nightly turndown service
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • In-suite safe

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Suite

Royal Panorama Suite

These Suites located on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Suite Highlights

  • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
  • Separate lounge area
  • Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities.

Amenities & Features

  • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
  • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
  • A complimentary welcome bottle of Champagne (750ml)
  • €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
  • Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*.
  • Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Nightly turndown service
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • In-suite safe

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Suite

Royal Balcony Suite

These Suites located on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Suite Highlights

    • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
    • Separate lounge area
    • Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities.

    Amenities & Features

    • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
    • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
    • A complimentary welcome bottle of Champagne (750ml)
    • €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
    • Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*.
    • Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
    • Mini bar, replenished daily
    • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
    • Nightly turndown service
    • Bathrobes and slippers
    • In-suite safe
    Suite

    Balcony Suite

    Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.

    Room Highlights

    • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
    • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
    • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

    Amenities & Features

    • Personalised butler service for every suite
    • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
    • Early morning tea and coffee
    • Beverage service in your suite
    • Mini bar, replenished daily
    • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
    • Nightly turndown service
    • Bathrobes and slippers
    • In-suite safe
    • Shoeshine and valet service.

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    Suite

    Deluxe Balcony Suite

    Located in prime locations at the front of the ship on both the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, they offer all the features of our private Balcony Suites with our ingenious Scenic Sun Lounge, but with even more space to relax.

    Room Highlights

    • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
    • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
    • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

    Amenities & Features

    • Personalised butler service for every suite
    • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
    • Early morning tea and coffee
    • Beverage service in your suite
    • Mini bar, replenished daily
    • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
    • Nightly turndown service
    • Bathrobes and slippers
    • In-suite safe
    • Shoeshine and valet service.

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    Suite

    Junior Balcony Suite

    These spacious Suites, located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony complete with a Scenic Sun Lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.

    Room Highlights

    • A luxury queen-sized Scenic Slumber Bed
    • Scenic Sun Lounge, your all weather balcony at the press of a button
    • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities   

    Amenities and Features

    • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive/Table d’Or
    • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
    • Personalised butler service for every suite
    • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
    • Daily pressing for two pieces of clothing
    • In-suite breakfast with early morning tea and coffee services available
    • Daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
    • Mini bar, replenished daily
    • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
    • Nightly turndown service
    • Bathrobes and slippers
    • In-suite safe

    Suite

    Single Balcony Suite

    Located on the Sapphire deck this suite is perfect for the solo traveller. Enjoy fantastic views from your full size balcony complete with Scenic Sun Lounge. This cabin also includes an elegant bathroom with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.

    Room Highlights

    • A luxury queen-sized Scenic Slumber Bed
    • Scenic Sun Lounge, your all weather balcony at the press of a button
    • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

    Amenities and Features

    • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive/Table d’Or
    • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
    • Personalised butler service for every suite
    • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
    • Daily pressing for two pieces of clothing
    • In-suite breakfast with early morning tea and coffee services available
    • Daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
    • Mini bar, replenished daily
    • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
    • Nightly turndown service
    • Bathrobes and slippers
    • In-suite safe

    Suite

    Standard Suite

    Perfect for guests who like to spend more time on the Sun Deck and in public areas, Standard Suites include luxury amenities and a picture window for you to marvel at the stunning scenery.

    Room Highlights

    • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
    • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities 

    Amenities and Features

    • Personalised butler service
    • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
    • Early morning tea and coffee
    • Mini bar, replenished daily
    • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
    • Shoeshine and valet service
    • Nightly turndown service
    • In-suite safe 
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    casual

    Crystal Dining

    Enjoy à la carte menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner at Crystal Dining. Available on all Europe and South East Asia river cruises, this main restaurant offers a relaxed dining experience with local delicacies. 

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    italian

    Portobellos

    With up to only 32 guests an evening, the exclusive and intimate Portobellos or L’Amour showcase sumptuous regional specialities. The delectable five-course menu features either Italian, French or Portuguese cuisine (depending on your cruise location), paired with elegant wines, and is available on all European river cruises.

    fine

    Table La Rive

    Featuring a six-course degustation, the exclusive Table La Rive and Table d’Or on our European river cruises offers an intimate dining experience for only 10 guests per evening. Guests staying on the Diamond Deck for 10 nights or longer, as well as Royal and Junior Suite guests staying for up to nine nights, will be invited by our Executive Chef.

    casual

    Riverview Terrace

    Accompanied by our all-inclusive food and drink offering, the Riverview Terrace is the perfect spot for a little alfresco living on board our Space-Ships. Whether it’s an afternoon aperitif or a light bite, you can enjoy a range of snacks and refreshments from the comfort of the Sun Deck as sweeping views pass you by.

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    ice_cream

    River Café

    Offering a casual dining experience, you can enjoy all-day grazing options, light snacks and tasty treats to suit your schedule. The River Café is available on all Europe and South East Asia river cruises.

    room

    In-Suite Dining

    Choose to dine in the comfort of your luxurious suite, while taking in the incredible views and enjoy included room service throughout your cruise.  

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    Lounge, Bar

    Panorama Lounge & Bar

    Located at the heart of the Scenic Jasper, Opal and Amber, the Panorama Lounge & Bar is the primary bar area on board – providing an intimate and contemporary place to relax and take advantage of our extensive bar menu. This is also where you can enjoy a programme of entertainment, including performances by local musicians and cultural troupes.

    Sun Deck

    The Sun Deck

    The Scenic Jasper, Opal and Amber each benefit from an open-air location at the top of each Space-Ship, where you can make the most of sunlit days on the river. Enjoy competing with new friends in the games area, sink into the comfort of a deck chair, or simply take a walk and admire the view.

    Reception

    Reception

    A warm welcome awaits at your reception area, which you’ll find in the central atrium on board our Space-Ships. Our crew are on hand 24 hours a day to help with whatever you need, while the area also doubles as the meeting point for the day’s shore excursions.
    Bar

    All Inclusive Beverages

    Sit back and enjoy a beverage of your choice while cruising spectacular waterways, at your leisure. Sip on handcrafted cocktails or a full-bodied wine – the choice is yours.

    You will enjoy:

    • Unlimited complimentary premium international beverages^, including international wines, beers and spirits
    • Full in-suite mini bar, restocked daily
    • Refillable water bottle for all onshore excursions
    • An extensive range of specialty teas and espresso coffees
    • This selection is available all day, every day.

    *Exclusive invitation for Diamond Deck and Junior Suite guests cruising for 10 nights or more, or Royal and Junior Suite guests for 9 nights or fewer.

    ^All beverages are included except a very small number of fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits.

    Pool

    Vitality Pool

    Designed for total relaxation on the rivers of Central Europe - Scenic Jasper, Opal and Amber all feature a Vitality Pool, a luxurious, heated pool that boasts air and water jets. Whether you’re looking to unwind after an immersive excursion or want a little ‘me’ time; a dip in Vitality Pool is absolute heaven.

    Spa, Wellness

    Wellness Area

    Maintain your wellness routine at our state-of-the-art gym, morning stretching classes^ with the Wellness Coach or rejuvenating spa treatments*. Exercise on the walking track on the Sun Deck or take a dip in the Vitality Pool^.

    Gym

    Fitness Centre

    Stay active on your travels in our Fitness Centres, available on board the Scenic Jasper, Opal and Amber. With a mix of both cardio and weight-training equipment, our on board gyms can help you work up a sweat and get ready for another wonderful day on the river.
    Spa, Wellness

    Salt Therapy Lounge

    This innovative lounge# is featured on most of our Space-Ships in Europe. The salt brick walls of the humidity and temperature-controlled lounge are known to offer a range of health benefits for respiratory and immune systems.