Cruise Advice
29 October
Setting sail from Basel
Basel lies where Switzerland, France and Germany meet, a sophisticated and multicultural city with a picturesque setting astride the river Rhine. The medieval Old Town is exceptionally well preserved, best appreciated from the summit of the hilltop cathedral, which offers incredible views across the city. Basel boasts a wealth of museums and galleries, and plays host to events including the renowned Art Basel contemporary art fair, held during the summer, and Fasnacht, Switzerland's most famous winter carnival.
Our tip
The food here is great, with so many different influences. Try salmon ‘nach Basler Art’ (in a white wine marinade with fried onions), and wash it down with the local Riesling.
30 October
Germany: Kehl
30 October
France: Strasbourg
Strasbourg is the capital of France’s Alsace region, right next to the border with Germany, and there is a tangible Germanic influence that sets the city a little apart from the rest of France. Highlights include the beautiful Gothic cathedral, the old town’s fairytale half-timbered houses, and the pictureque canals of the Petite France district.
31 October
Germany: Rastatt
31 October
Germany: Baden-Baden
The famous spa town of Baden-Baden has been attracting the great and the good for some 2,000 years, with everyone from Otto von Bismarck to Barack Obama taking the waters here. Even if thermal baths aren’t your thing, you’re sure to be enchanted by the beautiful architecture and the storybook setting next to the Black Forest.
1 November
Germany: Mannheim
Situated near the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar rivers, Mannheim is an important industrial centre with a lively cultural scene. It’s also conveniently located for exploring the pretty town of Heidelberg and the wine growing region around Nierstein.
2 November
Germany: Koblenz
Koblenz was founded by the Romans, who valued the city’s strategically important location where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet. Rebuilt from the rubble of the Second World War, modern Koblenz has a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere, and serves as a gateway to the Romantic Rhine.
3 November
Germany: Cologne
Cologne is a wonderfully warm and welcoming city, its skyline dominated by one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in Europe. You will likely spend most of your time in the attractive Altstadt (Old Town), home to beer halls aplenty and some fascinating museums.
4-5 November
Arriving in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is one of our very favourite cities to visit, as well as also being a perfect base to explore the nearby landscape of windmills and dikes. The Amsterdam canal belt is now officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and from them there are so many neighbourhoods to explore, such as the Jordaan with its higgledy-piggledy streets and its famed garden courtyards (hofjes). There are also a wealth of famous museums and galleries to choose from, such as the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House, not to mention some more, shall we say, quirky options.
Our tip
Explore by water, or by bicycle to get a feel for the city – a hop on hop off canal boat, or rented bike or pedalo will do the trick.
Your home from home
Scenic Crystal, Jewel and Jade accommodate 163 guests in stylish surroundings and offer a luxurious way to explore the great rivers of Europe.
What we love
Sleek and contemporary, with an extensive list of onboard inclusions, Scenic's aptly named Space-Ships are renowned for their high levels of personal service, relaxed ambience and inviting public areas.
| Capacity | 163 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 59 European Staff |
| Style |
Relaxed and informal during the day, giving way to an elegant evening atmosphere. |
| Inclusions |
|
| Year Built | 2012 (Crystal); 2013 (Jewel); 2014 (Jade) |
| Length | 443 feet |
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Basel
The Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois (three kings) is one of Europe’s oldest city hotels.
Excursions from Basel
If the Romans are your thing then you'll enjoy Switzerland’s largest Roman ruins at Augusta Raurica, with the excellent Römermuseum alongside.
Two nights in Amsterdam
There is a fantastic range of canal front hotels to choose from, but we love the new Waldorf Astoria.
Around Amsterdam
Visit windmills in Zaanse Schans, the flowers at Keukenhof, or the cheese market in Alkmaar.
