First Time Cruisers Guide

Scenic°

YOUR GUIDE TO RIVER CRUISING

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To find out more visit scenicusa.com, call 833.644.8235 or contact your Travel Professional

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WELCOME TO SCENIC Scenic has more than 30 years’ experience creating unforgettable, handcrafted journeys for our guests.

Our guests are at the forefront of all we do, from the design of our ships to the creation of our exclusive Scenic Enrich once-in-a-lifetime experiences. We want to deliver the best all-inclusive luxury experience possible across the globe, so that all you need to do is focus on making memories that will last a lifetime.

If you’re new to river cruising, this guide has been tailored to answer all your questions and help you choose one of our award-winning cruises that’s right for you.

We will explain to you why Scenic luxury all-inclusive river cruising is a great way to see the world, let you know what to expect on board and provide insights into the many exciting destinations and more.

Scenic Diamond, Bordeaux, France

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Page

Why Scenic

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Truly All-Inclusive

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Who should take a River Cruise

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What to expect onboard

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What to expect onshore

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Explore Europe

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Explore South East Asia

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Explore Egypt & Jordan

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When & Where to Travel

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Scenic Azure

Top 10 River Cruise Line

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Best River Cruise Line Shore Excursions

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Best River Cruise Line Shore Excursions

To find out more visit scenicusa.com, call 833.644.8235 or contact your Travel Professional

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WHY SCENIC Since our company started in Newcastle, Australia in 1986, our passion for all-inclusive luxury travel, a dedication to our guests, handcrafted experiences and continuous innovation is what sets us apart.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

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At Scenic, we believe that luxury is all-inclusive and found in the thoughtful details.

Put your wallet away and have the time of your life.

Our Journey Designers are experts in the destinations we travel to. They know the hidden gems that will turn your cruise with Scenic into a truly memorable experience, and they are always on the lookout for new inclusions that will add more value to your time with us.

With our fleet traversing the waterways of Europe, South East Asia and Egypt, Scenic’s innovative, custom-designed ships have set the benchmark in 5-star luxury river cruising.

Each balcony suite features creative technology, which transforms your balcony into a Sun Lounge at the touch of a button; while in 2017, we became the first river cruise line to offer a Salt Therapy Lounge and the dedicated Scenic Culinaire cooking school on board Scenic Sapphire in the South of France and Scenic Diamond in Bordeaux.

A Scenic river cruise is a truly all-inclusive experience. All your meals, drinks and shore excursions are included and special offers often mean that your flights are included too.

You’ll find our difference is in the details. We’ll greet you personally at the airport and arrange for your transfer to your ship. We’ve even taken care of all the finer points, including an array of extras from Wi-Fi to gratuities for staff both onboard and off.

From the second you step on board to the moment you leave, you can be sure that Scenic has thought of everything possible to make your trip more luxurious and inspiring than anything you’ve experienced before.

The River Cruise checklist: Before you embark on a cruise along one of the beautiful rivers of Europe, South East Asia or Egypt, you should ask: Does the ship have a choice of dining venues?

Are all my meals included during shore excursions?

Are all my drinks included or just during lunch and dinner?

Is it house wine, or top-shelf beer, wine and spirits?

Are cocktails included?

Is my mini-bar included?

Scenic gives you piece of mind with a choice of up to five dining experiences in Europe and South East Asia. All meals are included, and room service is complimentary. We also include the finest regional wines, top-shelf spirits and cocktails all day every day, plus your mini-bar, which is restocked daily with a selection of world-class wines and spirits.

Do I have to pay for room service?

Do I have to pay for shore excursions?

Is there a range of tour options or just the one?

Can I tailor my excursions to meet my needs and interests?

Can I travel at my own pace?

Are there options for self-guided touring?

Do I have to tip my guide?

With Scenic’s handcrafted itineraries, we offer the biggest range of all-inclusive excursions including exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime Scenic Enrich experiences, such as private concerts and gala dinners in a variety of remarkable locations. Scenic Freechoice sightseeing allows you to explore your interests at your own pace and Scenic Tailormade APP, offers GPS guided tours and commentary. We also provide e-bikes on selected ships and take care of all the gratuities for your guides.

To find out more visit scenicusa.com, call 833.644.8235 or contact your Travel Professional

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TRULY ALL-INCLUSIVE When you book a river cruise with us, you can be confident that we’ve taken care of everything to offer you the highest quality experience, and the best value.

Scenic Crystal Cruising the Rhine Valley

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5-STAR LUXURY RIVER CRUISING One price covers it all. No hidden extras. Just exceptional experiences Scenic Enrich Our expert Journey Designers have handpicked and curated a range of unique experiences that will be among the highlights of your cruise.

These exclusive multi-sensory moments that will add a deeper dimension to your journey and leave you with amazing memories to treasure.

Scenic Freechoice Whether you want to travel at a relaxed pace or to fit in as much as possible, Scenic Freechoice provides a diverse range of activities for you to choose from.

From history to culture, gastronomy to nature, there’s something for everyone, and you can do it at a pace that suits you.

Scenic Tailormade In Europe, our exclusive Scenic Tailormade APP allow you to explore on your own, either by foot or on two wheels with our e-bikes, in more than 140 locations. Each tour features insightful commentary about the destination you’re visiting and has been designed to start and return to your ship’s location.

Scenic Fleet Our focus on innovation and luxury design ensures Scenic is the world leader when it comes to delivering the ultimate in river cruising on our state of the art fleet. With some of the largest suites on the river, a high staff-to-guest ratio plus incredible facilities on board, you’ll never want to leave.

Dining & Beverages From casual fare to fine dining, we cater for every style on board. We source from regional suppliers so our food is both extremely fresh and in season. Our chefs draw inspiration from the countries we pass through so you’ll experience true regional cuisine. And of course there’s an extensive selection of complimentary beverages all day too.

Suites We set the benchmark for the standard of suites on board, the most spacious on the river.

Our balcony suites also feature innovative technology, transforming to a Sun Lounge at the touch of a button, allowing you to enjoy the luxury of extra space as well as the unfolding landscape.

^not available in Russia or Portugal.

Butler We know it’s the small things that make your cruise special, and so do our butlers. From nightly turndown to laundry service included for all guests, our butlers are there to make your Scenic journey extra special. They won’t be happy unless you are.

The Nth Degree We’ll personally greet you at the airport and transfer you to and from your cruise. Onshore, all our transport, whether it’s by coach or rail, is of the highest standard. We use local guides as we believe nobody knows an area like someone who lives there.

Absolutely everything is taken care of, including all tipping.

To find out more visit scenicusa.com, call 833.644.8235 or contact your Travel Professional

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WHO SHOULD TAKE A RIVER CRUISE A sense of adventure, curiosity and passion are just a few of the key qualities that many of our river cruise guests share.

Scenic Culinaire

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You’ll meet a range of like-minded people on board a Scenic cruise; those who are interested in discovering the many artistic, historical, culinary and cultural aspects of our destinations.

They enjoy the laid-back pace of river cruising and its appreciation for individual choice and exploration.

A mix of independent travelers, couples and small groups, they are looking for diverse, culturally enriching experiences, and like to take their time exploring each layer of the countries we visit, rather than rushing through a busy itinerary. An appreciation for the finer things in life – great food, music, knowledge and a thirst for new experiences – drives their journey.

Explore with a group

With a balance of both working and retired guests, luxury and great service is a must, along with a reassurance that everything is allinclusive, including tipping and gratuities.

You’ll enjoy sharing your experiences with fellow open-minded travelers who appreciate similar things in life, meaning there will be plenty of opportunities to forge new friendships during each cruise.

Scenic e-bikes

Going solo It’s not just couples and groups who seek out a river cruise experience. Solo travelers are choosing the delights of a river cruise too. Offering comfort, peace of mind and the chance to meet like-minded people, river cruising is ideal for those traveling on their own.

As a solo traveler you’ll have the flexibility to join in Scenic Freechoice and Scenic Enrich activities, or if solitude is more what you crave, simply kick back and relax on board in 5-star luxury.

Solo Traveler

Our ships along the Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle rivers, as well as those traversing the waterways of Bordeaux and the South of France, all offer dedicated single balcony suites, complete with an innovative Scenic Sun Lounge. Consider it your own private oasis.

To find out more visit scenicusa.com, call 833.644.8235 or contact your Travel Professional

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WHAT TO EXPECT ON BOARD With Scenic the perks and privileges are part of your all-inclusive on board experience.

Group Dining On board

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With Scenic the perks and privileges are part of your all-inclusive on board experience.

Largest balcony suites Scenic Sun Lounge, your private

outdoor balcony

Butler service Dining options from casual to fine dining Complimentary beverages all day, every day Complimentary mini-bar, restocked daily On board entertainment Wellness and fitness areas* Innovative salt therapy lounge†

Scenic Aura, Royal Panorama Suite

Cruise Directors to guide and assist Expert Tour Directors Wi-Fi Round trip airport transfers on your cruise

embarkation and debarkation days

All tipping and gratuities

European River Cruises also include: Laundry concierge service The freedom of our e-bikes (electronically

assisted bicycles)

Exclusive Scenic Tailormade APP for self-

guided touring and on board commentary

*Not available on all ships †Only available on ships aong the Rhine, Main, Danube and Bordeaux rivers

Scenic Butler On Board

To find out more visit scenicusa.com, call 833.644.8235 or contact your Travel Professional

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WHAT TO EXPECT ONSHORE An exclusive range of handcrafted experiences are all included when you disembark along the cruise route. With group numbers kept small to ensure a personal experience, we take care of everything, even tipping. So you can simply relax and enjoy the journey.

Ankor Wat Gala Temple Dinner

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Scenic Enrich These once-in-a-lifetime experiences have been handcrafted exclusively for Scenic guests. Designed to bring out the truly wondrous aspects of history, culture and location, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the hospitality and traditions of some of the world’s most unique experiences.

Scenic Freechoice

Scenic Enrich, Rastatt Palace, Germany

Our guided sightseeing program, Scenic Freechoice was created to give you the freedom to engage in the things that truly interest you. You’ll get to choose from a range of diverse activities, which can be completed at your desired pace, whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or something more active. Whatever your interest, fitness or mobility level, you’re in charge.

Scenic Tailormade* Exclusive to our Europe cruises, our Scenic Tailormade APP guides you through your own personal excursion on shore, offering fascinating commentary on major points of interest along your route. With your Tailormade APP, you’ll be able to wander on or off the beaten path without any danger of getting lost. And best of all, you’ll miss none of the attractions along the way.

Special Stays

Explore Bordeaux during your free time

We’ve handpicked a selection of extra-special hotels in Egypt & Jordan, aptly named Scenic Special Stays, some of which are so iconic they have become destinations in their own right. These are hotels of outstanding quality and character, such as historical palaces with pinch-yourself views, from the Marriott Mena House Hotel in Giza, nestled in the shadows of the Pyramids, to the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract in Aswan, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Nile, just like Agatha Christie did.

Scenic Special Stay at Sun City Camp, Wadi Rum

To find out more visit scenicusa.com, call 833.644.8235 or contact your Travel Professional

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EXPLORE EUROPE The magnificent waterways of Europe are its heartbeat; once vital trade routes that have shaped the continent’s history

Moselle Valley

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Rhine, Main & Danube

Experience Europe from a luxurious new perspective as you cruise the magnificent waterways of the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. The sheer wealth of beautiful and historic sites on Europe’s grand rivers is unequaled anywhere in the world.

From Amsterdam’s famous canals, enchanting Vienna and breathtaking Budapest, to the magnificent castles that line these waterways, you will get a taste of the very best of Europe.

From Koblenz, enjoy the twists and turns of the beautiful Moselle River as it travels along one of Germany’s most beautiful river valleys. As you pass by timeless little towns, flanked by the picturesque ruins of once impressive castles, admire the many terraced vineyards, home to some of the world’s best Rieslings.

Lyon, France

France’s Seine, Saône and Rhône Rivers Scenic are the France specialists and offer cruises in three of the country’s most spectacular regions. In the north of France, the iconic Seine River winds its way through Paris, east towards Honfleur and the English Channel. For art lovers, a cruise through Normandy provides plenty of inspiration, while history buffs will find moving memorials to historic figures and key events, such as the Somme battlefields and D-Day landing sites.

Our cruises along the Rhône and Saône rivers in the South of France have no overnight sailings, so you won’t ever feel hurried. Explore pretty Avignon, cycle through the vineyards of the famous Beaujolais region or visit the Benedictine Abbey in Cluny. There are also plenty of experiences for foodies, including truffle tasting in Tournus.

Scenic Azure, Douro River

Portugal’s Douro River From glittering Porto to the hidden gems of the Douro Valley, northern Portugal is wonder in waiting. With its authentic traditions and warm local hospitality, not to mention its world-class port wines and tantalizing local fare, you’ll be in awe of a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Far from the tourist hubs, this region is packed with unique wonders, from the archaeologically significant Côa Valley to serene viticultural attractions like Vega de Terrón.

Russian Waterways* Russia is as vast as it is magnificent. Opulent palaces and cathedrals, where the history is as fascinating as the architectural design, recall the grandeur of a bygone era, while smaller towns along Russia’s great waterways appear as if in a fairytale.

The Gironde, Dordogne and Garonne rivers that wind their way across Bordeaux offer myriad opportunities to explore Grand Cru estates, elegant châteaux and the many culinary delights on offer. Scenic is the only luxury cruise operator to offer longer cruises in Bordeaux, docking right in the heart of each port of call.

National Geographic River Cruises In collaboration with National Geographic Expeditions we’ve curated a collection of river cruises in Europe and Egypt. Each departure includes once-in-alifetime excursions, exclusively selected to enhance our incredible Scenic Enrich and Scenic Freechoice programs. You’ll have the chance to meet National Geographic experts and venture behind the scenes with researchers and photographers, who will unveil a swathe of knowledge, perfectly complementing every one of our river cruise destinations.

*Amenities vary slightly on board Scenic Tsar, visit scenicusa.com for details.

To find out more visit scenicusa.com, call 833.644.8235 or contact your Travel Professional

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DISCOVER SOUTH EAST ASIA Navigate a land of color, vibrancy and culture in complete luxury and comfort along the Mekong and Irrawaddy rivers.

Scenic Aura

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Gain a new perspective on life as you cruise along the Mekong and Irrawaddy rivers – two of South East Asia’s most fascinating and important waterways.

Marvel at the ancient temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia during an exclusive gala dinner featuring an Aspara dance performance, delight in the simplicity of rural riverside life in Vietnam as you gently meander by, and spend time with local monks in Myanmar. We promise it will be a journey of discovery.

Designed to encapsulate the essence of South East Asia, our boutique vessels - Scenic Spirit on the Mekong River and Scenic Aura on the Irrawaddy River - represent a stylish connection between tradition and innovation.

Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang, Laos

Catering for just 68 and 44 guests respectively, the ships feature world-class facilities that would not be out of place in a boutique luxury hotel. From the Sun Deck, complete with resortstyle pool, to the sumptuous spa and wellness center, gym and beauty salon, every conceivable need has been catered for.

Mekong River Traveling nearly 3,107 miles through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, the Mekong River carries with it many stories of these complex and beautiful lands.

One of the most biologically diverse rivers in the world, second only to the Amazon, the mighty Mekong will capture your imagination and sense of wonder. From floating markets to traditional sampans, it is mesmerizing to see how so many cultures live in harmony with this giant waterway.

Scenic Spirit, Royal Panorama Suite

Irrawaddy River Flowing north to south from its source high in the Himalayas, the Irrawaddy River is the lifeblood of Myanmar and its timeless allure captivates all who sail its waters.

Embark on a voyage of discovery and allow yourself to be enthralled by all the country’s many charms, including one of the most remarkable collections of temples in the world on the wide plains of Bagan.

A journey along the Irrawaddy is the perfect way to reveal Myanmar’s hidden treasures – its people and culture – which for years were only known to the most intrepid of travelers.

Oil lamp lighting Swedagon Pagoda, Myanmar

To find out more visit scenicusa.com, call 833.644.8235 or contact your Travel Professional

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EXPERIENCE EGYPT & JORDAN Since the days of the pharoahs, Egyptians have been cruising the Nile.

You won’t want to miss a minute of the fantastic scenery.

Santuary Sun Boat III

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Step back in time to the cradle of civilization and explore the Land of the Pharaohs with its colorful hieroglyphics and 4,500-year-old pyramids; stand in awe before the staggering natural and ancient wonders of the Kingdom of Jordan; or embark on one of life’s greatest journeys, traversing the African continent from Cape Town to Cairo and on to Jordan. Explore, discover and dream where it all began.

Stories of the past marked out by colorful hieroglyphics, a scattering of iconic pyramids and sandy dunes as far as the eye can see, take the Scenic route through Egypt and Jordan as the allure of times lost long ago beckons, where natural wonder, iconic ancient cultures and world heritage sites are yours to explore.

Entrance of Luxor-Temple, Egypt

Nile River Cruising We don’t want you to miss a minute of the fascinating scenery as you cruise the majestic Nile on our exclusive private charter on board Sanctuary Sun Boat III. Catering to just 34 guests, every cabin is tastefully appointed and features a window onto the world.

On board your recently refurbished boutique Nile river cruiser, luxury awaits. Modeled on the opulent era of the 20s and 30s, style and refinement are reflected throughout. The spacious cabins are elegantly furnished and oversized picture windows ensure you won’t miss a minute of the passing scenery. All cabins have a mini-bar, safe deposit box and satellite LCD television, along with individuallycontrolled air-conditioning.

Your intimate boutique ship evokes the heyday

The Treasury, Petra

of Egypt’s past, with exquisite spaces, from the Copper Tray fine-dining restaurant to the Sahara and H. Carter lounges. Relax on the Sun Deck next to the swimming pool or on the lower shaded deck and watch life on the river pass by.

You’ll be treated to first-class dining and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages included with lunch and dinner. Be entertained by a belly dancer and whirling dervishes, and dress the part for a Galabeyya party.

Your tailormade three or four night cruise itinerary will take you between Luxor to Aswan, revealing the architectural marvels of the Valley of the Kings and lesser-known sights such as the Temple of Hathor at Dendera.

Sun Deck with pool

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WHERE AND WHEN TO TRAVEL JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

Irrawaddy River Cruises

Mekong River Cruises

Europe River Cruises*

OCTOBER - MARCH

JULY - MAY

MARCH – NOVEMBER

Make the most of the wonderful climate in South East Asia and cruise any time of the year that suits you.

We have scheduled our departures to ensure we avoid the wet season, leaving you with plenty of options to explore the mystical wonderland that is the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar.

We schedule our cruises around the wet season, so the times we cruise South East Asia are well-planned.

With a consistently temperate climate and a host of festivals and events year round, there’s always something wondrous happening on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia.

There’s nothing more beautiful than watching Europe transition through the seasons. No matter what time you cruise you’ll come across moments of wonder. From French fields of summer sunflowers and lavender to snow-white mountains and misty autumn mornings, you’ll always have something to immerse your senses.

* Also includes National Geographic departures

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JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

Christmas Markets Europe River Cruises*

Nile River Cruises* Christmas Mekong & Irrawaddy River Cruises Year round

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER

DECEMBER

Europe in the lead-up to Christmas transforms into a glittering kaleidoscope of activity as markets spring to life in every town. Rug up and enjoy a hot mug of Glühwein, or sample delicious gingerbread and freshly roasted chestnuts as you shop for the perfect handmade decoration to add to your tree at home.

Indulge in a tropical Christmas as you cruise along the sultry Mekong or the mystical Irrawaddy. A great time of year to experience South East Asia. Warm your bones, avoid the Christmas crowds and treat yourself.

Make it a holiday season you’ll look back on with joy.

Stories of the past marked out by colourful hieroglyphics, a scattering of iconic pyramids and sandy dunes as far as the eye can see, take the Scenic route through Egypt and Jordan as the allure of times lost long ago beckons, where natural wonder, iconic ancient cultures and world heritage sites are yours to explore.

To find out more visit scenicusa.com, call 833.644.8235 or contact your Travel Professional

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Contact your professional travel agent, call

855.517.1200 or visit scenicusa.com Scenic USA Office One Financial Center 4th Floor Boston MA 02111 info@scenicusa.com scenicusa.com