Scenic Tours to Add Fifth Riverboat in Spring 2011

Scenic Tours, an Australian tour operator, has ordered a fifth river vessel due to increased demand, particularly from North America. Currently under construction, the Scenic Pearl will join sister ships the Scenic Emerald, Ruby, Diamond and Sapphire in spring 2011. The Pearl is being built at the Den Breejen Shipyard at Hardinxveld near Rotterdam in Holland.

With the launch of Scenic Pearl, the company will be able to add more itineraries to its schedule. Shorter itinerary lengths will also be introduced, with a nod to the preferences of the North American audience. Scenic calls its vessels “Space-Ships” because they are longer than typical European river cruise ships and carry 169 guests.

Private balconies are available in 82 percent of all accommodations. River cruises include two restaurants, complimentary wine and beer at lunch and dinner, all onboard gratuities as well as all sightseeing ashore.

Early-bird offers available on cruises booked and deposited by Dec. 31. Guests can save $800 per couple on a newly added “Jewels of Europe” departure April 26. The 15-day cruise sails from Budapest to Amsterdam and is priced from $4,795 per person. Balcony upgrades start at $1,190 per person.