Scenic Cruises is building four new river cruise ships to enter service in 2016 in Europe and Southeast Asia.
"Demand has been great," said Joe Maloney, vice president of U.S. sales and marketing. "River cruising is the hottest thing out there now."
Two new "Space Ships" will operate in Europe, including a smaller, 96-passenger vessel custom-built for the Douro River in Portugal, a new destination for Scenic.
The new Scenic Azure will operate 11-day round-trips from Porto. A 14-day package includes three nights in Lisbon. A four-day Madrid extension also is available.
Highlights of the cruise include a sparkling wine tasting, explorations of a restored monastery, canoeing, lunch and Flamenco performance, and opportunities to witness life in a port wine town. Prices start at $4,945 per person, double.
The new Scenic Amber will sail on Europe's main rivers. It will have a new Royal Suite that measures 474 square feet. It also will have a unique split pool on the Sun Deck - a plunge pool on one side and a jet pool on the other.
Two other 68-passenger ships will operate on the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia.
Scenic river cruises include a choice of shore excursions in every port. Guests also can choose to explore independently, riding bikes with small electric motors or using a hand-held GPS guided tour system.
Fares also include unlimited beverages including premium wines and spirits 24/7, six dining venues, butler service for all guests, Wi-Fi, airport transfers, and all tips and gratuities. The only thing that can be added to the bill on board is a haircut or massage.
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