Scenic Opal
Scenic Opal / Scenic
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Vitality Pool on Scenic Opal
Vitality Pool on Scenic Opal / Scenic
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Panorama Lounge & Bar
Panorama Lounge & Bar / Scenic
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River Cafe
River Cafe / Scenic
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Balcony Suite
Balcony Suite / Scenic
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Royal Panorama Suite
Royal Panorama Suite / Scenic
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Royal Panorama Suite Bathroom
Royal Panorama Suite Bathroom / Scenic
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Royal Panorama Suite
Royal Panorama Suite / Scenic
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Scenic Opal

Our Ship Review
Scenic
Cruise Line
Deal Expert / Travel Blogger

One of a pair of third-generation Space-Ships from Scenic — river cruise ships that combine generously sized cabins and public areas with futuristic amenities — 169-passenger Scenic Opal offers all-inclusive luxury as it plies Europe's waterways. Just like with its sibling, Scenic Jasper, Scenic Opal guests can listen to personal GPS-guided commentary devices while relaxing on the Sun Deck (or soaking in the vitality pool) as they watch the world go by. Another soothing spot is the all-weather sun lounge found in most staterooms; with the push of a button, a picture window rises on the balcony to let passengers enjoy the view even when it’s cold or rainy.

What We Love

The Lounge: Comfortable and inviting, with intimate seating areas and big views, the Panorama Lounge offers complimentary cappuccino, yummy snacks, and open bar service.

Electric Bicycles: Scenic Opal carries a number of e-bikes, which have a small motor to provide a boost when climbing hills as you cycle to explore ports while the ship is docked — or pedal along riverfront paths even while it’s cruising (you rejoin the ship at its next stop).  

 

Best Known For

All-Inclusive Rates: Scenic Opal offers a truly all-inclusive experience, with shore excursions, unlimited wines and spirits, in-cabin minibar, Wi-Fi, gratuities, and butler service all covered in the cruise fare. Alas, you will need some euros to buy souvenirs for the grandkids. 

Choices, Choices: Rather than just one shore excursion in each port, Scenic Opal often offers two or more. On a Danube cruise, for instance, guests can select an excursion to Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic or, on the same day, an alternative tour to Salzburg, Austria. And if the ship is on the move that day, passengers can also stay aboard and enjoy the scenery.

Who It's Best For

Travelers Who Don't Like End-of-Cruise Surprises: If you don’t want to be “nickel-and-dimed to death,” you'll appreciate Scenic Opal. Order a drink, and you won’t have to sign for it. Nor will you have to choose shore excursions based on their cost, or fill up tip envelopes.

Don't Say We Didn't Warn You

It’s Expensive: All that inclusiveness comes at a price — Scenic Opal is one of the most expensive river cruise ships in Europe.