Scenic Emerald Review
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Additional details
2 years ago we did a Scenic cruise Jewel of the Danube with the additional 3 days each end in Paris and Prague which was wonderful so this time we chose the Saone/Rhone River cruise through to the South of France. There was not the WOW factor of numerous castles as we sailed along the river but all the options we choose from out tour were as exciting and so well worth the visit. The range of daily options to choose from was wider this time - more than just castles cathedrals basilicas etc though we still visited plenty of amazingly beautiful churches cathedrals and chateau. There were numerous highlights including the visit to the 2 Chateau - one set up as a museum for Abarth cars, planes, fire engines and tractors which was fascinating. The other chateau was a lived in house but retained all the furnishings from centuries ago and it is wonderful to see it being retained in its yesteryear glory. We visited lovely natural wonders also like the villages of Les Baux, Chateauneuf de Pape, Saints Marie de lar Mer - all so lovely and natural and generally in their original condition and nice to see them kept and maintained that way.
The staff on the ship were under a bit of pressure with the high water causing a few sailing issues but everything flowed amazingly well, lead by a superb Tour Director Luc. The lounge staff were very friendly and it was so lovely to be greeted like long time friends but in a professional manner each time we entered the lounge or dining room. We had lots of fun with them and it was sad to depart the cruise. The daily activities of the cruise required a reasonable level of fitness as there was a lot of walking on each of our selected options each day, as did getting onto and off the bus which some of our fellow less able cruise participants struggled with. The option of being able to simply sail along the river on a beautiful sunny day sitting on the top deck was not to be turned down either - so peaceful and enjoyable. Overall the cruise was fantastic with no downsides - one that I would highly recommend.
Cabin Review
We chose a top deck cabin with a balcony - such an amazing place to sit and watch the world sail by! The cabin was a good size with enough room for all we needed. Storage space was great - we didnt use it all! The bed was so lovely and comfortable with plenty of pillows to choose from. The bedding was a beautiful weight and looked great for the decor of the room. The en-suite was very functional and efficient in layout. The cabin staff were again so friendly and helpful and the room was kept spotless. It was lovely to go into the room each night and find a chocolate on our pillow and the bed turned down with the curtains closed. Superb service all round from all staff from top to the bottom of the ship. A thoroughly enjoyable cruise.