After lots of consideration, we booked our first ever river cruise with Scenic, on their Rhine Highlights cruise which departs from Amsterdam and meanders down the Rhine to Basel, Switzerland. We chose Scenic largely because it was advertised as all-inclusive and also to experience the line's newest ship, the Jasper. Thus, we were dismayed to be informed the day before departure that the Jasper was unavailable and we had been switched to the Scenic Ruby (a considerably older build). Transfer to the ship from the airport was handled very smoothly.

The Ruby is showing its age a bit, and the layout of the Royal Balcony Suite, especially the bathroom, was such that it seemed a bit cramped. Nonetheless, the room was spotless, and we were greeted with all the special amenities that Scenic offers its guests. The crew and staff were outstanding, especially our cabin butler and housekeeper. They both learned our preferences within the day and insured that everything was as we liked it throughout. Due to low water levels, we were transferred to the Crystal after three days. It totally met our expectations! And service! Our Ruby butler communicated our preferences to his counterpart on the Crystal and everything was exactly how we wanted upon arrival! Dining options were excellent, especially the two prime dining experiences, La Rive and Portobello. Even in those venues, my husand's needs for gluten-free choices were accommodated.

The excursions were all well planned with varied options from which to choose each day. The cruise director was great. She pulled off a miracle when, on the day of the ship transfer, our ship was unable to arrive as scheduled to pick everyone up. On the fly, she arranged lunch for 166 people and made alternate transportation plans...all with a smile and good humor! I also appreciated that some options were available for "gentle walkers" - those people who preferred less strenuous activities, even though we did not need those. Read more