Scenic Jasper, End Of Cruise, Summing Up | Travel Research Online

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Scenic Jasper, End Of Cruise, Summing Up

I spent six nights on Scenic Jasper, sailing from Budapest to Vienna. Along the way I met the company’s owners, Glen Moroney and his wife Karen; key executives; and a slew of North American travel agents and journalists. The consensus, and I am in agreement, is that Scenic serves up a quality experience at a high level.

The Australia-based company may already represent the most-inclusive river cruise company in the marketplace, though Scenic must contend with the likes of Tauck and Uniworld. In addition to a long list of inclusives, Scenic bundles in all gratuities, even those for guides ashore. Scenic isn’t skimping either. Champagne is poured, not sparkling (except Prosecco in the alternative dining venue, Portobello), top shelf spirits are included, single malts, for example. You can belly up to the bar for a bottled European beer or a draft, at no extra charge. About the only thing you can dig into your wallet for is a massage.

Royal Panorama Suite 337. © 2015 Ralph Grizzle
Royal Panorama Suite 337. © 2015 Ralph Grizzle

There are five dining venues if you include room service, something rare on river cruisers but offered on Scenic. The company’s FreeChoice program offers guests a wide-range of excursions, all free of charge. And Scenic’s electric-assist bikes are arguably the best in the business.

Yep, we like this company, and we’re looking forward to what is to come. Here’s a look back at my coverage for the week.


An avid traveler and an award-winning journalist, Ralph Grizzle produces articles, video and photos that are inspiring and informative, personal and passionate. A journalism graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Ralph has specialized in travel writing for more than two decades. To read more cruise and port reviews by Ralph Grizzle, visit his website at www.avidcruiser.com.

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