Scenic Opal, 18 Night Romantic Rhine & Moselle with Bruges ex Basel to Brussels ex Basel, Switzerland to Brussels (Brugge), Belgium

Day 1
Welcome to Switzerland and the start of your European journey.

Board your 5-star Scenic Space-Ship this afternoon, meet your fellow guests and raise a glass to the start of a fascinating journey ahead of you at this evening’s welcome reception.

Please book your flight to arrive into Basel prior to 03:00 PM.

Day 2
There’s lots of reasons Breisach is a must-visit food and wine destination. Not only does it share a border with the Alsace region, it’s also located between the Rhine River and the legendary Black Forest. Luckily for you, the town was meticulously rebuilt after World War II, complete with its traditional cobbled streets and pastel houses.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore the region with your choice of one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:Guided tour of Colmar: A walking tour of the cultural centre of the Alsace shows off Colmar’s confluence of French and German architecture, lifestyle, and culture. A highlight of the tour is tasting a slice of the famed Kugelhopf cake at a local bistro.Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting: Its location right on the edge of the Black Forest makes Freiburg a magical place to visit. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the lively medieval town and sample the local delicacy, Black Forest Cake.Kaiserstuhl winery visit and wine tasting: Thanks to numerous volcanic eruptions over 16 million years ago, the volcanic soil of the Kaiserstuhl produces excellent grapes. Which make even better wines. Sample them for yourself and taste the difference.

Day 3
The capital of the Alsace wine region is a captivating blend of France and Germany. It has a Gothic cathedral and an Old Town surrounded by a river, with sherbert-coloured, half-timbered houses bordering a complex network of canals. Strasbourg proudly wears its medieval past while looking firmly towards the future and is known for its youthful energy and infectious spirit.

Scenic Freechoice: Discover the region on one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:Alsace Wine Route with Tasting: Explore this culturally diverse wine-growing area and visit one of the region’s most famous wine growing villages to do a tasting at a local wine cellar before exploring the neighbouring town of Obernai. Cycling through Strasbourg: Let an e-bike do the hard work on the region’s impressive bicycle trails during this active excursion. More than 500km of paths cover the city and you will explore some of these while cycling through the cities charming suburbs past historic buildings beautiful parklands and charming canals.Walking tour of Strasbourg: Located on the border of France and Germany, Strasbourg has been influenced by both cultures. See the city’s most important sites on foot, like the cathedral, Petit France and the Grand Ile as you learn how the two nations shaped this unique city.

A late departure gives you plenty of time to explore.

Day 4
The ship docks in Mannheim today, a large metropolitan centre that’s used as a base to explore the surrounding region, including the historic charms of Heidelberg and the stunning vine covered landscapes Bad Dürkheim where you can sip on aromatic wines.

Scenic Freechoice: Discover the region on one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:Historical tour of Heidelberg: Enjoy a guided tour of the town as well as a visit to Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Take in the breathtaking views from the balcony then see the great Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest wine barrel. (Note: the walk includes some stairs and uneven ground.)Tour of Heidelberg with free time: A coach transfer to Heidelberg is followed by a brief walking tour of the town and then a chance to explore on your own.Excursion to Bad Dürkheim: Take in the stunning vine-covered landscapes as you drive to Bad Dürkheim and visit the famed Fitz-Ritter winery. This ninth-generation family-owned vineyard offers exceptional quality wine and guests are treated to a tour and tasting on an experience only available with Scenic. (Note: a good degree of fitness is required).

Day 5
Disembark in Rüdesheim, a picturesque town surrounded by steep vineyards that’s known for its medieval architecture and wine culture – locals have been cultivating wine for more than two millennia.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore your way with one of these excursions:Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum: Arrive to this quirky museum by mini train, where a local guide will introduce you to its weird and wonderful mechanical musical instruments. Afterwards, explore the surrounding streets on your own or take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument.Hike & cable car: Take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument then join a local guide on foot as you hike through the rolling vineyards of Rüdesheim, known for its Riesling. Enjoy spectacular views of the countryside and Rhine River below.

Cruise through the picturesque Rhine Gorge this afternoon and relax as you take in landscapes that could have come straight from a fairytale. The stunning 65-kilometre stretch of river is punctuated with a constellation of some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Look out for the Lorelei statue, dedicated to the tragic legend of a beautiful maiden whose voice distracts sailors – the potential inspiration for the Sirens who tempted Odysseus.

Day 6
Cochem is a medieval gem with a castle overlooking the town. While this may be its crowning feature, the traditional town is known for being part of the German wine route and is a great place to sample local varietals.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore the region with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:Guided tour of Cochem: Explore a castle with a unique well-preserved Knight’s Hall and Trophy Room. After wandering the halls of Reichsburg Castle make your way to the old town to take in the historic buildings and charming streetscapes.Cycling tour of Cochem: Hop on an e-bike and cycle along the gentle path beside the Moselle River. Your local guide will show you Cochems gems, from the majestic castle to the town’s half-timbered houses.

Day 7
Oenophiles will have earmarked Bernkastel. It sits at the heart of the Moselle Valley wine region and one of the world’s most famous Riesling vineyards, Bernkasteler Doctor, is just on the edge of town. You’ll also fall in love with this wonderfully preserved riverside town for its atmospheric market square, with buildings that date to the 13th century, and the ruins of Landshut Castle, which dates back to the fourth and fifth centuries.

Scenic Freechoice: Discover Bernkastel your way on one of these excursions:Guided Hike to Landshut ruins: Take an active hike up to the ruins of Landshut Castle, situated on a hill overlooking Bernkastel and the Moselle River. The ruins have been here since the 13th century and a guide will reveal its fascinating history.Walking tour of Bernkastel: Learn about the local architecture and culture on a guided tour of the town, which includes perfectly preserved half-timbered houses and the Renaissance Rathaus (Town Hall), before enjoying some time at leisure.Wine tasting along the Moselle: Find out why the fertile banks of the Moselle River are the breeding ground for world-renowned Rieslings. Learn about local varietals before sampling a selection of prestigious local drops.

Scenic Classical Concert at Liebfrauenkirche in Trier: Experience a once-in-a-lifetime classical music concert. Not only is the Liebfrauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady, a magnificent building named on the UNESCO world heritage list, but it boasts exemplary acoustics. Trier, founded by the Roman Emperor Augustus in the year 16BC, is the oldest city in Germany and this is an exclusive Scenic only available to Scenic guests.

Day 8
One of the wonderful things about cruising is gliding past rolling hillsides, which is what makes today a highlight of your journey. Revel in a full day on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship as it winds its way through the majestic Moselle Valley. With its vine-covered banks dotted with quaint villages, historic half-timbered houses and hilltop castles it is some of the most charming scenery in Europe. Open the windows to your private Scenic Sun Lounge and make the most of the landscape as you gently cruise past. You may wish to make the most of the ship’s facilities today and visit the Salt Therapy Lounge or book in for a massage treatment (at an extra cost).

Day 9
Koblenz is many things; a wine hub, a fortress city and one of Germany’s oldest metropolises. Founded by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago it is strategically placed where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet. Its long history ensures there’s something for everyone, from rich history to a melange of French and German cultures and beautiful scenery. It is, of course, also the gateway to both the historic Rhine Valley and the beautiful Moselle Valley.

Scenic Freechoice: Choose to explore your way with today’s Scenic Freechoice:Walking tour of Koblenz: A guide will lead you on a journey through the old town’s winding streets, charming squares, impressive townhouses and historic churches as well as the famed Florinsmarkt, the former political and economic centre of the city.Marksburg Castle visit: Drive to Marksburg Castle, overlooking the Rhine River, to marvel at this perfect example of medieval architecture. Dating back to 1117, it’s the only castle on the Middle Rhine that hasn’t been destroyed. (Note: This is for active guests only and requires a good degree of fitness and mobility).Medieval Limburg: A coach will take you to the charming medieval town of Limburg an der Lahn, where you can walk the historic cobblestone streets lined with perfectly preserved half-timbered houses, visit the cathedral that overlooks the city and see Alte Lahnbrücke, the Old Bridge that straddles the Lahn River.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will depart Koblenz late this evening, offering you the opportunity to explore the city after dark.

Day 10
An early arrival and late departure gives you ample time to discover a city known for its art scene and fashion industry. Once dubbed ‘Little Paris’ by Napoleon, it blends the museums, galleries and luxurious shops of the ‘City of Lights’ with a historic old town and unique harbour precinct where historic quay walls share the same space as architecturally designed buildings by the likes of Frank Gehry. With a late departure, there’s time to explore its buzzing waterfront and glamorous bars by night.

Scenic Freechoice: Choose from one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:Walking tour: Explore Düsseldorf on a guided walking tour. Discover its gentrified harbour, charming old town, the modern tech hub of Media Harbour, and Castle Tower, which dates to the 13th century.Cycling tour: Active travellers can explore the banks of the Rhine on two wheels, cycle on an e-bike to one of the most historic regions of Düsseldorf, Kaiserswerth.Düsseldorf‘s Altbier: Learn about Düsseldorf long tradition of beer production, visit well-known microbreweries and sample some delicious Altbier, the traditional ale produced in this region.

Day 11
Today you will arrive in Nijmegen. Dating back more than 2,000 years, it’s officially recognised as the oldest city in The Netherlands. Its large population of university students gives it a lively atmosphere, with many excellent museums, trendy coffee shops, independent stores and a buzzing nightlife.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore your way with one of these excursions:Arnhem Airborne Museum: You don’t have to be a military aficionado to enjoy the museum’s account of the Battle of Arnhem as you follow in the footsteps of the British servicemen who parachuted into the city in September 1944 after many years of German occupation.The Netherlands Open Air Museum: This fascinating 44-hectare outdoor museum complete with replicas of historic houses, mills and farmhouses will show you how the Dutch lived and celebrated through the ages.Palais Het Loo: Royalists or anyone fascinated by monarchies will revel in wandering this museum, which was the Dutch royal family’s summer home for centuries. Dating back to 1685, it’s now a museum showcasing the lineage’s rich history, elaborate decor, art collection and grand gardens.

Day 12
It’s time to delve into a new culture, as the ship docks in Antwerp. It’s the largest city in Flanders, Belgium’s second city and the unofficial Diamond Capital of the world, having dominated global trade since the 15th century. The seaport, located 80km inland, is one of the world’s most important. Antwerp’s charm lies in its contradictions, a city with a medieval heart of cobbled lanes and riverside fortress combined with a creative pulse that champions innovation, including modern architecture and a thriving culinary scene.

Scenic Freechoice: These interesting Scenic Freechoice excursions are available today:Guided walking tour: Let a local guide show you the real Antwerp on a walking tour of the city. As well as being the Diamond Capital of the world, it’s home to the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady, Steen Castle, a medieval fortress and main square lined with extravagant buildings.Craft beer & chocolate pairing: Belgium’s culinary reputation is based on chocolate and beer. Find out why the two work so well together on this unique tasting journey.Excursion to Fort Breendonk: This former Nazi prison camp has been preserved as a national memorial. A guided visit takes in the original barracks, courtyards and cells as you hear the moving stories of those once imprisoned here.

Scenic Concert at Cleydael Castle: Learn about its fascinating history before being serenaded by eight musicians, two singing soloists and a host on this classical concert in an enchanting setting, only with Scenic. New in 2027.

Day 13
This historic small-town set on the Veerse Meer Lake is known as the ‘Pearl of Walcheren’. Wander through its narrow streets and along the charming marina nestled at its heart to see why. Dating back to the 12th century, it was a popular trading hub and the town’s wealth can be seen in the grand architecture of its buildings.

Scenic Freechoice: Choose from a range of excursions today:Guided tour of Veere: Wander along the quaint streets of Veere on this guided walking tour. Take in a picturesque harbour lined with Scottish merchant houses, a 15th century town hall with tower and Grote Kerk, an imposing Gothic church that moonlighted as a hospital and poorhouse.Oyster farm visit: Gourmands will be talking about this excursion for a long time. It’s not everyday you get to taste plump, briny bivalves straight from the crisp, cold waters of the North Sea.Excursion to the Delta Works: This fascinating series of dams was designed to protect the population on the Delta plain from flooding. As well as being an impressive feat of engineering, it’s essential in protecting low-lying areas of the Netherlands from surges and flooding.

Day 14
An early arrival allows for a full day in Dordrecht. It’s the oldest city in Holland and its location as a port city made it an important merchant stop. As you explore the port, canals, picturesque alleyways and town square you’ll discover more than 1,000 historic monuments dotted around the town, many of which have been reborn as restaurants, museums and theatres.

Scenic Freechoice: Choose one of the following excursions this morning:Walking tour of Dordrecht: A local guide will take you on a walking tour of the city’s winding canals, picturesque streets and historic buildings. Highlights include Groothoofd Quay, the Grote Kerk (Great Church) and the Old Water Tower.Delft pottery factory visit: Delft is a charming city famed for its blue and white pottery. Enjoy a guided tour before visiting the 17th century pottery factory where master painters still decorate in the traditional manner.Excursion to Kinderdijk: Windmills are an icon of Dutch culture and the traditional village of Kinderdjik boasts 19 of them. Explore the town and the role these World Heritage-listed windmills play in agricultural life, on an experience only available with Scenic.

Day 15
Seamlessly transfer by coach from your Scenic Space-Ship to the Belgian city of Bruges, where your European journey of discovery continues. Over the next two days, enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere, well-preserved medieval architecture, world-renowned beer and exquisite chocolatiers. Upon arrival, join a local guide for an immersive walking tour of the city. Meander through cobbled laneways to charming town squares, see sights such as the Belfry of Bruges, the medieval bell tower and learn about the fascinating history of this ancient town.Later, check into your wonderfully located luxury hotel.

Day 16
Spend another day uncovering the charms of Bruges.

Scenic Freechoice: Immerse yourself in Bruges with Scenic Freechoice activities:Canal Cruise: Delight on a cruise through the canals of Bruges and see the sights of the city from a different angle. Admire medieval architecture at its best as you gently cruise under bridges and past the idyllic swans that grace these canals.Beer & chocolate tasting: Bruges is famous for many things, beer and chocolate chief among them. Join a local guide and gain an understanding of the city’s storied history in crafting these delicacies.

Spend the afternoon at your leisure. If you’re feeling active, climb the 366 steps of the Belfry Tower for breathtaking city views or indulge in the irresistible flavours of Belgian waffles at a nearby eatery.Tonight, join your fellow travelers for an included dinner at a local restaurant featuring delicious Flemish cuisine.

Day 17
After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Brussels. The capital of Belgium and the administrative centre of the European Union, Brussels is a vibrant mix of history and cultures with world-class museums, lively outdoor markets and an ever-evolving dining scene. Though it’s known as a bureaucratic hub, it also has its own quirky character.Upon arrival, join a guided walking tour of the city. Wander Brussels’ elegant boulevards and grand squares, including the magnificent Grand Place, a World Heritage site. Admire ornate guildhalls, Art Nouveau facades, and chic boutiques, while your expert guide reveals stories of royal heritage, diplomacy and indulgent Belgian delights, from the finest chocolate to its legendary beer.

Day 18
After breakfast, farewell beautiful Belgium. You’ll transfer via coach to Brussels Airport for the journey home, taking with you a lifetime of wonderful memories.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.

Enjoy the ultimate European river cruise experience on board a luxury Scenic Space-Ship. In 2015 and 2016, we launched three Scenic Space-Ships, Scenic Jasper, Scenic Opal and Scenic Amber.

With only 169 passengers on board you’ll experience the ultimate in luxury and space with 85 cabins including the lush Royal Panorama Suite. With a wide ranges of cafes and restaurants to suit your taste you’ll also enjoy the comforts of our Vitality Pool and Sun Deck. Our ships have a range of amenities on board including a hairdresser, masseuse and fitness centre.

As always, these ships guarantee the impeccable standard of luxury you’ve come to expect of Scenic.

River cruising is a relaxed and intimate way to see the world, with smaller guest numbers on board at any one time, higher staff to guest ratios and the finest fleet of luxury river cruise ships in the world, everything is handcrafted to make your journey unique and personal.

A Scenic river cruise is truly an all-inclusive experience.

From an indulgent buffet breakfast until the moment lay your head on the pillow chosen from our carefully curated pillow menu, every moment you spend with us is one of all-inclusive luxury. Large, well-appointed suites, services of an experienced butler, and a range of on board dining options with all-inclusive beverages, all day every day. All inclusive luxury means you can put your wallet somewhere safe and have the time of your life as you explore the rivers of the world with Scenic from the exotic waterways of South East Asia, to the grand waterways of Europe.

At Scenic when we say all-inclusive river cruising, that is what you get.

Luxury is having a butler at your call, crisp white sheets, and your own private balcony to watch the sun rise and set in a different country. Luxury is having chef-prepared meals and top shelf beverages. Luxury is all-inclusive tours, events, experiences and having someone else arrange it all for you, to pick and choose as you please

And luxury certainly is not having to reach for your wallet for any of it. Welcome to the Scenic experience, where all-inclusive means exactly that. This is the essence of the Scenic experience.

Scenic Fleet: Our focus on innovation and luxury design ensures Scenic is the world leader when it comes to delivering the ultimate in river cruising on our state of the art fleet. With some of the largest suites on the river, a high staff-to-guest ratio plus incredible facilities on board, you’ll never want to leave.

Suites: We set the benchmark for the standard of suites on board, the most spacious on the river. Our balcony suites also feature innovative technology, transforming to a Sun Lounge at the touch of a button, allowing you to enjoy the luxury of extra space as well as the unfolding landscape.

Butler: We know it’s the small things that make your cruise special, and so do our butlers. From nightly turndown to laundry service included for all guests, our butlers are there to make your Scenic journey extra special. They won’t be happy unless you are.

Dining & Beverages: From casual fare to fine dining, we cater for every style on board. We source from regional suppliers so our food is both extremely fresh and in season. Our chefs draw inspiration from the countries we pass through so you’ll experience true regional cuisine. And of course there’s an extensive selection of complimentary beverages all day too.

Select the Deck to view detail.

Scenic Opal - Jewel Deck

Scenic Opal - Sapphire Deck

Scenic Opal - Diamond Deck

Scenic Opal - Sun Deck

Select the Cabin to view detail.

Cat RO - Royal Owner's Suite

One bedroom suite including Scenic Sun Lounge – 48m2/520ft2. These Suites located on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Cat RR - Royal Balcony Suite

These Suites located on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom. Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 33m2/360ft2

Cat RJ - Junior Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 23m2/250ft2. These spacious Suites, located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony complete with a Scenic Sun Lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.

Cat RP - Royal Panorama Suite

At 44m²/475ft², these are the largest suites on the ship. Located on the Diamond Deck, both suites enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from your private balcony complete with Scenic Sun Lounge. Each Suite has a separate lounge area and a luxurious bathroom offering a separate bath and shower. Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 44m2/475ft2

Cat BJ - Junior Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 23m2/250ft2. These spacious Suites, located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony complete with a Scenic Sun Lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.

Cat B1J - Junior Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 23m2/250ft2. These spacious Suites, located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony complete with a Scenic Sun Lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.

Cat PD - Deluxe Balcony Suite

Located in prime locations at the front of the ship on both the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, they offer all the features of our private Balcony Suites with our ingenious Scenic Sun Lounge, but with even more space to relax. Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 21m2/225ft2

Cat BD - Deluxe Balcony Suite

Located in prime locations at the front of the ship on both the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, they offer all the features of our private Balcony Suites with our ingenious Scenic Sun Lounge, but with even more space to relax. Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 21m2/225ft2

Cat PP - Balcony Suite

Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower. Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2

Cat PA - Balcony Suite

Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower. Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2

Cat A - Balcony Suite

Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower. Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2

Cat BA - Balcony Suite

Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower. Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2

Cat BB - Balcony Suite

Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower. Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2

Cat C - Balcony Suite

Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower. Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2

Cat BS - Single Balcony Suite

Cat D - Standard Suite

Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings. 15m2/160ft2

Cat E - Standard Suite

Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings. 15m2/160ft2