Jan 15, 2021
Over the last 12 months, our wanderlust has been stirring and now more than ever, many of us are starting to plan our next journey. With this in mind and to provide you with a bit of inspiration, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite destinations for 2022 that you can travel to with Scenic. We’ve selected places rich in diversity, along with history, charming locals, culture and unique cuisine, often right in the heart of wilderness expanses and pristine landscapes. What they all share is they offer special experiences and create lasting memories, that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
We hope to be back travelling again soon and to experience the joy of the world once more, but until then, we hope you draw some inspiration for travelling in 2022 with our worldwide collection of luxury river cruises and ocean discovery voyages.
1. Rhine, Main and Danube rivers in Europe
A 5-star river cruise is a luxurious and leisurely way to discover the delights of Europe. Meander along Europe’s beloved waterways taking in the stunning vistas as you pass charming small villages and spectacular landmarks. The variety of included Scenic Freechoice experiences means you can explore your destinations whichever way you please; castle visits, e-bike rides, beer tasting, palaces and foodie experiences are just a few.
Preserved in the culture and history of the six countries it passes through, the Rhine is Europe’s most iconic river. For centuries, composers, artists and writers have been captivated by the romance of the Rhine. Discover the Black Forest region and it’s legendary castles, striking Cologne and it’s stunning filigree towers and explore countless chocolate box villages and towns. The Rhine river can be enjoyed almost any time of year, but we love the magic of the Christmas markets, making December a wonderful time to visit.
Next is the Main river, which offers a delightful insight into medieval Germany. Bavarian beauty abounds with quaint timber houses line the river’s banks, along with lush forests and scenery steeped in folklore. A cruise along the Main offers visits to Nuremberg and the architecturally rich Würzburg, while Bamburg old town is a much-loved location for travellers.
Finally, the unforgettable Danube flows through 10 countries and four fascinating capital cities each with their own story to tell; Belgrade, Bratislava, Budapest and Vienna. Cruising the Danube takes you in the footsteps of kings, emperors and great composers. Visit Austria’s Wachau Valley, elegant Vienna, splendid Melk Abbey and the Iron Gates Gorge on this majestic waterway.
As always with Scenic, truly all-inclusive luxury comes as standard, meaning your every want and need, from breakfast in bed to butler service is all included in the price you pay, with no hidden extras.
2. Antarctica
It’s easy to see why Antarctica makes this list, a unique and special destination of pristine landscapes abundant with wildlife, and you can explore it on the truly all-inclusive, ultra-luxury Scenic Eclipse - the World’s First Discovery YachtsTM.
If you dream of following in the footsteps of great Antarctic explorers such as Shackleton, this is the ideal destination for you. Antarctica is truly like nowhere else on earth, with imposing land masses and icebergs are like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Many say it’s impossible to describe the majesty and scale of the scenery here – so it must be experienced for yourself.
"Waking up early on the first day anchored in Antarctica is a feeling you may only feel once in your life but is sure to stay with you forever and is the reason why so many people that visit return and again, seeking to recreate some of their most special memories"
- Adriaan Oliver, Discovery Team on board Scenic Eclipse
The wildlife is one of the most wonderful things about Antarctica. Imagine embarking on a kayak or Zodiac excursion with the Discovery Team, soaring above in the helicopter or below in the submarine. The ship has many viewing areas where you can see a pod of whales, or penguins and seals playing on and around the icebergs. November and December are when the sea ice breaks, seals and penguins begin breeding and whales start visiting. Make sure you plan ahead with your expert Discovery Team and book a place on board the helicopters^ and submarine^.
With just 200 guests on our Scenic Discovery Polar Voyages, every day in Antarctic offers multiple excursions, each one unique and you can enjoy a more intimate experience, which is truly exceptional. Scenic Eclipse is truly where luxury meets discovery, with up to 10 on board dining options, the opulent Senses Spa and some of the most stunning suites you could possible imagine.
^Helicopter and submarine at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and ice conditions.
3. France
Sail the world’s most romantic rivers onboard your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship in France, a beautiful country with something to offer even the most discerning traveler; from wine and food to culture and art.
The cuisine of France widely considered one of the world’s finest. Each town and village has its own unique gastronomic specialty whilst names like Bordeaux and Beaujolais carry their reputation before them. French cheeses are equally famous too - just think of Brie, Camembert and Roquefort. In the South of France and Bordeaux guests can enjoy our on board cooking school, Scenic Culinaire and have the chance to shop with a chef for ingredients to cook up a storm later.
Choose a cruise along the Seine in Northern France and learn about the celebrated artist Claude Monet’s life, with a visit to the gardens of Giverny, which features in Monet’s most famous painting. The historic Normandy beaches and the medieval architecture of Rouen are something to truly behold, and you can visit these and much more with our included Scenic Freechoice excursions. In the South of France, unwind and indulge in the delights of Avignon, Viviers and France’s foodie capital, Lyon. Savour the world’s finest wines in Bordeaux surrounded by breathtaking backdrops, archaeological marvels, historic landmarks and of course, magnificent vineyards.
Choose a cruise along the Seine in Northern France and learn about the celebrated artist Claude Monet’s life, with a visit to the gardens of Giverny, which features in Monet’s most famous painting. The historic Normandy beaches and the medieval architecture of Rouen are something to truly behold, and you can visit these and much more with our included Scenic Freechoice excursions. In the South of France, unwind and indulge in the delights of Avignon, Viviers and France’s foodie capital, Lyon. Savour the world’s finest wines in Bordeaux surrounded by breathtaking backdrops, archaeological marvels, historic landmarks and of course, magnificent vineyards.
4. Vietnam & Cambodia
With just 68 guests maximum on board, your luxurious ship will serve as the perfect retreat to revitalize after a day of exploring the iconic wonders of Vietnam and Cambodia, on one of the most opulent vessels sailing the Mekong river, Scenic Spirit. Secrets of ancient civilisations, rich culture and varied customs of neighbouring countries are all strong drawcards to this region, not forgetting the tantalising flavours of Asian cuisine.
Visit local temples and villages, explore the floating markets and witness grand and historic sites with our Scenic Freechoice excursions, while our signature Scenic Enrich experiences will take you into the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia’s culture, offering once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and creating memories that you will cherish forever. On board the 5-Star Scenic Spirit, you can relax in your spacious suite, sip a cocktail, or refresh in the vitality pool while watching the sun go down.
5. The Mediterranean
The azure waters of Europe and the Mediterranean Sea are home to infinite hidden jewels best explored on a Discovery Yacht, and Scenic Eclipse’s world-class design and build makes it ideal for docking at smaller ports, allowing guest’s access to destinations inaccessible to the ordinary traveller. Visit untouched islands and enjoy with exclusive access to charming Mediterranean ports and villages, and you could even discover golf in a new way with a helicopter golf excursion.^ Alternatively, soak in the Mediterranean sun while you relax in a cabana or the plunge pool on Deck 10.
Scenic Eclipse’s Mediterranean journeys operate from March to June, allowing you to avoid the busiest periods and crowds in these beautiful destinations whilst still enjoying balmy weather. With no more than 228 guests on board and a limited number of guests per shore excursion, all your cherished moments of discovery will be shared with like-minded guests in a wonderfully intimate setting.
From Turkey to Spain, each portside village and iconic city boasts rich history, pristine beaches and quiet harbours. Sail down Guadalquivir River in traditional Seville, right into the heart of this beautiful city. Visit picturesque Calvi, a small French island inaccessible to larger ships, and you will discover beautiful, untouched treasures, including ancient citadels, abandoned villages, and sparkling shorelines. In Slovenia, Koper, the country’s largest town, is a secret gem and Scenic Eclipse will allow you to get close up to the stunning venetian-influenced architecture. In Paros, a stunning Greek island known for its quaint countryside, guests can enjoy a wide range of included Scenic Freechoice activities, including a produce tasting tour and a wonderful male choir performance inside a 4th century Byzantine church.
To allow you to enjoy even more of the sparkling Mediterranean seas, Scenic Eclipse is also equipped with a host of on board water sports equipment. Enjoy the use of inflatables including trampolines and swimming platforms or explore the waters leisurely using our stand-up paddle boards. You could even try kayaking or discover vibrant underwater worlds during a snorkelling expedition, and for the more adventurous, there’s water skiing.
^additional cost.
^additional cost.