New ships. New rivers. And brand-new experiences. 2016 heralds some exciting new cruising news for Australian-owned and operated Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours. From adventures in ancient lands just opening up to tourism to seeing a different part of Europe, these new Scenic cruises will inspire trend-setting travellers looking for untapped experiences in lesser-known locales and provide an unique insight into well-known destinations on dynamic waterways – all in the lap of luxury. Here are three new Scenic cruises to choose in 2016.
Angkor Wat in Cambodia. (Image: Scenic)
Mekong River Cruise
At the confluence of Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia, the Mekong River is a major lifeblood of many Southeast Asian communities. Experience the colour and chaos of the Mekong on a boutique cruise with Scenic Spirit, which hosts just 68 guests with an almost 1:1 staff-to-passenger ratio. Expect all-inclusive luxury as you drift from port to port, stopping at vibrant floating markets, immersing yourself in local traditions, exploring major sites such as Angkor Wat and Halong Bay, and witnessing everyday river life.
Houses along Inle Lake. (Image: Shutterstock)
Irrawaddy River Cruise
Myanmar (Burma) is a Southeast Asian country where traditional ways endure, and a cruise down the Irrawaddy provides the ideal vantage point to spy gilded temples and have an authentic experience in a destination from yesteryear. On board the 5-star Scenic Aura, every suite has its own private balcony and a river view for all cruisers. Some of the highlights of this hidden Asian gem include former royal capitals, traversing Inle Lake by longboat and visiting Bagan, home to over 2,000 ancient pagodas, temples and ruins.
A panoramic view of Porto. (Image: Scenic)
Douro River Cruise
You may have cruised in Europe, but have you explored Portugal by river cruise? This new Scenic adventure traverses the sun-dappled waterways of the Douro Valley, which contains no less than four World Heritage sites – Alta Douro, Historic Centre of Porto, the old city of Salamanca and prehistoric rock art in the Côa Valley. Where they used to float wine barrels down the Douro River, now cruisers can meander the same waters on the Scenic Azure Space-Ship – a touch of luxury amid the treasures of Portugal, reminiscent of the Golden Age.
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Visit your local Flight Centre store or call 131 600 for more advice and the latest deals on Scenic river cruises.
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