SCENIC INTROS TWO ‘NEW’ SPACE-SHIPS

Scenic Tours has officially launched two of its five “Space-Ships”that spent the winter being nearly completely rebuilt. The revamped Scenic Diamond and Scenic Sapphire have officially welcomed their first guests of the season. The company is spending $10 million to update five of its existing Space-Ships to match the specifications of its two newest ships, Scenic Crystal, which debuted in April 2012, and Scenic Jewel, which will launch later this month. These “older”ships – Scenic Diamond, Scenic Emerald, Scenic Pearl, Scenic Ruby and Scenic Sapphire – range in age from 18 months to four years. A near complete rebuild means that all that remains of the original ships are walls, ceilings and the ship base. All suites have a luxurious new look, featuring fresh wallpaper, new marble desktops, furniture, soft goods and carpets. In addition, the signature Scenic “Sun-Lounge”has been refitted to these ships, allowing guests to convert their private full-size balcony into an all-weather lounge with just the push of a button. Each cabin boasts a 32-inch Samsung high-definition television that’s linked to a MiniMac computer, providing easy access to in-cabin Internet and e-mail capabilities. Improved dining experiences include the addition of the casual River Café for relaxed meals; the introduction of the intimate Table La Rive, which boasts a degustation menu; and a redesign of the existing Portobellos Restaurant. The Bar now shines with Port Laurent black Moroccan marble, and additional coffee machines and Eurocave wine dispensers have been added. Another key public area, Reception, boasts new floors, desks, designer Bolon wallpaper, light fixtures and artwork from Scenic’s home country of Australia. (http://www.scenictours.com)