Danube in Depth with Ljubljana & Zagreb

Welcome to Zagreb, the colourful and charismatic capital of Croatia. The city was founded more than 900 years ago, and its well-preserved districts range from the medieval lanes of the Upper Town to the elegant avenues of the 19th-century Lower Town. Alongside this rich cultural heritage, Zagreb is a youthful city with a buzzing café culture, sprawling parklands, quirky museums and delicious markets. 

Check in to your luxurious hotel in Zagreb for a two night stay.

Join your local guide today for a journey of discovery through Zagreb. You’ll start in the Upper Town, the oldest part of the city where some buildings date back to the 13th century. See the Neo-Gothic-style Zagreb Cathedral, a national landmark that literally towers over the city with twin spires standing 108-metres tall. Admire the ancient St Mark’s Church and its unique tiled roof; visit the Stone Gate, the oldest shrine in the city; and indulge in the lively sights of the bustling Dolac Market. You’ll also visit the more modern Lower Town, including the grand Ban Jelacic Square. 

Leave the city this afternoon to be immersed in nature in the World Heritage-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park. The largest national park in Croatia, it’s famous for its 16 sparkling lakes connected by underground aquifers and tumbling waterfalls. It’s an easy walk along a network of paths that skirt the rocky shores or cross over the jewel-like waters. The park is a riot of wildflowers in spring, lush green through summer, and a kaleidoscope of red and gold in autumn.

This morning, you’ll depart on a short journey across the border into Slovenia and its charming capital city, Ljubljana. One of Europe’s smallest capitals, Ljubljana is often described as a ‘jewel box’ for its picture-perfect river, abundant parkland, red-roofed Old Town and glorious architecture.  

Meet with your local guide for an engaging tour. The 900-year-old Ljubljana Castle stands on a hill overlooking the city, its exquisitely restored buildings, quiet green spaces and artistic installations give you a meaningful insight into Slovenian culture. The medieval Old Town area is off limits to cars, so is ideal for exploring on foot. During a guided tour you will see the 17th century Franciscan Church (famed for its pale pink façade), the baroque St Nicholas Cathedral, the grand Opera House, and the excellent National Museum, housed in a former Neo Renaissance palace.

Enjoy a two night stay in Ljubljana.

From a jewel box to a hidden gem; today you’re travelling around 40 minutes north of the city to the chic resort town of Bled. It’s a favourite holiday spot for Slovenians but not well known to international visitors, so you’re in for a real treat. The glassy blue-green waters of the glacial Lake Bled reflect the lush green mountains and the boats bobbing at shore create a memorable setting. Board a traditional Pletna boat to visit the Church of the Mother of God, perched on a tiny island in the middle of the lake. It was first built in 1142, though the current building dates to the 17th century, and visitors can ring the bell to make a wish to the mythical lady of the lake. 

Back in Ljubljana, why not join the locals by the Ljubljanica River tonight. Cafes set up outdoor seating along the banks, transforming it into a welcoming street party.

After breakfast this morning your journey continues as you are transferred to your Scenic Space-Ship where you will receive a warm welcome from your friendly crew.

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

The diverse city of Budapest is a cultural melting pot, renowned for its thermal baths and vibrant nightlife scene, peppered with Roman ruins, Gothic buildings, bohemian coffee houses, world-class operas, and an historical Jewish quarter where the scars of WWII can still be seen to this day.
 

Freechoice:
A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are on offer to choose from:

Budapest in Depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Visit both Buda and Pest, the two districts that are separated by the Danube that make up the city. Starting on the Buda side see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side where you will see Széchenyi square and Elizabeth square. End your tour with a mesmerising piano recital at the Institute for the Blind.

Budapest’s Past & Present: This walking and coach tour will give insight on Budapest’s communist past and life today as part of the European Union, including the 1956 Hungarian revolution and the significant Jewish events that have shaped modern culture.

Ancestry of the Kitchen – Goulash cooking class: Traditional recipes have long been passed down through generations. Today you’ll be let in on the secrets of a family recipe as you learn how to make traditional Hungarian Goulash.

Your five-star Space-Ship doesn’t depart Budapest until later this evening, allowing you to explore Budapest on your own. Pack your swimsuit and make your way to one of Budapest’s thermal baths for a relaxing soak in the therapeutic waters, or perhaps set out to explore the Central Market Hall – the largest market in the city, built in neo-gothic style for a combination of shopping and sightseeing. Or check out the Jewish Quarter’s famous ruin bars, which are housed in old and abandoned buildings that were left in decay after WWII.

Spend the morning on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship.  Wake up to a rolling tapestry of river life along the Danube as we sail towards the Slovakian capital, Bratislava.

Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993, Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious in medieval and Gothic architecture and its well-preserved hilltop castle, which has history dating back to the 9th century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city.
 

Freechoice:
As we dock in the city centre, today’s Scenic Freechoice are just steps away.

Walking tour of Bratislava: Explore Bratislava with a knowledgeable local guide to see all the highlights of the city such as the Hlavné Námestie, the main square and the Old Town Hall while learning about the history of the city including what everyday life was like under the Iron Curtain era, the political boundary that divided Europe after WWII.

Coffee & Cake at Kormuth Bakeri: Immerse yourself in modern Slovak life with a visit one of the city’s most famous and historic coffee houses, where you’ll enjoy coffee and cake with friendly locals. Delight in the history of the building, which is decorated in Renaissance-style paintings and frescoes.

Ancestry of the Kitchen – Bryndzové Halušky – pillowy potato dumplings cooking class: Learn about the local customs and culture through taste with this cooking class, where you will make traditional Slovak dumplings using grated potato.

This rest of the day is at leisure to wander the city of Bratislava on your own. Or return to your Scenic Space-Ship and relax in the Panorama Lounge and Bar where you can sip on regional beer and wine while enjoying views of Bratislava before we set sail later tonight.

We arrive early in Vienna this morning. Also known as the City of Music, Austria’s imperial capital fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, among others. The city oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces from parks to vineyards, a vibrant coffee-house culture and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.
 

Freechoice:
Spend the day exploring the city by taking your pick from a selection of Scenic Freechoice activities:

Schonbrunn Palace & Panoramic Vienna: Explore Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family, one of the most prominent dynasties in European history. As you wander its countless ornately designed rooms, hear family tales and see the impressive gardens before taking a coach ride to the city centre for a guided walking tour. You’ll see the Opera House, St Stephen’s Cathedral and Belvedere Palace.

Viennese Wine Stories: Journey outside of Vienna’s city centre to its acclaimed wine region, which has been cultivating vines since the 12th century. Hear about Vienna’s long tradition of wine production and sample some of the famous drops.

Cycle to Klosterneuburg Monastery: This cycling tour will take you to one of the hidden architectural gems sitting a few kilometres away from Vienna, the Klosterneuburg Monastery. This monastery, with more than 900 years of history is surrounded by vineyards and flourishing nature.

Belvedere Museum: Visit one of Europe’s most stunning Baroque landmarks and explore the greatest collection of Austrian art dating from the Middle Ages to the present day, complemented by the work of international artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Max Beckmann.

This afternoon is free to wander around Vienna, so perhaps join one of the provided shuttles to the city centre or simply relax on board your Scenic Space-Ship.
 

Enrich
In the early evening, join this unforgettable Scenic Enrich experience:

Classical concert at Palais Liechtenstein: Breathe in the opulence and luxury of Palais Liechtenstein this evening as you relish an exclusive private classical concert. Enjoy a glass of fine Austrian Sekt and listen to the timeless music of Strauss and Mozart performed by a renowned orchestra. An experience only shared with your fellow Scenic guests, you’ll be seated in Vienna’s largest secular baroque hall, an ornate space where royals and nobles have sat for centuries. Accompanied by ballet dancers and vocalists and surrounded by world-famous art, this will be a concert that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Freechoice:
Today arrive in the charming town of Krems, located in the spectacular Wachau Valley where we have a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from:

Göttweig Abbey: Visit the magnificent Gottweig Abbey. Founded in the 6th Century, the abbey was burned down during the 18th Century and rebuilt to be one of the most magnificent in the Wachau Valley. Your local guide will take you through various room where you will see the magnificent frescoes that decorate the Abbey as well as its staircase, the largest Baroque Staircase in Austria."

Wachau Valley wine tasting: The Wachau valley is one of the prominent regions for wine growing in Austria. Today you'll visit a local winemaker and learn about the age old traditions of wine making while sampling delicious wines produced on site.

E-biking from Krems to Dürnstein: Join your guide on a bicycle tour along the Danube to the quaint village of Dürnstein. Pass by charming villages and scenic vineyard landscapes. You will have time to stop along the way to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Danube. 

Dürnstein is a town located in the Northeast of Austria, situated on the Danube river. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and wine region of Wachauer. It is a popular destination for wine lovers as many wineries offer accommodation. In addition to wine tasting and vineyard tours, visitors will find exploring the area on foot is easy and enjoyable. Take one of the many beautiful hiking trails across ancient rocks and admire the impressive views across the Danube valley. Children will enjoy exploring the outdoors of Dürnstein too, with outdoor playgrounds and theme trails available to keep them entertained. In addition, children and adults will enjoy Austria’s only outdoor biological swimming pool, Kuenringerbad, with an average temperature of 23 degrees celsius. Enjoy views of the town from overhead helicopter tours, leisurely river excursions, or hike up into the mountains and explore some of Dürnstein’s ruins. The mountains offer the ruins of Dürnstein castle and city wall as well as beautiful flora and fauna to spot.

Wake up in Austria this morning, where your Space-Ship will dock in the heart of Linz. This city is known for its vibrant music and arts scene and beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary architecture and lifestyle. The city’s quaint old town and Main Square are resplendent in Baroque architecture; while its harbour doubles as an outdoor street art gallery.
 

Freechoice:
This morning choose to explore your way with Scenic Freechoice:

Explore Linz by foot: Join a local guide on a walking tour to discover the balance between the city’s vibrant history and contemporary living.

Full day excursion to Cesky Krumlov: Journey via coach to the Czech town of Cesky Krumlov. This delightful UNESCO World Heritage town is brimming with charm. Sitting on the banks of the Vltava River, Cesky Krumlov is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe with its vast array of well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Wander this fairy-tale location with your local guide and explore the historic centre before delighting in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant and some time at leisure to explore.

Mauthausen WWII Concentration Camp: Venture out of the city to Mauthausen’s former concentration camp that housed more than 190,000 people between 1938 and 1945, during the reign of the National Socialist party. Learn about the conditions and treatment that the prisoners lived under during this sombre tour.   Linzertorte Baking Class For something light-hearted, join a cooking class to make your very own Linzer Torte. Learn about the 400-year history of this iconic tart, baked using handmade short crust pastry, red currant jam and almonds.  

This afternoon and evening are at leisure. If you’re feeling adventurous, strap on your walking shoes to hike to Postlingberg Church, perched high above the city. Then re-board your Scenic Space-Ship where you may wish to relax in the exclusive Salt Therapy Lounge, which provides natural anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.

This morning you will be sailing towards the city of Passau. Enjoy a coffee in your suite, delivered by your butler, and have a leisurely breakfast in Crystal Dining. Join in an informative lecture to learn more about the culture and history found along this fascinating river.  

Set on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau has been an important trading city since medieval times, particularly for salt, commonly known as ‘white gold’. Each river is distinct in colour and some days you can clearly see the green, blue and black hues where the waters meet. At the centre of the Baroque city, the 13th century Italianate Old Town is packed with tight laneways tunnels and archways, including an ‘Artist’s mile’ where old buildings are occupied by artist studios, workshops and galleries.
 

Freechoice:
This afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice:

Highlights of Passau walking tour: Join your local guide on a walking tour, admiring the brightly coloured buildings that line the waterways. Visit St. Stephens Cathedral: originally built in the year 450, the church proudly stood in Passau's Old Town until a devastating fire ripped through it in 1662. It was rebuilt in its current form with an Italian-style exterior complete with a Baroque stucco interior, and nowadays houses the world’s largest Catholic church organ, which boasts 17,974 pipes and 233 registers.

Paddling on the River Inn: Take in this region from a different perspective as you paddle down the Inn River in a kayak past charming villages, ancient castles and historic bridges, crossing between Germany and Austria.

Cross border cycling: Travel further afield on a guided e-bike ride along the Inn River, during which you will cross the border from Germany to Austria. Cycle through charming towns and admire the spectacular views of the region.

Passau Photography safari: The city of Passau has many picture-perfect locations and during this photography tour you will capture all its beauty. Visit some of the most beautiful places in Passau such as the picturesque streets, old Town Hall and the point where the three rivers meet. 

Your Scenic Space-Ship departs late this evening allowing you an excellent opportunity to explore the city at your own pace this evening and see it by night. Perhaps, join the locals heading to Neue Mitte where you’ll find high-end shops, and a plethora of drinking and dining options. As the city starts winding down, we will be sailing to our next destination.

You will have another leisurely morning as your Scenic Space-Ship sails towards Regensburg. You may wish to take advantage of the state-of-the-art gym or relax with a massage^ in the wellness centre.

Boasting a staggering 2,000-year history, Regensburg has one of Germany’s best preserved medieval town centres, with more than 900 of its Romanesque and Gothic buildings UNESCO World Heritage listed. Within its narrow laneways, the city lays claim to having the highest concentration of bars in the country. Regensburg is also fringed by the Bavarian Forest, home to hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails and deer, wild boar, fox and otter.
 

Freechoice:
Enjoy a selection of Scenic Freechoice touring activities to choose from:

Walking tour of Regensberg: Join your local guide for an afternoon walking tour of the Old Town of Regensburg. You’ll be in awe of the many perfectly preserved medieval buildings that have been standing sentinel over the Danube for centuries.

Traditional Sausage-Making Workshop: Learn how to make traditional regional sausage during a cooking class. The history of the famous Regensburger Wurst can be dated back to the 12th century, when it was used to feed the hungry workers who were building the impressive cathedral in the city centre.

Regensburg's Jewish heritage: Discover Regensburg’s Jewish heritage – the city was the first documented Jewish community in Germany. Learn about the rich culture that has evolved throughout the century and the devastation caused by the Nazi regime.

After your Scenic Freechoice, you will return to the ship by coach.

This morning you will be sailing towards Bavaria’s second-largest city, Nuremberg, arriving after lunch. The city is dominated by one of the most significant imperial forts of the Holy Roman Empire, the 12th century Imperial Castle, has an Old Town that is protected by an ancient city wall, and also hosts the most enchanting Christmas Markets every year.

Behind its enchanting façade, Nuremberg also has a turbulent history. During WWII the city was favoured by the Nazis for party rallies, the boycotts of Jewish businesses began here, as did the laws that denied Jewish people German citizenship – known as the ‘Nuremberg Laws’. By 1945, the city was reduced to rubble, including large sections of the Imperial Castle and Old Town. Allied powers – the US, Great Britain, France and the Soviet Union – held the Nuremberg Trials here between 1945 and 1946, where Nazi Germany leaders were tried for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
 

Freechoice:
This afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice:

Walking tour of the Old Town: Explore this wonderful medieval city on foot with your local guide. Walk through the grounds of the Imperial Castle before making your way to the Old Town, where you will see St. Lawrence Church and the lively market square.

The Trials and Tribulations of WWII: Learn about the Trials and Tribulations of WWII with a visit to the Rally Grounds and Courtroom 600, where members of the Nazi Party were tried for war crimes, a poignant reminder of the terror caused by the National Socialist regime.

Rock-cut cellars and beer tasting: Head underground to Nuremberg’s rock-cut cellars for a unique beer tasting. Walk the labyrinth of corridors and cellars that are located under the city and learn about Nuremberg's beer production that dates back centuries, all while tasting some of the delicious brew.

This evening is at leisure to continue your exploration of Nuremberg. Return to your Space-Ship for a farewell meal and to toast to an unforgettable journey along the Danube.

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Nuremberg Airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking a lifetime of wonderful memories with you.

Please book your flight to depart out of Nuremberg after 12:00 PM.

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.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.

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Our spacious main restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Award-winning Chefs prepare buffet, while regional wines are hand picked by our sommelier.

• Á la carte menus
• Four-course dinner
• Open seating with tables from 2 to 8
• Wide range of cuisine from local specialties to a Seafood Gala evening
• Buffet and á la carte menus available daily
• In-room dining served by a butler

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Exclusive and intimate, Portobellos boasts the best vantage point at the front of the ship showcasing sumptuous regional specialities from the freshest local produce.

• Authentic Italian, French or Portuguese dining
• A maximum of 32 guests an evening
• All guests will dine here at least once during their cruise
• Five-course menu featuring regional specialties paired with local wines from the region’s best wineries
• Floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoy the view as you dine

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This intimate affair is the ultimate treat for your palate.

Royal and Junior suite guests as well as Diamond Deck guests are invited, by our Executive Chef, to join Table La Rive for an evening of sumptuous dégustation.

• Exclusive for Royal and Junior suite guests on cruises of 7 nights or less, and for all Diamond deck guests on cruises of 10 nights or longer
• Six-course dégustation menu with sommelier paired wines
• Intimate dining for only 10 guests per evening

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Enjoy a refreshing afternoon aperitif or pick-me-up light bite on the Riverview Terrace, an open-air lounge and bar area located on the Sun Deck. Alfresco living doesn’t get better, with all-inclusive refreshments to complement the rapturous views.

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The River Café provides you with a wonderful range of complimentary delicious light meals, snacks and refreshments that you can take anywhere at any time.

• Open from early in the morning until late afternoon
• Casual and flexible dining options to suit your schedule
• Offers full service and mouth-watering buffet style food
• A great meeting spot, open for all day grazing and socializing
• Gelato bar, light snacks, healthy options, tasty treats

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• Dine in the comfort of your suite enjoying the views
• Room service is available, and included throughout your cruise

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Take a ride on a Scenic E-Bike and experience the wonders of Portugal like never before. These power-assisted bicycles are perfect for seeing the sights at a pace that suits you.

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Immerse in the wonders of Europe with Scenic Tailormade, a GPS-powered discovery system, which can be downloaded from The App Store or Google Play, lets you see more of the continent both on board and on shore.

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Enjoy the freedom of customising your holiday your way with Scenic Freechoice. Choose from a wide range of truly all-inclusive experiences classified into ‘Active’, ‘Moderate’, and ‘Relaxed’ grades, and find the ones to match your pace each day.

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Enjoy wondrous moments exclusively created for you, ranging from a private concert in a grand 18th century palace in Germany or indulging in a sumptuous dinner in a local home in the Netherlands. Enjoy these exquisite handcrafted experiences that are not available to the regular traveller.

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The Panorama Lounge is the main bar area on board the Scenic Crystal, Jade and Jewel. Here, you can explore our extensive bar menu, which is complete with premium wines, beers and spirits, whilst enjoying a programme of entertainment from local musicians, dancers and performers.

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Ideal for those sunlit days on the river, the Sun Deck is a designated open-air space equipped with everything you might need to relax and enjoy the great outdoors on your river cruise – think deck chairs, games area and a bar where you can make the most of our all-inclusive service.

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Whatever you need on your cruise through Europe, our welcoming reception team is here to ensure your trip goes down without a hitch. The reception area is also the meeting point for the day’s shore excursions; you’ll find it in the middle of the Scenic Crystal.

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The Wheelhouse is where our expert crew pilot your Space-Ship, negotiating the twists and turns of the Danube with the utmost precision and care. Stop by to chat with the team and take a peek behind the scenes.

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Feel pampered throughout your river cruise at the Wellness Area. From facials to massages, our beauty therapist provides a selection of indulgent treatments to help you truly relax.

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Relax and unwind with a unique wellness session at our Salt Therapy Lounge. New to the Scenic Crystal, Jewel and Jade, this purpose-built therapy space uses the natural healing power of salt to help you relax, promoting improved wellness and sleep.

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Featuring state-of-the-art fitness equipment, including both cardio and weight-training machines, the Fitness Centre is ideal for those who want to stay active on their travels. Drop by and get ready for the day.

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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.

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Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.

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At 325ft², 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 lounge area and a luxurious bathroom.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.