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Scenic

Scenic Crystal

Intimate ship Bliss scored

Scenic Crystal was the sixth ship to join the Scenic Cruises fleet in April 2012 and features outdoor balconies that convert into all-weather \"Sun Lounges,\" newly designed guest rooms with 32-inch, flat screen HDTVs as well as six onboard restaurants.

  • 169guests
  • 2,721gross tons
  • 54cruises now
  • $3,820fares from

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Couples checked into Danube Deck, Junior and Royal Suites can look forward to sumptuous dishes, chilled wine and a romantic atmosphere at Table La Rive aboard your Scenic sailing.

At a glance

Scenic Crystal is an intimate-size cruise ship operated by Scenic, in service since 2011. It carries 169 guests and 51 crew (3.3 guests per crew member) at 2,721 gross tons. It ties with 5 other ships as the 3rd largest of 17 Scenic ships by guest capacity. On Cruiseable's Bliss scale it scores highest for staterooms (9/10) and lowest for family friendly (2/10). It is rated 4.5 out of 5 by Cruiseable, 4 out of 5 by Berlitz and 4.5 out of 5 by Cruise Critic. It has 54 cruises on sale, with lead fares from $3,820 to $19,305.

Builder's plate

Specs

Cruiseable
4.5 / 5
Berlitz
4 / 5
Cruise Critic
4.5 / 5
Guests
169
Crew
51
Gross tons
2,721
Decks
4
Length
442 ft
Beam
39 ft
Maiden voyage
2011
Space ratio
3.3
Gross tons per guest
Guests per crew
3.3
Speed (mph)
14

Bliss scores

What Scenic Crystal is best at

Ten dimensions scored by our editors on a 10-point scale. The Cruiseable app ranks every cruise against the mix you care about.

  1. Active 8.0
  2. Adventure and nature 7.0
  3. Cultural 4.0
  4. Dining 8.0
  5. Entertainment 4.0
  6. Family friendly 2.0
  7. Party 5.0
  8. Romantic 8.0
  9. Spa and fitness 6.0
  10. Staterooms 9.0

Our review

Scenic Crystal: Luxurious sailing on Europe’s waterways

The luxury river ship Scenic Crystal from the Scenic fleet voyages through the heart of Europe. The ship features outdoor balconies that convert into all-weather "Sun Lounges," newly designed guest rooms with 32-inch, flat-screen HDTVs as well as six onboard restaurants. 

Scenic Crystal also offers spacious Deluxe Balcony Suites, which are located at the front of the ship and offer private balconies and additional space. 

Scenic prides itself on five-star luxury and truly all-inclusive pricing, which means that even the little things, such as port charges, bottled water for excursions, Wi-Fi and tipping, are all included in your cruise fare.

Where Scenic Crystal sails

The Scenic Crystal cruises the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, with destinations including Vienna and Budapest.

Read the full review

Dining 

Aboard a Scenic Cruises river cruise, you have a range of dining options to choose from, including the informal all-day River Café, the intimate Portobellos Italian Restaurant, the elegant Crystal Dining Restaurant and the exclusive Table La Rive for Danube Deck, Junior and Royal Suite guests.

Drinks

You can find the English tradition of high tea on the ship's Riverview Terrace during the day and enjoy cocktails in the evening. While you’re onboard, all cocktails, spirits, beer and wine are complimentary; however, there are a few exceptions, including vintage wines, fine champagnes and spirits. You can also enjoy a mini-bar in your cabin any time, along with a large bottle of still and sparkling mineral water daily.

The Main Square of Linz an der Donau (Linz on the Danube) in Austria.
The Main Square of Linz an der Donau (Linz on the Danube) in Austria. Wolfgang Zajc / Courtesy of Austrian National Tourist Office

Service & space

With at least one member of staff for every three guests, as well as a personal butler, Scenic Cruises makes sure that each passenger gets great service. 

  • Butler service: This ship's butler service is available to every passenger. You will be welcomed aboard with a refreshing drink before being taken to your cabin. Whatever your cabin grade, your butler offers complimentary drinks and valet service. If you’re staying on the Rhine Deck or above, your butler can arrange cocktail drinks and serve early morning tea or coffee in your cabin. Danube Deck guests and Junior and Royal Suite guests can enjoy all this plus in-suite dining and pre-dinner canapés. 
  • Space: Scenic Crystal is referred to as one of the line's "space ships," meaning that guests and cabin numbers are limited to ensure that staterooms and public areas aren't crowded. Highlights include the Panorama Lounge, which is larger than most lounges found on river cruise ships, and the River Café, which offers great views. There are also outdoor areas including the Sun Deck.

Staterooms & suites

Scenic ships are some of the widest and longest on Europe’s waterways, with two decks of suites with balconies, all with floor-to-ceiling windows that open to your private outdoor balcony. If the weather isn't ideal, all balconies can be transformed into a "Sun Lounge," making sure you don't miss the scenery. 

All rooms come with queen-size Scenic "Slumber Beds" with Egyptian cotton linen, individual climate control and a pillow menu. Your suite or stateroom includes a flat-screen HDTV and Mac mini system, plus complimentary mini-bar and Wi-Fi/Internet access. There’s also a personal safe for your valuables and a nightly turndown service. 

Your take

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Interested in a cruise on this ship?

Interested in a cruise on Scenic Crystal? Contact a Cruiseable travel advocate at 1-877-322-3773, or by email, to get additional information and to find the best rates and value for your vacation dollar.

 

SEE ALL SCENIC CRYSTAL SAILINGS

On board highlights

Dining

Where to eat on Scenic Crystal

Photos

Inside and out

Destinations 6

  • Buda Castle in Budapest, Hungary.
    Buda Castle in Budapest, Hungary.
  • Closeup of St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, Austria.
    Closeup of St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, Austria.
  • Hungarian National Museum in Budapest, Hungary.
    Hungarian National Museum in Budapest, Hungary.
  • Explore Europe's charming riverside villages with other guests on a Scenic Cruises sailing.
    Explore Europe's charming riverside villages with other guests on a Scenic Cruises sailing.
  • Explore Europe at your own pace through Scenic Cruises' Tailormade, which enables you to go on tours using exclusive GPS devices to learn about a place.
    Explore Europe at your own pace through Scenic Cruises' Tailormade, which enables you to go on tours using exclusive GPS devices to learn about a place.
  • City of Vienna Haas House at the Graben, Austria.
    City of Vienna Haas House at the Graben, Austria.

Dining 6

  • Couples checked into Danube Deck, Junior and Royal Suites can look forward to sumptuous dishes, chilled wine and a romantic atmosphere at Table La Rive aboard your Scenic sailing.
    Couples checked into Danube Deck, Junior and Royal Suites can look forward to sumptuous dishes, chilled wine and a romantic atmosphere at Table La Rive aboard your Scenic sailing.
  • Look for fresh fruit appetizers and fine wine in your all-inclusive cruise with Scenic Cruises.
    Look for fresh fruit appetizers and fine wine in your all-inclusive cruise with Scenic Cruises.
  • A pastry or a slice of cake to pair with your tea, an eclair to satisfy your sweet tooth and other desserts are offered on Scenic Cruises.
    A pastry or a slice of cake to pair with your tea, an eclair to satisfy your sweet tooth and other desserts are offered on Scenic Cruises.
  • Cap off your gourmet dinner with a glass of sparkling wine, whether inside your suite or in a dining room on your Scenic Cruises sailing.
    Cap off your gourmet dinner with a glass of sparkling wine, whether inside your suite or in a dining room on your Scenic Cruises sailing.
  • Riverview Terrace on Scenic Cruises is the perfect place for traditional English High Tea.
    Riverview Terrace on Scenic Cruises is the perfect place for traditional English High Tea.
  • Enjoy a fine dining experience with friends or with family at Table La Rive on Scenic Cruises.
    Enjoy a fine dining experience with friends or with family at Table La Rive on Scenic Cruises.

On board 1

  • River Cafe on Scenic Cruises is a good spot for hanging out with friends while enjoying some snacks and cool drinks.
    River Cafe on Scenic Cruises is a good spot for hanging out with friends while enjoying some snacks and cool drinks.

Staterooms 4

  • Scenic Cruises' Sun Lounges enable couples to enjoy beautiful scenery in a romantic setting from their own private balconies.
    Scenic Cruises' Sun Lounges enable couples to enjoy beautiful scenery in a romantic setting from their own private balconies.
  • Spacious, luxurious baths await guests on a Scenic Cruises voyage.
    Spacious, luxurious baths await guests on a Scenic Cruises voyage.
  • Guests aboard a Scenic Cruises river cruise can enjoy the passing landscapes from a private balcony only steps away from their beds.
    Guests aboard a Scenic Cruises river cruise can enjoy the passing landscapes from a private balcony only steps away from their beds.
  • Guests on Scenic Cruises will find accommodations with contemporary interiors, a flat screen TV, couch, large bed and space to relax and enjoy the passing views.
    Guests on Scenic Cruises will find accommodations with contemporary interiors, a flat screen TV, couch, large bed and space to relax and enjoy the passing views.

More photos 3

  • Balcony Cabin guests aboard Scenic enjoy magnificent views from spacious outdoor balconies, more than 20% larger than cabins of other river cruise ships.
    Balcony Cabin guests aboard Scenic enjoy magnificent views from spacious outdoor balconies, more than 20% larger than cabins of other river cruise ships.
  • Access to a private balcony a step or two away from your bed is one of the luxuries you will appreciate on Scenic Crystal's Deluxe Balcony Suite.
    Access to a private balcony a step or two away from your bed is one of the luxuries you will appreciate on Scenic Crystal's Deluxe Balcony Suite.
  • Spacious and lavishly furnished, the Royal Panorama Suite aboard Scenic Crystal is a favorite accommodation of guests of all ages.
    Spacious and lavishly furnished, the Royal Panorama Suite aboard Scenic Crystal is a favorite accommodation of guests of all ages.

Sailing now

Cruises on Scenic Crystal

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  1. 21 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Turkey and Land Tour 21 nights · from Istanbul Next Sep 27, 2026 from $13,150
  2. 23 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Vienna and Istanbul and Land Tour 23 nights · from Istanbul Next Sep 27, 2026 from $14,190
  3. 19 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Transylvania and Land Tour 19 nights · from Bucharest Next Sep 29, 2026 from $18,210
  4. 21 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Vienna and Transylvania and Land Tour 21 nights · from Bucharest Next Sep 29, 2026 from $19,305
  5. 15 Night Lower Danube Discovery and Land Tour 15 nights · from Bucharest Next Oct 3, 2026 from $9,895
  6. 17 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Vienna and Land Tour 17 nights · from Bucharest Next Oct 3, 2026 from $10,935
  7. 14 Night Eastern Europe and Balkans Unveiled with Transylvania and Budapest and Land Tour 14 nights · from Budapest Next Oct 16, 2026 3 dates from $6,852
  8. 12 Night Eastern Europe and Balkans Unveiled with Transylvania and Land Tour 12 nights · from Budapest Next Oct 18, 2026 3 dates from $6,242
  9. 10 Night Eastern Europe and Balkans Unveiled and Budapest and Land Tour 10 nights · from Bucharest Next Oct 24, 2026 from $6,225
  10. 8 Night Eastern Europe and Balkans Unveiled and Land Tour 8 nights · from Bucharest Next Oct 24, 2026 from $5,695
  11. 15 Night Lower Danube Discovery and Land Tour 15 nights · from Budapest Next Mar 27, 2027 2 dates from $8,746
  12. 19 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Transylvania and Land Tour 19 nights · from Budapest Next Mar 27, 2027 from $10,001
Show 42 more
  1. 21 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Vienna and Transylvania and Land Tour 21 nights · from Bucharest Next Apr 5, 2027 2 dates from $12,321
  2. 17 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Vienna and Land Tour 17 nights · from Bucharest Next Apr 9, 2027 2 dates from $10,771
  3. 17 Night Jewels of Europe with Prague and Land Tour 17 nights · from Prague Next Apr 21, 2027 2 dates from $9,291
  4. 14 Night Jewels of Europe 14 nights · from Budapest Next Apr 24, 2027 2 dates Fare on request
  5. 17 Night Jewels of Europe with Paris and Land Tour 17 nights · from Paris Next May 5, 2027 from $11,756
  6. 14 Night Jewels of Europe 14 nights · from Amsterdam Next May 8, 2027 2 dates Fare on request
  7. 12 Night Danube in Depth with Prague and Land Tour 12 nights · from Prague Next May 28, 2027 3 dates from $6,505
  8. 16 Night Danube in Depth with Prague Ljubljana and Zagreb and Land Tour 16 nights · from Prague Next May 28, 2027 from $11,110
  9. 13 Night Danube in Depth with Ljubljana and Zagreb and Land Tour 13 nights · from Nuremberg Next May 31, 2027 from $8,235
  10. 9 Night Danube in Depth 9 nights · from Munich Next May 31, 2027 3 dates from $5,410
  11. 7 Night Tastes of the Danube Wine 7 nights · from Budapest Next Jun 9, 2027 Fare on request
  12. 10 Night Gems of the Danube with Prague and Land Tour 10 nights · from Prague Next Jun 13, 2027 3 dates from $4,805
  13. 7 Night Gems of the Danube 7 nights · from Munich Next Jun 16, 2027 3 dates from $3,820
  14. 9 Night Danube in Depth 9 nights · from Budapest Next Jun 23, 2027 3 dates Fare on request
  15. 7 Night Gems of the Danube 7 nights · from Budapest Next Jul 11, 2027 2 dates Fare on request
  16. 23 Night Jewels of Europe with Eastern Europe Explorer and Land Tour 23 nights · from Prague Next Sep 4, 2027 from $13,981
  17. 17 Night Jewels of Europe with Prague and Land Tour 17 nights · from Amsterdam Next Sep 27, 2027 2 dates from $9,433
  18. 21 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Turkey and Land Tour 21 nights · from Istanbul Next Oct 18, 2027 2 dates from $13,186
  19. 23 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Vienna and Istanbul and Land Tour 23 nights · from Istanbul Next Oct 18, 2027 from $14,426
  20. 14 Night Jewels of Europe 14 nights · from Budapest Next Nov 8, 2027 Fare on request
  21. 17 Night Christmas Markets with Paris and Land Tour 17 nights · from Paris Next Nov 19, 2027 2 dates from $10,463
  22. 14 Night Christmas Markets 14 nights · from Amsterdam Next Nov 22, 2027 Fare on request
  23. 17 Night Christmas Markets with Prague and Land Tour 17 nights · from Amsterdam Next Nov 22, 2027 2 dates from $9,178
  24. 7 Night Danube Christmas Markets 7 nights · from Budapest Next Dec 6, 2027 Fare on request
  25. 10 Night Danube Christmas Markets with Prague and Land Tour 10 nights · from Prague Next Dec 10, 2027 from $5,889
  26. 7 Night Danube Christmas Markets 7 nights · from Munich Next Dec 13, 2027 2 dates from $4,669
  27. 17 Night Christmas and New Year with Paris and Land Tour 17 nights · from Budapest Next Dec 20, 2027 Fare on request
  28. 7 Night Windmills Tulips and Belgian Delights 7 nights · from Amsterdam Next Apr 5, 2028 from $4,622
  29. 10 Night Windmills Tulips and Belgian Delights with Enchanting Belgium and Land Tour 10 nights · from Amsterdam Next Apr 12, 2028 from $6,112
  30. 22 Night Iconic Europe from Amsterdam to Bucharest and Land Tour 22 nights · from Amsterdam Next Apr 19, 2028 from $16,190
  31. 16 Night Eastern Europe and Balkans Unveiled with Turkey and Budapest and Land Tour 16 nights · from Istanbul Next May 3, 2028 2 dates from $9,117
  32. 10 Night Eastern Europe and Balkans Unveiled and Budapest and Land Tour 10 nights · from Bucharest Next May 9, 2028 2 dates from $5,612
  33. 8 Night Eastern Europe and Balkans Unveiled and Land Tour 8 nights · from Bucharest Next May 9, 2028 2 dates from $5,002
  34. 14 Night Eastern Europe and Balkans Unveiled with Turkey and Land Tour 14 nights · from Budapest Next May 31, 2028 from $8,792
  35. 17 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Vienna and Land Tour 17 nights · from Vienna Next Sep 18, 2028 from $12,220
  36. 21 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Vienna and Transylvania and Land Tour 21 nights · from Vienna Next Sep 18, 2028 from $13,460
  37. 19 Night Lower Danube Discovery with Transylvania and Land Tour 19 nights · from Bucharest Next Sep 29, 2028 from $12,235
  38. 15 Night Lower Danube Discovery and Land Tour 15 nights · from Bucharest Next Oct 3, 2028 from $10,995
  39. 14 Night Jewels of Europe 14 nights · from Budapest Next Nov 1, 2028 from $6,063
  40. 20 Night Christmas Markets with Paris and Prague and Land Tour 20 nights · from Paris Next Nov 20, 2028 from $11,393
  41. 20 Night Christmas and New Year with Paris and Prague and Land Tour 20 nights · from Prague Next Dec 18, 2028 from $12,153
  42. 14 Night Christmas and New Year 14 nights · from Budapest Next Dec 21, 2028 from $9,008

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Overheard

“This river ship is just the ticket for a really fine cruise experience. Amenities include good, though small, wellness facilities and Scenic Crystal offers an ‘all-inclusive’ product, but ‘premium’ drinks cost extra.”

Berlitz: River Cruising in Europe

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