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Scenic Spirit to bring big suites, butlers to the Mekong in 2016

Scenic Spirit to bring big suites, butlers to the Mekong in 2016
Scenic Cruises plans to launch the 68-passenger Scenic Spirit on the Mekong River in January 2016. Itineraries will range from eight days between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap to a 27-day exploration that combines land and cruise, from Hanoi to the Laos city of Luang Prabang. Large suites and an elevator between decks are among the features.

The ship will have 34 all-balcony suites, all with separate bedroom, living room and balcony, that range from the Deluxe Suite with the company's trademark Scenic Sun Lounge up to the Royal Panorama Suite, claimed to be the largest suite on any river cruise ship in the world. It has four zones—bathroom (with extra-large bathtub, rainfall shower and walk-in dressing room), bedroom, living room and outdoor forward facing deck with daybed, Jacuzzi and al fresco dining table.

Scenic Spirit will offer four dining venues and room service, with a focus on fresh local produce. A resort-style pool deck and bar, full spa with sauna and steam room, and spacious bar and lounge are other features. The Sun Deck will have an open-air cinema.

The near 1:1 passenger-to-staff ratio includes butler service for all travelers and a Scenic cruise director. A guest laundry is another amenity.

Although downloadable brochures will not be available until mid-December, with a printed version coming in January, customers may book now via their travel agent or Scenic Cruises.

Scenic pricing is all-inclusive, including all beverages, daily mini-bar replenishment, all excursions including the Scenic FreeChoice activities that allow travelers to personalize their experience plus Scenic Enrich special events, Wi-Fi, airport transfers and gratuities.