Scenic Opal

Scenic Opal's Sun Deck runs along most of the ship, with artificial turf, loungers, shade structures and tables in the middle for cards with friends or a cocktail in the evening. Like other river ships, it can go completely flat to pass under low bridges: the railings fold down, the shade structures drop and the furniture is cleared away. A walking track circles the deck, and in good weather the crew sets up a barbecue and buffet up here.

Toward the front of the Sun Deck is the Vitality Pool, a full pool with a long bench along the far side and a hydrotherapy-style seat where guests can sit back in the bubbles as the river slides by. Just forward is the bridge, which also rises and lowers on hydraulics, and the captain can navigate from wings on either side. Sailing through locks and past castles from up here is a highlight of any Scenic river cruise.

Danny calls the lounge your living room on board. A self-serve station offers coffee, espresso, hot chocolate and a range of teas at any time, and the full-service bar pours premium spirits, beer, wine, soft drinks and juices, all included. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Rhine Valley or the Wachau, with seating of every style. This is also where guests gather for talks about the places they're seeing and where they're headed next.

At the front of the lounge is a space that changes through the day. In the morning and at lunch it serves a buffet with lighter bites and snacks, a quick alternative to a full meal in Crystal Dining. In the evening it becomes Portobellos, Scenic's Italian specialty restaurant, included in the fare like everything else on board. Danny loves Italian food and calls the experience here hard to match, so reservations are a good idea.

Just outside the lounge, an outdoor terrace extends the space toward the bow. It's a spot for a light bite, a morning coffee or tea, or a cocktail or glass of wine in the evening. Glass windscreens block the breeze and overhead heaters take the chill off on cooler days, so guests can step out for photos as the ship sails the Rhine or the Danube, then head back inside to the warmth of the lounge.

Crystal Dining is the main restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. Tables for two line the windows, with larger tables for four, six and eight, and the team can set up space for groups. Menus are à la carte, backed by a central buffet with eggs cooked to order at breakfast. Classics like steak, chicken and salmon are always offered, alongside regional European dishes and a few Asian flavors, with complimentary wine.

Scenic Opal's wellness area starts with a full gym: a stationary bike, rowing machine, treadmill, elliptical, free weights and fresh towels, a good complement to all the walking ashore. Next door, the spa offers a menu of massages and treatments at an extra cost. The Salt Therapy Lounge is open to every guest, with three loungers and walls built from Himalayan salt bricks, a quiet place to relax and read a book.