Travel Talk: ‘Space Ships’ Are Here and Ready for Boarding

I received an email the other day with the headline, “All inclusive luxury on board a Scenic ‘Space Ship.’” However, when I think of spaceship travel, luxury is not what comes to mind. Unless it’s the luxury price we’re talking about. After all, Sir Richard Branson’s idea of bringing space travel to the public doesn’t come cheap. 

But this email wasn’t about travel to outer space. Rather, it was about travel to Europe. Luxury river cruise travel, that is, aboard ScenicTour’s new ‘Space Ships’ - a fitting name given the large amount of “space” onboard (both cabins and main areas).

River cruising is one of the fastest growing segments of travel and shows no sign of slowing down. This type of vacation attracts many well-traveled individuals who want to experience a hybrid of cruising and touring. And due to the ability to dock right in the heart of the city, passengers have quick access to many cultural, historical, and culinary excursions. 

There are numerous river cruise companies that continue to add new ships equipped with bigger and better amenities each year. And aside from a few exceptions, they are all-inclusive vacations. A few I recommend are:

Tauck: This company started as a land-based tour company so the excursion options available are top-notch. Dining in fine, local restaurants is also included in the price of most itineraries versus always dining onboard. (Starting from $3,890 per person.)

Uniworld: Due to their partnership with 5-star Red Carnation Hotels, cruising on this line feels like you are staying in a boutique luxury hotel. The original artwork on each ship, together with high-end design, helps create a unique guest experience. (Starting from $2,249 per person.)

AMA Waterways: New ships offer twin balconies and heated swimming pools. Large staterooms and itineraries beyond Europe, such as Russia and the Mekong River, are a bonus. (Starting from $2,299 per person.)

And the vacuum-packed food that came to mind with the word “space?” It’s been replaced with images of fine dining and flowing regional wine.

How about the tight quarters shared by the astronaut crew? On these ships, think balconies that are large enough to sit on and view incredible scenery.

Let’s not forget the lack of exercise available while in orbit. Now picture bicycling thru the countryside or hiking along some historical trails.

But to be fair, while the view from a river cruise ship is certainly picturesque, I can only guess that the real “Space Ship” offers the only one that is truly out of this world. 

Danielle Meeker is a Travel Advisor with Liadis Travel, Ltd. in Newtown Square, PA and a Haddonfield resident. Danielle@Liadis.com.