I was lucky enough to attend the CLIA Riverview conference in Vienna this year where we would be given the opportunity to view various different ships and listen to guest speakers talking about all things river. 2023 has the potential to be the best year for river cruising and Christmas markets are incredibly popular. The great news is that there is a river cruise for everyone.
Our first night was spent onboard TUI Maya. My first impression was how spacious this ship was. We were taken to our standard cabin located on deck one. The standard cabins have all the facilities needed for a comfortable stay and even come with tea and coffee making facilities.
TUI Maya has a choice of 2 dining venues. Your breakfast is buffet and lunch and evening meal is A La carte and the menu changes daily. One night a week there will be a six-course gala dinner. We were lucky enough to sample this menu and all I can say is WOW the choice was amazing and all the staff were professional and polite.
My favourite dining venue was the Bistro restaurant, which is situated at the back of the ship and has wrap-around glass windows, the views are spectacular, so what better way to sit back and relax as you are sailing down your chosen river? This is also where you can experience afternoon tea once per sailing.
The entertainment on board the TUI Maya was more than what I expected. Each night in the Observatory lounge you can find talented musicians and quizzes or for those that want a more relaxed atmosphere head to the Club Lounge where you will find a digital fireplace and comfy chairs. TUI Maya is a full board plus ship which includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks with the meals.
** Top Tip Upgrade to a cabin with floor-to-ceiling windows so you can get natural light and watch the world go by.
On day two we attended the Riverview trade fair held at the Hilton Danube Waterfront. Here we had the opportunity to meet and speak to suppliers about all things river and what is new to the river marker. In the afternoon we were invited onto Avalon Envision for the most amazing buffet lunch where this ship is all about sustainability. At first, I was worried that we would go hungry, however, after speaking to the staff all food is made fresh to order so there is no waste. The buffet caters for all needs and a must is to save space for the puddings.
My first impression of Avalon Envision was elegant and sophisticated, the ship had panoramic windows so the natural light coming in made it light and Airey. On Avalon Envision you can watch the world go by in the Observation Lounge or take yourself up to the Sky Deck where you will find deck games and a whirlpool or just sit relax and watch the world go by. There is a wide range of suites and staterooms available on this ship all come with a premium bath product and bathrobes and slippers. Avalon Envision offers flexible dining times with a menu & venue to suit all.
After a fantastic visit on Avalon Envision, it was now time to do our optional excursions on the hop-on hop-off bus around Vienna. Buses were very reliable and plentiful and the different routes gave variety and interest to the city. And this is a city of grand buildings and many places to visit.
Our final night was onboard Scenic Jasper and as soon as I walked onboard, I was taken aback by how bright and spacious this was. The staff were very friendly and welcoming. After checking in we were taken to our Balcony Suite. Well, this was a game-changer. The cabin was equipped with all the latest mod cons and the major selling point was the floor-to-ceiling glass window that came down to make an open balcony so fresh air can come in. This ship is a truly all-inclusive luxury ship with butler service for all suites and a minibar restocked daily.
The Panorama Lounge & Bar is the heart of the ship and has floor-to-ceiling glass windows so you can sit back and enjoy a speciality coffee or indulge on the cocktail list. The Pina Colada is my favourite.
We had our evening meal in the Crystal Dining Room. This is an open-seating dining venue and you can also have breakfast and lunch in the venue. The evening menu changes each night and will have foods from the country you are in. There is a choice of three starters, mains and puddings along with the Chef's choice and a healthy option. I must admit, the steak I had was the best I have ever tasted and if you are in Vienna, you must try the local puddings.
Breakfast is a buffet and we were spoilt for choice. There was fresh fruit, yoghurts, pastries and a great selection of hot food, and there was a chef making omelettes. Scenic Free choice programme, giving you the flexibility to personalise your days ashore by choosing exactly what you prefer, however if you would rather relax then head up to the Sun Deck and watch the world go by. This ship has something for everyone and will not disappoint a firm favourite.
I had such an amazing trip and learnt so much about the river cruise industry and that there really is a river cruise for everyone
