Press Releases

Press Releases about our European Product:

Scenic Pearl to Join Sister Ships in 2011 - November 5, 2009

For Immediate Release

MAKE THAT FIVE JEWELS CRUISING EUROPE’S RIVERS
New Scenic Pearl to join sister ships in 2011

Toronto, Ont. (November 5, 2009) The Scenic Pearl, currently being constructed, will add even more choice for river cruisers come the Spring of 2011 when she joins sister ships the Scenic Emerald, Ruby, Diamond and Sapphire. The Pearl is being built at the reputable Den Breejen Shipyard at Hardinxveld near Rotterdam in Holland as were her stunning sisters the Scenic Diamond and Sapphire.

The growing popularity of river cruising in North America, whether with repeat cruisers or those trying it for the first time, has propelled Scenic to place the order for their fifth vessel to keep up with demand. More diverse routes and shorter itinerary lengths will be added to Scenic’s schedule with the launch of the new vessel.

Scenic’s ‘Space-Ships” are longer than typical European river cruise ships and carry 169 guests. Many ‘exclusive to Scenic’ features and amenities, not to mention state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional service, include true private balconies in 82% of all accommodations; choice of two fine dining restaurants, complimentary wine and beer served both at lunch and dinner, all onboard gratuities as well as all sightseeing ashore are included in the fare, and more! Sales are booming and there are limited time sensitive offers available for prospective guests to book for Europe 2010 sailings.

BOOK NOW! Earlybird Offers available when you book and deposit by December 31, 2009

Save USD$800 per couple on a newly added Jewels of Europe departure:
April 26, 2010 departure - 15 day cruise sailing Budapest to Amsterdam. From USD$4,795 per person.
(Balcony upgrades from $1,190 pp.)

Save USD$200 per couple on the following 11-day Gems of the Danube tours:
May 24, 2010 departure - 7 night cruise sailing Budapest to Nuremberg PLUS 3 nights post-cruise in Prague. From USD$3,790 per person.
May 28, 2010 departure - 3 nights pre-cruise in Prague PLUS 7 night cruise Nuremberg to Budapest. From USD$3,790 per person.
(Balcony upgrades from $595 pp.)

Cruise-only is also eligible for savings:
May 24, 2010 departure - 7 night cruise sailing Budapest to Nuremberg from USD$2,595 per person.
May 31, 2010 departure - 7 night cruise sailing Nuremberg to Budapest from USD$2,595 per person.
(Balcony upgrades from $595 pp.)

All cruises include arrival and departure transfers.

Be sure to consult the 2010 brochure for much more detail on available sailings, inclusions and offers, as well as all terms and conditions. For more information and bookings please contact your local professional travel agent.
 
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Scenic Tours is one of the largest and most successful tour operators in Australia. In business for over 20 years, privately owned Scenic has offices in Canada, Switzerland and the UK in addition to offices in Australia and New Zealand. The company offers tours to Europe, Canada and Alaska, Australia and New Zealand, South America, Africa, Egypt, Jordan, Dubai and Asia.
Scenic Tours inaugural river cruise season was in 2008. The company now owns and operates 4 luxurious river cruise ships. The Scenic "Space-Ships" are the most spacious on Europe's waterways, the only ships boasting private balcony suites for more than 80% of the staterooms and also offering a choice of dining to guests.
 
For a complimentary brochure please call 1 866 689 8611 or visit www.scenictours.com/nthamerica
 
 
Contact:
Vanessa Lee
Cruise Strategies Ltd.
On behalf of Scenic Tours
416 968 9797
vlee@cruisestrategies.com


 

 

 

Fly Free or Bring a Friend on Scenic Tours European River Cruises - January 15, 2010

 

Fly Free or Bring A Friend…It’s Your Choice in Europe
Explore Europe’s Rivers This Year On Scenic Tours’ “Space-Ships”

For Immediate Release  
 
Toronto, Ont. (January 15, 2010) Fine dining, your own private balcony, complimentary wines, included sightseeing and gratuities…it’s a sublime way to see the picturesque towns and charming villages of Europe; and did we mention it’s on sale? Scenic Tours sails four ‘Space-Ships’ in Europe, all new since 2008, with public areas 20% larger than any other vessels on Europe’s rivers and over 80% of the staterooms have private balconies; a feature exclusive to Scenic.
 
With the season fast approaching, space is quickly selling out in Europe but there is still time to book, and Scenic is promoting the following 2010 sailings at truly exceptional savings.
 
2 For The Price of 1* – Save up to $8,645 per couple!

April 5 departure: 15-day Budapest to Amsterdam or Amsterdam to Budapest River Cruise

Highlights include: tour both sides of the Danube in Budapest, a private Viennese concert, a visit to Nuremberg, sailing the Rhine Gorge
 
Price: From CAD$2,548 per person cruise only plus taxes; all stateroom categories are eligible (price reflects savings)
 
Please note that these sailings are impacted by lock closures.

October 11 departure: 13-day Amsterdam to Basel River Cruise (note - this is a unique sailing only available on this date in 2010 and will be offered as a regular itinerary in the 2011 sailing schedule)

Highlights include: wine tasting in Cochem, tour of the Grand Duchy in Luxembourg, sightseeing in Trier, sailing the Rhine Gorge, a visit to Strasbourg
 
Price: From CAD$2,608 per person cruise only plus taxes; all stateroom categories eligible (price reflects savings)

May 8 and 15 departures: 12-day Black Sea Explorer

Highlights include: 2 nights in Budapest and Bucharest, 7 night cruise, Captain’s welcome party, cruise the Iron Gate, day excursion in Transylvania

Price: From CAD$2138 per person plus taxes; Category D and E staterooms only

Fly Free to Europe* – Save up to $3,390 per couple! (just pay taxes from $372 per person)

October 18, November 1 and 15 departures: 15-day Amsterdam to Budapest River Cruise

Highlights include: ‘FreeChoice’ excursions in Wurzburg, Passau and Vienna, sail the Rhine Gorge, Sound of Music Tour in Salzburg, visit Benedictine Abbey, an exclusive Viennese concert


*New bookings only; conditions apply, subject to availability.

Be sure to consult Scenic’s brochure and your travel professional for much more detail on available sailings, inclusions and offers, as well as all terms and conditions on above offers. To book, please contact your local professional travel agent.


Scenic Tours is one of the largest and most successful tour operators in Australia. In business for over 20 years, privately owned Scenic has offices in Canada, Switzerland and the UK in addition to offices in Australia and New Zealand. The company offers tours to Europe, Canada and Alaska, Australia and New Zealand, South America, Africa, Egypt, Jordan, Dubai and Asia.

Scenic Tours inaugural river cruise season was in 2008. The company now owns and operates 4 luxurious river cruise ships. The Scenic "Space-Ships" are the most spacious on Europe's waterways, the only ships boasting private balcony suites for more than 80% of the staterooms and also offering a choice of dining to guests.

For a complimentary brochure please call 1 866 689 8611 or visit www.scenictours.com/

Contact:
Vanessa Lee
Cruise Strategies Ltd.
On behalf of Scenic Tours
416 968 9797
vlee@cruisestrategies.com 

European River Cruise Pre-Registrations for 2011 Now Open - April 14, 2010

Blissful Balconies, Divine Deals, and A Shiny New Pearl
Pre-Registrations for 2011 Now Open

Toronto, Ont. (April 14, 2010) There’s a very good reason Scenic Tours is encouraging guests to book 2011 now; because if this year was any indication, 2011 will sell out fast. River cruising as a mode of touring and vacationing is becoming increasingly attractive to travellers. Guests love the proximity to the local towns, the ease of having to unpack only once versus touring by coach, and of course, the superb cuisine and pampering! The popularity of Scenic Tours as a relatively new river cruise company has been phenomenal, to the tune of over 200% growth year over year in fact. To help meet demand as well as introduce new itineraries, the new Scenic Pearl is currently being built and will join her four young sister ships in Europe next Spring.

Scenic’s ‘Space-Ships’ (aptly named for their onboard spaciousness) are the only vessels on Europe’s rivers that offer true balconies, and over 80% of the ship’s accommodations have them. On a river cruise where scenery and fresh air abound, having your own private balcony is a treat. Imagine sitting at a table for two, cappuccino or cocktail in hand, leisurely passing by quaint villages and charming bridges.

Additionally, Scenic provides an all-inclusive experience and there are no surprises once onboard. All transfers, gratuities, sightseeing, select onshore events, onboard dining in your choice of two fine restaurants and wine and beer with lunch and dinner are included in the cruise fare. In the words of Traveloguer Extraordinaire, Tony Leighton: “It’s rare to encounter a tour company that makes generosity a policy. This is one.”  

Guests Pre-Registering for the 2011 Europe season are privy to the following benefits:

  • First choice of departure date
  • Preferred stateroom category
  • Guaranteed Best Available Offer (even promotions capped to a limited number of bookings will be guaranteed for guests who are pre-registered)
  • $100 per couple onboard credit (book and deposit by May 21,2010)
  • First dibs at booking Scenic’s newest vessel, the Scenic Pearl, launching Spring 2011!
  • All it takes is a small fully-refundable deposit of $250 per person

Simply put, Scenic offers a truly innovative 5-star river cruising experience; it’s unique, it’s all-inclusive, it’s high in demand. Don’t be disappointed, book your space today!

Conditions apply. Be sure to click ‘Pre-Register for 2011’ on www.scenictours.com for all of the details and terms and conditions. Stay tuned for Scenic’s 2011 Europe Brochure coming soon.  To book, please call Scenic Tours at 1.866.689.8611 or see your local professional travel agent.

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 Scenic Tours is one of the largest and most successful tour operators in Australia. In business for over 20 years, privately owned Scenic has offices in Canada, Switzerland and the UK in addition to offices in Australia and New Zealand. The company offers tours to Europe, Canada and Alaska, Australia and New Zealand, South America, Africa, Egypt, Jordan, Dubai and Asia.

Scenic Tours inaugural river cruise season was in 2008. The company now owns and operates 4 luxurious river cruise ships. The Scenic "Space-Ships" are the most spacious on Europe's waterways and the only ships boasting private balcony suites for more than 80% of the staterooms. Scenic provides an all inclusive river cruising experience as well as a choice of dining to guests.

 For a complimentary brochure please call 1 866 689 8611 or visit www.scenictours.com.

Contact:
Vanessa Lee
Cruise Strategies Ltd.
On behalf of Scenic Tours
416 968 9797
vlee@cruisestrategies.com

Scenic Tours Earns Top Praise - October 27, 2010
 

 Good News Travels Fast

From Balconies to Butlers, Guests’ Give Scenic Top Praise

 

Toronto, Ont. (October 27, 2010)   We’ve all imparted our constructive criticisms on a product, service or experience that could use some improvement, but how often do we take a moment to share the opposite sentiment? In today’s competitive marketplace, when travelers take the time to send in positive feedback after their vacation, it’s really saying something.

Good news travels fast as they say, and Scenic Tours’ huge success is largely thanks to their highly satisfied customers and the wonderful things they have to say…

 

We were aboard the SCENIC EMERALD May 31st. This is a beautiful ship and has been a superb cruise all the way. This crew is remarkable in constantly seeking to please us in our every need or desire. This is the 1st of what we hope will be more cruises with you! Thanks again for such a superb time aboard - wish it were longer!

Michael Donnelly, Hamilton New Jersey

 

My clients have returned and were very impressed with the cruise. They were treated to wonderful weather, met all sorts of Aussies (really one sort but lots of them), and had a great time. Nice cabin, good crew, too much food, did not realize how busy it was - so much to see it kept them hopping and at the end of the day it was really nice to sit on the balcony and unwind before dinner. Saw lots and recommended it to others.

Thanks for all your assistance with them.

Cheers,

Dan Peach, Atlynn Travel Ltd, North Vancouver BC

 

My wife and I just returned from the Budapest to Amsterdam tour that began on June 6. We both thought the tour was wonderful. In particular, the cruise director Yvonne da Sera was absolutely great. In fact, the entire staff, from our waiter (Ruppert Mate) to the reception desk people did a fantastic job. We'll be recommending Scenic to our friends in good measure because of the work of those people. Thanks, again, for a wonderful experience.

Mr Robert Lester, The Villages, Florida

 

We just got back last Monday after an extended stay in Europe. The cruise was wonderful. The Australian people were so much fun!! Everyone had a great time. We kind of took over the ship. The girls gave line dancing lessons and my two sons-in-law helped with demonstrations. The cruise director said it was the best cruise ever. All the staff knew the granddaughters by name. The two single ones had breakfast in bed every morning. The butler just walked in and put the tray on the bed. They thought it was wonderful. The Captain let one of the girls stay in the bridge and watch. They had a great time. We probably won't be allowed to do Scenic again! 

Mary Jo Underwood, Lubbock, Texas

 

Scenic Tours far exceeded our expectations and we found the cost value was exceptional. As a retiree from the commercial aviation industry (operations), I was totally captivated by how well everything happened and by the crew’s ability to make such a marvelous cruise.  Special commendation must go to our Cruise Director Monique Radings who was absolutely fantastic. I loved the fact that some of us were able to ride a bicycle from one port to another.   What a thrill to cycle 33 km with a great groups from our riverboat… port to port.

We look forward to our next riverboat trip with Scenic Tours in Europe or elsewhere.  I believe in their philosophy about prepaying everything up front, tipping and enjoying oneself from start to finish.  I must say we learned of Scenic Tours through a friend of ours otherwise we would not have known just what was in store for us. 

Colin Cantlie, Calgary, Alberta

 

An exceptional all-inclusive value awaits! Included in your cruise fare is sightseeing and tours, airport transfers, gratuities, a choice of three dining venues, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, exclusive ‘ScenicEnrich’ shoreside experiences and much more. Not to mention, with Scenic, guests can book accommodation with their own private balcony. This is a true balcony with seating for two; a highly enjoyable feature which is exclusive to Scenic’s European river vessels. Book your river cruise now to take advantage of Scenic’s fantastic EarlyBird Deals* such as Dollars Off and Partner Flies Free, expiring December 31, 2010!

 

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Scenic Tours is one of the largest and most successful tour operators in Australia. In business for over 20 years, privately owned Scenic has offices in Canada, Switzerland and the UK in addition to offices in Australia and New Zealand. The company offers tours to Europe, Russia, Egypt, Jordan, Canada and Alaska, Australia and New Zealand, South America, Africa, Dubai and Asia.

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Scenic Tours inaugural river cruise season was in 2008. The company now owns and operates 4 luxurious river cruise ships with the new Scenic Pearl currently under construction. The Scenic "Space-Ships" are the most spacious on Europe's waterways and the only ships boasting private balcony suites for more than 80% of the staterooms. Scenic provides an all inclusive river cruising experience as well as a choice of dining to guests.

 

 

See Scenic Tours’ 2011 brochures for fascinating itineraries throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt as well as New Zealand. To book, please call Scenic Tours at 1.866.689.8611 or see your local professional travel agent.

 

* Conditions apply; all offers are valid on select departures only, and are subject to availability; be sure to consult Scenic Tours’ 2011 Europe brochure for all of the details and terms and conditions.

 

 

Contact:
Vanessa Lee
Cruise Strategies Ltd.
On behalf of Scenic Tours
416 968 9797
vlee@cruisestrategies.com
Exclusive Enrichment Experiences With Scenic Tours - June 2011

EXCLUSIVE ENRICHMENT EXPERIENCES WITH SCENIC TOURS

Toronto, Ont. (June 21, 2011)  Leading European river cruise operator Scenic Tours is including a vast range of special enrichment activities in the cruise fare so guests may discover the history, culture and cuisine of the countries they visit.

From private tours of renowned castles with exclusive dining experiences to visiting local villages and meeting local wine vintners, the Scenic Enrich program allows guests to truly immerse themselves in local cultures and discover the essence of Europe, with a range of new and exciting options on offer for the 2012 river cruise program.

For example, guests aboard the 15 day Jewels of Europe River Cruise between Amsterdam and Budapest will have the opportunity to enjoy a day in the life of a traditional German villager. In the Scenic Village experience, guests become part of the local community for a day, visiting the homes of local families. They can choose from a range of traditional activities from wine tasting and baking to visiting a dairy, an iron foundry or a private castle to meet a piano maker who restores 18th century pianos. The day ends with a magnificent barbecue with local villagers.

Also new is a host of Scenic Enrich experiences for those joining the 15 day Imperial Jewels of Russia River Cruise between St. Petersburg and Moscow. Guests will enjoy a traditional Russian lunch at the old-world ‘Podvorie’ restaurant in St Petersburg, where all produce and wine is home-grown at the owner’s private summer residence. They will also experience a private Russian ballet performance, a home visit to savour their authentic Russian tea and piroshki, and a private tour of Moscow’s celebrated St Basil’s Cathedral. Finally, guests will have the opportunity to meet a real Cosmonaut on a guided tour of Star City space training centre.

Scenic Tours’ new river cruising program in France includes a visit to a typical French family homestead in Tournon for a delicious home-cooked meal. Guests will also meet a local wine vintner in the Beaujolais region and sample some of the best wines, cheese and sausages the area has to offer and visit a real working farm in La Camargue, France’s ‘wild west’, where cowboys tend to herds of bulls.

Glen Moroney, founder and managing director of Scenic Tours commented: “We are delighted to be introducing these exciting new Scenic Enrich activities for 2012. These special events are developed exclusively to appeal to our discerning clientele. We aim to create memorable experiences that allow guests to really have a taste of the region they are visiting, meeting with locals and experiencing authentic European life.”

Other popular Scenic Enrich activities include a guided tour of Marksburg Castle in Germany, a stunning building dating back to the 12th century with spectacular views over the Rhine. After a guided tour, guests enjoy a sumptuous private dinner and a night of entertainment provided by knights, musicians and jugglers all in medieval dress.

 

Also popular is a private concert featuring the music of Mozart and Strauss at the magnificent Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna, a baroque palace which was commissioned in the 17th century by the Prince of Liechtenstein. Guests are greeted with a sparkling glass of Austrian Sekt upon arrival followed by an exclusive performance of Viennese music and dancing in the grand concert hall.

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Scenic Tours’ 2012 river cruise program includes spectacular journeys on beautiful waterways such as the Rhine, Main, Moselle and Danube aboard the Scenic ‘Space-Ships’, which are akin to travelling aboard a five-star floating hotel. In Russia, Scenic has exclusively chartered the Sergey Kutchkin – the newest ship on Russia’s waterways, offering private outdoor balconies and the highest standards of service - and in France, the MS Symphony has been exclusively chartered to accommodate guests in quintessential Scenic style.

See Scenic Tours’ brochures for fascinating itineraries throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt as well as New Zealand. For reservations, brochures or more information, contact your local travel professional, visit www.scenictours.com or call 1 866 689 8611.

Contact:
Vanessa Lee
Cruise Strategies Ltd.
On behalf of Scenic Tours
416.968.9797
vlee@cruisestrategies.com

Scenic Tours’ special EarlyBird booking offer ends soon - October 2011

Scenic Tours’ special EarlyBird booking offer ends soon – last chance to Fly Free to Europe*
Offers are available for a limited number of staterooms per sailing, and itineraries are selling out quickly

October 21, 2011 -- Time is running out to save on the ultimate in European river cruising with Scenic Tours’ special EarlyBird booking offer!  Guests who book by October 31, 2011 can take advantage of their ‘Fly Free to Europe’ special with savings of up to $3,590 per couple on select 2012 departures.

Scenic’s ‘Fly Free to Europe’ offer is available on the 15 day Romantic Rhine and Moselle river cruises including a visit to Floriade 2012 in Venlo, a once a decade event. Guests will also enjoy included activities such as guided tours of Heidelberg and La Petite France in Strasbourg, as well as excursions to the majestic Black Forest, a visit the world's largest cuckoo clock, Germany's largest waterfalls, plus so much more.

Other EarlyBirds include ‘Partner Fly Free’ specials on select tours including the 12 day Black Sea Explorer river cruise, the 8 day Gems of the Danube river cruise, or the 8 day Tulip Time river cruise. All cruises are fully inclusive with all sightseeing and on board activities included, as well as all meals, complimentary coffee and tea, premium bottled wine, beer and soft drinks served with both lunch and dinner, and complimentary airport transfers. All gratuities and tipping are also included.

Watch as the world goes by onboard one of Scenic’s 5-star luxury ‘Space-Ships’ with true balconies (accommodating a table for two) in 82% of staterooms, an all-inclusive experience and so much more. Discover for yourself why cruisers love Scenic Tours!

But remember, the early bird gets the worm! These EarlyBird offers are only available for a limited number of staterooms per sailing, and itineraries are selling out quickly! 

Scenic Tours’ river cruises include spectacular journeys on beautiful waterways such as the Rhine, Main, Moselle and Danube aboard the Scenic ‘Space-Ships’, which are akin to travelling aboard a five-star floating hotel. One of the largest and most successful tour operators in Australia, Scenic Tours has been in business for over 20 years with offices in Canada, Switzerland and the UK in addition to offices in Australia and New Zealand.
See Scenic Tours’ brochures for fascinating itineraries throughout Europe, Russia, New Zealand, Egypt & Jordan, South America, Africa and Australia. For reservations, brochures or more information, contact your local travel professional, visit www.scenictours.com or call 1 866 689 8611.

*Subject to availability, terms & conditions

Contact:
Vanessa Lee
Cruise Strategies Ltd.

On behalf of Scenic Tours
416.968.9797
vlee@cruisestrategies.com

Press Releases about our New Zealand Product:

New Zealand 2010 Brochure Launched - January 13, 2010

 

Come to the Land of the Maori with Scenic!
Scenic Tours Launches 2010 New Zealand Brochure

For Immediate Release       

Toronto, Ont. (January 13, 2010) Scenic doesn’t just know their way around Europe; both Scenic Tours and Evergreen Tours have been delivering outstanding vacation experiences in New Zealand to travellers for more than 20 years.  Each company has its own distinct style – whichever one you choose, you’ll be guaranteed to have an extra special vacation. Just released, Scenic’s 2010 New Zealand brochure offers more innovative and guaranteed tour departures than any other operator.

If you expect the very best, Scenic Tours award-winning vacations will give you a unique perspective on world-famous landmarks as well as “off the beaten path” experiences that are the true essence of this fascinating country.  The following features and inclusions truly will provide you with the ultimate touring experience.

  • Scenic ‘FreeChoice’ excursions – a total of 45 personalized touring experiences designed to suit individual tastes allowing you to personalize your touring experience at no extra cost!
  • Your choice of Relaxed, Moderate or Active tours
  • Scenic ‘FreeChoice’ Dining in Auckland, Bay of Islands, Rotorua and Queenstown offering you the opportunity to enjoy the amazing cuisine of New Zealand’s fine restaurants at no additional cost
  • All breakfasts, most lunches and dinners are included
  • Accommodation in centrally located first class hotels
  • Luxury Lodge upgrades in Bay of Islands, Rotorua and Queenstown affords an experience in not only some of New Zealand’s best luxury accommodation but in the world
  • Any relevant entrance fees, luggage handling, tips and gratuities are included
  • And more…

Special Offer!

When you book any Scenic Tours’ Royal New Zealand, Ultimate New Zealand or Grand New Zealand rail tour by March 31, 2010, you will receive $1,000 off per couple!

Also inside this brochure you will find Evergreen Tours, offering exceptional value vacations since 1980.  Evergreen provides great value tours from 9 to 18 days without compromising on what you will see and do. 

Be sure to consult the Scenic Tours 2010 New Zealand brochure for much more detail on available tours, inclusions and offers, as well as all terms and conditions. For more information and bookings please contact your local professional travel agent.

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Scenic Tours is one of the largest and most successful tour operators in Australia. In business for over 20 years, privately owned Scenic has offices in Canada, Switzerland and the UK in addition to offices in Australia and New Zealand. The company offers tours to Europe, Canada and Alaska, Australia and New Zealand, South America, Africa, Egypt, Jordan, Dubai and Asia.

Scenic Tours inaugural river cruise season was in 2008. The company now owns and operates 4 luxurious river cruise ships. The Scenic "Space-Ships" are the most spacious on Europe's waterways, the only ships boasting private balcony suites for more than 80% of the staterooms and also offering a choice of dining to guests.

Contact:
Vanessa Lee
Cruise Strategies Ltd.
On behalf of Scenic Tours
416 968 9797
vlee@cruisestrategies.com