As cruise lines across the oceans, seas, and rivers enhance their fleets to keep up with the changing times, companies like AmaWaterways and Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours are taking things a step further with tech savvy updates that include the recent addition of mobile apps.
For Scenic, the change comes after years of guests using the popular Scenic Tailormade, an exclusive, handheld GPS device. The new Tailormade app moves the same functionality that was used on the former GPS device to a guest’s mobile phone by providing commentary on more than 240 tour options in over 140 European locations. It also features more than 1,500 points of interest with narrations available about the history, culture and landscapes of the regions through which Scenic Space Ships sail.
Scenic Tailormade can be uploaded prior to departure and used both on board and ashore. The Riverview Commentary System is automatically activated at highlights and points of interest along each of Europe’s major waterways, and while ashore guests can use the Independent City Tours function with point to point navigation, maps, commentary and an off-line navigation system that helps guests discover various port cities without fear of getting lost.
In addition, through the “My Cruise” function, guests can access information on the Daily Cruise Program including the entire Travel Guide Book and full listings of Scenic Freechoice and Scenic Enrich excursions and experiences. The app also provides a Travel Wallet for all travel documents, plus a Badge Scan option.
Photo Sharing, Live Itinerary Tracking and More
AmaWaterways’ entry into the world of mobile apps aims to expand the ways guests can engage with and share their river cruising experiences. Highlights of the app—myAmaCruise—include live itinerary tracking on an interactive map that showcases details of each stop; access to the Daily Cruiser with up-to-date information regarding onboard activities and shore excursions; easily shareable personal cruise albums with photos that can tag on an itinerary map; and digital postcards that can be e-mailed to friends and family with images of each new port city. The myAmaCruise app is available on all Vietnam and Cambodia itineraries, as well as all European itineraries, with the exception of Portugal.
In addition to the launch of the app, AmaWaterways has enhanced cellular data plans throughout its European ships and added more options on its stateroom Entertainment-On-Demand system.
Those sailing on board the soon-to-debut AmaMagna will also have access to mobile Wi-Fi devices that allow complimentary internet connection as they explore towns and villages throughout Europe. On board, guests will find an expanded Entertainment-On-Demand system, which will offer hundreds of movies and TV shows with new releases being added each month.
For more information, visit scenicusa.com and amawaterways.com. To read about Carnival Cruise Line’s recent enhanced Hub App, click here.
