Scenic Group is expanding its ultra-luxury river cruise portfolio into South Asia with a new India and Sri Lanka program launching in October 2027. The company will deploy the boutique vessel Scenic Aura on West Bengal's Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, offering five itineraries ranging from 17 to 25 days.
Scenic Aura: A Boutique Vessel for Intimate Exploration
Scenic Aura is currently being redesigned by MKM Yachts ahead of its inaugural season. The ship will accommodate a maximum of 44 guests per departure, ensuring an exclusive experience. Interior details are expected to be released later this year. Each journey includes a nine-night all-inclusive river cruise along the Hooghly, complemented by land touring segments across North India, South India, Rajasthan and Sri Lanka. Land groups are capped at 25 guests to maintain a personalized atmosphere.
Included Cultural Experiences
The program features a range of included experiences designed to provide authentic cultural connections. Guests will enjoy high tea at Kathgola Palace in Murshidabad, visit the ISKCON Global Headquarters, explore the Hooghly Imambara and Katra Mosque, and meet master craftspeople in Matiari's artisan quarter. These activities anchor each journey in the region's rich heritage.
Pricing and Early-Book Incentives
Itineraries are priced from $13,395 per person. A super earlybird saving of up to $1,500 per person is available on selected departures booked before 31 March 2027. A non-refundable deposit of $1,000 per person is required within seven working days. Full itinerary details and updated pricing will be confirmed from November 2026.
Part of Scenic's Broader Asia Expansion
The India and Sri Lanka program is part of a larger Asia growth strategy for Scenic Group. In 2028, the company will introduce Scenic Spirit II on the Mekong River, deploy Emerald Xara in Asia, and return Scenic Eclipse II to the region. This marks a significant period of expansion across the continent.
For travel professionals, this launch represents a new ultra-luxury option in a market where river cruising is still emerging. The combination of a small-ship experience with curated land tours offers a differentiated product for discerning clients interested in South Asian cultural heritage.
For more information, visit Scenic's website.
