Scenic Group today announced the expansion of its portfolio of luxury river cruises and land-based tours with the deployment of the Scenic Aura on the Hooghly River in India. Beginning in October 2027, this boutique vessel will feature an exclusive collection of new, meticulously curated itineraries through India and Sri Lanka.
River cruises aboard the Scenic Aura
During its inaugural season, from October 2027 to March 2028, the Scenic Aura will accommodate up to 44 guests, offering an ultra-luxurious, all-inclusive river cruise experience through the cultural heart of West Bengal. The new itineraries include a unique selection of Scenic Freechoice excursions and exclusive Scenic Enrich events, designed to showcase the region's vibrant cities, sacred sites, and riverside villages, complemented by specially curated land trips to India and Sri Lanka.
“The addition of the Scenic Aura to India’s Hooghly River represents a significant milestone for the Scenic Group. This entire collection has been developed around what our guests have been asking for,” said Adam Burke, Scenic’s Travel Experience Designer. “These itineraries have been carefully crafted to offer unique and exclusive experiences that are culturally enriching and showcase the best of India and Sri Lanka, all with the level of included services and personalized attention for which Scenic is renowned.”.
New India and Sri Lanka program 2027–2028
The program for India has been designed as a fully integrated proposal of river cruises and land travel, with five new itineraries of between 17 and 25 days through northern and southern India, Rajasthan and Sri Lanka.
The centerpiece of this offer is a 9-night ultra-luxury cruise on the Lower Ganges, sailing along the Hooghly River, a historic waterway that flows through some of India's most historically significant regions. Each itinerary offers a new and distinctive way to discover the subcontinent.
Exclusive Scenic Enrich and Scenic Freechoice experiences
Each itinerary will include unique Scenic Enrich experiences, including an elegant High Tea at Kathgola Palace in Murshidabad; a visit to the revered Hooghly Imambara, known for its spiritual significance and Mughal-influenced architecture; an experience at ISKCON's world headquarters, where devotional music and vibrant rituals provide a deep immersion into living spirituality; encounters with master artisans in the artisan quarter of Matiari; and a toto (traditional electric vehicle) ride to Katra Mosque, traversing the evocative streets of Nawabi-era Bengal.
The Scenic Aura will be redesigned by the Scenic Group's team of experts at MKM Yachts to offer an intimate and exclusive boutique experience. Details of the interior renovation will be revealed later this year.
Scenic stands out for its authentic all-inclusive river cruise experience, where everything is included in the fare: spacious suites with private balcony, separate bedroom and Scenic Sun Lounge; all meals in up to four different dining venues; complimentary drinks throughout the day; in-suite minibar; unlimited Wi-Fi; resort-style pool; yoga classes; wellness center and gym; and self-service laundry.
On combined land and river tours, Scenic also includes select hotels, special accommodations, internal transportation, gratuities, and other perks. Furthermore, land-based groups will be limited to just 25 travelers to ensure a truly intimate and personalized experience.
Scenic Group's broader expansion in Asia
Reflecting its ongoing commitment to growth, innovation and creating unique discovery experiences, Scenic Group's expansion into India is part of a broader investment in Asia as a destination.
The launch of the Scenic Aura on the River Hooghly will be one of several major initiatives planned for 2028:
- Scenic Spirit II will join Scenic Spirit on the Mekong River.
- Scenic Eclipse II will return to Asia and Oceania.
- Emerald Xara will arrive in Asia.
Taken together, these milestones represent a significant expansion of Scenic Group's regional offering, providing travelers with an unparalleled collection of river cruises, ocean expeditions, and land travel.
With a capacity of only 44 passengers per departure, the inaugural season of the Scenic Aura has already sparked considerable interest, especially among members of the Scenic Rewards and Emerald Rewards programs during the pre-registration phase.
These highly exclusive and sought-after trips are expected to sell out quickly. They are currently available through an exclusive Early Access phase, while full itinerary details and updated pricing will be confirmed from November 2026.
Follow cruise news at Cruisesnews.es
