by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 7:00 AM ET, Wed June 17, 2026
Scenic Group plans to launch a ship on India’s Hooghly River in the fall of 2027.
The company will offer a selection of itineraries on the Scenic Aura, a 44-guest ship that will embark on its inaugural season from October 2027 to March 2028. The voyages are being paired with land journeys in India and Sri Lanka.
"The introduction of Scenic Aura on India’s Hooghly River is a significant milestone for Scenic Group with the collection developed entirely around what our guests are asking for," says Adam Burke, journey designer for Scenic Group. “These itineraries have been thoughtfully designed to provide unique and exclusive experiences that are culturally rich and showcase the best of India and Sri Lanka, all delivered with the depth of inclusions and personalized service Scenic is known for."
Guests will be able to enjoy a fully integrated river cruise and land journey program, with five new itineraries ranging from 17 to 25 days across North India, South India, Rajasthan and Sri Lanka. The trips will be built around a nine-night voyage along the Hooghly River.
During the journey, travelers will be able to participate in an array of experiences, from high tea at Kathgola Palace in Murshidabad to visits to the Hooghly Imambara, ISKCON Global Headquarters and more. Guests will also meet master craftspeople in Matiari’s artisan quarter and travel by traditional toto to Katra Mosque through the atmospheric streets of Nawabi‑era Bengal.
The ship’s interiors are being redesigned by MKM Yachts, with more details to be released later this year.
The debut of Scenic Aura is part of Scenic Group’s broader expansion into Asia. Additionally, in 2028, Scenic Spirit II will join Scenic Spirit on the Mekong River, Scenic Eclipse II will return to Asia and Oceania and Emerald Xara will arrive in Asia.
Bookings for the new India and Sri Lanka are now available through an exclusive Early Access release, with full itinerary details and updated pricing to be confirmed from November 2026.
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