A new chapter in luxury river cruising is coming to India, with Scenic Group announcing plans to sail Scenic Aura on the Hooghly River starting October 2027. The move introduces an entirely new collection of itineraries across India and Sri Lanka to the company's portfolio.
Scenic Aura's inaugural season runs through March 2028, with departures limited to 44 guests. Five itineraries spanning 17 to 25 days cover North India, South India, Rajasthan and Sri Lanka, each built around a nine-night river cruise along the Hooghly, a waterway cutting through some of India's most historically significant regions in West Bengal.
"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," said Adam Burke, Scenic journey designer. "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."
Signature Scenic Enrich events are woven throughout each journey. Highlights include High Tea at Kathgola Palace in Murshidabad, a visit to the Hooghly Imambara, an immersive stop at the ISKCON Global Headquarters and time with master craftspeople in Matiari's artisan quarter. Guests will also traverse the atmospheric streets of Nawabi-era Bengal by traditional toto to reach Katra Mosque.
Before its debut season, Scenic Aura will be redesigned by MKM Yachts. Interior details are expected later this year. Accommodations will include suites with private balconies, separate bedrooms and a Scenic Sun Lounge. The all-inclusive fare covers meals across up to four dining venues, beverages throughout the day, an in-suite mini-bar, Wi-Fi, pool access, yoga classes, a wellness center, a fitness area and laundry facilities. On combined land and river journeys, accommodations, internal transport and gratuities are bundled in, as well, with land groups capped at 25.
The Hooghly River launch is one piece of a larger Asia push for Scenic Group. The company has flagged several additional 2028 milestones: Scenic Spirit II joining Scenic Spirit on the Mekong River, Scenic Eclipse II returning to Asia and Oceania and Emerald Xara making its Asia debut.
Bookings are currently open via an Early Access release, with complete itinerary details and finalized pricing to follow in November 2026. With just 44 berths per sailing, demand is already running high — the pre-registration phase drew notable interest from Scenic and Emerald Rewards members ahead of the public opening.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Scenic Group. It was fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
