One new Emerald Star-Ship and two ultra-luxury Scenic Space-Ships will operate across Europe and Asia from 2027, with bookings now open. The expansion marks Scenic Group’s most significant fleet growth in nearly a decade.
Exploring the Douro River
Emerald Nova, launching in June 2027, will be purpose‑built for the Douro River and join Emerald Radiance in Portugal. Accommodating 112 guests, the ship will operate two itineraries from March to November: the 11‑day Douro Highlights: Porto, Salamanca & the Wine Valley and the eight‑day Secrets of the Douro. Calls will include Porto and Salamanca, with active excursion options such as guided hikes and kayaking.
Bringing ultra luxury to Portugal
In September 2027, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours will introduce Scenic Aria, a 96‑guest ultra‑luxury Scenic Space‑Ship that will sail the Douro alongside Scenic Azure. Operating from March to November, Scenic Aria will feature the 11‑day Unforgettable Douro and the eight‑day Delightful Douro itineraries, with all‑inclusive experiences and visits to destinations such as Régua and Pinhão. Excursions will include activities such as tile painting and olive tasting at a local quinta.
Expanding options for Asia river cruising
Completing the trio, Scenic Spirit II will launch in early 2028 on the Mekong River, carrying 68 guests through Vietnam and Cambodia. The ship will call at destinations including Phnom Penh, Angkor Ban and Ho Chi Minh City, with excursions ranging from visits to the Killing Fields to explorations of local wet markets.
Largest fleet expansion in a decade
The announcement builds on Scenic Group’s previously confirmed new ships, including Emerald Astra, launching in May 2026 on the Rhine, Main and Danube, and Emerald Lumi, which will debut on the Seine in 2027.
Combined with the upcoming launches of several luxury yachts, the additions mark Scenic Group’s most significant fleet expansion in nearly a decade.
By early 2028, Scenic will operate a fleet of 15 river cruise ships, while Emerald will have 11.
Glen Moroney, chairman and founder of Scenic Group, said: “Our commitment to introducing three new river ships for the Scenic and Emerald Cruises brands reflects our confidence in the strong demand for our unique approach to luxury cruising.
“With Scenic Ikon in build for delivery in 2028 and five Emerald Cruises yachts and river ships already confirmed, this announcement marks the next phase of our strategic fleet growth.
“By bringing the design and construction of these new river ships under the expertise of our team at MKM Yachts, we can apply the same standards of innovation and design excellence that have underpinned Scenic Group’s success for the past 40 years.”
There are various benefits for groups booking with Scenic including savings, customised experiences and flexible payment plans.
For more information, visit scenic.co.uk or emeraldcruises.co.uk, or call 0161 516 6895.
