India’s river cruise offering is set to grow, as Scenic announces plans to introduce two ultra-luxury river ships to join Scenic’s India portfolio by 2029–30 and take guests along the Brahmaputra River. The expansion follows a new long-term partnership with Assam Bengal Navigation (ABN) and builds on Scenic’s upcoming debut on India’s Hooghly River, where Scenic Aura will begin sailing.
Scenic sets its sights on the Brahmaputra River
Scenic’s move onto the Brahmaputra will open up another fascinating part of India to river cruising. Flowing through Assam in the northeast of the country, the river winds through dramatic landscapes and areas known for their wildlife, ancient traditions and remote riverside communities.
The new programme will complement Scenic’s Hooghly River cruises in West Bengal, giving guests more ways to experience the different landscapes, cultures and communities found across India. To develop its presence in the region, Scenic has partnered with Assam Bengal Navigation, which brings more than two decades of experience operating river cruises on the Brahmaputra and Ganges.
Glen Moroney, Founder & Chairman of Scenic Group, said:
“India offers extraordinary potential for luxury river cruising. Our partnership with Assam Bengal Navigation gives us the benefit of deep local expertise and an established operating platform, while allowing Scenic to bring its international experience in luxury cruising to the market. Scenic Aura is the first step in what we expect will be a long-term commitment to India.”
Ashish Phookan, Founder & Managing Director of Assam Bengal Navigation, added:
“ABN has spent more than two decades developing river cruising on the Brahmaputra and Ganges. This partnership brings together our operating experience and knowledge of India’s rivers with Scenic’s global luxury cruise expertise, brand and international distribution. We believe it can significantly expand India’s position on the global river-cruise map.”
Scenic Aura prepares to make her India debut
Before Scenic heads to the Brahmaputra, Scenic Aura will begin her inaugural season on the Hooghly River in October 2027.
Designed for just 44 guests, the boutique river ship will offer all-inclusive ultra-luxury cruises and land journeys across India and Sri Lanka during her 2027–28 season. At the heart of the programme is a 10-night Hooghly River cruise through West Bengal, complemented by land journeys that take in vibrant cities, sacred sites, historic palaces and artisan communities.
With two Scenic river ships planned for India by 2029–30, the partnership marks the beginning of a much bigger river cruise programme in the country. Further details about the new ships and future Brahmaputra itineraries are expected to be revealed as plans develop.
FAQs: Scenic river cruises in India
When will Scenic Aura begin sailing in India?
Scenic Aura is scheduled to begin her inaugural season on the Hooghly River in October 2027.
Where will Scenic Aura sail?
Scenic Aura will sail the Hooghly River through West Bengal. Her 2027–28 programme combines a 10-night river cruise with land journeys through India and Sri Lanka.
How many guests will Scenic Aura carry?
Scenic Aura has been designed for just 44 guests.
When will Scenic's new river ships launch in India?
Scenic plans to have two ultra-luxury river ships operating in India by 2029–30. Further details about the ships and their itineraries are yet to be announced.
Excited to find out more? If you’re keen to set sail along the Brahmaputra or Hooghly River, you can register your interest by calling 0808 2584 325.
