Photo: Scenic Aria on the Douro River

Scenic Group has announced plans to expand its river cruise fleet with three new luxury ships for its Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Cruises brands, with launches scheduled between 2027 and 2028.

The expansion will include one new Emerald Star-Ship and two ultra-luxury Scenic Space-Ships, extending the company’s presence across Europe and Asia.

The announcement coincides with Scenic Group’s 40th anniversary, marking four decades in the luxury river and yacht cruising sector. According to the company, the additional ships reflect continued demand for its premium cruise experiences and form part of a broader fleet expansion strategy.

The announcement builds on several previously confirmed ship launches across Scenic Group’s brands. Emerald Astra is set to launch in May 2026 on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers in Europe, while Emerald Lumi will debut on the Seine River in France in 2027.

The company is also expanding its ocean yacht fleet. Emerald Kaia is scheduled to launch in April 2026, followed by Emerald Raiya in 2027 and Emerald Xara in 2028. Scenic Ikon, another luxury yacht, is also expected to enter service in 2028.

Douro & Mekong expansion 

Two of the new vessels will be deployed in Portugal on the Douro River, further strengthening Scenic Group’s offerings in the region.

Emerald Nova is scheduled to launch in June 2027 and will operate alongside Emerald Radiance. The ship is being purpose-built for the Douro and will introduce a longer itinerary designed to explore more of Portugal’s wine country and historic cities.

Among the itineraries planned is the 11-day ‘Douro Highlights: Porto, Salamanca & the Wine Valley’ cruise, which will combine cultural experiences with active excursions such as guided hikes and kayaking.

Later in 2027, the ultra-luxury Scenic Aria will also debut on the Douro. Launching in September, the vessel will join Scenic Azure and operate two of the line’s established itineraries: the 11-day ‘Unforgettable Douro’ and the ‘eight-day Delightful Douro’.

Scenic Group is also expanding its presence in Southeast Asia with the addition of Scenic Spirit II on the Mekong River. Scheduled to launch in early 2028, the new vessel will operate itineraries through Vietnam and Cambodia.

Source: Travelweek