Scenic Group has partnered with India’s Assam Bengal Navigation (ABN) ahead of the planned October 2027 launch of Scenic Aura on the Hooghly River. ABN will provide a local operating platform for the 44-guest ship, while Scenic will bring its luxury cruise experience and international distribution network.
Scenic Aura will offer nine-night cruises on the Lower Ganges and Hooghly River. These will form part of 17- to 25-day itineraries combining river cruising with land programmes in India and Sri Lanka. Scenic has listed 22-day and 24-day options for 2027/28.
According to Baird Maritime, the ship previously operated in Myanmar and is being revamped by Scenic’s MKM Yachts team. It will have suites with private balconies, a pool and up to four dining options.
Scenic Founder and Chairman Glen Moroney said the ship would mark the start of a longer-term presence in India. The partners plan to invest about INR7,5 billion to INR8 billion (R1,28 billion to R1,36 billion) over the next decade, including in two luxury vessels for the Brahmaputra River by 2029/30.
