By
Kasturi Datta |
Scenic Group will expand its fleet with the addition of two ultra-luxury river ships that will operate on the Brahmaputra River in India from 2029/30.
The cruise line will partner with Assam Bengal Navigation (ABN), which brings a wealth of experience of operating in the region.
“ABN has spent more than two decades developing river cruising on the Brahmaputra and Ganges,” said Ashish Phookan, founder and managing director of ABN. “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.”
The partnership follows Scenic Aura’s inaugural Hooghly River voyage through India’s West Bengal state, which will begin in October 2027. Scenic Aura, which accommodates 44 guests, will offer 10-night river cruises and curated excursions across India and Sri Lanka.
Scenic Aura will debut on India’s Hooghly River in October 2027 (Photo: Scenic Group)
“India offers extraordinary potential for luxury river cruising,” said Glen Moroney, founder and chairman of Scenic Group. “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.”