Scenic Group Announces Three New Luxury River Ships

The company's 40th anniversary marks the next phase of strategic fleet growth across Europe and Asia.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Scenic Group has announced the addition of three new luxury river ships to its portfolio, including one Emerald Star-Ship and two ultra-luxury Scenic Space-Ships. The new vessels will expand the company's presence across Europe and Asia in 2027 and 2028, as Scenic Group celebrates its 40th anniversary of innovation in the global luxury river and yacht cruising industry.

Why it matters

This expansion reflects Scenic Group's confidence in the strong demand for its unique approach to luxury cruising. By bringing the design and construction of these new river ships under the expertise of its in-house team, the company can apply the same exacting standards, innovation, and design principles that have underpinned its success over the past four decades.

The details

The new ships include Emerald Nova, launching in June 2027 on the Douro River in Portugal, and Scenic Aria, launching in September 2027 also on the Douro. Additionally, Scenic Spirit II will debut in early 2028 on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. These new vessels will offer guests more opportunities to experience the captivating destinations, with expanded itineraries and all-inclusive luxury cruising.

  • Emerald Nova will launch in June 2027 on the Douro River.
  • Scenic Aria will launch in September 2027 on the Douro River.
  • Scenic Spirit II will launch in early 2028 on the Mekong River.

The players

Scenic Group

A global luxury travel company that operates river cruises, yacht experiences, and land journeys across seven continents.

Glen Moroney

The Chairman and Founder of Scenic Group.

MKM Yachts

The in-house team at Scenic Group responsible for the design and construction of the new river ships.

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What they’re saying

“Our commitment to an additional 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.”

— Glen Moroney, Chairman & Founder, Scenic Group (Globe Newswire)

What’s next

Scenic Aria and Emerald Nova are now open for sale, while Scenic Spirit II will be available for pre-registration and open for sale later this year once the 2028-2029 Asia River Cruise deployment is announced.

The takeaway

Scenic Group's significant fleet expansion, including the addition of three new luxury river ships, demonstrates the company's commitment to innovation and its ability to meet the growing demand for immersive, all-inclusive luxury cruising experiences across Europe and Asia.