Scenic Group, encompassing Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Cruises, has announced the appointment of Shane Lewis-Riley as director of trade sales and partnerships.   In his new role, Lewis-Riley will lead the trade sales team, working closely with agent partners while also driving new ideas and generating incremental business through strategic partnership opportunities.   Lewis-Riley joins Scenic Group at a pivotal time, as the business enters a significant phase of growth. Celebrating 40 years of operation, Scenic Group is embarking on its most ambitious fleet expansion in nearly a decade, with nine new river and ocean ships set to launch between 2026 and 2028. This investment will further strengthen the company’s presence across European and Asian markets, while responding to increasing demand for highly personalised, small-scale ultra-luxury experiences in the sector.   Based in Manchester, Lewis-Riley becomes part of a newly formed UK leadership structure designed to support this next stage of growth. He joins alongside recently appointed marketing directors Laura Gerrard, formerly of Merlin Entertainments, and Jane Witherington, previously with Mamas & Papas. Together with long-standing digital director Eleni Kettles, the team will form a strengthened director-level structure, all reporting to managing director, Nichola Absalom.   Lewis-Riley previously held roles at Virgin Voyages and P&O Cruises. Most recently he was director of trade distribution at Titan Travel.   Nichola Absalom said: “We are really excited to be building a team that will take the UK business to the next level. Shane’s vast experience, his strong reputation within the industry, and his tenacious approach to driving sales make him a fantastic addition.   “This is a pivotal time for growth in the UK, with a significant opportunity to increase market share and drive sales as we expand our fleet, destinations and overall choice for our guests. We are seeing growing demand for alternative, niche and more personalised cruise experiences, and Shane’s expertise will be key in helping us capitalise on this momentum. I cannot wait for him to join an already high-performing team as we take things up another level.”   Lewis-Riley said: “I’m thrilled to join the Scenic Group at such a dynamic time of growth. The team is already highly respected and I’m excited to help introduce new opportunities and strengthen existing partnerships. The product is exceptional and there’s a wealth of potential for agent partners to grow their businesses with us”

  Scenic Group has revealed it will launch three new luxury river ships in 2027 and early 2028. One Emerald Star-Ship will join the Emerald Cruises & Tours fleet, while Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours will welcome two ultra-luxury Scenic Space-Ships.   The new vessels will operate across Europe and Asia, with bookings opening from today (March 9, 2026).   Emerald Nova – launching June 2027 on the Douro River The 112 guest Emerald Nova will be purpose-built for the Douro and join Emerald Radiance in Portugal. Nova will offer two itineraries: the 11-day ‘Douro Highlights: Porto, Salamanca & the Wine Valley’ and 8-day ‘Secrets of the Douro’, from March to November. The ship will call at destinations including Porto, Salamanca and offer active excursion options such as guided hikes and kayaking.   Scenic Aria – launching September 2027 on the Douro River The ultra-luxury 96-guest Scenic Aria will join Scenic Azure in Portugal, operating an 11-day ‘Unforgettable Douro’ and eight-day ‘Delightful Douro’ from March to November. The all-inclusive ship will call at destinations such as Regua and Pinhao and offer excursion options including tile painting and olive tasting at a Quinta.   Scenic Spirit II - launching early 2028 on the Mekong River The 68-guest Scenic Spirit II will cruise the Mekong River across Vietnam and Cambodia. The ship will call at the likes of Phnom Penh, Ankor Ban and Ho Chi Minh City, with excursion options including the infamous Killing Fields and a visit to a wet market.   The announcements build on Scenic Group’s previously confirmed new ships, including Emerald Astra, launching in May 2026 on the Rhine, Main and Danube, and Emerald Lumi, debuting on the Seine in 2027.   Combined with the launch of new luxury yachts Emerald Kaia from April 2026, Emerald Raiya in 2027 and Emerald Xara in 2028, as well as Scenic Ikon in 2028, means this commitment to build more new ships represents Scenic Group’s most significant fleet growth phase in nearly a decade.   By early 2028, Scenic will have a river cruise fleet of 15 ships, while Emerald will have 11.   Glen Moroney, Chairman & Founder, Scenic Group, said: “Our commitment to introducing 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. With Scenic Ikon in build for delivery in 2028 and five Emerald Cruises yachts and river ships already confirmed, this announcement marks the next phase of our strategic fleet growth.   “By bringing the design and construction of these new river ships under the expertise of our team at MKM Yachts, we can apply the same exact standards, innovation and design principles that have underpinned Scenic Group’s success for the past 40 years.”

  Scenic and Emerald Cruises have announced a new partnership with travel technology company TravelTek.   The agreement means all Scenic and Emerald ocean and river cruise itineraries are live on the TravelTek API.   Travel agents can book online and see real-time availability and pricing of the operators’ cruises, as well as the latest offers and promotions.   Agencies need to contact their relevant sales manager to request a booking API connection.   Jonathan Davies, head of sales at Scenic Group, said: “By making our full ocean and river cruise programmes available via the TravelTek API, we’re giving agents the tools they need to sell with confidence and efficiency. Real-time availability and live pricing mean faster quotes, fewer barriers and a smoother booking journey for both agents and their clients. This integration empowers agents to focus on what they do best - delivering expert advice and exceptional service - while knowing they have instant access to our latest itineraries and offers.”

  Scenic Group has announced the launch of the Scenic & Emerald Rewards global loyalty programme, combining the existing Scenic Club and EmeraldEXPLORER schemes into one unified platform.   The new programme, which is now live, will reward members who travel across all the Scenic and Emerald luxury yacht and river cruises, and escorted land journeys.   Scenic & Emerald Rewards combines existing status points from the previous programmes into a single consolidated balance, providing members with one streamlined account. All existing members have been automatically transferred to the new platform.   It includes a four‑tier structure, comprising Gold, Diamond, Emerald and Chairman’s Club levels, with benefits such as access to new pre‑release itineraries, exclusive event invitations, private transfers or airport hotel stays on eligible journeys, complimentary accommodation on longer trips and priority onboard services. Those in tiers that were merged have been moved to the new equivalent or higher tier, with status points adjusted upwards.   In addition, a new MyRewards feature has been introduced. Guests can earn 1% of their eligible new booking value as an actual monetary amount, which can then be redeemed towards their next luxury cruise or tour.   Glen Moroney, Scenic Group founder and chairman, said: “The launch of the new integrated Scenic & Emerald Rewards global programme marks a significant evolution in the recognition and benefits for our valued guests. Few travel companies can offer the unrivalled opportunity for their members to earn and receive status points, for travel across luxury ocean, river and escorted land journeys, spanning all seven continents and more than 100 countries.   “It will also provide all current and future members one unique account, which includes the new MyRewards feature, providing a real monetary value for members to redeem. The Scenic & Emerald Rewards programme has been designed to ensure we continue to develop more relevant experiences for our valued members and deliver enhanced recognition, communication and benefits across the portfolio of luxury experiences."   Scenic & Emerald Rewards is free to join for all guests returning from their first holiday with either brand.

  Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has unveiled its 2026-2027 Asia river cruising and land journeys programme.   The season includes seven and nine-night cruises, running from July 2026 to May 2027. Cruises will sail along the Mekong on the 68-guest Scenic Spirit, with extensions available in Vietnam and Laos, and land tours in Japan.   The programme features nine river cruise itineraries and four Japan land journeys. Highlights include: * 13/15-day ‘Treasures of the Mekong’, from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap. Highlights include Wat Hanchey; the Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh; and several ancient sites. Prices start from £5,845pp. * 18/20-day ‘Highlights of Vietnam, Cambodia & Luxury Mekong’. Beginning in Hanoi and visiting Halong Bay, before travelling to Ho Chi Minh City to board Scenic Spirit. Sails along the Mekong to Siem Reap, followed by a three-night land stay in Angkor Wat. Prices start from £8,345pp. * 25/27-day ‘Grand Indochina & Luxury Mekong’. Visiting destinations in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, including Halong Bay and the temples of Angkor Wat. Prices start from £11,645pp.   Included in the programme are Scenic Enrich events, which are exclusive, private experiences, offering behind-the-scenes access. Examples include an Apsara dance performance and a gala dinner at an Angkor temple; a Champagne breakfast at sunrise at Angkor Wat; a water puppet performance in Hanoi; and a Royal Dinner in a private garden house with Hue Royal Court music.   A variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions - all-inclusive experiences featuring expert-led cultural experiences, local encounters and regional cuisine - are available. For example, learning about the lifestyle of a local farmer in Luang Prabang; a living land rice farming experience in Laos; and the opportunity to join a local Hanoian family for a meal, for a maximum of eight guests.   In addition, the season features new hotel options at the Moire Hoi An, Vignette Collection by IHG; and The Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel (both Vietnam); and The Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel, Laos.   Dominic Keely, head of marketing, rivers & land, UK at Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, said: “Our ultra-luxury Asia river cruise and land itineraries offer the perfect way to discover this fascinating region. Travelling along the Mekong allows guests to experience destinations at a natural pace, with seamless access to cities, towns, and rural communities while still enjoying luxury surroundings onboard. In addition, our thoughtfully planned land journeys add yet more dimension to the experience.”   All itineraries include Scenic Freechoice excursions; Scenic Enrich events; premium beverages*; all meals; transfers; gratuities; and a butler service.   Guests who book by April 28, 2026, can save up to 20% on Mekong river cruise departures, with flight credit of £1,500 per person included.

  Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Cruises have introduced a new series of events designed to connect travel agents with new and existing customers.   Launching this month, the ‘Travel Lounges’ are small, curated gatherings hosted in partnership with the cruise lines’ trade partners.   Each session will welcome up to 25 guests, sourced directly from a travel agency’s client base.   Presentations will be led by Scenic and Emerald’s sales managers and focus on education and product insight. Guests can register for specific presentations based on river or ocean cruising. To date, events have been confirmed with agencies including Fred Olsen Travel, Barrhead Travel, Hays Travel and Miles Morgan Travel.   The cruise lines are aiming to host approximately 50 'Travel Lounges' per quarter in 2026.   Jonathan Davies, head of sales at Scenic Group, said: “Travel Lounges are designed to support agents at a local level, with accessible and manageable events. By working directly with agents and engaging their own clients, we’re helping to build confidence, knowledge and trust in our brands. These events give agents a practical way to educate customers, generate leads and create meaningful conversations they can convert into future bookings.”   Events will be hosted in-store or at an external venue organised by Scenic.

Scenic Eclipse II has arrived in Australia ahead of her first-ever exploration of Australian waters. The ship arrived in Sydney Harbour and embarks on a two-year long series of expedition cruises in the Oceania region. Scenic Eclipse II is the newest addition to the Australia founded cruise line’s ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht fleet. It makes its first port call in Newcastle on 22 April, which is the city where Scenic was founded 38 years ago. Scenic II will explore the Great Barrier Reef, the Northern Territory and Kimberley region, as well as the coast of Western Australia in 2025. Expedition cruises further afield comprise the South Pacific, Southeast Asia, Japan and South Korea, and New Zealand. It will also sail to remote East Antarctica and the Ross Sea region. Scenic Group Chairman and Founder, Glen Moroney, said: “As an Australian-founded company, we are proud to set the global benchmark for ultra-luxury yacht cruising.” “The Scenic Group team greatly appreciates the support of our travel partners and our valued guests from around the world.” Scenic II has 114 suites, 10 all-inclusive dining experiences, two on-board helicopters, and a next-generation electric submersible, Scenic Neptune II. Neptune II can transport up to eight guests and dive up to 200 metres below the surface. 

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Scenic Eclipse has operated its first helicopter excursion to view Antarctica’s Emperor penguin colony. Following the start to the 2023/2024 Antarctica season, Scenic Eclipse's crew, led by Captain Radomir Novosel and the Polar Discovery Team operated the flight for guests during a 13-day Antarctica in Depth voyage. Guests landed on the Sea Ice near Snow Hill Island, located in the Weddell Sea. It landed just one kilometre from the penguin colony which is home to over 4,000 breeding pairs. Scenic Eclipse's Ornithologist Dr. Maricel Grilli, who has been working with Scenic in Antarctica since 2020, led the expedition. The dedicated crew followed all IAATO and biosecurity protocols during the excursion.    

Scenic and Emerald Cruises have reported a surge in travel agent bookings in 2023 as they gear up for their biggest-ever peaks sales season. Their campaign features its largest ever discounts – up to 40% off ocean and river cruises, free business class flights, and free drinks. It is offering a suite of marketing collateral and support, including dedicated social media images and window posters, plus dedicated peaks training. The new turn of year campaign showcases the range of ultra-luxury ocean and river cruising from Scenic Cruises, including new itineraries to the Kimberley region in Western Australia. Also, there are over 180 sailings on Emerald Cruises yachts Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara. Launching this week, the campaign comes after a highly successful few months of record sales and product enhancements. November saw the brand reporting its strongest UK sales week of the year, which culminated in a 2023 record one-day sales figure on November 27. Overall, between October and December this year, sales have doubled compared to the same period in 2022. Nichola Absalom, MD, Sales & Marketing, Scenic UK, said: “Our trade sales offering is in its strongest ever position as we head into peaks.” We have implemented direct agent feedback to allow us to enhance our online booking process and to provide a more streamlined approach.” Scenic and Emerald Cruises 2024 peaks training is open to all and started this week. Sales manager, Lewis Quigley will showcase both brands’ range of New Year offers and will be on hand to answer any questions about the booking portal. Scenic and Emerald Cruises peaks campaign is on sale from 19 December 2023 for Scenic and 21 December 2023 for Emerald Cruises.

  Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast who loves their routine or an active traveller who wants to hike, kayak and cycle their way around the world, there’s always an activity for you on a Scenic European river cruise.   Our selection of Scenic Freechoice activities allows you to customise your trip, so you can explore remarkable destinations according to your interests and preferred pace. Choose from up to six activities each day rated Active, Moderate or Relaxed, all included in your cruise price.   In this blog, find out the 10 must-do Scenic Freechoice activities that are perfect for travellers who want to discover Europe at a more active pace.  

  Discover this fascinating region with the new experiences available on Scenic’s 2023 and 2024 South East Asia Mekong River cruising program.   Each year, we introduce exciting journeys to immerse you in this vibrant destination. Here are some of the new experiences awaiting you:   1. Introducing Vang Vieng and Vientiane   The culturally rich and picturesque country of Laos is worthy of lingering a little longer, and guests on the Grand Indochina & Luxury Mekong and Journey Along the Mekong will be able to do just that by adding two nights.   Travelling via the new high-speed rail link that connects to China, you will spend one night in Vang Vieng, a small town surrounded by mountainous jungle and caves and home to the striking Blue Lagoon and Chang Caves. The second night is in the country’s capital, Vientiane, where you will visit Patuxay war monument and Pha That Luang, a gold-covered stupa and the national symbol of Laos.     2. Additional experiences in Hanoi’s Old Quarter   The Old Quarter is the traditional heart of Vietnam’s capital: an ancient network of narrow laneways, each historically dedicated to a different trade or craft. If your itinerary stops in the city of Hanoi, you can now learn about the history of this fascinating area on a 30-minute Old Quarter tour in a ‘green’ electric car. Get up-close to the cyclo drivers and the pulse of this ancient city.     3. Tour of Cao Dai Temple   Established in 1926, the unique Cao Dai religion fuses together the ideas and beliefs of Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism and Confucianism. Its awe-inspiring temples in the Mekong Delta really are to be seen to be believed: a clash of bright colours, gaudy patterns and eclectic motifs juxtaposed against the white robes of its worshippers.   During your Mekong River Cruise, you will get to witness it all at the Cao Dai Temple in Tan Chau, which has just been reopened to the public after renovations.     4. High tea at Raffles Phnom Penh   Elevate your afternoon at the Raffles Hotel Le Royal, whose high tea has been an institution since the hotel opened in 1929. This luxurious epicurean experience comprising pastries, sandwiches and sweets is available as a Scenic Freechoice option for all guests in Phnom Penh.   5. Visit to Koh Chen Silversmith village   The craft of silver and copper smithing has been passed down through generations in Koh Chen, a tiny village on the Tonle River. On a Scenic Freechoice excursion, you can observe these local artisans at work as they craft intricate bowls, vases and other pieces that make for authentic souvenirs.   You’ll also feast on a Khmer-style lunch at Romdeng Restaurant, which is run by Friends, a social enterprise that supports local street children.   6. Bicycle tour through Hoi An countryside   This two-wheeled Scenic Freechoice excursion journeys through Hoi An’s rural landscape to see first-hand how locals live off the land. Pedal along quiet laneways, past family farms, rice paddies and grazing water buffalo before swapping your bike for a round bamboo boat to try your hand at traditional fishing with a net.   This one-of-a-kind immersive tour will end with a scenic cruise back to Hoi An with lunch on board.     7. Lantern-making class in Hoi An   Learn the 400-year-old craft of lantern-making during a Scenic Freechoice workshop hosted by Reaching Out, an NGO that helps disabled people gain meaningful employment and lead independent and fulfilling lives.   Hoi An is famous for the lanterns that line the ancient streets and riverside – in the evening the town is simply magical.   Image credit: Kathleen D, Scenic Guest, USA   8. New dining in Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City   These new Scenic Freechoice dining options serve up a memorable feast for the soul as well as tastebuds. In Hoi An, guests can embark on a street food walking tour to sample tasty traditional fare such as banh mi (baguette) and cau lau (noodle bowl), as well as dining at Quang’s Kitchen, run by a chef from the local MasterChef series, and The Field Hoi An Restaurant and Bar, which is nestled in a verdant green landscape.   In Ho Chi Minh, you can dine among lanterns in the intimate Secret Garden Restaurant and enjoy a home-cooked-style meal with panoramic city views at SHRI Restaurant Bar and Lounge.     9. Learn about Cows for Cambodia   Cows are very expensive, so many families can’t afford one, however, through ‘Cows for Cambodia’ the family can look after the pregnant cow and can keep the calf once it is born, working like a ‘cow bank’. Featured as Scenic Freechoice activity, this experience will give guests a chance to learn about the program and be immersed in the local community.

  What can you expect in a day in the Mediterranean on a Scenic Eclipse ultra-luxury voyage? From walking the historical old towns of Croatia to soaking up the sun in southern France, and wine tasting on Italy’s Amalfi coast to watching a flamenco performance in Spain you will be immersed in the local culture.   With Scenic, you can experience all of this - and more - in unrivalled 6-star ultra-luxury.     Wake Up in Six-Star Luxury    Whether you’re an early bird or enjoy a lay in, you’ll wake up in your spacious 6-star suite.   With only 228 guests and an almost 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio, the feeling of exclusivity starts the moment you wake up.   Soak in the view from your private verandah overlooking the brilliant deep blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Your butler will bring you your coffee — remembering the exact way you like it — along with a continental breakfast to start the day if you choose in your suite. Or enjoy a full breakfast at Elements.     Your Choice of Morning Activity    Scenic Freechoice excursions give you the flexibility and freedom to choose what you see and do each day, and at which pace you do them. There’s a choice of up to six activities included each day, and they’re rated Active, Moderate and Relaxed.   For example, when docked in glittering Saint-Tropez on the French Riviera, choose from a walking tour of the cobble-stoned coastal town, a drive to Port Grimaud — dubbed “the Venice of Provence” — or a local wine tasting at a family-run winery.   On a Scenic Discovery excursion, an expert guide will take you on a coastal hike to nearby Cap Camarat for sweeping views of the rocky granite coastline and azure waters.   At just 168 metres long, Scenic Eclipse can access small ports like those in Saint-Tropez, which larger vessels simply can’t get to. This means you’re taken right into the heart of must-see European destinations.     Enjoy an Afternoon Unwinding on your Discovery Yacht    Back on your Discovery Yacht, choose from a casual lunch or fine dining experience before exploring the on board facilities. Soak in the sun from the Sun Terrace on the top deck, unwind in the spacious Senses Spa, or take a dip in the temperature-controlled outdoor Vitality Pools.   Fitness enthusiasts can work up a sweat in the fully equipped gym or in the yoga and Pilates studio. Alternatively, make the most of the surrounding Mediterranean waters by heading out on a kayak or stand-up paddle board.   Want to make the most of the view? Head to the Observation Deck at the front of the yacht to take in the rugged islands, coastal towns and clear blue waters or kick back in the Observation Lounge, complete with Swarovski telescopes so you don’t miss a thing.     Exclusive Evening Entertainment     Get even closer to the culture of your destination with a Scenic Enrich experience. Our Journey Designers have handpicked these experiences to give you exclusive access to private and unique performances that sum up exactly what a place is all about.   While in the microstate of Monaco, for example, The Harpsody Orchestra will perform a concert for you in one of the historical halls of the Oceanographic Museum. In a city famed for its glitz and opulence, a private classical performance has never been more fitting.     Dinner and a Nightcap    It’s time for dinner at one of Scenic Eclipse’s 10 all-inclusive dining experiences. Whether it’s Italian at Element — you are in the Mediterranean after all — or an invitation-only private dégustation, dinner is always a culinary journey.   After your meal, enjoy live music before toasting to a day well spent at one of the nine on board bars and lounges. Alternatively, retreat to your private verandah to end the day where it started — only this time, you’ll have a glass of Champagne in hand as you silently cruise through the Mediterranean Sea.