The expansion includes one new Emerald Star-Ship and two ultra-luxury Scenic Space-Ships, strengthening the company’s presence in key river cruise markets.
The announcement coincides with the company marking 40 years of operations in 2026, a milestone that highlights its role in the luxury river and yacht cruising sector.
Glen Moroney, Chairman and Founder of Scenic Group, said: “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. 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 exacting standards, innovation and design principles that have underpinned Scenic Group’s success for the past 40 years.”
The first of the new vessels, Emerald Nova, is scheduled to launch in June 2027 on the Douro River in Portugal. Purpose-built for the region, the ship will join Emerald Radiance and introduce extended itineraries in the destination.
Emerald Nova will operate two itineraries, including the 11-day Douro Highlights: Porto, Salamanca & the Wine Valley cruise, which explores major cities and vineyard landscapes while offering activities such as guided hikes and kayaking.
The second vessel, Scenic Aria, will launch in September 2027 on the Douro River. The ship will operate alongside Scenic Azure and offer two established itineraries: the 11-Day Unforgettable Douro and the 8-Day Delightful Douro.
In Asia, Scenic Spirit II is scheduled to enter service in early 2028 on the Mekong River, which flows through Vietnam and Cambodia. The vessel will expand the company’s operations in Southeast Asia following increased demand for river cruising in the region.
The new ships add to previously announced vessels, including Emerald Astra, set to launch in May 2026 on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, and Emerald Lumi, scheduled to debut on France’s Seine River in 2027.
The expansion programme also includes the introduction of new luxury yachts Emerald Kaia in April 2026, Emerald Raiya in 2027 and Emerald Xara in 2028, along with Scenic Ikon, scheduled for delivery in 2028.
According to the company, the combined investment represents Scenic Group’s most significant phase of fleet growth in nearly a decade.
Tags: Glen Moroney, Scenic Group
