New luxury river ships for Scenic
Scenic Group has revealed plans to launch three new luxury river ships across 2027 and 2028. The expansion includes one new Emerald Star-Ship and two Scenic Space-Ships, which will operate itineraries along the Douro and Mekong Rivers.
The additions mark the group’s most significant fleet growth phase in nearly a decade. By early 2028, the company will boast a river cruise fleet of 15 ships for Scenic and 11 for Emerald.
These upcoming vessels build on previously confirmed new ships, including Emerald Astra (launching May 2026 on the Rhine, Main and Danube) and Emerald Lumi (debuting on the Seine in 2027), alongside a new wave of ocean luxury yachts rolling out from 2026.
Glen Moroney, Chairman and Founder of Scenic Group, noted that bringing the design and construction of the new river ships to MKM Yachts will ensure the company’s exact standards and design principles are maintained.
scenic.co.uk; emeraldcruises.co.uk
Princess Cruises shares details of 2028 World Cruise
Princess Cruises has opened sales for its 2028 World Cruise aboard the 2,000-guest Coral Princess. The 115-night voyage departs on January 3, 2028, sailing roundtrip from either Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles.
The global itinerary spans 49 destinations across 24 countries and five continents, visiting 39 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Highlights include a maiden call to Mossel Bay, South Africa, alongside overnight stays in Cape Town and Auckland. Guests who cannot commit to the full voyage can choose from flexible segment options ranging from 20 to 100 nights.
The 2028 sailing will feature expanded ‘More Ashore’ experiences, including 10 late-night stays in ports such as Barcelona, Casablanca, Honolulu and Sydney. For the first time, Princess is also offering guests immersive safari adventures at top African game reserves.
Captain’s Circle members booking the voyage can receive up to $3,000 in bonus onboard credit per stateroom.
“Our 2028 World Cruise is an unparalleled voyage designed for travellers to see the world in a meaningful, immersive way – with more overnight stays, more time in port, deeper cultural connections and unforgettable moments at every turn,” said Jim Berra, Princess Cruises’ Chief Commercial Officer.
CLIA marks record-breaking RiverView with event and training announcements
A record 600 agents and cruise partners attended Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) annual river cruise conference, RiverView, in Amsterdam.
“The record-breaking numbers we’ve seen at RiverView highlight the positive momentum and demand we’re seeing across the river cruise sector,” said Andy Harmer, CLIA UK and Ireland Managing Director.
“Many thanks to everyone attending, our sponsors and the river cruise lines who have made the sessions and ship visits possible.”
CLIA has also announced the return of its River Cruise Forum, a one-day event in Manchester this October. It will consist of business sessions, networking and product training.
Representatives from river cruise operators and associated partners will lead sessions.
CLIA also unveiled a new initiative, ‘Opportunity Docks’, which launches this month for all agent members. The new online platform will feature a tranche of videos.
CLIA additionally stated a limited number of tickets are available for its annual conference, which this year takes place from June 4-6 and will include business sessions, a networking trade fair, ‘Sailaway’ party and ship visits. A ‘New to Selling Cruise Sales Day’ will take place on June 5.
“The events and initiatives we’ve announced today are designed to further enhance the knowledge and insight of agents who are already selling or looking to sell river cruise. By giving even greater access to the people, product and places that make river cruise so special, we’re ensuring the trade have everything they need to boost their bookings,” said Harmer.
