Scenic is launching into Asia for the first time this year with new builds Scenic Spirit, which started sailing on the Mekong this January, and Scenic Aura, which enters service on the Ayeyarwady in September.
Scenic also makes its debut on the Douro in Portugal in April, offering eight or 11-day cruises, or 14-day itineraries combining the cruise with three nights in Lisbon. From £1,995 per person for eight days departing October 13 all-inclusive.
The Scenic trio is among more than 25 vessels launching this year as demand for river cruises continues to grow. Almost 140,000 British holidaymakers took a river cruise in 2014, according to Clia UK & Ireland.
Other companies with new craft this year include Amadeus River Cruises, APT, Emerald Waterways, Tauck, Pandaw and Viking River Cruises. Uniworld River Cruises is launching on the Ganges in India with the new Ganges Voyager II.
AmaWaterways’ new AmaStella and AmaViola, both launching in April, have been redesigned with connecting cabins to attract families. Four suites on each craft have sofa beds to accommodate up to four people.
