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In this edition
1. Lifelong explorers: Bas and Glenice Le Riche’s Scenic Journey
2. Secure your suite on the next-generation Discovery Yacht, Scenic Ikon
3. Start planning your 2026 or 2027 Asia river cruise and land journey
4. Join an exclusive Scenic Club journey
5. Emerald Cruises to launch three new luxury yachts
6. North or south? Choose your polar journey
7. Follow us on Social Media
Lifelong explorers: Bas and Glenice Le Riche’s Scenic Journey
For Bas and Glenice Le Riche from Warrandyte, Victoria, travel has always been a passion - and Scenic has been at the heart of it since their very first journey in 2005. The Canada – Rockies, Rail and Alaskan Cruise marked the beginning of remarkable Scenic experiences across the world.
“Arriving at the iconic Fairmont Springs Hotel in Banff was like stepping into a movie set,” Bas recalls. “A string quartet was playing as we entered this remarkable building, which has hosted many film stars and even royalty.” Since then, their travels with Scenic have taken them from Europe’s great rivers to the far reaches of Antarctica.
Bas and Glenice’s early Scenic memories are filled with cinematic moments, from the glass-domed Rocky Mountaineer revealing snow-covered peaks to dinner atop the Eiffel Tower to close out their journey from Prague to Paris in 2012.
The people they meet also play an important role in creating lifelong memories - finding like-minded fellow guests with whom you can share your journeys is another highlight of travelling with Scenic.
“On this 2012 Europe River Cruise we had the good fortune to encounter two Australian couples. We have since enjoyed other travels with them, including the Douro River in Portugal and more recently on board Scenic Eclipse II from Darwin to Broome along the Kimberley coast”, shared Glenice.
Of all their explorations, Antarctica stands apart as the most extraordinary. “It was emotional - like landing on another planet,” Bas reflects. “The Zodiac and kayak excursions with seals popping up to say good morning, were surreal”.
Wildlife encounters also included orcas, humpback whales breaching in the distance, and curious penguins, sometimes even posing for photos.
On one unforgettable morning, Scenic Eclipse pushed through pack ice in the Gullet before the Captain announced guests could step onto the frozen expanse. “They even set up a pop-up bar serving champagne on ice; it was magical.”
It was also around the time of their voyage that the wreckage of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ship, Endurance, was discovered, not far from their route. “The Discovery Team was so excited by the news,” Bas remembers. “These expert guides were always available and so passionate to provide us with information regarding our incredible Antarctic surroundings. It was amazing”.
For the Le Riches, the Scenic crew is what brings every experience to life. “With a nearly 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio, the service is just remarkable,” Bas says. “Every suite has its own butler, and with up to ten dining options on board, pampering has reached a new level.”
Whether it’s attention to detail, genuine warmth, or seamless organisation, the Scenic team transforms each moment into something memorable.
After so many unforgettable journeys, their curiosity is still boundless, with exciting new destinations on their list. “I’ve always been fascinated by the Nile and the Pyramids,” says Bas, “while Glenice has her eye on Japan.”
For them, travel is more than sightseeing - it’s connection, learning, and discovery. “Travelling is an education,” they reflect. “When you go on your first Scenic trip, prepare for the journey of your life; your expectations will be exceeded. It’s hard to stop at just one.”
Secure your suite on the next-generation Discovery Yacht, Scenic Ikon
We are excited to reveal details about the launch of the Discovery Yacht, Scenic Ikon, with the season starting in April 2028. Our third ultra-luxury ship will shape the future of yacht cruising and continue to elevate our commitment to world-class innovation.
Inspired by our valued guest feedback, MKM Yachts has already begun the build of this extraordinary evolution in ultra-luxury yacht cruising in our Croatia shipyard. The on board experience will be unprecedented, with more space per guest, an expanded wellness sanctuary and rejuvenation pools, new suite designs, and unique culinary experience created by our VP Hotel Operations Tom Goetter.
In its inaugural year, Scenic Ikon will travel to 21 countries and 110 ports, starting in Europe, the Mediterranean, Cape Verde, Senegal and Antarctica. Scenic Ikon’s first two voyages are sold out and will be exclusively for Scenic Club loyalty members.
Please contact your local travel advisor or Scenic reservations to be on the waitlist. The inaugural season is now open – so plan now to secure your preferred suite and departure in 2028 - to be one of the first on board Scenic Ikon.
Scenic Club loyalty members can enjoy pre-release pricing, a reduced $1,000 deposit* and a complimentary 20-minute helicopter flightseeing≈ experience included when booking early.
View Scenic Ikon Cruise Planner 2028-2029
Start planning your 2026 or 2027 Asia river cruise & land journey
Our new 2026/2027 Asia River Cruising and Land Journeys brochure is now available. You can start planning your luxury journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Japan, with the choice of 7 or 9 night Mekong river cruises on board the award-winning Scenic Spirit, alongside immersive handcrafted land experiences.
Our range of included and Scenic Freechoice excursions has been thoughtfully curated to connect you to the spirit of this remarkable region. Discover new experiences in Laos, like a hands-on pottery class and traditional Laotian cooking class. From sunrise at Angkor Wat to an exclusive temple dinner and a blessing from a Buddhist monk, you'll be immersed in the rich traditions of these ancient cultures.
Experience elevated levels of luxury in Vietnam with new hotels added for 2026 and 2027. Stay at the luxurious Moire Hoi An, Vignette Collection by IHG, located centrally along the banks of the Hoai River, and experience the Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel, in the heart of the former royal capital from the Nguyen Dynasty.
The season also includes an exclusive 2-night Halong Bay cruise on the elegant Bhaya Soul, a newly launched 20-stateroom ship on northern Vietnam itineraries.
In Japan, discover ancient traditions, bustling cities and stunning landscapes on a luxury land journey, with a maximum of 24 guests. Embrace Japanese onsen culture and enjoy bathing in water from natural hot springs at luxurious onsen resorts and traditional Ryokan hotels with Scenic Special Stays. New in Kyoto, stay at the modern Hilton Kyoto in the heart of the city and enjoy a Scenic Freechoice guided tour of the Samurai & Ninja Museum, learning the fascinating history through legendary stories and insights.
Join an exclusive Scenic Club departure
20-day Gems of India – 18 October 2026 & 14 February 2027
Discover India with Scenic in 2026 as we make our grand return to this vibrant destination. Marvel at the timeless majesty of the Taj Mahal, be immersed in sacred rituals along the Ganges, sit down to a private dinner inside a 5th century fort, and stay in the country’s most spectacular hotels, from palaces to stylish hunting lodges.
23-day Grand African Safari – 10 September 2026
Prepare to be amazed as the Africa of your imagination comes to life. Travel through breathtaking landscapes on the iconic Rovos Rail. Marvel at Table Mountain in Cape Town and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. Experience game drives in Kruger National Park, the Serengeti and the Masai Mara, then spend the night amongst the animals in luxurious safari lodges.
View itinerary
22-day Romantic Rhine & Moselle with Switzerland – 13 October 2026
Cruise through the spectacular landscapes of the Moselle Valley, lined with medieval villages, terraced vineyards and ancient castles. Enjoy exclusive experiences only available on this departure, from Scenic Sunset Drinks at the birthplace of riesling wine - Schloss Johannisberg to a traditional German cooking class on board. Afterwards, explore the beauty of Switzerland on a luxury land extension including a dinner hosted by our Chairman & Founder, Glen Moroney and Scenic Group executives.
14-day Luxury Lodges of New Zealand - 25 November 2026
Due to popular demand, we are now taking pre-registrations for a second Scenic Club Loyalty land journey to New Zealand. Experience the very best of New Zealand hospitality with stays at some of the country’s most prestigious luxury lodges - Huka Lodge, Rosewood Cape Kidnappers and Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef. Enjoy fly fishing, golf at world-class courses an immersive All Blacks rugby experience, cultural encounters, a journey on the TranzAlpine Express train, and exceptional NZ food and wine.
Emerald Cruises to launch three new luxury yachts
A new chapter of the Emerald Cruises journey is beginning, with three new luxury yachts set to launch over the next three years. Emerald Kaia will set sail in 2026, followed by Emerald Raiya in 2027 and Emerald Xara in 2028.
Accommodating only up to 128 guests, Emerald Kaia provides more luxurious space on board and new innovative experiences that elevate your yacht cruise experience. New features include a spa pool on the Observation Sun Deck, the relaxing Marina Lounge and the Night Market Grill, an exclusive dining experience for just eight guests.
Emerald Kaia’s maiden voyage departs from Limassol, Cyprus on 4 April 2026 for an 11‑day sailing through the Eastern Mediterranean. From the medieval streets of Rhodes to the sacred island of Delos, the volcanic wonders of Nisyros to the cultural treasures of Ephesus, every stop blends history, beauty, and authentic local experiences.
Both Emerald Raiya and Emerald Xara will reflect the same sleek design and elevated guest experience as Emerald Kaia, offering seamless open-air living, wellness-focused amenities, and immersive coastal exploration.
Emerald Raiya will make her debut in June 2027 on an eight-day Greek Islands & Turkish Coastlines voyage. She will spend the summer cruising the Adriatic and East Mediterranean before making her way to the Red Sea and the Seychelles in December where she will cruise for the winter. Emerald Xara will cruise the Mediterranean from April 2028.
Bookings are now open for the upcoming seasons. Be among the first to experience the next generation of Emerald Cruises luxury yachts.
North or south? Choose your polar voyage
Both the Arctic and Antarctica are lands of extremes, fascinating wildernesses of inky black ocean and glittering ice. But for all they have in common, they are strikingly different. So will you choose north or south?
Read on to learn more about the magic of each pole in our latest blog.
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Terms and Conditions
≈Helicopter Flightseeing Super Earlybird Bonus Offer: Guests can receive a complimentary 20-minute helicopter flightseeing excursion in Europe or The Mediterranean region in Scenic Ikon suite categories from Deluxe to Grand Terrace, on voyages departing from 5 April 2028 to 5 May 2028. This is when the Super Earlybird offer is booked by 30 April 2026. ≠Bookings in the Ikon Penthouse suite category will receive a complimentary and exclusive helicopter landing excursion, with details to be confirmed on board. Helicopter flights are subject to regulatory approval in each country or region, weather conditions, medical conditions, weight restrictions and availability. Offer valid for new Scenic Ikon bookings only and cannot be exchanged, transferred, refunded, or used towards another helicopter excursion or landing experiences. Offer ends 30 April 2026 or until sold out.
*Reduced $1,000pp deposit: Guests can have the reduced initial deposit of $1,000pp which is valid for new bookings only, on Scenic Ikon voyages departures from 5 April 2028 to 5 May 2028. This must be deposited by 30 April 2026, or until the offer is sold out or withdrawn. In addition to the $1,000pp, the payment of the 20% deposit is due by 30 April 2026, and the balance of the full payment is required 10 months prior to departure. Should you choose to change your plans before this date, your initial payment will be converted to a Future Travel Credit, valid for travel within 24 months and redeemable on any Scenic Group journey.
Visit scenic.com.au/terms for full terms and conditions.
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