Panache Cruises - Scenic India River Cruising and Land Journeys 2027 - 2028 Australia

WE ARE PANACHE CRUISES

James Cole — one of the most recognised names in the cruise industry — launched Panache Cruises in 2020. Guided by one principle, ‘Nothing is too much trouble’, he wanted to disrupt the industry and do things differently.

Fast forward to the present day, and it’s exactly that ethos that still drives us forward. We exist to provide a world-class luxury cruising experience, from your first interaction with us, right through to your return from your cruise and beyond. We meet you where you are on your cruise journey, be that just browsing, ready to book or as one of our repeat Founders members on the search for your next luxury cruise.

We aim to inspire you with relevant, engaging and inspirational content, answering all your questions and needs before walking you through the booking process with a truly personal approach. We know you want to deal with an expert cruise connoisseur, dedicated to you — so that’s what we are. We know you want a truly unique experience, not a ready-made holiday, so we make that happen. We know you want unrivalled financial security and complete confidence that your money is in the right hands — and our ATOL-approved gives you just that. The list goes on.

The truth is, booking a luxury or ultraluxury cruise has been too difficult for too long, with archaic phone systems, multiple points of contact and significant amounts of time spent on hold. We take away all the fuss and put pleasure back at the centre of the process. We give you the luxury booking experience your luxury cruise deserves.

Your own personal CRUISE CONNOISSEUR

Our brilliant cruise connoisseurs are the lifeblood of Panache Cruises. They’re well-travelled, like-minded cruise fans, each a specialist in a different destination or type of cruise.

Some are hardy souls who prefer the adrenaline of an expedition cruise; others are laid-back and choose the luxury ocean life, relaxing on a cabana with a cold drink in their hand. All of them are lovely, engaging and willing to do whatever it takes to get your dream holiday booked.

You’ll only ever be assigned one cruise connoisseur. They’ll get to know you, understand exactly what you’re looking for and make personalised recommendations based on what you like. On average, each connoisseur has around 10 years of experience each, and between them they’ve got well over 100 years! The devil is in the detail, Nothing is too much trouble — however you want to say it — everything is taken care of with your luxury cruise booking by our cruise connoisseurs.

• Transfers to and from the airport

• Car parking, should you require

• Security fast passes and airport lounge access

• Pre-cruise and post-cruise hotels

• In-resort transfers to and from cruise ship

• Tours and excursion booking

• Onboard dining reservations

… and anything else you might need.

Our Founders programme rewards luxury cruisers

Our Founders rewards programme gives you exclusive benefits and discounts when you book a luxury cruise with us. Collect points by booking luxury cruises with us and move up through the tiers from Bronze level all the way up to Platinum. Refer your friends to Panache Cruises, earn extra points, and then spend those points as cash value off your next cruise; 10,000 points is worth £100. All you need to do is make a booking with Panache Cruises and you’ll automatically become a Founders member with access to all these benefits.

• Free giveaways as you move through the Founders tiers

• Invitation to a full schedule of hosted Founders cruises

• Exclusive luxury cruise offers in your inbox regularly

• VIP access to events and ship visits

• Direct access to James Cole

You’ll also receive exclusive invitations to our Founders cruises, hosted by James Cole. He will share his love and passion for luxury cruising with you aboard some of the most beautiful ships sailing the Seven Seas. The main draw of these beautiful experiences is the sense of community felt on board amongst fellow passengers. You can choose to enjoy mealtimes together, explore ashore together, drink together and share stories in the evenings. You’ll make friends and memories that last a lifetime.

YOU CAN TRUST US

Head to our Trustpilot and you’ll see we’re 5.0-out-of-5.0 stars; the only UK cruise agency so highlyrated. You’ll find hundreds of glittering reviews about our cruise connoisseurs and the service they offer. We love that. Making you happy motivates us, giving us faith and justification in our hard work. We love that our customers choose us, time-and-again, as their luxury cruise agent.

Part of our difference is that we are industry insiders. We speak to our cruise line partners daily, keeping each other up-to-date with current goings-on. The benefit of such a strong relationship is that we can offer insights and prices you won’t find anywhere else. Our cruise line partners trust us; we even invited them to our staff parties!

We’re trustworthy too. The Travel Trust Association provides us with a trust account where all customer monies are paid until they are required to pay for your cruise holiday. Panache Cruises is also an ATOL-bonded travel company, which means your holiday, cash and all, is fully protected. You can absolutely rely on us with your luxury cruise holiday.

Welcome to the Mystical Wonders of India & Sri Lanka

We’re delighted to introduce newly curated journeys through India and Sri Lanka, departing from September 2027 to March 2028. These extraordinary itineraries have been thoughtfully designed to showcase the rich culture, heritage and landscapes of these destinations.

At the heart of every journey is an intimate river cruise on the Lower Ganges on board Scenic Aura, complemented by a range of immersive land extensions where every experience has been seamlessly crafted.

With just 44 guests per river cruise, this boutique journey offers an intimate and highly sought-after experience. Secure your preferred suite and departure for the inaugural season.

The Scenic Difference is in the Details

From the moment you step on board, every detail of your cruise and land journey is included. Relax in boutique luxury and enjoy immersive discovery on shore, all seamlessly taken care of.

Scenic Aura River Cruise

5-star boutique ship experience for up to 44 guests

Personalised butler service

Luxury one bedroom balcony suites with separate living room, walk-in wardrobe and Scenic Sun Lounge

All meals on board at up to four dining venues

Complimentary beverages^ all day

Complimentary in-suite mini-bar

Complimentary Wi-Fi

Resort style pool & yoga classes

Wellness Centre and fitness area

Self-service laundry facilities

Expert Team

Experienced Cruise Director

Scenic Tour Directors

Expert local guides

All Excursions

Exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences inaccessible to the ordinary traveller

A range of Scenic Freechoice excursions to personalise your journey

Land Journey Extensions

Small group journey for up to 25 guests

Luxury hotels in remarkable locations including Scenic Special Stays

Comprehensive range of included meals

All internal flights and rail connections included

All the Essentials

All tipping and gratuities on board & onshore

Return airport transfers upon arrival and departure at your destination

Scenic, in a class of its own.

^All beverages on board are included except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits.

Luxury River Cruise

Luxury Lower Ganges Cruise

10 Days | Kolkata > Kolkata

River Cruise & Land Journey Options

Golden Triangle & Luxury Lower Ganges Cruise

17 Days | Delhi > Kolkata

code: ICGT

Jewels of North India & Luxury Lower Ganges Cruise

22 Days | Delhi > Kolkata

Tour code: ICNI

Royal Rajasthan & Luxury Lower Ganges Cruise

25 Days | Delhi > Kolkata

Tour code: ICDU

Colours of South India & Luxury Lower Ganges Cruise

24 Days | Kochi > Kolkata

Tour code: ICSI

Ultimate Sri Lanka & Luxury Lower Ganges Cruise

23 Days | Kolkata > Colombo

Tour code: ICSL

Azimganj

Khushbagh

Baranagar 7

Murshidabab

Matiari Plassey

India 2

Mayapur

Kalna Phulia

Hooghly

Serampore

Chandernagore

Kolkata

River Cruise Highlights

Savour an elegant High Tea at the storied Kathgola Palace, a magnificent Indo-Italianate mansion in the historic city of Murshidabad on a Scenic Enrich experience.

Discover the Hooghly Imambara, one of West Bengal’s most revered Shia pilgrimage centres, steeped in spiritual significance and striking Mughalinfluenced architecture.

Step inside the global spiritual headquarters of ISKCON, where devotion, colour, and culture converge in a truly uplifting and immersive experience.

Witness master artisans at work in Matiari, where age-old traditions of copper and brass craftsmanship are lovingly passed down through generations.

Travel in timeless style aboard a traditional toto through the atmospheric streets leading to the grand Katra Mosque.

Day 01 Kolkata

Your West Bengal river journey begins in the vibrant city of Kolkata, where you are warmly welcomed aboard Scenic Aura. Settle into your luxurious surroundings before joining your fellow guests for an elegant Welcome Dinner.

Day 02 Serampore > Hooghly

After an early morning visit to Kolkata’s Flower market, step ashore at Serampore to explore one of Bengal’s most intriguing Danish colonial settlements. Visit the historic St. Olav’s Church and the Governor’s House and Denmark Tavern, each offering a fascinating window into Bengal’s European past. This afternoon, Scenic Aura calls at Chinsura, where you will visit the iconic Hooghly Imambara, one of West Bengal’s most revered Shia pilgrimage centres.

Day 03 Mayapur

Today, Scenic Aura arrives at Mayapur, the global spiritual headquarters of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).

Admire the nearly completed Temple of the Vedic Planetarium and engage with warmly welcoming Hare Krishna devotees, and stroll through the vibrant pilgrims’ bazaar, a sensory celebration of colour, fragrance and devotion.

Day 04 Murshidabab > Baranagar > Azimganj

This morning’s call at Murshidabad, once the formidable seat of power for the Nawabs of Bengal, reveals a city of extraordinary architectural grandeur. Marvel at the Hazarduari Palace before visiting the exquisite Kathgola Palace, where a signature Scenic Enrich High Tea awaits within its storied walls. Travel in timeless style by toto electric rickshaw to the grand Katra Mosque. This afternoon, the ornate terracotta Char Bangla Temples and the serene Jain temples at Azimganj offer a captivating introduction to the influence of the wealthy merchant families of the region.

Day 05 Khushbagh > Plassey

Step ashore to explore the tranquil village of Khushbagh, where history and rural life meet. A panoramic early morning journey past farmers’ fields leads to a beautifully preserved mosque complex built by Nawab Ali-Wardi-Khan. Within its peaceful grounds lie the tombs of the Nawab, his family, and his grandson Siraj-ud-Daulah,

whose defeat at Plassey in 1757 shaped India’s colonial future, and echoes of a pivotal era.

Day 06 Matiari

Today’s destination is the remarkable village of Matiari, long celebrated for its extraordinary tradition of copper and brass craftsmanship.

Watch as master artisans transform recycled metals into exquisite handcrafted pots, platters and decorative pieces using techniques passed down through generations, a living tradition that speaks to the enduring artistry of rural Bengal.

Day 07 Kalna > Phulia

Arrive this morning in the ‘City of Temples’, Kalna. Explore a remarkable collection of terracotta shrines, including the celebrated 108 Shiva Temples and the magnificent Rajbari complex. Spend the afternoon at Phulia Weaving Village where artisans craft hand-woven cotton and silk saris.

Day 08 Chandernagore

Today’s call at Chandernagore transports you to a beautifully preserved corner of French colonial India. Stroll the elegant riverside promenade, visit the former French Governor’s residence, and step inside the Sacred Heart Church before visiting the ex Hotel de Paris, now the sub Divisional Court.

Day 09 Kolkata

Your final full day returns you to the captivating streets of Kolkata for a memorable farewell. Embark on a private heritage tram tour, a nostalgic way to glide through the city, before exploring the grandeur of Victoria Memorial. The afternoon is yours to enjoy with a selection of Scenic Freechoice excursions.

Day 10 Kolkata

As your West Bengal river journey draws to a close, disembark Scenic Aura in Kolkata with stories for life.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for changes in river conditions, ad hoc local government regulations or festivities.

Design Your Journey

Each itinerary combines an all‑inclusive river cruise with your choice of land extension, so you can tailor your journey to the destinations that inspire you most.

Land Journey

Day 01 Delhi

Day 02 Delhi

Embark on an exhilarating tuk tuk ride through the bustling lanes of Asia’s largest wholesale spice bazaar.

Visit Jaipur’s UNESCO-listed Amber Fort, a perfect example of Rajasthani architecture.

Savour a memorable lunch at the legendary Viceroy Club, set within the charming and storied Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in the heart of Jaipur.

Visit the 1,000-year-old stepwell of Abhaneri Village, an extraordinary feat of ancient architecture descending into the earth in perfect geometric symmetry.

Day 03 Delhi > Agra

Day 04 Agra

Day 05 Agra > Jaipur

Day 06 Jaipur

Departure Dates

Day 07 Jaipur

Day 08 Jaipur > Kolkata > Embark River Cruise

River Cruise

Day 09 17 Luxury Lower Ganges Cruise

Delhi > Kolkata Journey Code: ICGT

2027 Sep 24, Oct 03, 12, 21, 30, Nov 17, 26, Dec 05, 14, 23

2028 Jan 01, 10, 19, 28, Feb 06, 24, Mar 04, 13

Highlights

Be swept away by a Scenic Enrich experience, enjoying an evening Ganges Aarti cruise, accompanied by live musicians.

Watch the ancient temples of Khajuraho come to life with a mesmerising sound and light show.

Jaipur Delhi Agra Bharatpur Jhansi Ranthambore National Park Rajasthan Madhya Pradesh

Kolkata Serampore Chandernagore Hooghly Kalna Phulia Mayapur Murshidabab Azimganj Khushbagh Matiari Plassey Baranagar 7 India 2

Land Journey

Day 01 Delhi

Day 02 Delhi

Day 03 Delhi > Varanasi

Day 04 Varanasi

Day 05 Varanasi > Khajuraho

Embark on an expertly guided tiger safari through Panna National Park.

Venture into the legendary Ranthambore National Park on morning and afternoon safaris.

Savour a memorable lunch at the Viceroy Club, set within the charming and storied Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in the heart of Jaipur.

Day 06 Khajuraho

Day 07 Khajuraho > Agra

Day 08 Agra

Departure Dates

Day 09 Agra > Ranthambore NP

Day 10 Ranthambore NP

Day 11 Ranthambore NP > Jaipur

Day 12 Jaipur

Day 13 Jaipur > Kolkata > Embark Cruise River Cruise

Day 14 22 Luxury Lower Ganges Cruise

Delhi > Kolkata Journey Code: ICNI 2027 Sep 19, Oct 16, Nov 03, 30 2028 Jan 05, Feb 10, Mar 08

24 Day Colours of South India Land Journey

Matiari Plassey Baranagar 7 India

Mayapur Murshidabab Azimganj Khushbagh

Kolkata Serampore Chandernagore Hooghly Kalna Phulia

Highlights

Witness a private Bharatanatyam classical dance performance, a signature Scenic Enrich experience celebrating one of India’s most beloved art forms. Gain a fascinating insight into the ancient art of lostwax casting, with an intimate demonstration by master craftsmen.

Be captivated by the dramatic storytelling and elaborate costuming of a traditional Kathakali dance performance. Glide serenely across the tranquil waters of Periyar Lake on a private boat cruise, surrounded by lush jungle and the sights and sounds of abundant wildlife. Explore a family-owned spice plantation and discover the extraordinary array of flavours and aromas that have made this region the spice capital of the world.

Land Journey

Day 01 Kochi

Day 02 Kochi

Day 10 Chettinad > Trichy

Day 11 Trichy > Puducherry

Day 12 Puducherry

Day 03 Kochi > Kumarakom

Day 04 Kumarakom

Day 05 Kumarakom > Periyar NP

Day 06 Periyar NP > Madurai

Day 07 Madurai

Day 08 Madurai > Chettinad

Day 09 Chettinad

Departure Dates

Day 13 Puducherry > Chennai

Day 14 Chennai

Day 15 Chennai > Kolkata > Embark Cruise

Day 16 24 Luxury Lower Ganges Cruise

Kochi > Kolkata Journey Code: ICSI

2027 Nov 10, Dec 07 2028 Jan 30, Feb 17

Highlights

Dress in traditional saris, turbans and receive henna tattoos before an unforgettable Scenic Enrich historical dinner re-enactment held in a fort.

Savour a romantic Scenic Enrich dinner overlooking a breathtaking 1,100-year-old stepwell.

Land Journey

Day 01 Delhi

Day 02 Delhi

Day 03 Delhi > Agra

Day 04 Agra

Day 10 Nagaur > Jodhpur

Day 11 Jodhpur

Day 12 Jodhpur > Narlai

Day 13 Narlai

Day 14 Narlai > Udaipur

Day 05 Agra > Ranthambore NP

Day 06 Ranthambore NP

Day 15 Udaipur

Day 16 Udaipur > Kolkata > Embark Cruise

Sleep like royalty in beautifully restored hunting lodges and heritage forts, each transformed into a luxury retreat that brings Rajasthan’s royal past to life.

Venture into the wild on thrilling safaris across three locations in search of tigers and leopards.

Raise a toast at a farewell dinner on the Mewar Terrace of the iconic Taj Lake Palace, set above Lake Pichola.

Day 07 Ranthambore NP > Jaipur

Day 08 Jaipur

Day 09 Jaipur > Nagaur

Departure Dates

River Cruise

Day 17 25 Luxury Lower Ganges Cruisee

Delhi > Kolkata Journey Code: ICDU

2027 Sep 25, Oct 22, Nov 18, Dec 15

2028 Jan 20, Feb 25

Highlights

Celebrate the richness of Sri Lankan culture with a signature Scenic Enrich dinner accompanied by a mesmerising traditional Kandyan dance performance. Explore Muthurajawela Wetlands and Bird Sanctuary before venturing into Minneriya National Park on an exhilarating wildlife safari among elephants and exotic birdlife. Walk in the footsteps of ancient civilisations across four extraordinary World Heritage Sites, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, the Dambulla Cave Temple and Galle Fort. Journey through misty highland scenery from Kandy to Hatton on one of the world’s most breathtaking rail journeys. Gain a heartwarming insight into Sri Lanka’s sea turtle conservation efforts with a visit to a local turtle hatchery.

River Cruise

Day 01 09 Luxury Lower Ganges Cruise

Land Journey

Day 10 Disembark Cruise

> Colombo > Negombo

Day 11 Negombo

Day 12 Negombo > Pinnawala

> Anuradhapura

Day 13 Anuradhapura

Day 14 Anuradhapura

> Polonnaruwa > Sigiriya

Departure Dates

Day 15 Sigiriya > Matale > Kandy

Day 16 Kandy

Day 17 Kandy > Hatton

Day 18 Hatton

Day 19 Hatton > Bentota

Day 20 Bentota > Galle

Day 21 Galle

Day 22 Galle > Colombo

Day 23 Depart Colombo

Kolkata > Colombo Journey Code: ICSL

2027 Oct 19, Nov 15

2028 Jan 08, 26, Feb 22

Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lanka