By
Alex Smith |
Emerald Cruises & Tours has officially launched its newest ship, Emerald Kaia, after it set sail on its inaugural voyage from Limassol, Cyprus. The launch coincides with the completion of river trials for Emerald Astra, a new Emerald Star-ship scheduled to enter service on European rivers in May 2026.
Emerald Kaia is designed to accommodate 128 guests and introduces updated onboard facilities, including expanded outdoor areas and revised interior concepts. Dining venues include La Cucina, a main restaurant with an open-plan kitchen and indoor and outdoor seating, and Soleá Bar & Bistro, located adjacent to the pool area and offering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine throughout the day. The vessel also features Night Market Grill, a private dining venue for up to eight guests.
Wellness facilities onboard include a redesigned Wellness Deck, featuring salt therapy lounges, a cold plunge pool and a spa offering a range of treatments. Additional spaces include fitness areas, a marina platform and informal refreshment areas.
“Emerald Kaia represents the next evolution of Emerald Yacht Cruises with more space, enhanced wellness, innovative dining concepts, and a considered yacht experience,” said James Griffiths, general manager of oceans operations at Scenic Group. “All designed to deliver the intimate, relaxed atmosphere our guests love. Seeing her in operation and welcoming our first guests is the most rewarding proof that this evolution in our fleet is the right one.”
The vessel is scheduled to operate Mediterranean itineraries during the 2026 and 2027 summer seasons, offering eight- and 15-day sailings between Venice, Italy, and Dubrovnik, Croatia. It will then reposition to the Indian Ocean, operating voyages in the Seychelles between December 2026 and March 2027. These itineraries range from eight to 20 days and include the 16-day ‘Safari & Seychelles’ programme, combining cruising with land-based safaris in Kenya.
The launch follows the completion of river trials for Emerald Astra, which will operate on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers from May 2026. Further expansion of the river fleet is planned, with Emerald Lumi scheduled to operate on the Seine and Emerald Nova on the Douro from 2027.
“The launch of Emerald Kaia and the upcoming inaugural sailing of Emerald Astra in May mark important milestones for Scenic Group as we celebrate 40 years of innovation in travel,” said Glen Moroney, chairman and founder of Scenic Group. “As the only cruise company that designs, builds, and operates our own ships, we continue to set new benchmarks in luxury yacht and river cruising. Driven by technical excellence and a commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience.”