EMERALD Cruises has announced a major multi-ship expansion beginning in 2026 which will see the line unveil two new superyachts and its first-ever ship on the Seine (CW breaking news yesterday).
As first revealed last night by CW, the two new ocean-going vessels, Emerald Raiya and Emerald Xara, will follow on from the debut of Emerald Kaia next year (CW 17 Jan).
Raiya will debut in the Seychelles at the end of 2026, then sail the Mediterranean for the 2027 European summer, and at the end of the year, will return to the Seychelles.
Xara will launch in the Mediterranean in 2027, then head to the Caribbean at the end of the year.
The two vessels will accommodate 128 guests and offer all-suite accommodations.
They will reflect the same sleek design and elevated guest experience as their sister ships, offering spacious all-suite accommodations, an expansive Sky Deck with private cabanas and panoramic views, and a swim-up marina platform designed to access the sea.
Other signature touches include an open-air fitness area, the Elements Spa, multiple dining venues serving regionally inspired cuisine, and water toys such as paddleboards and SeaBobs.
The cruise line will also introduce a new purpose-built river ship on the Seine in 2027 with Emerald Lumi.
The new vessel will cruise between Paris and Normandy, custom designed specifically for the Seine, allowing her to unlock access to ports such as Honfleur and Rouen.
Guests can expect overnight and extended stays in marquee ports, and French-inspired cuisine, wine, and locally curated excursions.
Onboard programming will include art, culture, regional storytelling, and more.
“This is a transformational moment for Emerald Cruises,” Scenic Group Chairman Glen Moroney enthused.
“From our first yachts to today’s growing fleet, our vision remains clear: to deliver curated experiences in some of the world’s most captivating destinations,” he added.
Emerald is also previewing its 2027/28 deployment, designed to meet increasing demand from the charter and group market, with Scenic Group General Manager Sales & Marketing Anthony Laver noting a growing interest in this type of booking.
Select voyages across the expanded Emerald program will open for booking in Jun, with early access and planning support provided to key travel partners and advisors, enabling advance planning and custom group offers in sought-after destinations. MS
