Emerald Cruises gets five-strong superyacht fleet, with three launching in two years

• Emerald Cruises will have five super yachts by 2027.
• Emerald Kaia and Emerald Astra were already set to launch in April 2026.
• Now the company, part of the Scenic Group, is launching another in 2027.
• Emerald will also launch a new European river ship, its first on the Seine.

Emerald Cruises will see a big expansion in the next two years and is set to own a superyacht fleets in Europe.

The line, part of the Scenic Group, was first to market with Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara, two sleek yachts designed by chairman Glen Moroney, who also created Scenic Eclipse Discovery Yachts and Europe’s Space Ship Fleet.

The original yachts, which carry 100 guests in 50 cabins, with a crew of 72, are 110 metres long so they can slip into small ports, have been a success story, with others scrambling to catch up.

They were due to be joined by Emerald Kaia and Emerald Astra next year. But how another will join the fleet by 2027.

The new vessels will carry slightly more passengers at 128 guests, and the fleet will now sail warm waters like The Caribbean, opening up the line to the burgeoning American market and lucrative millionaire-style private events and parties.

The new yachts will have the same sleek design and guest experience as their sister ships, with enhancements shaped by guest feedback. Each yacht will offer all-suite accommodations, a Sky Deck with private cabanas and panoramic views, and a swim-up marina platform designed for effortless access to the sea.

Signature touches will include an open-air fitness area, the Elements Spa, multiple dining venues serving regionally inspired cuisine, and a collection of water toys – such as paddleboards and SeaBobs – delivering the brand’s hallmark blend of adventure, relaxation, and understated superyacht allure.

A company statement said: “Together, these additions reflect the next phase in Emerald Cruises’ evolution and a forward-thinking deployment strategy designed to fuel continued growth in the luxury travel sector.

“The strategic expansion underscores the brand’s momentum as it sails into its second decade, with a fleet and guest experience shaped by design, destination and innovation.”

Glen Moroney added: “This is a transformational moment for Emerald Cruises. 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 – both by ocean and river.”

Emerald will also get another river cruise ship and sail the Seine for the first time. France’s river cruise demand is booming.

Where the new ships will sail

The new fleet will sail the Seychelles, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

• Emerald Raiya will debut in the Seychelles at the end of 2026, then sail the Mediterranean for the 2027 European Summer, before returning to the Seychelles at the end of 2027.
• Emerald Xara will launch in the Mediterranean in 2027, then head to the Caribbean at the end of 2027.
• Emerald Kaia will be redeployed to the Caribbean for Winter 2026, joining Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara.
• In 2027/28, Emerald Kaia and Emerald Xara will join Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara in the Caribbean, expanding the brand’s warm-weather yacht offerings.

Anthony Laver, Scenic Group, General Manager, Sales and Marketing APAC, said: “These new sailings enable us to expand the guest experience into more warm-weather regions and seasons, offering even more ways to enjoy our incomparable superyacht product – from the Seychelles to the Caribbean.”

Emerald Cruises is previewing its 2027/28 deployment, designed to support increasing demand from the charter and group market – particularly aboard its luxury superyacht fleet.

Select voyages across the expanded Emerald Yacht Cruises program will open for booking in June 2025, with early access and planning support provided to key travel partners and advisors.

“There’s rising demand for private charters, celebrations, and small group journeys – especially on our yachts,” said Laver. “By releasing deployment details early, we’re helping our partners secure the best product for their most discerning clients.”

What’s it like to sail on the yachts? Read our review here.

To learn more, download brochures, or book visit www.emeraldcruises.com.au, call 1300 286 110, or contact your travel advisor.