Emerald Waterways, known for their river cruise vessels, today announced they would be venturing into a new part of the cruise market.

The sister brand of Scenic will be building a new yacht, called the Emerald Azzurra. It will be the first vessel launched under the new Emerald Yacht Cruises brand.

“Emerald Waterways has been operating award-winning river cruises since 2014,” said Mr Moroney, owner and Chairman of the Scenic Group.

“The launch of Emerald Yacht Cruises and the stunning new Emerald Azzurra are a logical extension of the Emerald Cruises portfolio, adding intimate yacht cruising to its Emerald Waterways river cruise offering.

“This launch also provides a unique opportunity to introduce the Emerald Cruises brand to the Australian market”.

The Emerald Azzurra has been custom-designed to cruise the waters of the Adriatic Coast, the Red Sea and the Mediterranean.

As the newest yacht of its class sailing these waters, the spacious suites on the 110-metre-long Emerald Azzurra have been designed with a modern feel, ensuite bathrooms and all of the quality finishes expected of a world-class super yacht.  More than 88% of suites also feature a balcony, with these spacious suites starting at 28sqm.

Meals will be served in the Reflections Restaurant, and the chefs will be using locally sourced produce and wine from the region will be paired with the food.

On shore, guests will enjoy included EmeraldPLUS cultural experiences, a range of included EmeraldACTIVE excursions, and have the opportunity to book DiscoverMORE optional excursions to tailor their cruise.

Emerald Azzurra is being built by the Halong Shipbuilding Company (HLS) in Ha Long City, Vietnam and will be launched in July 2021. The Halong Shipbuilding Company is contracted to build the hull and fit all machinery for Emerald Azzurra, with all interior fitout being directly managed by Emerald Cruises project team.

The steel cutting ceremony was held at the shipyard on 7 December 2019 attended by Glen and Karen Moroney, shipyard management including General Director, Nguyen Tuan Anh, and Chairman, Nguyen Van Truong, and key member so the Scenic Group site project team – Ivo Skelin, Le Hoang Nguyen, Cong Nguyen, Viet Lam Minh, Son Nguyen Truong, Minh Vu Hai