• Simultaneous float out and keel laying ceremonies in Vietnam
• Itinerary details for the upcoming Emerald Kaia and Emerald Raiya
• Expansion of the Emerald Yacht Cruises fleet to five ships by 2028
• Focus on intimate luxury experiences for 128 guests per vessel

Emerald Cruises & Tours recently celebrated a significant dual milestone in the expansion of its luxury yacht fleet. During a ceremony in Halong Bay, Vietnam, the company oversaw the float out of the Emerald Kaia, marking the moment the vessel touched water for the first time. Simultaneously, the keel was laid for the Emerald Raiya, another new addition to the brand. These events highlight a period of aggressive growth for the cruise line, which is part of the Scenic Group.

The Emerald Kaia is scheduled to debut in April 2026 with an inaugural voyage visiting Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey. Its first summer season will feature itineraries along the coastlines of Italy, Montenegro, Albania, and Croatia, including transits through the Corinth Canal. Following this European season, the ship will reposition to the Seychelles from December 2026 to March 2027. The Emerald Raiya is set to launch in June 2027, operating in the Eastern Mediterranean and Seychelles, while a third vessel, the Emerald Xara, is planned for April 2028.

Scenic Group founder Glen Moroney noted that these vessels are designed by MKM Yachts to meet the increasing demand for intimate, yacht-style cruising. Each new ship will accommodate 128 guests, maintaining the small-ship atmosphere established by their sister ships, Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara. By 2028, these additions will bring the Emerald Yacht Cruises fleet to a total of five vessels. This expansion aims to bolster the company’s presence in key regions such as the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Seychelles, offering luxury travelers more options for boutique maritime exploration.