Emerald Kaia christened in Venice; Scenic Group celebrates 40 years

Emerald Cruises & Tours has christened Emerald Kaia in Venice, marking the arrival of the third yacht in the brand’s growing luxury yacht fleet.

Designed for no more than 128 guests, Emerald Kaia promises generously-sized suites and spaces, new wellness and dining experiences with contemporary design and art installations created for intimate coastal exploration.

Held at San Basilio, the ceremony delivered a rare and memorable Venice experience, with Emerald Cruises among the few operators able to bring guests directly into the city by yacht.

With Venice as the backdrop, guests sailing on the eight-day Adriatic Discovery: Venice, Istria & the Croatian Archipelago itinerary watched the ceremony from the yacht’s Observation Deck positioned alongside the pier below.

The occasion was also live streamed on YouTube in partnership with travel content creator and YouTuber All Aboard Stephan’s Bike, for viewers around the world to share in the celebration. 

40 years

The event comes as Scenic Group celebrates its 40th anniversary.

Among those attending the christening were Scenic Group Chairman and Founder, Glen Moroney, General Manager of Oceans Operations, James Griffiths, the President of North Adriatic Sea Port Authority, Matteo Gasparato and executives from the Port of Venice. In keeping with maritime tradition, Scenic Group’s Director of Discovery Operations, Jason Flesher performed the ceremonial bottle break across the bow, officially welcoming Emerald Kaia to the Emerald Cruises fleet.

“Emerald Kaia is a proud addition to our yacht fleet and a fitting highlight as we celebrate 40 Years of Innovation,” said Glen Moroney, chairman and Founder of Scenic Group, in a press release.

“Designed and delivered by our expert team at MKM Yachts, the superyacht delivers an experience that blends relaxed luxury, innovative design and immersive access to the world’s most remarkable coastlines. It is especially meaningful to see her entrusted to two of our longest-serving team members as godparents.”

As previously announced, Emerald Kaia’s godparents are Kim Scoular, director of operations, and Ray Gilbert, senior software engineer.

“Their appointment reflects not only their individual contributions to the business, but also the commitment and passion of the many people across Scenic Group who have helped shape the company over the past four decades,” said the company.

Emerald Kaia features a larger observation deck, sun deck with private cabanas and indoor lounge, new spa and wellness facilities, elevated dining concepts, and suites and staterooms with larger floorplans.  

Operating alongside Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara, the super yacht is the first of three in its class with Emerald Raiya set to launch in 2027 and Emerald Xara in 2028.

Following the inaugural Mediterranean season, Emerald Kaia will then sail in the Seychelles and Indian Ocean.

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