Emerald marks two ship milestones with Kaia launch, Astra trials

Emerald Cruises has launched its latest yacht, Emerald Kaia, following its inaugural sailing from Limassol, Cyprus. 

The debut comes alongside successful river trials for Emerald Astra, a new Star-Ship set to enter service in Europe in May 2026.

Emerald Astra will operate on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, marking the next phase of the brand's river expansion.

Kaia spotlights dining, wellness and suite upgrades

Emerald Kaia introduces updated dining, wellness and accommodation concepts as part of the line's yacht offering.

Dining venues include La Cucina, featuring an open kitchen and indoor and outdoor seating, as well as Soleá Bar & Bistro, which serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine throughout the day. 

A private dining concept, Night Market Grill, accommodates up to eight guests.

The ship's wellness facilities include a redesigned deck with salt therapy lounges, a cold plunge pool and a spacious spa offering an array of treatments and therapies.

Suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, with interconnecting options added for families and groups.

"Emerald Kaia represents the next evolution of Emerald Yacht Cruises with more space, enhanced wellness, innovative dining concepts, and a considered yacht experience. All designed to deliver the intimate, relaxed atmosphere our guests love," said James Griffiths, general manager of oceans perations at Scenic Group.

"Seeing her in operation and welcoming our first guests is the most rewarding proof that this evolution in our fleet is the right one."

Fleet growth continues

Emerald Kaia joins Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara in the yacht fleet, with two additional vessels — Emerald Raiya in 2027 and Emerald Xara in 2028 — planned.

On the river side, Emerald Astra will be followed by Emerald Lumi on the Seine and Emerald Nova on the Douro in 2027.

"The launch of Emerald Kaia and the upcoming inaugural sailing of Emerald Astra in May mark important milestones for Scenic Group as we celebrate 40 years of innovation in travel," said Glen Moroney, chairman & founder of Scenic Group.

"As the only cruise company that designs, builds, and operates our own ships, we continue to set new benchmarks in luxury yacht and river cruising. Driven by technical excellence and a commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience."

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