Emerald Cruises plans bold growth across the luxury yacht sector by 2028. The company will add Emerald Kaia, Emerald Raiya, and Emerald Xara to its fleet. These new yachts will open fresh routes across Turkey, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Croatia, Albania, Montenegro, and the Seychelles. The expansion strengthens the brand’s presence in top global destinations. It also answers rising demand for intimate yacht travel with strong focus on comfort, style, and exploration.
Travelers continue to seek smaller ships, quieter ports, and tailored journeys. Emerald Cruises tracks this trend and invests heavily in new vessels that deliver both adventure and luxury. Scenic Group, the parent company, supports this push with new projects across both yacht and river cruise segments.
Emerald Kaia Moves Closer to Launch
Emerald Kaia reached a major milestone during its float-out ceremony in Halong Bay, Vietnam. The event brought Scenic Group leaders together to celebrate the yacht’s progress. Design teams shaped the vessel to offer a smooth blend of modern style, wide open decks, and relaxed social spaces.
Emerald Kaia will welcome guests in April 2026. The yacht will begin its season in the Mediterranean. It will explore Cyprus, Greece, Turkey, Italy, Montenegro, Albania, Croatia, and the Greek Islands. The route includes a dramatic transit through the Corinth Canal, which often delights seasoned travelers.
After the Mediterranean summer, Emerald Kaia will sail toward the Red Sea. Later in the season, it will reach the Seychelles for warm-weather escapes. These itineraries will offer a mix of clear waters, coral reefs, and unspoiled beaches.
Emerald Raiya Reaches a Key Construction Stage
Emerald Raiya advanced its build on the same day as the Emerald Kaia celebrations. The keel-laying ceremony marked the start of visible construction progress. Emerald Raiya will debut in June 2027. Its first season will explore the Eastern Mediterranean before shifting to the Seychelles for year-round tropical cruising.
The design team aims to give Emerald Raiya strong identity and warm character. Scenic Group plans each new yacht with a clear goal: create a balanced experience that brings relaxation, exploration, and premium service together.
Emerald Xara to Join the Fleet in 2028
Emerald Xara will follow in April 2028. With this addition, Emerald Cruises will operate five luxury super yachts. The fleet will keep a guest-focused design that supports only 128 travelers per ship. This approach encourages a sense of privacy and space. It also helps the crew deliver attentive, personalized service throughout each voyage.
Emerald Cruises expects strong interest from travelers who seek boutique yachts rather than large cruise ships. Smaller group sizes allow deeper cultural experiences, quieter coastal stops, and smoother access to exclusive beaches and marinas.
Scenic Group Strengthens Its Global Portfolio
Scenic Group continues its growth across several divisions. The company will introduce Scenic Ikon in 2028. Scenic Ikon will join the Scenic Discovery Yachts fleet with routes focused on adventure and premium comfort.
River cruising also grows under Scenic Group. Emerald Astra will debut in 2026 and sail the Rhine, Main, and Danube. Emerald Lumi will follow in 2027 on the Seine River. These new vessels will meet rising demand for scenic European river trips with modern design and curated shore excursions.
Each announcement highlights a clear strategy. Scenic Group invests in both luxury yacht and river segments. This balanced approach helps the company reach more travelers while offering fresh journeys every year.
New Onboard Features for a Superior Guest Experience
Guests will enjoy a wide range of new onboard features across the upcoming yachts. Expanded Sky Decks will include an indoor and outdoor bar with a Spa Pool. The Observation Sun Deck will offer panoramic views and quiet lounge spaces. Private cabanas will create peaceful hideaways for guests who want solitude.
Suites will feature large layouts and refined décor. Owner’s Suites will include private terraces with Spa Pools. Families and groups will have access to interconnecting suites that create flexible shared spaces. Every detail aims to maximize comfort during long journeys across remote regions.
Elevated Dining With Fresh Culinary Concepts
Dining will play a central role on each yacht. Travelers can enjoy al fresco meals at the Aqua Pool Café. La Cucina Terrace will serve Mediterranean-inspired dishes with fresh regional flavors. The exclusive Night Market Grill will host only eight guests at a time. This venue will focus on customized tasting menus for travelers who enjoy intimate culinary journeys.
A Strong Future for Boutique Yacht Travel
Emerald Cruises continues to shape the luxury yacht market with confidence. The arrival of Emerald Kaia, Emerald Raiya, and Emerald Xara shows clear momentum. The company builds each vessel with attention to design, comfort, and exploration. Scenic Group supports this growth with strong investment and long-term strategy.
Travelers who seek refined yacht travel across the Mediterranean, the Red Sea, and the Seychelles will soon enjoy more choice. Emerald Cruises delivers both elegance and excitement on every route. With these new ships, the brand enters a fresh era of luxury at sea.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
