Emerald Waterways’ latest Star-Ship, and its first to operate outside of Europe, is almost ready for its maiden voyage.

The 84-guest Emerald Harmony – which is the line’s eighth Star-Ship in total – has been designed to cruise into Ho Chi Minh City, offering access to the heart of the city. It launches in August 2019 and will sail the Mekong river.

To celebrate the launch, savings of up to £1,000pp and free on-board drinks packages are available for new bookings made on selected dates until 31 August 2019.

The ship features a wellness area with a spa, the Horizon Bar & Lounge, and Reflections Restaurant. Exclusive to Emerald Harmony is the Lotus Lounge, an area to relax after a day exploring on shore.

Emerald Waterways head of marketing UK and global brand curator, David Winterton, said: “Adding Emerald Harmony to our fleet marks an important milestone as we continue to work to make our business a leading global river cruise brand.

“We are already over 90 per cent sold for the Star-Ship’s maiden sailing season. By booking now in the lead-up to the launch, guests can enjoy some amazing savings and know they will be among the very first people to enjoy an incredible Vietnam and Cambodia experience on board the region’s newest ship.”

Emerald Harmony’s 15-day Majestic Mekong river cruise starts with a three-night hotel stay in Siem Reap, before guests join the ship in Prek’kdam. The sailing continues through Cambodia onto Kampong Tralach and Phnom Penh before crossing into Vietnam and stopping at Long Khanh and My Tho.

There is also a post-cruise two-night hotel stay in Ho Chi Minh City. Prices start from £2,995pp, based on a 10 December 2019 departure.