Emerald Cruises & Tours has celebrated two milestones in the expansion of its fleet of luxury yachts

In November, the company held a float out ceremony for Emerald Kaia as the ship touched water for the first time in Halong Bay, Vietnam, while simultaneously laying the keel for Emerald Raiya, also in Vietnam.

Kaia will make its debut in April 2026, with an inaugural voyage through Cyprus, Greece and Turkey, before spending its summer season exploring the coastlines from Italy to Montenegro, Albania and Croatia, the Greek Islands and the Corinth Canal. It will then reposition to the Seychelles from December 2026 to March 2027.

Meanwhile, Raiya will launch in June 2027, with an inaugural season in the Eastern Mediterranean and Seychelles, followed by the introduction of Emerald Xara in April 2028.

Glen Moroney, founder and chairman of Scenic Group, said: “The first launch of Kaia into the sea and keel laying for Raiya represents a significant milestone for Emerald Cruises and our continued expansion.

“Each has been thoughtfully designed by our team at MKM Yachts to deliver a unique luxury experience for up to 128 guests, meeting the growing demand for yacht-style cruising in the Mediterranean, Seychelles and Caribbean.”

The new yachts, all accommodating 128 guests, will join sister ships Azzurra and Sakara, expanding the Emerald Yacht Cruises fleet to five by 2028.