Emerald Azzurra cruising super-yacht sets sail on maiden voyage in Red Sea

The first super-yacht cruise ship for Emerald Cruises has departed Aqaba, Jordan on her maiden voyage.

Emerald Azzurra’s inaugural cruise is an 8-day voyage through the Red Sea, calling at the Egyptian resort towns of Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh, as well as Eilat in Israel, before returning to Aqaba.

As part of the cruise, her 100 guests will also go on a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient city of Petra.

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The first passenger voyage for Emerald Azzurra comes after two years of construction and marks the further development of the cruise sector in the Middle East, with plans for the vessel to homeport in Aqaba next year.

Emerald Azzurra features modern suites and staterooms, (88% of which have balconies), as well as a large infinity pool at the stern, a spa with an infrared sauna, and a gym, and marina platform.

From the marina platform, guests can make use of the yacht’s SEABOBs, paddleboards and snorkeling equipment at various ports on each itinerary.

A fleet of electronic bikes from Gocycle is also available onboard, which is “ideal for local village trips and active explorations,” according to a press release from Emerald.

“It’s thrilling to see the Emerald Azzurra depart on her inaugural voyage—this new yacht is a true game changer in the cruise industry,” said Maggie Carbonell, Vice President of Marketing for Scenic Group USA, the parent company of Emerald Cruises.

“The level of luxury and service afforded to each guest, coupled with the diverse itineraries offered on the Adriatic Coast, the Mediterranean, and the Red Sea for its inaugural season, is truly groundbreaking. We can’t wait to welcome more guests and trade partners on board,” she added.

The Emerald Azzurra will be officially welcomed to the brand’s fleet with a christening in Venice before the ship repositions to the Mediterranean and the waters of the Adriatic Coast for the 2022 summer season.

Emerald Azzurra will be joined by sister yacht, Emerald Sakara, in February 2023, with new itineraries for the brand that include the Seychelles, while Emerald Azzurra will focus on the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Black and Red Seas.