Emerald Cruises to expand fleet with third cruising superyacht for Red Sea

Emerald Cruises has ordered a third cruising mega-yacht from a shipyard in Vietnam, with the new vessel set to join the 2022-built Emerald Azzurra and the 2023-built Emerald Sakara.

The new superyacht Emerald Kaia is scheduled to enter service in April 2026 and will be 10-metres longer than her sister ships at 120-metres, and will debut a range of enhancements.

These include a new observation sundeck, a revamped spa concept, higher ceilings across all decks, and larger staterooms.

“This next generation vessel will allow guests to explore the most captivating coastlines in the world,” said Ken Muskat, Managing Director at Scenic Group USA.

The new ship is set to offer itineraries in the Adriatic Sea before repositioning to the Red Sea and the Seychelles for the winter. Muskat did not comment on the current security crisis in the region, which has forced all major cruise lines to adjust itineraries featuring the Suez Canal.

Emerald Kaia will offer 64 suites, 88 percent of which feature private balconies, with a capacity for 128 guests, in addition to 92 crew members. All the suites boast a 10 percent larger floorplan than her fleetmates.

The Sky Deck has also been expanded, now incorporating a new internal Sky Lounge, and offering guests a luxurious open-air experience alongside expansive panoramic view.

The Emerald Kaia is also introducing a 50 percent increase in wellness space at the Elements Spa, Muskat added, which he said was prompted by feedback from guests.

“We looked carefully at our wellness space to make sure we have the best options”, he explained, adding that the space will feature an infrared sauna.

The new wellness centre will also offer an indoor/outdoor fitness center that will include a retractable platform, from which guests will be able to swim in the ocean at the marina.

The marina at the ship’s stern will be enhanced with an interior lounge and additional water sports offerings.

Bookings for Emerald’s new 2026/27 season, which includes the inaugural season of Emerald Kaia, opened on April 10th, 2024.

The new season also includes new itineraries in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean onboard the Emerald Azzurra and the Emerald Sakara. Among the new options are more options for seven-night itineraries.