Emerald Cruises has detailed the inaugural deployment plans for its forthcoming luxury cruise yacht, Emerald Rayia, which is set to launch in 2026.

The 120-guest vessel will begin operations in the Mediterranean before heading to the Red Sea and Indian Ocean for the winter season, with calls in key Saudi Arabian and Egyptian ports, as well as Jordan’s Aqaba.

Emerald Rayia’s maiden sailing will be a 10-night voyage from Valletta to Athens, visiting lesser-known ports such as Lesvos, Katakolo, Delos, and Kepez, the latter offering access to ancient Troy and the Gallipoli Peninsula.

The cruise marks the start of a summer programme focused on the Eastern Mediterranean.

In late 2026, Emerald Rayia will reposition to the Red Sea, where she will operate a new set of itineraries exploring the coasts of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan.

Confirmed ports of call include Jeddah, Yanbu, Al Wajh and NEOM, with excursions to inland sites such as the Al Disah Canyon in Tabuk Province, Saudi Arabia’s answer to the Grand Canyon in the US, and the ancient Nabataean tombs of AlUla.

In Egypt, guests will visit Sharm El Sheikh and Ain Sokhna, with opportunities to explore the Sinai Peninsula and the pyramids. The itinerary also features a stop in Aqaba, Jordan, providing access to the Lost City of Petra.

From the Red Sea, Emerald Rayia will continue south into the Indian Ocean, offering island-hopping cruises that include visits to Mahe in the Seychelles, Nosy Be in Madagascar, and Mombasa on Kenya’s coast.

These itineraries are designed to provide a mix of cultural discovery and natural beauty, with excursions ranging from spice plantation tours to wildlife safaris.

Emerald Rayia is one of three new luxury yachts ordered by Emerald Cruises. Under construction at the Halong Shipyard in Vietnam, this new class is slightly larger than fleet mates Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara.

Emerald Rayia will be followed by the launch of the 128-guest Emerald Kaia in April 2026, also operating in the Eastern Mediterranean, while a third vessel, Emerald Xara, is expected to enter service in 2028.

Emerald Cruises has also announced its 2027/28 global deployment, which will include 25 new sailings across 170 departures to more than 200 ports in 70 countries.

The expansion reflects a continued emphasis on small-ship cruising and destination-focused exploration, with a growing presence in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean regions.