Emerald Cruises marks construction milestones for two new cruising yachts

Emerald Cruises & Tours has announced two developments in its yacht-building programme, confirming the float out of Emerald Kaia and the keel laying of Emerald Raiya. 

Both vessels are being built to expand its presence in the luxury yacht-style cruise market across the Mediterranean, Seychelles and the Caribbean.

Emerald Kaia was launched into the water for the first time at a shipyard in Halong Bay, Vietnam. The event, attended by representatives from Scenic Group, marks a key construction milestone and positions the vessel for completion ahead of its scheduled entry into service. 

The line reports that the yacht will begin sailing in April 2026, initially operating itineraries in Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey before spending the summer season sailing around Italy, Montenegro, Albania, Croatia, and the Greek Islands, including a passage through the Corinth Canal. 

At the end of the Mediterranean season, Emerald Kaia will reposition through the Red Sea en route to the Seychelles, where it is expected to operate from December 2026 to March 2027.

On the same day, the company marked a keel laying ceremony for Emerald Raiya, formally beginning its assembly. 

The yacht is planned to enter service in June 2027, operating its inaugural season in the Eastern Mediterranean and Seychelles. A further vessel, Emerald Xara, has been scheduled to join the fleet in April 2028, while Scenic Ikon will debut the same year as part of Scenic Group’s Discovery Yachts fleet.

“The first launch of the Emerald Kaia into the sea and keel laying for the Emerald Raiya represent a significant milestone for Emerald Cruises and our continued expansion,” said Glen Moroney, Founder and Chairman of Scenic Group. 

Moroney added that both vessels will enter a market that has shown growing interest in smaller luxury yachts. “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,” he said.

Emerald Kaia, Emerald Raiya, and Emerald Xara will share similar onboard layouts and capacity, accommodating 128 passengers. Planned features include an expanded sky deck with an observation sun deck, indoor-outdoor bar, and additional spa pool. 

The line also highlights private cabanas overlooking the sea, a range of suite types including Owner’s Suites with private terraces, spa pools and interconnecting configurations, and updated dining venues. 

The Aqua Pool Café, La Cucina Terrace and Night Market Grill will offer outdoor dining options, with the latter positioned as a private dinner experience for up to eight guests at an added cost.