EMERALD CRUISES, the Swiss-based luxury superyacht subsidiary of Sydney’s Scenic Group, will introduce a further two new ocean-going vessels and a new European river cruiser in service in 2027.
The group says building on the momentum of Emerald Kaia and Emerald Astra, both set to launch in April 2026, the new tonnage will reflect the next phase in Emerald Cruises’ evolution “and a forward-thinking deployment strategy designed to fuel continued growth in the luxury travel sector. The strategic expansion underscores the brand’s momentum as it sails into its second decade, with a fleet and guest experience shaped by design, destination and innovation.”
“This is a transformational moment for Emerald Cruises,” said Glen Moroney, chairman and founder of Scenic Group. “From our first yachts to today’s growing fleet, our vision remains clear: to deliver curated experiences in some of the world’s most captivating destinations – both by ocean and river.”
Following the debut of Emerald Kaia in 2026, Emerald Cruises will introduce Emerald Raiya and Emerald Xara, essentially sisters of Emerald Kaia that will accommodate 128 guests and offer all-suite accommodations.
Emerald Raiya will debut in the Seychelles in Winter 2026/27, then sail the Eastern Mediterranean in Summer 2027, before returning to the Seychelles in Winter 2027/28.
Emerald Xara will launch in the Mediterranean in Summer 2027, then head to the Caribbean in Winter 2027/28.
Emerald Kaia will be redeployed to the Caribbean beginning in Winter 2026/27, joining Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara. Guests currently booked on Kaia for the Seychelles itinerary during that season will be contacted about having their sailing transferred to Emerald Raiya.
In Winter 2027/28, Emerald Kaia and Emerald Xara will join Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara in the Caribbean, expanding the brand’s warm-weather yacht offerings.
In Europe Emerald will add to its river cruise portfolio when it introduces Emerald Lumi, a custom-designed vessel to make the company’s debut on France’s River Seine in 2027. It will follow the 2026 delivery of Emerald Astra, the 10th Emerald Star-Ship in the brand’s European river fleet and touted as setting the stage for a new generation of river ships “devised with even greater destination access, onboard comfort and cultural connection.