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About Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts: Contemporary luxury yacht cruising

Boutique superyachts for no more than 128 guests, slipping into small-harbor destinations from the Mediterranean to the Seychelles.

2013 Founded Emerald Azzurra, Emerald Sakara, Emerald Kaia Yachts 100 per yacht; up to 128 on Kaia Guests March 2022 First yacht launched 589 sailings bookable now
Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts — view sailings →

About Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts

“Exceptional. Amazing. Unique. Expect more from your deluxe river cruise with Emerald Cruises. The award-winning river cruise fleet and inspiring itineraries reveal the stunning scenery and fascinating culture of Europe and Asia as you’ve never experienced them.
Enjoy the Emerald difference. Their innovative river cruise ships offer you panoramic views of the stunning scenery, and feature contemporary boutique hotel styling, deluxe in-suite comfort, gourmet dining options and exceptional service, all included in the price. Explore unique cultural experiences at every destination with the included exclusive EmeraldPLUS and Emerald Active excursions.

— Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts

Emerald Cruises, part of Scenic Group and its more than 40 years of travel design, brought its fresh, contemporary style of luxury to the ocean in March 2022 with Emerald Azzurra, a sleek yacht built for just 100 guests. Sister yacht Emerald Sakara followed in 2023, and in April 2026 the line welcomed Emerald Kaia, a next-generation yacht for up to 128 guests with an innovative Wellness Deck and Sky Deck. Every hull is sized for the harbors big ships can't touch, from Adriatic fishing villages to Indian Ocean atolls.

Life on board revolves around the water. An infinity-style pool anchors the pool deck, a marina platform lowers to the sea for swimming and water toys on selected days, and the wellness area pairs a spa and gym with an innovative infrared sauna. Suites feel like modern sanctuaries with ESPA amenities, while the Amici Bar & Lounge and observation deck keep the mood social without ever feeling crowded.

Itineraries wander the Mediterranean and Adriatic in summer, then head for the Caribbean, Central America, the Red Sea, and the Seychelles in winter, with the fleet's reach extending toward Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific. It suits travelers who love the intimacy of a private yacht charter, delivered with the polish and generous inclusions of an established luxury cruise line.

New & notable: Emerald Kaia debuted in April 2026 as the line's largest and most innovative yacht, hosting up to 128 guests with a new Wellness Deck and Sky Deck. Two more yachts are announced: Emerald Raiya for 2027 and Emerald Xara for 2028.

Save on Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts with Pavlus Travel

Pavlus Travel has been helping travelers save on the world's best cruise lines since 1994. Book Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts through Pavlus and our exclusive discounts stack on top of the line's own current promotions — then our Lowest Price Guarantee keeps it that way. You never pay a service or planning fee, and you work one-on-one with a dedicated advisor who knows Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts inside and out, from first quote to final port.

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The Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts Experience

True Yacht Scale

With only 100 guests aboard Azzurra and Sakara, and up to 128 on Kaia, these yachts access small ports and anchorages larger ships cannot reach.

The Marina Platform

On selected days the stern platform lowers to the waterline for swimming and complimentary water toys straight off the yacht.

Infinity Pool & Sky Deck

An open-air infinity-style pool, spa pools, and expansive open decks keep guests connected to the sea and scenery all day.

Wellness at Sea

A dedicated wellness area with spa, gym, and innovative infrared sauna makes the yacht as restorative as the destinations.

Warm-Water Wandering

Seasonal routes span the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Caribbean, Central America, Red Sea, Seychelles, and Indian Ocean.

Scenic Group Pedigree

Backed by Scenic Group's decades of award-winning river and land travel design, with the same eye for generous inclusions.

What's Included with Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts

  • All onboard meals
  • Complimentary beverages throughout the day
  • A selection of included shore excursions
  • Airport transfers
  • Gratuities
  • Wi-Fi

The Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts Fleet (5 ships sailing bookable itineraries)

Emerald Azzurra

Emerald Azzurra

Emerald Waterways brings award-winning reputation and service to the world’s oceans and coastlines, as it introduces Emerald Yacht Cruises and brand new, innovative super yacht, Emerald Azzurra. Custom-designed to allow unique access to the fascinating ports and harbours only small yachts can reach. Lets take you on a journey, off the beaten track and along timeless trade routes, on board bespoke super yacht, Emerald Azzurra. Discover some of the oldest communities to have ever existed, explore the crystalline waters connecting stunning island groups and even uncover the mysteries of the Holy Land. Experience the rich history of the East & West Mediterranean, the exciting ports of the Adriatic Coast and the abundance of natural and archaeological wonders of the Red Sea with Emerald Yacht Cruises. Reaching an impressive 110 metres in length, Azzurra the spectacular super yacht will exceed your yacht cruising expectations.

See Emerald Azzurra sailings →
Emerald Kaia

Emerald Kaia

A new chapter in Emerald Cruises' journey begins with the next-generation superyacht, Emerald Kaia. The third innovative luxury yacht builds on the spectacular success of the first two and retains the ethos of luxury small-ship cruising.Starting in early 2026, she will welcome you on board to sail from the coastlines of the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Adriatic Seas, to the Seychelles.

See Emerald Kaia sailings →

Emerald Lumi

Launching in 2027, the brand new Emerald Lumi will take guests on a luxury journey from the heart of Paris to Normandy and beyond. Cruise the Seine River and experience the rich history, artistic charm, and gourmet specialties this region is famed for.With its innovative custom-built design, Emerald Lumi will unlock access to coveted ports such as Honfluer and Rouen, offering guests the opportunity to step off the ship and wander through these charming towns. Itineraries will be thoughtfully designed to immerse you in the culture and beauty of France with extended stays in key ports for deeper exploration and curated excursions that highlight the regions' art, history, and culinary delights.This exciting expansion gives guests the opportunity to explore both the North and South of France like never before, with new ships now cruising the beautiful Seine, Rhône, and Saône rivers.

See Emerald Lumi sailings →
Emerald Sakara

Emerald Sakara

Reaching an impressive 110 metres in length, the spectacular superyachts will exceed your ocean cruising expectations and with an intimate 100 guests on board there's an abundance of space throughout all areas of your yacht. Discover a secluded spot to read a book, enjoy unimpeded views of the unspoiled landscapes or arrange to meet fellow guests at one of the comfortable meeting spots.

See Emerald Sakara sailings →

Good to Know Before You Book

Gratuities & tipping
Gratuities and tips are included on tours and river cruises operated by Emerald and that are listed on your itinerary. All other gratuities and tips are the customer’s responsibility.
Cancellation policy
European and Asian River cruises, Japan, North America, Australia and New Zealand Land Journey:
Days of notice prior to Journey commencement Cancellation fee (per person)
Over 90 days Loss of Booking Deposit
89 to 61 days 50% of Journey Price
60 to 0 days 100% of Journey Price
All other Land Journeys:
Days of notice prior to Journey commencement Cancellation fee (per person)
120 days and over Loss of Booking Deposit
119 to 91 days 50% of Journey Price
90 days and less 100% of Journey Price
Ocean cruises
Days of notice prior to Journey commencement Cancellation fee (per person)
120 days and over Loss of Booking Deposit of AUD 1,000 and remaining Booking Deposit (if any) granted as Future Travel Credit
119 to 91 days 50% of Journey Price
90 days and less 100% of Journey Price
Last updated: June 30, 2026. Click this link to view the latest policy provided by the cruise line.
Smoking on board
You acknowledge that vessels, motorcoaches and other vehicles, restaurants, hotels and other accommodations do not permit smoking.

Traveling with minors
Children under 12 years old are ineligible to participate in our tours, except for applicable Christmas tours and cruises, and then only if accepted by Emerald in its sole discretion. Due to the availability of alcohol on many of our vacation packages, children and other persons under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a person over the age of 21 (an “Adult”) and must share their accommodation with that Adult.
Pregnancy policy
Most river cruise companies do not allow mothers-to-be on-board past their 28th week of pregnancy. Pregnant women that do decide to travel may be asked to provide a doctors certificate stating their fitness for travel.

Policies are provided by Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts and can change; your Pavlus advisor will confirm current terms for your specific sailing before you book.

Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts Questions, Answered

What is Emerald Cruises?

Emerald Cruises is the river and ocean cruise brand of the Scenic Group, launched in 2014 as Emerald Waterways and rebranded to Emerald Cruises in 2021 when they expanded into ocean voyages. They operate innovative Star-Ships on European rivers and small luxury yachts for ocean and expedition voyages. Positioned as premium-value — a meaningful step below the ultra-luxury Scenic brand but above mainstream river cruise lines — Emerald delivers strong inclusions at competitive pricing. The Scenic Group (same parent as the ultra-luxury Scenic River and Scenic Eclipse ocean lines) provides strong operational depth behind the product.

How does Emerald compare to Scenic and Avalon?

Emerald sits between Scenic (ultra-luxury, full all-inclusive) and Avalon (premium, strong value) in the river cruise hierarchy. All three are Australian-backed companies. Scenic includes more — butler service, unlimited all-day bar, Enrich exclusive events — and charges significantly more. Avalon has a comparable price to Emerald with a different stateroom design focus (Open-Air Balcony Suites). Emerald’s Star-Ships with indoor pools that convert to open-air cinemas at night, EmeraldACTIVE excursion program, and strong inclusions at their price tier make them the go-to recommendation for travelers seeking innovation without ultra-luxury pricing.

Who is Emerald Cruises best suited for?

Emerald appeals to active travelers who want a modern, well-equipped ship with an energetic excursion program at a premium-but-not-ultra-luxury price. The EmeraldACTIVE program (e-bikes, hiking, paddleboarding) and the indoor pool/cinema concept attract a generally younger demographic than Viking or AmaWaterways. Couples who want a stylish, active experience without paying Scenic’s premium are the classic Emerald guest. Emerald also appeals strongly to first-time river cruisers who want a full-featured ship with genuine amenities rather than a stripped-down vessel.

When is the best time to cruise with Emerald?

European river cruising with Emerald is best in May, June, and September for ideal weather and scenery. Christmas Market sailings (late November through December) are consistently among the most popular departures — book 9–12 months ahead. The Star-Ship’s indoor heated pool is a genuine advantage in shoulder seasons (April, October) when deck temperatures can be cool — it keeps the sun deck usable year-round. Summer sailings (July–August) are peak season with the warmest weather and highest demand.

Is Emerald Cruises good for solo travelers?

Emerald offers solo staterooms and periodic single supplement reductions on selected river departures. River cruising suits solo travelers particularly well — ships of 182 guests create an intimate social environment, and the structured daily excursions provide activity without requiring independent planning. The EmeraldACTIVE program is a natural icebreaker for solo guests, as active tours create organic camaraderie. Ocean yacht voyages of approximately 100 guests are even more intimate and solo-friendly by design. Ask your Pavlus advisor about current solo offers on both river and ocean programs.

See all Emerald Cruises — Ocean Yachts FAQs →

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