With the prominent Seatrade cruise show taking place in Miami this week, news from the sector is coming fast and furious. Among the first off the mark was Emerald Cruises, part of the Scenic Group portfolio, which unveiled a major multi-ship expansion for 2027 and revealed that the cruise line will make its first-ever appearance on the Seine River, offering curated itineraries from Paris through Normandy
Building on the momentum of Emerald Kaia and Emerald Astra, both set to launch in April 2026, the 2027 growth will introduce two new superyachts and one new European river ship – including the brand’s first-ever vessel on the Seine.
Together, these additions reflect the next phase in Emerald Cruises’ evolution and strategy for continued growth in the luxury travel sector.
“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.”
New superyachts
Following the debut of Emerald Kaia in 2026, Emerald Cruises will introduce two additional next-generation superyachts in 2027, reinforcing its commitment to boutique yachting. The new vessels, Emerald Raiya and Emerald Xara, will reflect the same sleek design language and elevated guest experience as their sister ship, with enhancements shaped by direct guest feedback. Each will offer spacious all-suite accommodations, an expansive Sky Deck with private cabanas and panoramic views and a swim-up marina platform designed for effortless access to the sea.
Signature touches include an open-air fitness area, the Elements Spa, multiple dining venues serving regionally inspired cuisine and a curated collection of water toys – such as paddleboards and SeaBobs – delivering the brand’s hallmark blend of adventure, relaxation and understated superyacht allure.
Each yacht will accommodate 128 guests and offer all-suite accommodations. Like Emerald Kaia, both ships will be designed for seamless open-air living, wellness-focused amenities and immersive coastal exploration.
Deployment highlights:
- 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.
“These new sailings allow us to expand the guest experience into more warm-weather seasons, offering even more ways to enjoy our incomparable superyacht product, from the Seychelles to the Caribbean,” said Lisa McCaskill, VP, Sales & Marketing, Scenic Group Canada. “It’s a powerful extension of our boutique superyacht portfolio. We look forward to sharing the full itinerary and booking details for our new yachts in June 2025.”
New river frontier
Meanwhile, the brand will introduce one purpose-built river ship, marking its long-anticipated debut on the Seine River.
The announcement follows the 2026 debut of Emerald Astra, the 10th Emerald Star-Ship in the brand’s European river fleet. With sleek design and immersive itineraries, Emerald Astra sets the stage for what’s to come: a new generation of river ships devised with even greater destination access, onboard comfort and cultural connection.
Emerald on the Seine
In 2027, Emerald Cruises will make its first-ever appearance on the Seine River with Emerald Lumi, a custom-designed ship created specifically for the popular waterway. Launching curated experiences from Paris through Normandy and beyond, Emerald Lumi will bring a modern take on French river cruising, seamlessly blending luxury, cultural immersion and boutique charm.
Emerald Lumi will feature contemporary interiors, spacious suites and a range of onboard amenities tailored to Emerald Cruises’ signature experience. Purpose-built for the region, the vessel will navigate the Seine’s unique dimensions, unlocking access to coveted ports such as Honfleur, Rouen and other picturesque towns known for their art, history and gastronomy.
Guests can expect:
- Round-trip sailings from Paris
- Overnights and extended stays in marquee ports for deeper immersion
- French-inspired cuisine, wine pairings and locally curated excursions
- Thoughtful onboard programming highlighting art, culture and regional storytelling
“The Seine is a natural evolution for Emerald Cruises,” said Moroney. “It’s a river rich in romance, history and culinary heritage – everything our guests love. We’re excited to bring our distinctive Emerald Cruises experience to France with this beautifully designed ship.”
2027/28 deployment strategy
As part of the brand’s growth strategy, Emerald Cruises is also previewing its 2027/28 deployment, designed to support increasing demand from the charter and group market, particularly on board its luxury superyacht fleet.
Select voyages across the expanded Emerald Yacht Cruises (EYC) program will open for booking in June, with early access and planning support provided to key travel partners and advisors, enabling advance planning and custom group offers in sought-after destinations.
“There’s rising demand for private charters, celebrations and curated group journeys, especially on our yachts,” said McCaskill. “By releasing deployment details early, we’re helping our partners secure the best product for their most discerning clients.”
If this article was shared with you by a friend or colleague, you may enjoy receiving your own copy of Travel Industry Today with the latest travel news and reviews each weekday morning. It’s absolutely free – just CLICK HERE.