Emerald Cruises & Tours has celebrated two major milestones in the construction of its next-generation superyachts, with the float out of Emerald Kaia and keel laying of Emerald Raiya.
Together with Emerald Xara, (launching in 2028), these vessels represent three significant new additions that will expand Emerald’s fleet to five superyachts, alongside Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara.
On 10 November 2025, Emerald Kaia was successfully launched into the water for the first time at its Halong Bay shipyard in Vietnam. The float out ceremony was attended by senior representatives from Scenic Group, including Mr. Ivo Skelin, General Manager, Design & Development Projects.
This milestone brings Emerald Kaia closer to its anticipated inaugural voyage through Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey in April 2026. The superyacht will then spend the summer exploring the coastlines from Italy to Montenegro, Albania and Croatia, the Greek Islands and Corinth Canal, before repositioning through the Red Sea to commence its first Seychelles season from December 2026 to March 2027.
On the same day, Emerald Raiya reached a major construction milestone with the official keel laying ceremony. Set to debut in June 2027, Emerald Raiya’s launch season will explore the Eastern Mediterranean and Seychelles.
Glen Moroney, Scenic Group Founder & Chairman said “The first launch of Emerald Kaia into the sea and keel laying for Emerald Raiya represents a significant milestone for Emerald Cruises and our continued expansion. 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.”
”Emerald Kaia, Emerald Raiya and Emerald Xara will offer relaxed luxury and authentic adventure, with spacious layouts matched with unique culinary, wellness and marina experiences. Together, these vessels represent the next evolution of Emerald’s yacht cruising experience.”
“Demand for this truly unique style of yacht cruising has been exceptional,” said Angus Crichton, Director of Sales, Marketing & Product at Emerald Cruises & Tours.
“We’re excited to welcome guests on board Emerald Kaia this April, and the expansion of our luxury yacht fleet will not only provide much-needed capacity but also introduce inspiring new destinations — including the Seychelles Islands — to our collection.”
Alongside its expanding yacht fleet, Emerald will also grow its river cruising portfolio with two new Star-Ships: Emerald Astra, debuting on the Rhine, Main and Danube in May 2026, and Emerald Lumi, launching on France’s Seine River in 2027.
