Although it started out as a successful river line, Emerald Cruises (formerly Emerald Waterways, and the corporate cousin to Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours) expanded into ocean cruising when it introduced its two yachts, Emerald Azzura and Emerald Sakara, in 2022 and 2023, respectively.
Now, a third and slightly larger yacht-style cruiser — Emerald Kaia — dedicated to both luxury and sustainability, is on the way for April 2026.
In fact, the ship just celebrated its initial keel laying the week of Dec. 27, 2024, at the MKM Yachts facility in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, which was further commemorated by the unveiling of a new rendering.
"The keel laying of Emerald Kaia marks another exciting step forward in our vision for redefining the yachting experience,” said Glen Moroney, chairman and founder of parent company Scenic Group. “Building on the tremendous success of Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara, Emerald Kaia reflects our commitment to innovation, luxury and sustainability. We thank the skilled team at MKM Yachts for bringing this vision to life."
Editor’s note: This page will be updated as further details emerge about the upcoming ship. It was last updated on Sep. 12, 2025.
Guest Capacity
Compared to the 100-guest Azzura and Sakara, Kaia will carry 128 passengers and 88% of staterooms will feature a veranda. Cabins and suites will range in size from 340 to 1,407 square feet.
Onboard Dining and Amenities
Public amenities will extend to a 50% larger spa (encompassing a salt therapy lounge and cold plunge pool) and a signature swim-up platform at the stern (off the fitness center), complete with an indoor lounge, ocean access, aquatic toys and, most notably, an inflatable slide. Elsewhere, an expansive Observation Sun Deck, Sky Bar & Spa Pool, Aqua Pool & Cafe, Night Market Grill and La Cucina Dining & Terrace will be showcased.
Despite its boost in size, Kaia still promises “access to secluded ports and hidden gems, creating bespoke journeys tailored to discerning travelers,” according to Emerald.
The ship will be focused on connecting guests to the sea and its immediate surroundings when visiting the likes of the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Aegean seas, along with the Seychelles on custom itineraries to Venice, Dubrovnik, Athens and more ports of call.
Individual, group and charter bookings are already open for Kaia’s inaugural season.
Inaugural Itineraries
Kaia’s maiden Aegean Sea voyage will head from Limassol, Cyprus, to Athens on April 4, 2026, and feature an exclusive classical concert in Ephesus, Turkey, during the evening, as well as Easter celebrations in Patmos and Delos, Greece. Afterwards, the vessel will continue through the Corinth Canal towards Bosporus, Turkey, and farther into the Mediterranean.
