Take a peek behind the curtain of luxury travel. How does it feel to sail on one of today's most exclusive yachts?
The new generation of luxury cruises is here
It is against this backdrop that Scenic Group, the leader in small ship river and ocean cruising, has unveiled its latest jewel - the luxury ocean-going yacht Emerald Kaia. Celebrating its first 10 years of operation, this new and birthday addition to the Emerald Cruises fleet offers increased capacity, a private atmosphere and innovations that underscore the brand's pioneering spirit. With a capacity of 128 guests, Emerald Kaia is becoming a symbol of a new generation of luxury cruising. But what does it really mean to be aboard this magnificent yacht?
Timeless design and comfort
When you step aboard Emerald Kaia, the first thing that strikes you is the incredible sense of space and comfort. All staterooms and suites now offer 10 percent more space than Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakura, Emerald Cruises' first two yachts, bringing exceptional comfort thanks to the spacious and contemporary design. Elegant and sophisticated details are evident throughout the yacht. The expanded Sun Deck includes an interior lounge area with an open-plan Sky Lounge, where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding sea on a sun lounger with a drink in hand.
Tailor-made accommodation
On board Emerald Kaia, you can choose from five categories of rooms and suites in a very modern yet comfortable design. The smallest stateroom, the Oceanview Stateroom, starts at 30m², while the Terrace Suites offer spaces from 77m². The highest category is the Owner's Suite, which is an impressive 130 m² and features a private spa pool on the terrace. Every detail has been thought out to offer maximum comfort and luxury.
On the waves of gastronomy
Emerald Kaia also offers unique gastronomic experiences. The signature restaurant La Cucina Dining & Terraces open kitchen and Mediterranean style offers breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. The terrace at the stern of the yacht directly invites to endless sitting with a view. The Aqua Pool & Café on the top floor features a Jacuzzi and elegant cabanas and provides light snacks and al fresco cocktails. Rounding out the culinary offerings is the exclusive Night Market Grill with Asian cuisine and just eight seats.
Luxury and adventure go hand in hand
One of Emerald Kaia's undoubtedly biggest draws can be found aft at sea level. A spacious marina connected to a state-of-the-art fitness centre beckons a whole new dimension of active yacht holidays in a unique combination of luxury and adventure. Who wouldn't want to work out in the fresh air during a cruise to the sound of the waves and just a few metres from sea level? Or take a slide straight from the yacht's deck into the sea or hop on a paddleboard and explore the surrounding area? The Elements Spa is also part of the new boat's arsenal. Designed for those who consider wellness to be an essential part of luxury relaxation, the spa reflects the brand's broader focus on nurturing the mind, body and spirit.
Truly all-inclusive
Emerald Cruises' luxury cruises are renowned for their all-inclusive concept, and you can look forward to that on an Emerald Kaia cruise. It includes meals on board (excluding exclusive dining experiences such as the Night Market Grill), unlimited consumption of a wide selection of wines, beers, cocktails, soft drinks and minibar, coffee and tea, water replenished daily, wi-fi, electric bikes for rent on shore excursions, port charges and tips on board, transfers fromairport to and from the ship, welcome and farewell reception and dinner, and the services of Emerald Cruises' shore excursion manager. All of this is provided so you can fully relax and enjoy your stay without worry.
Emerald Kaia will take to the waters of the Mediterranean on her inaugural voyage in April 2026, from where she will sail across the Adriatic and Red Seas to the Indian Ocean. We've picked out two of the planned voyages that we think are worth taking.
Cyprus to Acropolis in 11 days
Embark on a luxurious 11-day cruise that begins in the beautiful city of Limassol, Cyprus. Sail to the Greek island of Rhodes, famous for its medieval old town and ancient ruins, then on to the island of Kos and the bustling port city of Bodrum along the Turkish coast. Explore ancient ruins and traditional vibrant markets before heading to Kusadasi, the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. Continue your cruise to the tranquil island of Patmos, visit the sacred island of Délos and then head to the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos, iconic for its whitewashed architecture. Sail to the enchanting island of Spetses, popular for its beautiful beaches and elegant mansions, stop in the historic town of Nafplio, boasting well-preserved Venetian and Ottoman architecture, before ending your unforgettable cruise in dynamic Athens.
Mediterranean enchantment
This unforgettable eight-day cruise on the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean begins in Greece and culminates in dazzling Dubrovnik. Sailing through the narrow Corinth Canal, you'll arrive in the city of Itea, where a visit to the fascinating archaeological site of Delphi awaits. In Lefkada, you'll be captivated by tales of the ancient castle and spend the following idyllic days sun-drenched exploring Parga and Corfu. The cruise ends in a Croatian port town, where you'll bid farewell to this wonderful journey.
Seychelles and the beauty of the Indian Ocean
Set sail from Mombasa and head to the archipelago of Zanzibar. From here, your journey will take you to the incredibly diverse Mafia Island, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kilwa Kisiwani Island and then enjoy time at sea before exploring the Seychelles. There you'll marvel at the wild, unspoilt beauty of the remote islands and atolls before heading to Praslin, the second largest island in the Seychelles. You will then finish your journey on Mahé Island.
