Emerald Cruises

Emerald Cruises launched on the rivers of Europe in 2014 as Emerald Waterways, part of the same group as Scenic - an acclaimed Australian luxury cruise and tour operator. Whilst Emerald Cruises' river product falls into the 'Premium' category, a rung below our preferred river operators (including Scenic), their yacht cruises are a different proposition, filling a niche that is currently in great demand: small luxury ships designed to provide an intimate cruising experience in warm-weather destinations.

The 100-guest sister ships Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara are sleek and modern and offer an experience which is a far cry from traditional cruising. The Emerald Cruises yacht fleet is expanding, too, with 128-guest Emerald Kaia arriving in 2026, and two further yachts, Emerald Raiya and Emerald Xara, joining the fleet in 2027 and 2028 respectively. On board all the Emerald Cruises yachts, you can expect modern design, inclusive fares, and immersive itineraries.

Dining on Emerald Cruises

Fresh, locally sourced and regionally inspired cuisine is served on board Emerald Cruises' luxury yachts, and you can enjoy buffet breakfasts and lunches, plus á la carte dinners in the main restaurant, La Cucina. A spacious terrace overlooking the aft of the yacht allows for alfresco dining with ocean views.

For casual light bites, head to the Aqua Pool Café for flatbreads, gelato, and more. Exclusively on board Emerald Kaia, and at an additional cost, Night Market Grill provides Asian cuisine in an intimate setting for only eight guests.

Accommodation on Emerald Cruises

Despite there only being 50 to 64 staterooms and suites on board the Emerald yachts, there is a great choice of options when it comes to accommodation. The entry level Oceanview Staterooms boast a contemporary design and feature a large picture window for taking in the sea views.

Opt for a Balcony Suite if you prefer to have your own private balcony, or for more space, the Terrace Suites and Yacht Suites boast light-filled interiors from the floor-to-ceiling windows, and expansive outdoor terraces. The Owner's Suites complete the line-up with their abundance of indoor and outdoor space for the ultimate indulgence.

Enriching Emerald Cruises in 2026, 2027 and 2028

Emerald Cruises' yachts are perfect for reaching the heart of each destination and accessing smaller ports that larger ships simply cannot reach. The Emerald yachts offer enriching voyages in Europe, including the Mediterreanean, Croatia and the Adriatic, and Greek Isles; the Caribbean, where the yachts explore some of the region's smaller isles; the Seychelles and Indian Ocean; and the Red Sea.

In select destinations you can enjoy an included tour or activity ashore, and there are also optional excursions which you can purchase for an additional cost to make the most of your time in each place.

What's Included with Emerald Cruises

Although not an ultra-luxury product, fares on board Emerald Cruises' yachts are all-inclusive, with a range of amenities included:

• Meals in a choice of venues

• Beer, wine, soft drinks & select cocktails throughout the day

• Complimentary WiFi on board the yachts

• Selected excursions in key ports

• Use of the onboard marina and water toys (subject to conditions)

• Onboard gratuities

• Return economy class flights from London (regional departures available on request)

• Airport transfers to and from the yacht

Our Emerald Cruises Insider Insight:

These sleek, modern yachts offer a luxury small ship cruising experience that feels more akin to sailing on your own private superyacht. The yachts really suit the warm-weather destinations in which they sail, and offer a real connection to the ocean with their light-filled interiors, alfresco dining and bar options, and watersports marina.

The increasing popularity of yacht-style cruising which offers a more intimate and immersive luxury cruise experience means that Emerald Yacht Cruises emerged at a fantastic time, offering a great option for the luxury traveller.