Agents join Emerald Kaia shakedown voyage in Mediterranean

Emerald Cruises’ new superyacht, Emerald Kaia, has embarked on its inaugural sailing, following a shakedown cruise with agents and operator representatives from the UK.

Joining the trade representatives were three from Scenic & Emerald Cruises: Nichola Absalom, UK managing director; Laura Gerrard, director of marketing ocean; and Jonathan Davies, head of sales.

 

The shakedown cruise travelled from Athens to Spetses, with the trade able to explore the shop’s accommodation, spa, gym, marina deck and observation deck, in addition to a dining experience at the new Night Market Grill.

 

They also travelled to the car-free Greek island of Spetses for a walking tour, via Emerald Kaia’s fleet of Zodiacs.

 

The 128-guest superyacht is now on its inaugural sailing – an 11-day itinerary from Limassol, Cyprus, calling at Rhodes, Kos, Spetses and Athens.

 

More: Emerald Cruises reveals ‘transformational’ plans for three new ships

 

For its Mediterranean summer season in 2026 and 2027, Emerald Kaia will cruise the Adriatic Sea, offering a selection of eight and 15-day itineraries, between Venice and Dubrovnik.

 

The ship will reposition to the Indian Ocean, sailing in the Seychelles archipelago from December 2026 to March 2027.

 

Itineraries range from eight to 20 days, including the 16‑day Safari & Seychelles journey, which combines Seychelles cruising with safaris in Kenya’s Masai Mara, Samburu Game Reserve and Lake Nakuru National Park. Extra departure dates have recently been added for this itinerary due to strong demand.

 

Glen Moroney, chairman and founder of parent company Scenic Group, said: “The launch of Emerald Kaia and the upcoming inaugural sailing of Emerald Astra in May mark important milestones for Scenic Group as we celebrate 40 years of innovation in travel.

 

“As the only cruise company that designs, builds and operates our own ships, we continue to set new benchmarks in luxury yacht and river cruising, driven by technical excellence and a commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience.”

 

James Griffiths, general manager of oceans operations at Scenic Group, added: “Emerald Kaia represents the next evolution of Emerald Yacht Cruises with more space, enhanced wellness, innovative dining concepts, and a considered yacht experience

 

“Seeing her in operation and welcoming our first guests is the most rewarding proof that this evolution in our fleet is the right one.”

 

Emerald Kaia will be joined by sister yachts Emerald Raiya in 2027 and Emerald Xara in 2028, expanding the fleet to five, alongside Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara, with sailings across the Mediterranean, Seychelles and Caribbean.

 

Pictured during the shakedown cruise for the trade are, from left: Laura Gerrard (Scenic & Emerald Cruises), Fred Galrito (Imagine Cruising), Patrick Hill (Paramount Cruises), Nichola Absalom (Scenic & Emerald Cruises), David Brown (The Cruise Specialist), Jennifer Ann Shelley (Carrier), Hayley Meades (Mundy Cruising), Sophie Pearson (Panache Cruises), Jonathan Davies (Scenic & Emerald Cruises), Rebecca Peacock (SixStar Cruises), Emma Otter (Travel Counsellors), Simran Kaur Singh (First Class Holidays), Jake Nickels (Reader Offers) and Margaret McMorriston (Hays Travel).