Emerald Cruises & Tours has marked two milestones, celebrating the float out of the Emerald Kaia and the keel laying of the Emerald Raiya.

Glen Moroney, Scenic Group’s founder and chairman, said: “The first launch of the Emerald Kaia into the sea and keel laying for the Emerald Raiya represent 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,” added Moroney.

Emerald Kaia

The company said that on November 10, 2025, the Emerald Kaia launched into the sea for the first time at the shipyard in Halong Bay, Vietnam.

The ceremony welcomed dignitaries, including Ivo Skelin, general manager of design and development projects at Scenic Group.

This construction milestone brings the ship closer to its inaugural voyage through Cyprus, Greece and Turkey in April 2026.

She will then spend the summer exploring Italy, Montenegro, Albania and Croatia, as well as the Greek Islands and the Corinth Canal, before cruising through the Red Sea to reposition to the Seychelles from December 2026 to March 2027.

Emerald Raiya

On the same day, the Emerald Raiya also reached a milestone with its official keel laying ceremony. Scheduled to debut in June 2027, the ship’s launch season will take place in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Seychelles.

In April 2028, the Emerald Xara will also join the fleet.

The milestones follow the recent announcement of the Scenic Ikon, which will join the Scenic Discovery Yachts fleet in April 2028.

The company said in a press release that the Emerald Kaia, Emerald Raiya and Emerald Xara are designed to accommodate up to 128 guests.

Highlights onboard include:

• An expanded sky deck and enhanced observation sun deck with an indoor/outdoor bar and additional spa pool
• Private cabanas offering panoramic sea views
• Spacious accommodation, including Owner’s Suites with a private terrace and spa pool, as well as interconnecting suite options, and
• Al fresco dining experiences from the Aqua Pool Café and La Cucina Terrace and the new Night Market Grill, a private dining venue for eight guests, available at an additional cost.