Emerald Cruises' first ocean-going yacht, the Emerald Azzurra, has set sail on its maiden voyage from the Jordanian city of Aqaba. The eight-day inaugural voyage, which began last weekend, has 100 passengers accommodated in its 50 cabins and suites on its Best of the Red Sea itinerary.
Guests will stop over in the Egyptian resort cities of Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh, as well as in Eilat (Israel), before returning to Aqaba for a guided tour of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The launch of the Azzurra, two years in the making, “marks a milestone as the first ocean-going ship in the small cruise line,” the cruise company said. The Azzurra features modern suites and cabins, 88% of which have balconies. The yacht also boasts a large infinity pool, a spa with an infrared sauna, a fitness center, and a marine platform with SEABOBs, paddleboards, and snorkeling equipment available for guests. Electric bicycles are also available on board, “ideal for excursions to local villages,” according to Emerald.
“It’s exciting to see the Emerald Azzurra set sail on its maiden voyage: this new yacht is a true game-changer in the cruise industry,” said Maggie Carbonell, Vice President of Marketing for Scenic Group USA. “The level of luxury and service offered to every guest, along with the diverse itineraries offered in the Adriatic, Mediterranean, and Red Sea for its inaugural season, is truly groundbreaking.”.
The Emerald Azzurra will be officially incorporated into the shipping company's fleet with its christening ceremony in Venice before the ship is repositioned in the Mediterranean and the waters of the Adriatic Coast for the summer season of 2022.
The Azzurra will sail the warm waters of the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Black Sea, and Red Sea. The Azzurra will be joined by its sister yacht, the Emerald Sakara, in February 2023, with new itineraries including the Seychelles.
