Kelly Craighead, President and CEO of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), has been named godmother of Emerald Sakara, the line's second luxury yacht, which will be launched in August. The christening ceremony will take place on December 2, 2023, in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
With over 20 years of executive leadership in the public and private sectors, Craighead served as the U.S. government's top representative for travel and tourism and the first female Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism at the U.S. Department of Commerce. She joined CLIA in 2019, bringing a deep understanding of public policy and how governments operate around the world.
“It is an honor to have been chosen as godmother of the luxurious ocean-going yacht Emerald Sakara, and I am proud to represent this beautiful and eco-friendly vessel in this esteemed maritime tradition,” said Kelly Craighead, President and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association. “Furthermore, Emerald Cruises’ Cherish the Planet philosophy, built in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, aligns perfectly with CLIA’s work on environmentally responsible tourism and protecting the destinations we visit.”.
The Emerald Sakara employs some of the latest technologies in the industry. The engines comply with IMO Tier III emissions regulations, including the elimination of NOx and SOx from the exhaust gases; recycled energy is used to heat the water required for the yacht's needs; and the advanced wastewater treatment system meets the latest regulations. The company has been awarded the EU Green Passport for its recycling efforts.
The Emerald Sakara, scheduled to be launched in August, will join its sister yacht Emerald Azzurra to sail the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas, as well as the warm waters of the Caribbean.
With a capacity of just 100 berths, the 110-meter-long Emerald Sakara offers more space per passenger, and 88% of its 50 cabins feature balconies. Guests will enjoy a large infinity pool, spa, fitness center, and a marine platform equipped with sports equipment such as paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and much more. The Emerald Sakara is the eleventh ship in the Emerald Cruises fleet, joining the nine Star-Ships river cruise ships and its sister yacht, the Emerald Azzurra.
Emerald Cruises offers a diverse range of river and yacht cruises across three continents.
