Emerald Cruises presents the highly anticipated inaugural itineraries for its new luxury yacht, the Emerald Rayia, scheduled for launch in 2026. Accommodating up to 120 passengers, this new boutique vessel will begin operations in the Eastern Mediterranean before embarking on a spectacular winter season in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean, with notable stops in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, the Seychelles, Madagascar, and Kenya.
The Emerald Rayia will set sail for the first time on a 10-night cruise from Valletta, Malta, to Athens, Greece, with stops at less-explored ports such as Lesvos, Katakolo, Delos, and Kepez, the latter offering access to the ancient city of Troy and the historic Gallipoli Peninsula. This voyage marks the beginning of an ambitious summer program focused on the Eastern Mediterranean.
At the end of 2026, the yacht will be repositioned in the Red Sea, from where it will offer entirely new routes along the coasts of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan. Guests will be able to visit ports such as Jeddah, Yanbu, Al Wajh, and Neom, as well as take exclusive excursions to sites like Al Disah Canyon in Tabuk Province, known as the “Grand Canyon of Saudi Arabia,” and the ancient Nabatean tombs of Al Ul.
In Egypt, passengers will explore Sharm El Sheikh and Ain Sokhna, with optional excursions to the Sinai Peninsula and the pyramids. The itinerary also includes a stop in Aqaba, Jordan, with access to the legendary Petra.
From the Red Sea, the Emerald Rayia will sail into the Indian Ocean, offering island-hopping cruises that include stops at idyllic destinations such as Mahé (Seychelles), Nosy Be (Madagascar), and Mombasa (Kenya). These itineraries have been designed to provide travelers with an immersive experience that combines cultural discovery and natural wonders, including safaris, visits to spice plantations, and water activities.
The Emerald Rayia is the second of three new luxury yachts commissioned by Emerald Cruises. Currently under construction at the Halong Shipyard in Vietnam, this new class of ships is slightly larger than its predecessors, the Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara. The Emerald Kaia, with a capacity for 128 guests, is scheduled to arrive in April 2026, followed by the Emerald Xara in 2028.
Emerald Cruises has also announced its global rollout for the 2027/2028 season, which will include 25 new itineraries and a total of 170 departures to more than 200 ports in 70 countries, consolidating its commitment to small ship cruises and destination-focused exploration tourism.
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