Emerald Cruises has officially christened the Emerald Kaia in Venice, marking the addition of the third yacht to the company's growing fleet of luxury yachts. Designed for up to 128 guests, the new vessel represents the next evolution of the Emerald Cruises cruising experience, with more spacious suites and living areas, new wellness and dining options, and a contemporary design enhanced with art installations conceived for the intimate exploration of coastal destinations.
The ceremony was held in San Basilio, offering an exceptional experience in Venice, as Emerald Cruises is one of the few companies able to take its guests directly to the heart of the city aboard a yacht. With Venice as a backdrop, passengers on the eight-day “Adriatic Discovery: Venice, Istria & the Croatian Archipelago” cruise watched the event from the ship's observation deck, perfectly situated next to the dock.
The christening was also broadcast live via YouTube in collaboration with travel content creator and YouTuber All Aboard Stephan's Bike, allowing viewers from all over the world to participate in the celebration.
The event held special significance as it coincided with Scenic Group's 40th anniversary of innovation. Attendees included Scenic Group founder and chairman Glen Moroney; Managing Director of Ocean Operations James Griffiths; Chairman of the North Adriatic Port Authority Matteo Gasparato; and several representatives from the Port of Venice.
Following maritime tradition, Jason Flesher, Director of Discovery Operations at Scenic Group, was in charge of breaking the ceremonial bottle against the bow of the ship, officially welcoming the Emerald Kaia to the Emerald Cruises fleet.
“Emerald Kaia is a particularly proud addition to our fleet and a magnificent symbol as we celebrate 40 years of innovation,” said Glen Moroney. “Designed and built by our dedicated team at MKM Yachts, this superyacht offers a combination of relaxed luxury, innovative design, and prime access to some of the world’s most spectacular coastlines. It is also especially meaningful that two of our longest-serving employees have been chosen as godparents.”.
As previously announced, the godparents of the Emerald Kaia are Kim Scoular, Chief Operating Officer, and Ray Gilbert, Senior Software Engineer at Scenic Group. Their appointment recognizes both their individual contributions and the commitment and dedication of the many professionals who have contributed to the company's development over the past four decades.
“It is a tremendous honor to be the godmother of Emerald Kaia,” said Kim Scoular. “For me, this recognition is also a tribute to everyone at Scenic Group whose passion, dedication, and constant commitment to innovation have helped build this company over the past 40 years. Emerald Kaia represents the kind of intimate, reflective, and meaningful journey that today’s travelers are looking for.”.
Ray Gilbert added, “Being here today as godfather of the Emerald Kaia is one of the greatest privileges of my career. This ship reflects not only the vision that has guided Scenic Group, but also the dedication of all the people, both on land and on board, who have made that vision a reality for our guests around the world.”.
Building on the success of the Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara yachts, the new Emerald Kaia incorporates a larger observation deck, a sundeck with private cabanas and an indoor lounge, new spa and wellness facilities, improved dining concepts, and larger cabins and suites.
The Emerald Kaia is the first in a new series of three yachts of this class. It will be followed by the Emerald Raiya, scheduled for 2027, and the Emerald Xara, planned for 2028, further enhancing Emerald Cruises' offering of exclusive, designer voyages in the Mediterranean and other long-haul coastal destinations.
After completing its inaugural season in the Mediterranean, the Emerald Kaia will sail to the Seychelles and the Indian Ocean, expanding the company's presence in some of the world's most sought-after warm-water destinations.
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