Every generation of new ships builds on the successes of their forbearers – and adds a few new surprises! In the case of the new Emerald Kaia, the third of Emerald Cruises’ mega yachts, there are some new, standout features that will make you start planning your next warm-water, yacht-style cruise! 

 

Emerald Cruises, the sister cruise line of the Scenic Eclipse ultra-luxury expedition ships, has made a splash in the last couple of years, expanding from its river cruising roots to add intimate, ocean-going vessels in the form of warm-water yachts that allow guests to enjoy the yachting lifestyle – without having to charter their own yacht!

 

The third Emerald yacht, the Emerald Kaia, debuts in April, 2026. It will be slightly larger than its sister ships. And it introduces new spaces, features, and dining options – one inspired by a guest-favorite experience on sister Scenic Eclipse!

 

 

 

At the same time as the company announced the innovative new Emerald Kaia, it also released more updates for both Scenic and Emerald cruise lines:

 

Scenic Group unveiled a design update to 18 Scenic and Emerald Cruises luxury river cruise ships across Central Europe and France. The comprehensive refresh of the ships' main deck introduces new layouts, modern furniture, and innovative day-to-night features to its lounge and specialty dining spaces. Aligning with the sophisticated design and amenities characteristic of the Scenic Eclipse ultra-luxury Discovery Yachts and Emerald Cruises’ luxury yachts, the newly enhanced riverships now offer a taste of the group’s ocean cruising experiences.

 

Scenic Group’s river fleet design updates aim to embody the Cherish the Planet ethos, guided by the brand’s commitment to incorporating sustainable elements alongside exquisite design.

 

Discovery Yachts Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II are set to receive significant enhancements as well. Ahead of its Mediterranean season in 2024, Scenic Eclipse will undergo a dry dock update bringing many of the innovations that debuted on Scenic Eclipse II, including its Senses Spa, as well as updates to outdoor dining venues for warm weather enjoyment and the Discovery Team space to Scenic Eclipse.

 

Additionally, the Scenic Eclipse II will be equipped with a custom-designed Scenic Neptune II submersible and four state-of-the-art SEABOBs. These new sea toys and discovery vessel allow for unique exploration of the ocean’s depths and world-renowned coral reefs with its first season in the South Pacific, Australia and East Antarctica having recently commenced.

 

Combined with two helicopters, these enhancements underscore the brand’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its passion for revealing the unseen wonders of the world in unrivalled ultra-luxury. Scenic Group is making a multimillion-dollar investment into the enhancements of Scenic Eclipse and the river fleet.