Emerald Cruises · Scenic Group · Yachts and small ships
Emerald Cruises is the second brand of the Scenic Group. It runs two ocean yachts, Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara, each with about a hundred guests, plus a fleet of river ships in Europe and Asia. The yachts spend winter in the Caribbean and Central America and summer in the Mediterranean. I have not sailed Emerald. It is where I send clients who like the Scenic idea but not the Scenic price.
Emerald Kaia. Press photo, Emerald Cruises
Owner's Suites
- Each yacht has a small number of Owner's Suites at the stern with large terraces, and a few Terrace Suites below them.
- Most cabins are balcony staterooms, not suites. Emerald is not an all-suite line.
- Butler service is limited to the Owner's Suites.
- The yachts have a marina platform with kayaks and paddle boards, and a pool at the stern.
What comes with it
- Wine and beer at lunch and dinner, soft drinks all day
- All dining
- Gratuities on some fares
- Marina water sports
- Wi-Fi
From Florida
Emerald's yachts winter in the Caribbean and on the Pacific coast of Central America, turning around in the islands or in Panama and Costa Rica rather than in Florida. A Naples client flies from Fort Myers, or from Miami when the fare is better. The river fleet is in Europe and Southeast Asia.
The ships
Emerald Sakara · Emerald Azzurra
Relaxed and younger than the traditional luxury lines. Fewer inclusions, a lower fare and a yacht that still feels private.
Emerald Cruises in pictures
Emerald Kaia · Press photo, Emerald Cruises
Who it fits
- Couples who want a small yacht in the Caribbean at a premium rather than luxury price.
- Scenic and Emerald river guests trying the ocean yachts.
- Travellers who do not drink much and resent paying for an open bar.
Who should look elsewhere
- Anyone who wants an all-suite, all-butler yacht. That is Scenic.
- Guests who want to drive to the ship. The yachts do not turn around in Florida.
Questions about Emerald Cruises
Also yachts and small ships
Thinking about Emerald Cruises?
Kathryn will price its top tier against the suites she has stayed in and tell you where it wins.