Emerald Cruises & Tours has completed successful sea trials for its new super yacht Emerald Kaia in Halong Bay, Vietnam, advancing the vessel toward its inaugural sailing scheduled for April 2026. The trials confirmed the yacht's performance, maneuverability, and seaworthiness, allowing the company to proceed with final commissioning ahead of its first voyage from Limassol, Cyprus.
The 128-guest yacht represents Scenic Group's continued investment in luxury ocean experiences, joining existing vessels Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara. Designed for relaxed luxury, Emerald Kaia features expansive lounges, terraces, and decks with Missoni decor, along with new interconnecting suites for families and groups. An all-new Observation Sun Deck includes an additional spa pool, sun loungers, and shaded areas, while an innovative indoor/outdoor gym adjacent to the marina platform enables guests to exercise with sea views.
Culinary innovations include a redesigned signature restaurant La Cucina with an open kitchen and the Night Market Grill, an intimate private dining experience for eight guests available at additional cost. James Griffiths, Scenic Group General Manager of Ocean Operations, stated the sea trial results were excellent and expressed confidence in welcoming guests aboard in 2026.
With sea trials complete, Emerald Kaia will undergo final fittings before delivery and its inaugural 11-day Cyprus to the Acropolis itinerary. The yacht is part of a broader fleet expansion that includes future sister yachts Emerald Raiya in 2027 and Emerald Xara in 2028, all offering boutique superyacht itineraries in warm-water destinations. Scenic Group's portfolio, detailed at www.scenicusa.com and www.emeraldcruises.com, includes luxury river cruises, yacht experiences, and land journeys across seven continents.
The completion of sea trials underscores the maritime industry's focus on post-pandemic luxury travel recovery and innovation. For business and technology leaders, Emerald Kaia's advancements in yacht design and guest amenities highlight trends in personalized travel experiences and operational efficiency in shipbuilding. The expansion of Scenic Group's fleet signals competitive growth in the luxury cruise sector, potentially influencing hospitality standards and destination tourism in regions like the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean.
