Emerald Cruises & Tours has completed the sea trials for Emerald Kaia, its next-generation luxury superyacht, marking a major milestone in the cruiseline’s operation.
The trials confirm the vessel’s performance, manoeuvrability and seaworthiness, bringing Emerald Kaia a significant step closer to welcoming guests and reinforcing Scenic Group’s ongoing commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and exceptional luxury experiences across its expanding fleet.
Conducted from the group’s shipyard in Halong Bay, Emerald Kaia’s trials are in advance of her inaugural 11-day Cyprus to the Acropolis sailing, departing Limassol on 4 April 2026.
Purpose-built for a relaxed, luxury yacht experience, Emerald Kaia hosts up to 128 guests, offering a sense of space and luxury throughout expansive lounges, terraces, and open decks. Interiors feature distinctive Missoni decor and furnishings, while new interconnecting suites add flexibility for families and groups. Generously sized staterooms and suites combine contemporary design with exceptional comfort.
Guests can also enjoy an all-new Observation Sun Deck, complete with an additional Spa Pool, sun loungers and shaded retreat areas, an inviting setting to take in sweeping coastlines, unwind between ports, and toast sunsets at sea. Wellness is elevated with an innovative indoor/outdoor gym, fitted with state-of-the-art equipment beside the marina platform, allowing guests to train with fresh sea air and cool off with a swim directly from the platform.
Emerald Kaia also debuts a new design for its signature restaurant La Cucina. Guests can enjoy a vibrant open kitchen that brings added energy and connection to the culinary experience, alongside the new Night Market Grill – an intimate private dining experience for just eight guests.
“This milestone is a testament to the dedication of everyone involved in the project,” Scenic Group general manager ocean operations James Griffiths said.” Operationally, this sea trial has delivered excellent results and allows us to proceed with the final phase of commissioning with confidence. We look forward to welcoming guests on board Emerald Kaia in April 2026.”
With sea trials now complete, Emerald Kaia moves into the final stages of commissioning, including final fittings and delivery. Emerald Kaia joins Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara in the Emerald Yacht Cruises fleet, ahead of future sister yachts Emerald Raiya (2027) and Emerald Xara (2028).
“We’ve been delighted by the strong demand for our luxury yacht cruise collection, and the addition of the next-generation yacht Emerald Kaia provides much-needed capacity to support this growth,” Emerald Cruises ANZ director of sales & marketing Angus Crichton said.
“We’re excited to welcome guests aboard for her Mediterranean season from April, ahead of Emerald Kaia’s inaugural season in the Seychelles from December 2026.”
