Emerald Cruises has unveiled its 2027–2028 yacht cruise collection, featuring the debut Mediterranean season of its newest luxury yacht Emerald Raiya.

Launching on 8 April 2027, Emerald Raiya will set sail on a 10-night inaugural voyage from Valletta to Athens, with this headline debut one of the “most anticipated” moments of the season, according to Emerald Cruises.

The yacht’s maiden itinerary features off-the-radar destinations such as Lesvos Island, Katakolo, Delos and Kepez, offering guests exclusive access to cultural and historical treasures including ancient Troy and the Gallipoli Peninsula.

Following its Mediterranean debut, Emerald Raiya will embark on a dynamic deployment across the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and East Africa, inviting travellers to island-hop through Mahe’s turquoise lagoons, trace Swahili history in Mombasa, and explore Al Disah Canyon in Saudi Arabia – dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Saudi Arabia.”

The launch of Emerald Raiya leads a broader expansion for Emerald Cruises, with 25 new voyages, 170 departures, and visits to more than 200 ports in 70 countries. It is the cruise line’s most ambitious deployment to date and reflects a deepening focus on experiential travel and luxury yacht cruising.

“Our new 2027/2028 planner marks the next phase in this evolution, with the growth of the fleet offering exciting new destinations and more immersive experiences, along with the signature luxury yacht lifestyle that defines Emerald Cruises,” Scenic Group GM Sales & Marketing APAC Anthony Laver said.

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The overall collection introduces 19 new ports of call, including Skiathos, Samos, Gythio, Trapani, Pantelleria, Puerto Limón, Bocas del Toro and Portsmouth (Dominica), among others. Across all itineraries, guests can expect more overnight stays, late-night departures and the flexibility to combine cruises into extended voyages.

Emerald Azzurra will cruise the Adriatic and East Mediterranean before transitioning to Caribbean and Central American voyages featuring rare stops such as Quepos and Bocas del Toro, with activities like snorkelling in the Tobago Cays and exploring Manuel Antonio National Park.

Returning to the Western Mediterranean, Emerald Sakara will call on Saint-Tropez, Amalfi and Corsica, before shifting to the Caribbean for relaxed island-hopping that includes Charlestown (Nevis) and Iles des Saintes.

Meanwhile, Emerald Kaia, which makes its debut in early 2026, will start the season in Athens with Adriatic voyages before offering new Caribbean itineraries with stops in Vieques, Montserrat, and Saint John.

Emerald Cruises also confirmed the upcoming launch of Emerald Xara in 2028, with further details to be announced soon.