Emerald Cruises is inviting travelers to set sail on their most ambitious yacht cruising season yet. The 2027–2028 deployment promises an unparalleled journey across the world’s most captivating coastlines, with 170 scheduled departures, over 200 ports, and exploration across 70 countries. With four elegant superyachts in service and the debut of Emerald Raiya, the season marks a significant expansion for the luxury cruise line, offering 25 entirely new itineraries that redefine immersive travel at sea.
In response to a growing appetite for slower, more authentic travel experiences, Emerald Cruises has redesigned its upcoming season to focus on extended port stays, overnight dockings, and access to intimate harbors unreachable by larger vessels. The collection caters to discerning travelers looking to discover off-the-beaten-path destinations while enjoying a refined yacht lifestyle.
Key highlights for the 2027–2028 collection include:
Emerald Azzurra sets her course through the Adriatic and East Mediterranean during the spring and summer months. Passengers can expect visits to sought-after ports such as Corfu, Dubrovnik, and Venice — where the yacht will sail past the iconic St. Mark’s Square, a rare privilege among cruise lines. A daylight crossing through the dramatic Corinth Canal adds to the allure, along with visits to Delos, Chania, and Mykonos with ample time ashore thanks to extended evening stays.
In the winter season, Emerald Azzurra shifts to warmer waters in the Caribbean and Central America. Voyages between Barbados, Costa Rica, and Panama will include bucket-list moments such as full Panama Canal transits, snorkel adventures in Tobago Cays, and guided walks through Manuel Antonio National Park — all aboard a vessel designed for just 100 guests.
In summer 2027, Emerald Sakara glides along the glamorous Western Mediterranean coast, stopping at iconic destinations like Saint-Tropez, Amalfi, Bonifacio, Porto Cervo, and Nice. A standout itinerary covers Sardinia, Sicily, and Corsica, including visits to secluded ports like Pantelleria and Arbatax.
When winter arrives, Emerald Sakara ventures across the Atlantic for sun-drenched island hopping. Her Caribbean itineraries highlight the British Virgin Islands, Sint Maarten, and lesser-known jewels like Iles des Saintes and Charlestown on Nevis — offering a tranquil, luxurious pace far from the mass-market cruise experience.
Launching her 2027 season from Athens, Emerald Kaia will focus on itineraries that showcase the charm of the Adriatic. These include 7-night voyages between Venice and Dubrovnik, as well as longer sailings to Civitavecchia (Rome), capturing Croatia’s beauty and Italy’s coastal elegance. Itineraries highlight ports like Split, Hvar, Kotor, and lesser-visited coastal towns brimming with historic allure.
Later, she shifts to the Caribbean with fresh one-way journeys between San Juan and Antigua, even making a rare appearance in Miami. New stops include unspoiled islands like Vieques, Saint John, and Montserrat — each offering a serene alternative to crowded tourist spots.
The much-anticipated Emerald Raiya will make her grand debut with a 10-night maiden voyage from Valletta to Athens in April 2027. This marks the beginning of a robust Mediterranean season that uncovers destinations such as Katakolo, Delos, Kepez (gateway to Troy), and Lesvos — locations steeped in history and local charm.
As the seasons change, Emerald Raiya charts a new path south, sailing to the Red Sea and East Africa. Passengers can explore exotic destinations like Mombasa, Mahe, and Saudi Arabia’s Al Disah Canyon — offering dramatic desert landscapes and rich cultural experiences. These itineraries blend bold exploration with the intimate luxury of yacht cruising, pushing the boundaries of destination travel.
Emerald Cruises has also teased the upcoming launch of Emerald Xara, the fleet’s fifth luxury yacht, which is expected to enter service in 2028. Full details will be released at a later date, promising continued innovation and growth.
Travelers eager to secure their place aboard these once-in-a-lifetime voyages can now explore the full 2027–2028 collection at Emerald Cruises’ official website or through certified travel advisors. With weekend-friendly departures, the option to combine sailings, and exclusive access to small ports, Emerald Cruises is delivering a premium yacht experience that’s both immersive and transformative.
