Why Emerald Cruises Stands Apart
Emerald Cruises has redefined modern cruising by creating experiences that feel both elevated and approachable. On board award-winning Star-Ships and sleek luxury yachts, guests enjoy thoughtful inclusions designed to make travel seamless and enriching—from guided excursions and onboard dining to innovative features like the signature indoor pool that transforms into a cinema by night.
What truly sets Emerald apart is its balance. It’s luxury without formality, structure without rigidity, and curated experiences paired with the freedom to explore independently. Guests can join guided tours, choose active excursions like biking and hiking, or simply relax and take in the
scenery.
For those looking to go even further, Emerald’s specialty cruises elevate the experience—transforming each sailing into a journey shaped by passion, creativity, and discovery.
For travelers seeking more than just a journey, Emerald Cruises offers a fresh perspective on
exploring the world—one that blends contemporary design, immersive experiences, and the
freedom to travel your way.
Savor the Moment: Specialty Cruises Designed Around Your Passions
Emerald Cruises’ Savor the Moment collection brings together expert hosts, curated programming, and immersive themes to create sailings that go beyond traditional itineraries—many of which are available on select 2026 departures, with additional sailings extending into 2027.
Capture the World: Photography Collection
For those who see travel through a creative lens, the Savor the Moment – Photography Collection offers an inspiring way to experience Europe. Hosted by professional photographers, these journeys provide guidance on composition, lighting, and storytelling while exploring some of the continent’s most picturesque regions.
A highlight is the 8-Day legendary Rhine & Moselle sailing with photographer Juano Abreu on the September 1, 2026 departure. Onboard workshops and personalized tips ensure guests return home not only with unforgettable memories, but with the skills to capture them beautifully.
A Taste of the Vine: Sommelier Collection
Wine lovers will find their perfect pairing with the Savor the Moment – Sommelier Collection, featured on the August 22, 2026 departure of the 8-Day Sensations of Lyon & Provence itinerary, enriched by expert-led tastings and immersive wine experiences.
From vineyard visits to curated onboard tastings, each day offers new opportunities to savor regional flavors and connect with the stories behind each bottle.
Looking ahead, this experience will also be featured on the March 29, 2027 departure of the 8-Day Danube Delights itinerary, offering even more opportunities to enjoy this immersive wine journey. For something more unexpected, Emerald Cruises introduces a spirited twist with its Rum Cruise departing January 9, 2027, blending tastings with cultural exploration across unique destinations.
Culinary Journeys at Sea
Emerald Cruises extends its specialty experiences beyond the rivers with its Savor the Moment – Culinary Collection yacht sailings.
A highlight is the December 13–20, 2026 sailing through the Leeward Islands, hosted by Chef Rachel Hargrove of Below Deck. This intimate voyage blends destination discovery with exclusive dining experiences, curated menus, and live cooking demonstrations.
Guests can savor locally inspired cuisine, learn directly from a celebrated chef, and experience Caribbean culture through its flavors—all within the relaxed, intimate setting of Emerald’s luxury yachts.
Chef Rachel Hargrove
More Than a Cruise
What makes Emerald’s specialty cruises so compelling is how seamlessly they blend passion with place. These are not standalone themes—they enhance each itinerary, adding depth and meaning to every destination.
Whether you’re capturing golden hour along the Rhine, tasting your way through Europe’s wine regions, or discovering Caribbean cuisine alongside an expert chef, each experience feels authentic and personal.
Looking Ahead: Innovation on the Horizon
Emerald Cruises continues to evolve, with an exciting future that reflects its commitment to innovation and growth.
In June 2027, Emerald Nova will debut on Portugal’s Douro River, joining Emerald Radiance and introducing longer, more immersive itineraries. Guests can explore vibrant cities, vineyard landscapes, and enjoy active experiences such as guided hikes and kayaking on journeys like the
11-day Douro Highlights: Porto, Salamanca & the Wine Valley.
At the same time, Emerald’s luxury yacht fleet continues to expand, with Emerald Kaia launching in April 2026, followed by Emerald Raiya in 2027 and Emerald Xara in 2028—part of Scenic Group’s most significant fleet growth in nearly a decade.
Your Journey, Your Passion
With Emerald Cruises, every journey is an invitation to explore more deeply, connect more meaningfully, and travel in a way that feels entirely your own. And with specialty cruises designed around your passions—especially across the range of 2026 departures now available—the experience becomes even more personal. Because the best journeys don’t just take you somewhere new—they stay with you long after you return home.
