Emerald Cruises christens Emerald Kaia in Venice

Emerald Cruises christens Emerald Kaia in Venice, in a landmark celebration during Scenic Group’s 40th year

Emerald Cruises has officially christened Emerald Kaia in Venice, marking the arrival of the third yacht in the brand’s growing luxury yacht fleet. Designed for no more than 128 guests, Emerald Kaia represents the next evolution of the Emerald Cruises yacht experience, with generously sized suites and spaces, new wellness and dining experiences with contemporary design and art installations created for intimate coastal exploration.

Held at San Basilio, the ceremony delivered a rare and memorable Venice experience, with Emerald Cruises among the few operators able to bring guests directly into the city by yacht. With Venice as the backdrop, guests sailing on the eight-day Adriatic Discovery: Venice, Istria & the Croatian Archipelago itinerary watched the ceremony from the yacht’s Observation Deck, perfectly positioned alongside the pier below. The occasion was also live-streamed on YouTube in partnership with travel content creator and YouTuber All Aboard Stephan’s Bike, for viewers around the world to share in the celebration.

This is a significant milestone as Scenic Group celebrates 40 Years of Innovation, and among those attending the christening were Scenic Group Chairman and Founder, Glen Moroney; General Manager of Oceans Operations, James Griffiths; the President of North Adriatic Sea Port Authority, Mr. Matteo Gasparato, and executives from the Port of Venice. In keeping with maritime tradition, Scenic Group’s Director of Discovery Operations, Jason Flesher performed the ceremonial bottle break across the bow, officially welcoming Emerald Kaia to the Emerald Cruises fleet.

“Emerald Kaia is a proud addition to our yacht fleet and a fitting highlight as we celebrate 40 Years of Innovation,” said Glen Moroney, Chairman and Founder of Scenic Group. “Designed and delivered by our expert team at MKM Yachts, the superyacht delivers an experience that blends relaxed luxury, innovative design and immersive access to the world’s most remarkable coastlines. It is especially meaningful to see her entrusted to two of our longest-serving team members as godparents.” 

 
As previously announced, Emerald Kaia’s godparents are Kim Scoular, Director of Operations, and Ray Gilbert, Senior Software Engineer. Their appointment reflects not only their individual contributions to the business but also the commitment and passion of the many people across Scenic Group who have helped shape the company over the past four decades.

“It is an incredible honor to serve as godparent to Emerald Kaia,” said Kim Scoular, Director of Operations, Scenic Group. “To me, this recognition is a tribute to the many committed people across Scenic Group whose passion, care and belief in continual innovation have helped build this company over 40 years. Emerald Kaia represents the intimate, thoughtful and meaningful travel experience today’s guests are seeking, and I am proud to see her begin her journey.”

Ray Gilbert, Senior Software Engineer, Scenic Group, added: “To stand here today as godparent to Emerald Kaia is one of the greatest privileges of my career. She reflects not only the remarkable vision that has shaped Scenic Group, but also the dedication of the people behind it - those ashore and at sea who have brought that vision to life for guests around the world.”

Building on the success of Emerald Cruises’ existing yachts, Emerald Kaia features a larger Observation Deck, Sun deck with private cabanas and indoor lounge, new spa and wellness facilities, elevated dining concepts, and suites and staterooms with larger floorplans.  

Operating alongside Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara, the super yacht is the first of three in its class, with Emerald Raiya set to launch in 2027 and Emerald Xara in 2028. Strengthening Emerald Cruise’s offering of intimate, design led journeys across the Mediterranean and key long-haul coastal regions. Following her inaugural Mediterranean season, Emerald Kaia will then cruise the Seychelles and Indian Ocean, expanding the yacht cruising collection into the world’s most sought after warm water destinations.