Emerald Rayia Makes Waves: Mediterranean Debut and Upcoming Red Sea Season

Emerald Cruises has announced the launch of its new luxury yacht, the Emerald Rayia, which is set to begin operations in 2026. The ship will embark on its inaugural 10-night voyage from Valletta to Athens (Piraeus), visiting lesser-known ports like Lesvos, Katakolo, Delos, and Kepez, facilitating access to historic sites such as ancient Troy and the Gallipoli Peninsula. These summer journeys will explore the Eastern Mediterranean’s hidden treasures, moving beyond conventional cruise routes.

When winter arrives, the Emerald Rayia will reposition to the Red Sea and Indian Ocean, with itineraries that will include stops in Jeddah, Yanbu, Al Wajh, and the futuristic NEOM city. Guests can look forward to excursions to remarkable inland sites, such as Al Disah Canyon, known for its similar beauty to the Grand Canyon, and the Nabataean tombs of AlUla. The ship will also call at Sharm el Sheikh and Ain Sokhna in Egypt and Aqaba in Jordan, which serves as a gateway to Petra. Further itineraries will extend into the Indian Ocean, visiting the Seychelles, Madagascar, and Kenya, featuring tours of spice plantations and wildlife safaris.

The Emerald Rayia will host approximately 120 guests, providing an intimate yet luxurious cruising experience. Constructed at the Halong Shipyard in Vietnam, the yacht is slightly larger than its sister ships, Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara. It joins a growing fleet that also includes the Emerald Kaia, set to debut in April 2026, and the planned Emerald Xara, anticipated in 2028. Emerald Cruises has also revealed plans for a broader deployment in 2027-2028, featuring over 25 new itineraries across 170 sailings to more than 200 ports in 70 countries.

This launch reflects Emerald Cruises’ dedication to boutique yacht cruising, emphasizing open-air design, wellness amenities, and immersive coastal experiences. With summer voyages in the Mediterranean and winter expeditions through the Red Sea and Indian Ocean, the Emerald Rayia is positioned to offer guests a unique and luxurious journey focused on coastal discovery.

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