Emerald Kaia Hits Key Construction Milestone
Emerald Cruises has announced a major construction milestone for its latest luxury yacht, the Emerald Kaia. On August 22, the shipyard in Vietnam reached a significant point in the building process with the cutting of the first sheets of steel for the vessel’s hull. This milestone marks the beginning of a new chapter in the expansion of Emerald Cruises’ fleet.
The Emerald Kaia is being constructed by Halong Shipbuilding Company in Vietnam. Nguyen Tuan Anh, the shipyard’s general director, and Ivo Skelin, general manager of Scenic Group’s nautical and technical division, were present to celebrate this key moment in the ship’s development.
The cruise line plans to hold a keel-laying ceremony in approximately three months to commemorate the progress. Glen Moroney, chairman and founder of Scenic Group, which owns Emerald Cruises, expressed enthusiasm about the new project. “Building on the spectacular success of our first two yachts, this expansion not only meets the growing demand for luxury ocean yachts but also reaffirms our commitment to setting new standards in maritime excellence,” Moroney stated.
Scheduled to debut in April 2026, the Emerald Kaia will be a 393-foot-long luxury yacht designed to accommodate up to 128 guests. The ship will offer a range of high-end features, including a redesigned sky deck with private cabanas, a new indoor/outdoor sky lounge, a marina with a lounge area, an observation sun deck, a spa, and a fitness center. These amenities aim to provide an unparalleled cruising experience for luxury travelers.
Emerald Cruises’ expansion with the Emerald Kaia reflects a broader trend in the cruise industry, where luxury yachts are increasingly popular among discerning travelers seeking unique and high-end maritime experiences. The ship’s design and features are set to elevate the standards of luxury cruising, ensuring that guests enjoy an exceptional level of comfort and sophistication on their voyages.
As the construction of the Emerald Kaia progresses, the cruise line remains focused on delivering a top-tier product that aligns with its commitment to excellence in the luxury cruise market. The upcoming keel-laying ceremony will be another significant milestone as the company continues to build anticipation for the ship’s launch in 2026.