Emerald Cruises officially welcomed its third luxury superyacht into its fleet this weekend, with Emerald Kaia christened at a ceremony in Venice, Italy last weekend. Designed for a maximum of 128 guests, Emerald Kaia features new wellness and dining experiences along with a contemporary design.
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.
This is a significant milestone as Scenic Group celebrates 40 Years of Innovation and among those attending the christening were Glen Moroney, Scenic Group Chairman and Foundery; James Griffiths, General Manager of Oceans Operations; Matteo Gasparato, the President of North Adriatic Sea Port Authority, and executives from the Port of Venice. In keeping with maritime tradition, Jason Flesher, Scenic Group’s Director of Discovery Operations, 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.”
Long-standing Australian employees Kim Scoular, Director of Operations and Ray Gilbert, Senior Software Engineer hold the honour of joint godparents of Emerald Kaia. Their appointment reflects their individual contributions to the business, and commitment and passion of the many people across Scenic Group who have helped shape the company over the past four decades.
“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 kind of 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 superyacht is the first of three in its class, with Emerald Raiya set to launch in 2027 and Emerald Xara in 2028.
Following her inaugural Mediterranean season, Emerald Kaia will then cruise the Seychelles and Indian Ocean, expanding the yacht cruising collection further into warm‑water destinations.
Lead image: At the christening ceremony, from left: Captain Rob Kuznin, Emerald Kaia; Kim Scoular, Director of Operations, Scenic Group; Ray Gilbert, Senior Software Engineer, Scenic Group; and Glen Moroney, Founder and Chairman, Scenic Group.
