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Emerald Cruises’ latest pride, the “Emerald Sakara,” a custom-built luxury yacht, has successfully culminated its sea trials, moving forward on schedule for its inaugural sail in the Mediterranean in August 2023.

Overseen by seasoned captains John Edwards and James Griffiths, the sea trials were held in Vietnam. The Halong Shipyard waved goodbye to the mega yacht on July 3, where rigorous testing of all critical systems occurred, certifying the yacht for guest operations. Following this successful testing phase, the Emerald Sakara set course from Vietnam on July 6, setting sights on its new home, the shimmering Mediterranean Sea.

The yacht’s maiden voyage, the Ionian Sea Adventure, is slated to depart from Athens, navigating towards Rome on August 5, 2023. The eight-day luxurious journey includes stops at enticing destinations such as Itea, Greece, a transit through the historic Corinth Canal, and voyages to Cephalonia, Sicily, Amalfi, Sorrento, and Capri, culminating in the ancient city of Rome.

Glen Moroney, the founder and chairman of Scenic Group, which houses Emerald Cruises and Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, expressed high spirits on the yacht’s performance during the sea trials. “Emerald Sakara surpassed our expectations in every possible way. We’re eager to offer our guests fantastic experiences in the Caribbean and Central America later this year,” he said.

Built by The Halong Shipbuilding Company in Vietnam, the Emerald Sakara is the latest addition to the Emerald Cruises fleet. It doubles its capacity since its sister yacht, the Emerald Azzurra, was launched in March 2022. The Director of Sales, Marketing & Product at Emerald Cruises, Angus Crichton, reported a “phenomenal response” to their luxury yacht cruising program. Crichton recommends early booking for 2024 to avoid disappointment.

Designed with luxury in mind, both Emerald Sakara and Emerald Azzurra feature 50 opulent suites and staterooms, the vast majority featuring private balconies or terraces. With a guest capacity of only 100, the yachts offer a unique, intimate cruising experience, gaining access to exclusive ports and harbours reserved for small yachts.

Emerald Sakara also promises indulgence with a variety of onboard amenities. These include an open-air infinity pool surrounded by lounge chairs and day beds, an Aqua Café serving refreshing cocktails, and a wellness deck equipped with a spa, infrared sauna, and gym. The top deck Sky Bar offers a perfect spot for watching sunsets while the yacht’s stern houses a marina platform packed with water toys. Dining options include the La Cucina dining room and the inviting Amici Lounge for evening live music. With a crew of 76 members, guests can anticipate personalized and attentive service.

After its August debut, Emerald Sakara and Emerald Azzurra will traverse the coastal waters of Italy, Greece, Turkey, and the Adriatic. Their itinerary from November 2023 to March 2024 includes cruising the Caribbean and Central America. The first Eastern Caribbean and Grenadine sailing is set to launch on November 18, 2023. The yacht will be christened on December 2 in San Juan, Puerto Rico by her godmother, Kelly Craighead, president and CEO of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

For more information, contact your local travel advisor or visit Emerald Cruises.