Over two years in the making, Emerald Azzurra marks a milestone for the formerly river-only cruise line. It's the first ocean-going ship for the company, and the first new ship post-pandemic.
The 100-guest vessel departed on its inagural voyage over the weekend, departing from the Jordanian city of Aqaba on a Red Sea sailing. The new ship will call at the Egyptian resort towns of Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh, as well as Eilat in Israel, before returning to Aqaba for an included guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Petra.
“Every once in a while, a new yacht comes along in the industry and changes things. Emerald Azzurra is exactly that yacht,” said David Winterton, Global Director of Brand and Marketing at Emerald Cruises.
“The level of luxury afforded to each guest, coupled with a diverse sailing program featuring sailings through the Adriatic Coast, the Mediterranean, and the Red Sea for its inaugural season, is truly groundbreaking. We can’t wait to welcome more guests and trade partners on board.”
Emerald Azzurra's small ship configuration features modern suites and staterooms, 88 per cent of which boast balconies. The yacht also features a large infinity pool, spa with infrared sauna, gym, and marina platform, with SEABOBs, paddleboards and snorkelling equipment available for guests to enjoy. A fleet of electronic bikes from Gocycle are also available on board, ideal for local village trips and active explorations.
Emerald Azzurra will be officially welcomed to the brand’s fleet in Venice before the ship repositions to the Mediterranean and the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Coast for the 2022 summer season.
Emerald Azzurra will be joined by sister yacht Emerald Sakara in February 2023, with itineraries to Seychelles, Black Sea and Middle East, on sale now.
