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Emerald Cruises
Rivers to Discovery
Emerald Cruises charts a new course for growth with new ships, fresh routes and its first celebrity-themed Asia river cruise
By Michele Sponagle
I’ll never forget the excitement of my first river cruise. As I stepped onto the vessel, I felt like I was stepping into a brand new world of adventure.
I was travelling from Budapest to Amsterdam, cruising along the most famous rivers of Europe, including the Danube and Rhine. I loved the ports of call and a chance to explore something new every day. It was the most stress-free trip I’ve ever been on, thanks to the guides that Emerald Cruises provides in every destination and an incredible cruise director who enriched every visit with in-depth briefings. This is the trip that brought each visit to life, and made me fall in love with river cruising.
It’s no wonder why it was such a smooth trip. Emerald Cruises (formerly Emerald Waterways) has been sharing the best of the globe with travellers since 2014. Its expertise shines in every detail, from sommelier-selected wines that reflect a sense of place at dinner to gorgeous suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. The company has earned nine Cruise Critics Editor’s Picks Awards.
The Best of Southeast Asia
Though most well-known for its Europe-focused itineraries, Emerald Cruises also offers incredible journeys in Southeast Asia on board the stunning Star-Ship Emerald Harmony. It’s an ideal ship to allow passengers to truly appreciate the region’s historic sites and cultural treasures along the Mekong River.
Imagine arriving in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City buzzing with energy or taking in the captivating views of Halong Bay’s karst islands in Vietnam, then indulging in some of the finest Asian cuisine crafted by Emerald Cruises’ expert culinary team. Itineraries range from eight days to 24 which include a combination of land and cruise—ample time to explore the wonders of the region, from the temples of Siem Reap to the patisseries of Hanoi.
A World Apart
Cruise travellers have a wealth of choices, but Emerald Cruises is in a class of its own. I appreciated its inclusive philosophy, which means gratuities, wine and beer with lunch and dinner. It makes vacation budgeting so much easier.
Recently, the company announced plans to add two new river ships to its fleet in 2027, including its first-ever vessel to sail along the iconic Seine River from Paris. As a personalized cruising brand, Emerald Cruises has committed to growing and evolving as more travellers discover this unique cruising experience. The future looks bright as the brand explores fresh, thoughtful ways to offer a variety of experiences for river cruise enthusiasts like me.
Starstruck Culinary Pursuits
For those who appreciate the artistry behind every dish and those who create it, Emerald Cruises presents an exclusive, memorable culinary experience along the Mekong River. Celebrity chef Chanthy Yen, winner of Top Chef Canada 2024, hosts an eight-day river cruise Oct. 3 to 10, 2026 which guests can combine with exciting land itineraries to enjoy a 13-, 16-, 21- or 24-day journey in Vietnam and Cambodia. Guests can discover Chef Yen’s talents and connect with him during a multi-course gourmet dinner featuring Cambodian cuisine, a live cooking demonstration, an interactive Q&A session and an exclusive cocktail reception.
Set Sail for Adventure
Luxury yacht cruises captivate travellers with itineraries featuring destinations that large ships can’t access
Cruising is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. Travellers can always find one that lines up perfectly with what they value the most in a vacation.
For those who love exceptional service in a small-scale setting, luxury yacht cruising is a trend worth checking out. It offers passengers something truly special.
Emerald Cruises welcomed its first luxury yacht to the fleet in July 2021, and has since earned recognition for its thoughtfully designed itineraries. It has almost 50 different global journeys to choose from, including those that take guests across the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, the Aegean and more.
Explore More with Luxury Yachting
Emerald Luxury Yachts can go to places large vessels cannot. Think exclusive islands, picturesque harbours, charming cays and uncrowded lesser-known ports that give you more opportunities to connect with locals in a more leisurely setting. For travellers who prefer veering off the beaten tourist track, luxury yachts represent a world of possibility.
On board, you’ll be able to make new friends easily as the luxury yacht’s capacity is capped at around 128 passengers. Beyond getting to know fellow travellers, the size of Emerald Cruises’ luxury yachts means a superior staff-to-guest ratio, which means an exemplary service. Don’t be surprised when your server knows exactly how you like your eggs cooked after just one visit to the dining room. Attention is in the details.
Unparalleled Amenities
Cruise fans may wonder if they have to forgo some of the wonderful amenities that larger ships have. The answer is easy. No. Emerald Cruises luxury yachts come equipped with everything you need to travel in style and comfort. You’ll find spa services, an infrared sauna, a swimming pool, a gym, and a hair salon. There’s also a roomy lounge, perfect for enjoying a beautifully crafted cocktail and live entertainment.
The Marina Platform is a hub of activity you’ll want to explore during dedicated stops in your journey. Passengers can enjoy a varied selection of marine toys, from stand-up paddleboards and jet skis, to kayaks, snorkel gear and SEABOBs to explore what’s beneath the water’s surface.
Loyal Emerald Cruises guests love having all the features they’ve enjoyed on river cruises on board. Luxury yachts boast smartly designed suites and some offer spacious terraces. Find plenty of space to unpack everything, beds dressed in luscious linens and bathrooms stocked with luxurious ESPA toiletries.
And, of course, passengers of Emerald Yacht Cruises have an array of EmeraldDISCOVERY excursions available. Take in the views of Mykonos’ famous beaches, sip limoncello on the Amalfi Coast, sample the bounty of Turkish flavours in Istanbul, or hike in St. John Island in the Caribbean. You’ll savour every minute of these adventures.
Dream big
These Emerald Luxury Yacht Cruises’ itineraries deserve a place on your travel bucket list. Consider these highlights:
- Tropical Charms of the Seychelles. Discover why the islands of the Seychelles have enchanted travellers for decades. Beyond the stunning white sand beaches and the abundant marine and bird life, an attentive crew welcomes your arrival.
- Island hop through the Caribbean. On this eight-day journey, sail from Barbados to Saint Martin and prepare to soak in Soufrière’s steamy mud baths, and savour French-Creole flavours in colourful Gustavia—because paradise deserves a touch of panache.
Travel Planner
Contact Emerald Cruises toll-free at 1-855-233-4246 or your travel professional. For reservations, cruise details, or to order a complimentary brochure, visit emeraldcruises.ca
