Emerald Cruises has revealed the deployment plans for its forthcoming luxury yacht Emerald Rayia, set to commence operations in 2027-Q1.
The vessel will begin with a 10‑night maiden voyage from Valletta to Piraeus-Athens (April 8, 2027), calling at smaller ports such as Lesvos, Katakolo, Delos, and Canakkale (gateway to ancient Troy) and the Gallipoli Peninsula.
These sailings mark the start of a summer Eastern Mediterranean season, designed for exploration beyond the typical cruise routes.
During winter, Emerald Rayia will reposition to the Red Sea and Indian Ocean (winter 2027-2028 deployment), introducing Saudi Arabian itineraries that include Jeddah, Yanbu, Al Wajh, and the futuristic NEOM City (accessed from Duba Port, Tabuk Province).
Guests will be offered excursions to inland wonders such as Saudi Arabia’s Al Disah Canyon—often likened to its American counterpart—and visits to the Nabataean tombs of AlUla. Port calls will also include Egypt’s Sharm el Sheikh and Ain Sokhna, along with Jordan’s Aqaba, gateway to Petra. Further extensions into the Indian Ocean will visit Seychelles’ Victoria-Mahe, Madagascar’s Nosy Be, and Kenya’s Mombasa, with opportunities for spice‐plantation tours and wildlife safaris.
The yacht has 64 staterooms and accommodates approximately 128 passengers (max capacity).
Built at the Halong Shipyard in Vietnam, Emerald Rayia is slightly larger than the sisterships Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara, and is a sistership to Emerald Kaia (2026) and Emerald Xara (2028).
Emerald Cruises has also previewed a broader 2027-2028 global deployment with 25 new sailings across 170 departures to 200+ ports in 70 countries.
This deployment underscores the company’s commitment to boutique yacht cruising, combining open‑air design, premium wellness amenities, and coastal immersion.
With summer voyages in the Mediterranean and winter expeditions across the Red Sea and Indian Ocean, Emerald Rayia offers a refined, destination-focused journey for guests seeking unparalleled coastal discovery.