Emerald Cruises has confirmed that Emerald Astra, the newest vessel in its Star Ship fleet, will commence service on the Danube and Rhine rivers in May. The company will hold a christening ceremony in Amsterdam prior to the ship’s inaugural voyage, naming travel advisor and former New York City first responder Toni Day as the vessel’s godmother.
Day, who served more than 25 years with the New York City Fire Department and attained the rank of EMS deputy chief, was recognized for her leadership and dedication both as a first responder and as a professional within the travel industry. Since founding Toni Tours in 2004, she has become one of Scenic Group’s leading partners, specializing in luxury river and ocean cruises.
The company stated that her career reflects the qualities of perseverance and commitment that align with the spirit of the Emerald Astra and its guests. Day has been honored with several industry awards, including ASTA’s Barbara O’Hara Advocacy Award and Nexion’s Circle of Excellence recognition for three consecutive years.
Emerald Astra will carry 180 guests and represents the latest phase in Emerald Cruises’ fleet development, designed to deliver a contemporary standard of comfort and efficiency in river cruising. The vessel’s introduction marks a continuation of the line’s expansion across Europe’s major waterways.