Emerald Liberte

The 2017-built MS Emerald Liberte cruise ship is a newbuild riverboat designed for river cruising in Southern France. Her itineraries cover the Rhône and Saône rivers, with departures from the homeports of Lyon and Avignon. The high standards of service, expertise in wine, and culinary excellence expected in France are woven into the very essence of the ship.

The company’s fleet expansion in 2017 also included the launches of Emerald Destiny and Emerald Radiance.

Emerald Waterways (2014-established) is a river cruise line company and travel brand owned by Scenic Tours. Similar to the longships of Viking River Cruises, the innovative features on Emerald Waterways ships position them as an alternative to small-ship ocean cruising. Emerald Waterways adds more itinerary options and departure dates for travelers seeking all-inclusive European luxury riverboat vacations.

Most Emerald Liberte staterooms are Suites with a balcony (indoor/step-out veranda). With the exception of Riviera Deck cabins, all staterooms are fitted with drop-down windows that transform the lounge area into an open-air balcony space (indoor veranda).

The ship offers 70 staterooms across 8 categories for up to 170 guests, served by 43 staff and crew. Except for the single-occupancy ES (Emerald Single Stateroom), all cabins are designed for double occupancy (maximum 2 passengers per cabin).

Shipboard facilities

With a capacity of 138 passengers and modern amenities, Emerald Liberte represents the next generation of river cruising. The Mediterranean climate allows guests to make the most of the Sun Deck, which offers ample space for relaxation, open-air barbecues, and even a putting green. A retractable glass roof covers the indoor swimming pool, which transforms into a Cinema/Night Theatre Lounge in the evenings.

The popular Horizon Bar & Lounge is featured on Emerald Liberte, offering a stylish venue for after-dinner drinks. A full range of spa treatments and well-equipped fitness facilities are also available in the onboard wellness area.

Note: For a complete list of river cruise ships and riverboats, visit CruiseMapper’s "itinerary" section in the River Cruises hub, where all companies and their fleets are listed.

Like most modern European river cruise ships, Emerald Liberte is equipped with a telescopic wheelhouse that can be lowered into the deck below to pass under low bridges. The wheelhouse is regularly open for passenger visits.

Scenic Tours (Emerald Waterways) cruise fares are all-inclusive, covering wines, beers, and soft drinks with meals, as well as gratuities, transfers, and shore excursions. Complimentary flights from London or other regional UK airports are also included in the overall cruise package.