Emerald Cruises

Story

Emerald Cruises traces its origins to 1980, when Evergreen Tours begins delivering land journeys across Australia. After joining the Scenic Group in 1988, the company expands its expertise by creating exceptional tours throughout Canada and Alaska. In 2013, Emerald Waterways launches with a fresh, modern approach to luxury river cruising, combining more than 40 years of experience in designing land journeys with over a decade of luxury river and yacht cruising. Today, Emerald Cruises offers a modern way to explore the world through stylish ships, warm service, and thoughtfully designed itineraries that let you travel at your own pace with the freedom to choose how each day unfolds.

Explore the scenic rivers of Europe and Southeast Asia, the vibrant coastlines of the Caribbean and Mediterranean, and the inspiring landscapes of Canada and Japan. Every journey connects you meaningfully with each destination through cultural encounters, interactive experiences, guided walks, bike tours, and other immersive experiences, all while keeping your comfort and curiosity at the center of every itinerary. Enjoy generous inclusions such as meals, airport transfers, gratuities, and a selection of excursions, allowing you to relax and focus on the journey.

Emerald Cruises continues to expand its fleet and redefine luxury travel. In 2014, Emerald Sky becomes the first Star-Ship, followed by Emerald Star, Emerald Sun, and Emerald Dawn, strengthening the European river fleet. Between 2017 and 2019, the company introduces additional Star-Ships, expands to the Rhône, Saône, and Douro Rivers, becomes the first river cruise line to offer onboard Activity Managers, and launches Emerald Harmony, the first self-built Star-Ship sailing the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia.

The journey continues with the introduction of luxury yachts. Construction of Emerald Luna begins in 2020, followed by the debut of Emerald Azzurra in 2022 and Emerald Sakara in 2023, expanding voyages across the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Caribbean, Seychelles, Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea. In 2024, Emerald Cruises celebrates 10 years of luxury cruising by announcing the next generation of superyachts, including Emerald Kaia, while operating eight European Star-Ships, one Mekong Star-Ship, and three luxury yachts worldwide.

Beginning in 2026, Emerald Cruises enters another exciting chapter by welcoming the luxury yachts Emerald Kaia, Emerald Raiya, and Emerald Xara, along with the luxury river ships Emerald Astra and Emerald Lumi. These additions bring you more destinations, more experiences, and the same exceptional service, giving you even more ways to discover the world in comfort and style.
Vision
At Scenic Group, we are dedicated to delivering the ultimate in luxury, comfort, and cultural enrichment, so that every journey with us is not just a vacation, but a lifetime experience.
Mission
At Scenic Group, we are committed to excellence and a passion for discovery, unveiling the wonders of the world in style, comfort and sophistication.
 

Travel with Emerald Cruises knowing your journey not only inspires you but also protects and respects the places you visit. Responsible tourism sits at the heart of Emerald Cruises, guided by the Cherish the Planet Manifesto. Built around six key focus areas and aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, this sustainability framework shapes every journey by protecting the environment, supporting communities, and creating meaningful travel experiences. In 2025, the Cherish the Planet initiative receives the Outstanding Social Responsibility Award at the Global Traveler Leisure Lifestyle Awards. Voted by Global Traveler readers, this recognition reflects the growing importance of responsible travel and reinforces Emerald Cruises' commitment to delivering journeys you can feel proud to be part of.

• Reducing Waste - Emerald Cruises makes responsible waste management a key priority, particularly in the environments you explore. Through the Cherish the Planet framework, the company focuses on reducing waste generation and supporting more circular practices throughout every journey. Across the fleet, targeted initiatives help minimize food waste and reduce reliance on single-use plastics, while onboard technologies improve waste handling and consolidation. Advanced wastewater treatment systems process wastewater responsibly and in accordance with environmental standards.
• Addressing CO₂ Emissions - As a global tourism operator, Emerald Cruises recognizes that protecting the destinations you visit is essential for the future of travel. Meaningful climate action remains a key priority, with continued efforts focused on addressing carbon emissions and supporting more sustainable operations.
• Sourcing Sustainably - Emerald Cruises combines exceptional quality with responsible sourcing practices that support local economies and reduce the environmental impacts associated with procurement decisions. Every sourcing decision helps create more sustainable journeys while maintaining the high standards you expect.
• Growing with Communities - Emerald Cruises strengthens the positive impact of every journey by supporting the communities and environments you visit. Through the Cherish the Planet program, the company expands opportunities for you and its teams to participate in initiatives that address local needs and promote environmental stewardship. Ongoing efforts continue to integrate these experiences across more itineraries, with the goal of offering at least one Cherish the Planet experience on every journey. These meaningful experiences support essential food, healthcare, clothing supplies, clean water and sanitation projects, as well as local education and training programs.
• Growing from Within and Valuing Diversity - Emerald Cruises fosters a workplace that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. A comprehensive Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Policy promotes respect, support, and equal opportunities while helping prevent discrimination, bullying, harassment, and unfair treatment. A diverse global workforce spans a wide range of roles, regions, and employment types. In 2025, reporting expands to include more crew-based entities, providing a broader view of the workforce and reflecting the diversity of roles and representation across global operations.
• Advocating Health, Safety and Security - Emerald Cruises believes exceptional journeys extend beyond the destinations you visit and are shaped by the people who bring every experience to life. The wellbeing, connection, and sense of purpose of every team member support the seamless, high-touch service you experience throughout your journey. A culture of care, respect, and support encourages people to feel valued, inspired, and empowered while strengthening the communities and destinations connected to every voyage.