Emerald Azzurra, the first fully electric yacht to commercially operate across an ocean completed sea trials. The completion of this ambitious project is a victory for green energy and battery technology over fossil fuels.
WHY IT RATES: The world’s newest superyacht successfully finished its sea testing in Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay, indicating that the ship would begin its first voyages in January 2022. – Associate Writer Lacey Pfalz
Emerald Azzurra, Emerald Cruises’ first custom-built superyacht, has passed her initial sea trials with Captain Jonathan Edwards and Marine Operations Manager Robert O’Leary on board, as well as more than 98 specialist crew, contractors, and shipyard workers. The sea testing were held in Vietnam, leaving from Ha Long Shipyard on November 20 and taking just 48 hours to complete.
Following the successful sea trials, Emerald Azzurra will soon get the finishing touches to its interior and exterior, as well as complete the on-board team training, before setting sail in early 2022.
“During Emerald Azzurra’s sea trials, all design specifications were surpassed, including speed, noise, vibration, and general comfort and maneuverability while sailing,” said Glen Moroney, Founder and Chairman, Scenic Group (which comprises Emerald Cruises and Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours). Emerald Azzurra is a really unique superyacht that will definitely provide our visitors with an unforgettable experience.”
“I’m thrilled with the amazing effort that has been accomplished in producing not just the most exquisite vessel on the seas, but one that can live up to the high standards we have all come to expect from Emerald Cruises,” said Captain Jonathan Edwards.
The pool of Emerald Azzurra. (Photo courtesy of Emerald Cruises)
The superyacht will transport just 100 people in 50 premium suites and staterooms, with more than 80% of bedrooms having a balcony, providing a luxury small ship cruising experience. Emerald Azzurra joins Emerald Cruises’ fleet of nine river-cruising Star-Ships as the company’s tenth vessel. Emerald Sakara, the line’s second superyacht, will join the fleet in early 2023.
On three continents, Emerald Vacations provides a broad selection of river and yacht cruises. The Emerald Azzurra, the line’s first ocean-going vessel, is a 100-guest luxury superyacht that will cruise the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Black, and Red Seas in January 2022. Emerald Sakara, the line’s second yacht, is set to debut in 2023. Emerald Cruises operates eight branded Star-Ships in Europe and one on the Mekong River, as well as a rented river ship that travels the Russian rivers. The company is known for its modern luxurious ships, excellent service, and all-inclusive price, which has earned them the title of Best River Cruise Line for Value in the Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards for the last five years. Scenic Group, which comprises Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Mayflower Cruises & Tours, and Evergreen Tours in Australia, owns Emerald Cruises.
Horizon Bar & Lounge is a new addition to the Emerald Azzurra. (Photo courtesy of Emerald Cruises)
Emerald Cruises is @emerald cruises on Twitter, EmeraldCruisesGlobal on Facebook, and @EmeraldCruises.global on Instagram.
Contact your local travel adviser for more information, or visit Emerald Cruises’ website, www.emeraldcruises.com, or call the consumer/travel agent bookings line at 844-428-8389. On the website, you may obtain digital brochures.
PRESS RELEASE FROM EMERALD CRUISES