By
Alex Smith |
Emerald Cruises new ocean-going yacht, Emerald Azzurra, has departed on its inaugural sailing from Aqaba, Jordan.
The new ship is sailing on an eight-day ‘Best of the Red Sea’ itinerary, calling at the Egyptian ports of Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh as well as Eilat in Israel, before returning to Aqaba to enable guests to undertake a guided tour of the ancient city of Petra.
Emerald Azzurra has capacity for 100 guests in 50 staterooms and suites, 80 per cent of which include a balcony. The ship also features public areas including a Wellness Centre, Sky Deck and Spa Pool, as well as an infinity-style pool on the Pool Deck.
“Every once in a while, a new yacht comes along in the industry and changes things,” said David Winterton, global director of brand and marketing at Emerald Cruises. “Emerald Azzurra is exactly that yacht. The level of luxury afforded to each guest, coupled with a diverse sailing programme featuring sailings through the Adriatic Coast, the Mediterranean, and the Red Sea for its inaugural season, is truly groundbreaking. We can’t wait to welcome more guests and trade partners onboard.”
Emerald Azzurra will be officially welcomed into the cruise line’s fleet with a ceremony in Venice, Italy, before repositioning to the Mediterranean and the Adriatic Coast for the 2022 summer season. She will be joined by her sister ship, Emerald Sakara, in February 2023, sailing itineraries to the Seychelles, Black Sea and the Middle East.