WHY IT RATES: The newest superyacht successfully completed its sea trials in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, which means that the ship is expected to launch its inaugural journeys this January 2022. – Lacey Pfalz, Associate Writer, TravelPulse

Emerald Azzurra, the first custom-built superyacht by Emerald Cruises has successfully completed its first sea trials, conducted by Captain Jonathan Edwards and Marine Operations Manager Robert O’Leary along with more than 98 specialized crew, contractors and shipyard staff on board. The sea trials took place in Vietnam, departing Ha Long Shipyard on November 20, with the sea trials completed within 48 hours.

Following the successful sea trials, Emerald Azzurra will shortly undergo the final touches to its interior and exterior, as well as complete the training of the on board teams before she begins sailing in early 2022.

Glen Moroney, Founder and Chairman, Scenic Group (which includes Emerald Cruises and Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours) commented: “During Emerald Azzurra’s sea trials, all design parameters were exceeded, including speed, noise, vibration and overall comfort and maneuverability whilst sailing. Emerald Azzurra really is a very special superyacht, and will undoubtedly deliver a fantastic experience for our guests.”

Captain Jonathan Edwards added “I’m delighted with the great teamwork that has been achieved in constructing not just the most elegant vessel on the seas, but one that can live up to the high standards we have all grown to expect from Emerald Cruises.”

Offering a luxury small ship cruising experience, the superyacht will carry just 100 guests in 50 deluxe suites and staterooms, with more than 80 percent of cabins featuring a balcony. Emerald Azzurra is the 10th vessel in the Emerald Cruises fleet – joining nine river cruising Star-Ships. The line’s second superyacht, Emerald Sakara, will join the fleet in early 2023.

Emerald Cruises offers a diverse lineup of river and yacht cruises on three continents. Emerald Azzurra, the line’s first ocean-going vessel set to debut in January 2022, is a 100-guest, luxury superyacht that will sail the warm waters of the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Black and Red Seas. The line’s second yacht, Emerald Sakara, is due to launch in 2023. On the rivers, Emerald Cruises sails eight branded Star-Ships in Europe and one on the Mekong, as well as a chartered river ship sailing the Russian waterways. The brand offers contemporary deluxe ships, outstanding service and an incredibly inclusive pricing plan that has won them the honor of being named Best River Cruise Line for Value by the Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards for five years running. Emerald Cruises is part of Scenic Group, which includes Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Mayflower Cruises & Tours and Evergreen Tours in Australia.

Emerald Cruises can be found on Twitter as @emerald_cruises, on Facebook as EmeraldCruisesGlobal and on Instagram as @EmeraldCruises.global.

Additional information can be found by contacting your local travel advisor; on Emerald Cruises’ website, www.emeraldcruises.com; or by calling the consumer/travel agent reservations line at 844-428-8389. Digital brochure downloads are available on the website.

SOURCE: Emerald Cruises press release.