Emerald Waterways Enters Ocean Cruise Arena

River cruise line Emerald Waterways will venture into ocean cruising in 2019, with a newly commissioned, intimate yacht.

The MV Adriatic Princess II will accommodate 36 guests in 18 staterooms. Features announced at Seatrade Cruise Global 2018 include an open-plan restaurant, bar and lounge terrace, sun deck and aft pool ladders for easy access to the sea for swimming and snorkeling.

The ship is purpose-built to navigate the small ports of the Dalmatian coast.

The vessel will ply that coast in an eight-day "Islands of Dalmatia" itinerary between Trogir and Dubrovnik, Croatia. The cruise showcases the renowned Adriatic coastal scenery that includes a multitude of off-shore islands, limestone peaks, ancient cities, towns and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Emerald Waterways will offer 22 "Islands of Dalmatia" departures from April through October, 2019. The line is currently accepting pre-bookings with a refundable $250 deposit.

"We're very excited to announce Emerald Waterways' first foray into ocean cruising," said Lisa Norton, vice president of brand management for Emerald Waterways-U.S. "The Dalmatian Coast of Croatia is a beautiful and culturally rich destination; an ideal locale to explore on board an intimate yacht."

The new yacht sailings may also pique client interest in a combined river cruise-ocean cruise vacation. On select sailings, the "Islands of Dalmatia" itinerary can be combined with an "Enchantment of Eastern Europe" or "Danube Delights" river cruise.

Emerald Waterways is also offering a three-night land extension in Zagreb.