Emerald Cruises to launch new river ship in 2026

The vessel will sail the Rhine, Moselle and Danube rivers, carrying 180 passengers. Emerald said the ship was “designed to mirror the sleek elegance of the line’s luxury superyachts”, with a grey-tinted glass exterior.

The ship will be the brand’s seventh to sail the Rhine, Main and Danube. It goes on sale with Emerald Cruises’ 2026 river cruise season from 22 October.

The launch comes as Emerald updates several other vessels with “luxury yacht-inspired” design elements amid a claimed 32% increase in river trade bookings from 2023 to 2024. Emerald said this was “a clear indication of its growth in popularity with agents and their customers”.
 
The upgrades affect ships sailing the Rhine, Danube, Rhone and Portugal’s Douro river from next year. New features include a pool/cinema combination, multiple dining options and a sun deck, while all interiors have been given a more contemporary design.  

Each guest cabin will feature iPads detailing onboard amenities and itineraries.