As the slow march begins toward the end of the river cruise season, most operators are gearing up for the Christmas Market cruises that always book-end the cruising year. But one operator is already looking toward the spring of 2013, and for good reason.
In May of 2014, Emerald Cruises will officially begin operation with two brand-new vessels, Emerald Star and Emerald Sky. Together, both vessels will operate a total of five distinct itineraries for Emerald that range from the 8-Day Danube Delights voyage from Nuremberg to Budapest; to the grand 15-Day Splendours of Europe departures from Amsterdam.
Conceived of by Australian tour and river cruise operator Scenic Tours, Emerald Cruises is designed to complement rather than compete with Scenic’s existing offerings along the waterways of Europe.
Now, the line has released a promotional video detailing some of the unique features of these two vessels, both of which are brand new and are being constructed specifically for Emerald Cruises.
Of particular note are the uncommon (and decidedly cruise-ship-like) amenities like a proper movie theater onboard, along with a swimming pool featuring a retractable, Magrodome-style glass canopy that will allow it to be utilized in all weather conditions.
A variety of staterooms grades are also on offer, from affordable river view staterooms to spacious one-bedroom suites, all of which are designed to come in at a price point that is less than that found on voyages offered by Scenic.
But Scenic isn’t going anywhere. The company will continue to operate and expand its Scenic “Space Ship” offerings along the waterways of Europe and Russia, catering primarily to river cruisers who demand a more inclusive and luxurious product that comes with a slightly higher price tag.
While it’s never explicitly mentioned, it’s clear that Emerald Cruises (and parent company Scenic) is eager to tap into the same market that Viking River Cruises has so successfully cultivated.
More information on Emerald Cruises will be posted here on River Cruise Advisor as it becomes available. In the meantime, have a read through our Scenic Tours company profile and fleet overview to see what this popular Australian company is all about.
