What Was It Like to Be The First on Emerald Kaia?

James Cole once described Emerald Yachts like being a billionaire on your own private yacht and having recently experienced it for myself, I can fully understand and agree with this statement.

Earlier this year I was invited to the pre-launch of Emerald Kaia, the newest yacht to the Emerald Cruises fleet, in Greece. Kaia is slightly larger than her sister yachts, carrying 128 passengers, 10% larger suites and an expanded Elements Spa. 

We were welcomed on board in Piraeus, Athens and instantly I knew yacht cruising was going to be for me! Being a river cruise enthusiast, I instantly felt at home in an intimate, contemporary environment and being greeted with a glass of champagne before even checking in was the cherry on top! 

With this being a pre-launch showcase, we were given access to every suite category and I just wanted to highlight some of my favourites:

Terrace Suites

Generously sized between 648 and 830 Sq Ft (Including the outside terrace), these suites take pride of place at the aft of the Panorama Deck. The wraparound terrace features a seating area and sun loungers for private relaxation. 

Oceanview Cabins

I was pleasantly surprised with these staterooms located on Deck 3. The large windows allowed so much light to flood to stateroom making it feel much bigger than other “window” staterooms I have experienced before. 

Owners Suite

The most impressive suite on the yacht and is 1410 Sq Ft of pure luxury. There are only 2 suites located on deck 6 forward and feature an expansive outdoor terrace equipped with a spa pool. Inside the suite you can expect to experience luxury ESPA bath products, a walk-in shower, a large walk-in wardrobe, a complimentary mini bar that is restocked daily and a welcome bottle of champagne upon arrival.  

As well as larger suites than the previous 2 yachts, Kaia’s wellness facilities have been increased by 50%. This includes a new gym area that opens up into an indoor/outdoor setup that allows you to dive straight into the ocean post workout. 

During our short voyage we visited a small Greek, car-less island called Spetses. Initially we were meant to visit Santorini but due to early season bad weather (March) this was not possible and I actually think it was a blessing in disguise. As beautiful as Santorini is, everyone goes there and it can become overwhelmed with tourists which takes away from its charm. Visiting a small island like Spetses really is what a yacht like Kaia is made for. It was quaint, authentic and personable which again made it feel like your own private experience and not a mass gathering with thousands of other travellers. 

We watched the Emerald Kaia team literally finish building elements of the ship in front of us and the passion and enthusiasm went into every last screw and lick of paint. Emerald have pulled crew from other yachts to ensure the minute guests step on board, they had the full experience with no initial launch issues or barriers. There is thought and care gone into every space on board and you truly felt it amongst the crew. 

Kaia will sail the Med through her first season and then take Emerald guests for the very first time to the Seychelles and surrounding regions.

You can find out more about Emerald Yacht Cruises here.