Scenic Group has unveiled a major expansion of its global yacht cruising programme for 2028, highlighting growing demand for luxury and expedition voyages.
Central to this
expansion is the launch of Emerald Xara and the return of Scenic Eclipse II to
Australia, the Kimberley, and the South Pacific after a successful two-year
deployment in the region.
Emerald Cruises will
continue building its superyacht fleet following the debut of Emerald Kaia in
2026. Emerald Raiya is set to launch in 2027, followed by Emerald Xara in 2028.
As the first Emerald
yacht to explore Asia and Australia, Emerald Xara will offer 15 new itineraries
across destinations including Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia,
Singapore, and Indonesia’s Raja Ampat, before heading to Australia’s Kimberley
region, Darwin, and Papua New Guinea.
For the first time, travellers will be able
to explore these regions with both Scenic Group brands—choosing between the
all-inclusive expedition experience of Scenic Eclipse II and the more relaxed
luxury style of Emerald Xara.
Tom
Batchelor, Acting Vice President, Deployment, Product & Port Operations –
Ocean said “We are delighted to be bringing Scenic Eclipse II back to the
Kimberley, Oceania and East Antarctica from March 2028, following two highly
successful seasons that highlight the region’s strong appeal for world‑class
expedition and discovery journeys. Launching Emerald Xara for her inaugural
season means guests can explore this extraordinary part of the world across
both of our brands, reflecting our confidence to deliver unique experiences in
the region, plus our commitment to growing Scenic Group’s presence across all
continents globally.”
Scenic Eclipse II,
currently sailing in the Mediterranean and Arctic, will return to Oceania in
2028 due to strong demand from guests and travel partners following successful
earlier seasons.
Its extended programme will include voyages
across the South Pacific, from Tahiti through Pacific islands to Australia’s
Kimberley coast, then onward to Hobart and New Zealand.
The ship will also
offer two expeditions to East Antarctica and the Ross Sea, before continuing
through Indonesia’s Spice Islands to Japan and South Korea.
This expansion builds
on Scenic Group’s broader growth strategy, which includes new river ships in
Europe—Emerald Astra (2026) and Emerald Lumi (2027)—as well as Emerald Raiya
(2027).
Additional launches include Scenic Spirit II on the Mekong and Scenic Ikon Discovery Yacht in 2028. -TradeArabia News Service