Emerald Cruises announces the launch of Emerald Astra

Emerald Cruises is delighted to announce the launch of a new ship, Emerald Astra, which will add to its fleet of Star-Ships. Alongside this exciting addition, extensive updates are being made to the entire Emerald Cruises river fleet across Europe. These developments are designed to enhance the guest experience by blending the brand’s hallmark features with luxury yacht-inspired design elements. 

Emerald Astra marks the next evolution of Emerald Cruises’ award-winning river fleet. Designed to reflect the sleek elegance of the line’s luxury superyachts, the ship boasts a modern exterior with grey-tinted glass and will accommodate 180 guests. The name “Astra,” derived from ancient Greek and Latin, translates to “Star,” and Emerald Astra is set to shine as the seventh Star-Ship to sail the Rhine, Main and Danube.

The updated design of Emerald Astra focuses on both style and functionality, featuring popular amenities such as a pool/cinema combination, multiple dining options and a sun deck dedicated to relaxation and panoramic views. The interiors have been enhanced with a sleek, contemporary design, ensuring a sophisticated and spacious atmosphere for travellers on Europe’s rivers. 

Emerald Astra will join the fleet in 2026 and will sail the iconic Rhine, Moselle and Danube rivers. Europe river cruises for the 2026 season will be available for booking in the coming weeks. 

Emerald Cruises is also pleased to announce comprehensive upgrades across its European river fleet, including vessels navigating the Rhine-Main-Danube, the Rhône in France and the Douro in Portugal. Guests can look forward to enjoying these enhancements during the 2025 season. 

Key upgrades include:

• Horizon Bar & Lounge redesigns: Star-Ships on the Rhin-Main-Danube route will receive new lounge furniture with elevated design, bright accent colours and luxurious textiles. Similarly, Emerald Radiance on the Douro and Emerald Liberté on the Rhône will see updates to align the new aesthetic across the fleet. 
• Pool/cinema and dining space enhancements: Pool and cinema spaces, along with Reflections Restaurant and The Terrace, will be revamped with new furniture and updated layouts to improve guest comfort and dining experiences. Back-of-house areas will also receive significant upgrades. 
• Missoni textiles and yacht-inspired art: The addition of Missoni textiles and art installations, inspired by Emerald Cruises’ luxury yachts, will bring a refined, modern ambience to each ship. 
• In-suite technology: Each guest cabin will feature iPads to enhance guest interaction with onboard amenities and each journey’s itinerary, providing easy access to digital resources for guests. 

All upgrades will be completed for the 2025 season, ensuring a new level of comfort and luxury on Europe’s beloved and enchanting rivers. 

“As we continue to expand our fleet and enhance the guest experience, our commitment remains steadfast: to provide unrivalled luxury and value in river cruising,” said Glen Moroney, Founder and Chairman of Scenic Group. “The introduction of Emerald Astra, alongside the fleet-wide upgrades, exemplifies our dedication to leading innovation in the industry. By seamlessly blending the finest elements of river and yacht cruising, we ensure that every journey is extraordinary. These enhancements are designed with our guests in mind - creating refined spaces that encourage relaxation, connection and discovery - upholding our promise to continually elevate the standards of luxury river cruising.”