How many boats does Emerald operate?

The fleet sails Europe's rivers and the Mekong, and the line also runs ocean-going yachts in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Every boat carries dates with us. The number of Emerald cruises currently on sale is shown at the top of this page.

Are Emerald and Scenic the same thing?

They belong to the same company. Scenic Group, founded by Glen Moroney and based in Zug, Switzerland, runs both brands: Emerald began in 2013 as a division of Scenic. Comparing the two is not comparing two competitors, it is comparing two ranges from the same house.

What sets Emerald apart from Scenic?

On what the fare covers, and it is measurable. Scenic announces drinks all day with a few exceptions, butler service for suites, a restocked minibar, all excursions included and electric bicycles. Emerald announces wine, beer and soft drinks at meals, no butler, and excursions on two tiers of which the second is charged. Gratuities and Wi-Fi are announced as included on both sides. We report what both lines announce; we have not checked it departure by departure.

Where does the name Emerald Waterways come from?

It was the original name, in 2013. Since February 2020, Emerald Cruises has been the brand covering both the rivers and the sea-going yachts. Our address still carries the old name; the content speaks of the house as it is today.

Which Emerald boat should I pick for a first cruise?

Emerald Harmony, on the Mekong, is by far the most heavily scheduled and the furthest from home. On Europe's rivers the boats are much alike and the itinerary makes the difference. The ocean yachts are a product apart, closer to cruising than to river travel. An advisor will tell you which one sails on your dates.

Does Emerald have sea-going ships?

Yes. The river Star-Ships carry one hundred and eighty people; Emerald Azzurra, delivered in February 2022, opened a range of sea-going yachts, far smaller than a liner. They are two different products under one brand.

Does Emerald repeat the same itineraries?

On Europe's rivers, yes, as every river line does: the same towns and the same locks. The variety comes from the rest of the ground, from the Mekong to the ocean yachts, which has nothing to do with the Rhine or the Danube.

Can I book an Emerald cruise that is not shown on this page?

Yes. This page shows the departures we carry online, and our inventory does not always cover the line's full catalogue. Call us with the date and itinerary you found: in most cases we can book it for you.

Is service available in French?

It depends on the departure, not on the line. On European rivers French-speaking departures exist but are not the rule. Say so before booking: it is checked departure by departure.

Is a river cruise tiring?

Less than a coach tour, more than a week in a hotel. You unpack once, but you walk a great deal: towns are seen on foot, old centres are cobbled, and the days follow one another without gaps. If walking is a concern, say so before choosing the route.

Should I book far ahead?

On boats of one hundred and twenty to one hundred and eighty people, yes. There are few cabins, and the upper decks go first. Booking far ahead fixes a choice but commits money in advance: talk cancellation terms through with your advisor before you decide.

Who protects me if my cruise is cancelled?

Your agency, and it alone. Voyages AquaTerra operates under a licence from Quebec's Office de la protection du consommateur, your payments pass through a trust account, and the compensation fund for travel agency clients covers your departure. That holds whichever line you choose.

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