SAN JUAN — One of the smallest ships in cruising, the 100-passenger Emerald Sakara was christened here on Saturday by godmother Kelly Craighead, CEO of the Cruise Lines International Association.
"Emerald Sakara is really important to the cruise industry," Craighead said. "Yachts like these are just a prime example of the breadth and depth of the cruise industry. It's wonderful to say very confidently that there is a ship for everyone.
Glen Moroney, founder of Scenic Group and owner of Emerald Cruises, has taken a unique stance in the cruise industry. Despite the financial capacity to build larger ships, Moroney has expressed a deliberate choice to stick with smaller vessels. This decision reflects a commitment to offering an intimate and exclusive cruise experience, catering to modern travelers' preferences for authenticity and sustainability. By resisting the industry trend of building larger ships, Moroney distinguishes the Scenic Group and Emerald Cruises as providers of quality over quantity, emphasizing personalized service and a lower environmental impact.
"The experience does not get better as the ships get bigger," said Moroney, who said he had a relative who cruised on a mass-market ship and had "the time of her life."
"There's nothing wrong with those ships, it's just that some people prefer a different type of cruise," Moroney said.
Emerald Sakara, the latest addition to Emerald Cruises, signifies the company's transition from river to ocean cruises. Following the success of its sister ship, Emerald Azzurra, which debuted last year, Sakara continues the journey into open waters. This expansion demonstrates Emerald Cruises' commitment to providing diverse maritime experiences, combining the luxury of river cruises with the excitement of ocean voyages. As the fleet grows, the company reaffirms its dedication to delivering exceptional journeys, offering passengers unparalleled comfort and innovation, whether navigating rivers or sailing the high seas. Emerald Cruises invites travelers to embark on unforgettable adventures, promising discovery and delight in every voyage.
After a splendid naming ceremony, the ship embarked on a weeklong West Indies Island Hopping adventure. The itinerary included Culebra, known for its pristine beaches and coral reefs, followed by Vieques, where passengers witnessed the mesmerizing bioluminescence of Mosquito Bay at night. The journey continued to the British Virgin Islands, featuring the iconic Baths on Virgin Gorda. Finally, the ship docked at the glamorous St. Barts, offering a taste of French sophistication and exclusive beaches. Throughout the voyage, passengers enjoyed a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and luxury, creating lasting memories of the Caribbean's enchanting beauty.
