Emerald Cruises has appointed two long-standing Scenic Group employees as godparents of its newest luxury yacht, Emerald Kaia, ahead of her inaugural Mediterranean season from April 2026.
The announcement comes as Australian-founded Scenic Group celebrates 40 years of innovation in 2026, with the new vessel set to be officially christened in Venice in June.
Director of Operations Kim Scoular and Senior Software Engineer Ray Gilbert have been named as godparents in recognition of their decades of service to the business and contribution to guest experience and operational excellence.
Scenic Group Chief Operating Officer Damien Thomas said the appointment reflects the company’s long-standing culture and commitment to its people.
‘Their naming as godparents of Emerald Kaia recognises not only their remarkable individual journeys, but also the commitment and teamwork that define our collective success,’ he said.
Recognising four decades of service
Scoular has been with Scenic for almost 30 years, beginning as a reservations agent before moving into a global Tour Director role. She now leads operations across the brand’s river and yacht fleet.
‘Being named godparent of Emerald Kaia is an incredible honour and a deeply personal milestone in my journey with Scenic Group,’ Scoular said.
Gilbert joined Scenic Group in 1998 and has played a key role in shaping the company’s IT infrastructure and digital platforms, supporting guests, trade partners and internal teams globally.
‘This recognition reflects the dedication of the entire team that keeps our ships and tours running smoothly,’ he said.
Emerald Kaia joins the fleet
Emerald Kaia departed Halong Bay in February 2026 and will commence her inaugural 11-day Mediterranean voyage from Cyprus to Greece on 4 April 2026.
Following her Mediterranean season, the yacht will transit the Red Sea and Suez Canal before sailing in the Seychelles from December 2026 to March 2027, with options for guests to combine Indian Ocean itineraries with safari land extensions in East Africa.
Purpose-built for up to 128 guests, Emerald Kaia features a new Observation Sun Deck with spa pool, a reimagined La Cucina restaurant with open kitchen, an eight-guest private dining venue known as The Night Market Grill, expanded wellness facilities including an indoor/outdoor gym, and a diving platform.
She is the first of three next-generation yachts joining the fleet, with Emerald Raiya due in 2027 and Emerald Xara in 2028.
