Emerald Cruises has reached a major milestone in the construction of its newest Emerald Star-Ship, with Emerald Lumi officially entering the water for the first time ahead of her inaugural Seine River season in 2027.
The ceremonial float out at the shipyard in Romania marks the next stage in the development of the purpose-built vessel, which will sail a new collection of river cruises through northern France from March next year.
Purpose-built for the Seine
Designed specifically for the Seine River, the 110-metre Emerald Lumi will accommodate up to 130 guests and has been built to access destinations including the heart of Paris and Honfleur, where larger river ships have limited access.
Onboard, guests will find contemporary suites and staterooms featuring Emerald’s signature all-weather balconies, alongside the Reflections Restaurant, Horizon Bar & Lounge, a heated indoor pool that converts into an evening cinema and a self-service laundry.
Scenic Group Vice President Product, River Cruises, Elisabeth Sadler said the new ship would offer a fresh approach to exploring northern France.
“Emerald Lumi’s water launch is an exciting step in bringing a fresh style of river cruising to the Seine,” she said. “By combining extended overnight stays in key ports with curated local history and culinary experiences, plus a choice of active EmeraldACTIVE excursions, this new itinerary offers a more immersive, unhurried way to explore northern France than many traditional river itineraries.”
New Seine itinerary for 2027
From March 2027, Emerald Lumi will operate the new eight-day Sensations of the Seine & Normandy itinerary, sailing roundtrip from Paris to Honfleur.
The voyage includes overnight stays and extended time in destinations such as Honfleur and La Roche-Guyon, complemented by included guided sightseeing and EmeraldACTIVE experiences including e-bike rides, hiking and kayaking.
Highlights include visits to Claude Monet’s home and gardens at Giverny, a full-day tour of the Normandy D-Day landing sites, a walking tour of Honfleur with fresh oyster tasting and an exclusive EmeraldPLUS visit to a traditional Normandy cider farm. Airport transfers, meals, selected drinks, guided excursions, gratuities and Wi-Fi are also included.
Fleet continues to grow
Emerald Lumi forms part of Scenic Group’s continued investment across its river and yacht cruise portfolio.
The launch follows the debut of Emerald Kaia and Emerald Astra, with additional luxury yachts Emerald Raiya and Emerald Xara scheduled to join the fleet in 2027 and 2028. Sister brand Scenic is also expanding with Scenic Ikon launching in 2028, alongside new river ships for India’s Hooghly River and the Mekong.
