Superyachts? Yes, please. These exclusive cruising experiences will offer personalized itineraries and luxe amenities tailored to the unique preferences of today’s sophisticated travelers.
Swan Hellenic’s ‘Legacy of Wine’ Culinary Cruise
Swan Hellenic is launching its first-ever cultural expedition cruise dedicated to food and wine, the ‘Legacy of Wine’ sailing. This exclusive 10-day voyage will journey from Lisbon, Portugal, to Portsmouth, UK, offering an immersive gastronomic experience at sea.
The SH Diana will set sail from Lisbon on May 12, making stops in Leixoes (near Porto), Ferrol, Santander and Bilbao in Spain, as well as Lorient, Roscoff, Saint-Malo and Honfleur in France, before concluding in Portsmouth on May 21.
In partnership with Champagne Castelnau, the cruise will feature paired tastings, gourmet dining and curated excursions, led by Keith Isaac, a Master of Wine and GM of Castelnau Wine Agencies, alongside Michelin-starred chef Heribert Dietrich.
“We are very proud of this significant enhancement to our cultural expedition cruising,” said Swan Hellenic CEO Andrea Zito, in a press statement. “Every aspect has been expertly conceived to immerse our guests in transformative gastronomic experiences that enrich their voyage with new skills and insight.”
For more information, visit swanhellenic.com.
Emerald Cruises Celebrates Emerald Kaia
Emerald Cruises’ Emerald Kaia is set to debut in April 2026. The superyacht will travel across the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Aegean and Seychelles, with stops in Venice, Dubrovnik and Athens. In December, Emerald Cruises held a keel-laying ceremony with the team at MKM Yachts in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.
“The keel laying of Emerald Kaia marks another exciting step forward in our vision for redefining the yachting experience,” said Glen Moroney, Chairman and Founder of Scenic Group, in a press statement. “Building on the tremendous success of Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara, Emerald Kaia reflects our commitment to innovation, luxury and sustainability.”
Designed to accommodate 128 guests, 88% of cabins will feature verandas with panoramic ocean views. The yacht also features an expansive Observation Sun Deck, wellness areas, a spa and a swim-up platform. Emerald Kaia will be the third luxury superyacht in the Emerald Cruises fleet.
For more information, visit emeraldcruises.com.
European Waterways Expands Fleet
European Waterways, specializing in luxury hotel barge cruising, has acquired Shannon Princess, Ireland’s only luxury hotel barge. The acquisition further expands its fleet to 18 vessels.
Since 2003, Shannon Princess has navigated Southern Ireland’s River Shannon under the ownership of Ruairi and Olivia Gibbons. Now fully under European Waterways’ ownership, the vessel will continue its River Shannon itineraries with planned enhancements to come.
Designed for up to 10 passengers, Shannon Princess features spacious cabins, a panoramic saloon and a sun deck with a spa pool. A 5-person crew ensures intimate service and attention to detail. Guests will enjoy curated experiences, including private whiskey tastings at historic distilleries, guided castle tours and outdoor activities along the scenic river.
“We are thrilled to welcome Shannon Princess to the European Waterways family,” said Derek Banks, Managing Directo, in a press statemenet. “Her charm and character align perfectly with our commitment to luxury and cultural immersion.”
For more information, europeanwaterways.com.
