Emerald Cruises has taken delivery of its first superyacht, Emerald Azzurra, in Vietnam.

The 100-passenger vessel left the Ha Long Shipyard on Wednesday (February 9) and is heading to Aqaba, Jordan, ahead of its maiden eight-day voyage due to depart on March 11.

Following the inaugural sailing, Emerald Azzurra (pictured) will transit the Suez Canal and begin a series of voyages in the Mediterranean and along the Adriatic coast during the summer 2022 season.

Azzurra had been scheduled to launch last month but the line was forced to push back its maiden voyage until March due to the “continually changing travel landscape”.

Glen Moroney, founder and chairman of Emerald’s parent Scenic Group, said demand for the yacht’s sailings had been “unprecedented” and its maiden season was “almost fully sold”.

He said: “Today marks a major moment for our team at Emerald Cruises as the first in our fleet of ocean-going superyachts takes a giant step towards completion.

“We look forward to welcoming our first guests on board Emerald Azzurra and we are confident she will exceed all expectations.”

He added: “This yacht represents the next generation of yacht cruising, taking guests to new destinations with on board luxury amenities that are unlike any other small-ship experience.

“Sister yacht, Emerald Sakara, will follow early next year, providing double the opportunities for guests to join us on board our ground-breaking vessels.”

Moroney thanked the shipyard, subcontractors and the local management team for their work ahead of the delivery.

“We understand the difficulties the pandemic has caused which makes this accomplishment even more remarkable,” he said. “We look forward to smooth sailing ahead for Emerald Azzurra along with a speedy build of Emerald Sakara.”

Of the 50 onboard suites, more than 88% of them have balconies. The yacht also has an infinity pool, spa, gym and marina platform, with paddleboards and snorkelling equipment.

Emerald Azzurra will be joined by Emerald Sakara in February 2023.