The 100-passenger vessel is a new departure for river cruise specialist Emerald, and four of the brand’s top-selling agents will be onboard the maiden voyage departing from Aqaba in Jordan on 11 March.

Joseph Grimley, UK director of sales for Emerald and sister brand Scenic, told TTG the sailing would be an “opportunity to show off Azzurra’s toys”, such as its infinity pool and marina platform, featuring Seabob water scooters, paddleboards and snorkelling equipment.

“Sales for Azzurra have been fantastic despite the pandemic because it’s so unique and has really captured people’s imaginations,” he added.

"You can experience a billionaire lifestyle without the price tag. We’re pretty much full for 2022; there are a couple of little pockets of opportunity which we will fill up pretty quickly when people see the ship in action.”

After its maiden voyage, Azzurra will transit the Suez Canal before embarking on a summer season in the Mediterranean and along the Adriatic coast.

Azzurra will be followed in early 2023 by sister yacht Emerald Sakara, which will initially sail around the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean.

“Sakara sales are going very well – it opens up exciting new destinations,” added Grimley. 

Meanwhile, Scenic will be hosting back-to-back fam trips for up to 36 agents onboard Scenic Eclipse when the vessel visits the UK in June.

The first trade trip will sail from Lisbon to Fowey in Cornwall from 18-23 June, followed by Fowey to Amsterdam on 23-26 June.

Agents have the chance to win one place (with a guest) on the first voyage, with those who make Eclipse bookings between 1 March and 30 April entered into a prize draw.