Sakara will sail the Seychelles on its maiden voyage, a brand new destination for Emerald, before joining Azzurra in Europe, sailing the Med, Adriatic and Red and Black seas.

Emerald said Sakara would offer additional capacity to meet demand for the line’s ocean itineraries, with its latest Black Sea sailings selling out in less than two weeks.

Its eight-day maiden voyage, Tropical Charms of the Seychelles, will take in Port Victoria (Mahé Island), Sainte-Anne Island, Cousin Island, Praslin Island, Grande-Soeur Island, Curieuse Island, La Digue Island and Aride Island.

The 110-metre vessel is being built in Ha Long City, Vietnam; like Azzurra, 88% of Sakara’s cabins will have balconies. Other features include an infinity pool, spa, gym and marina platform. There will also be paddleboards and snorkelling equipment available.

All fares will be all-inclusive including meals, complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner, as well as excursions and other onboard activities.

Sales opened on Tuesday (28 September) with 32 scheduled departures available, starting Q1 2023.

“Just like we did eight years ago on the rivers, we are bringing our own style of innovative and contemporary cruising to the world’s celebrated oceans, and we cannot wait to welcome guests on board our two superyachts to explore some of the world’s most incredible regions with them," said David Winterton, Emerald global director of brand and marketing.

Sakara is Emerald’s 11th ship, sitting alongside Azzurra and the line’s nine star-ship river vessels. Azzurra will start sailing on 28 January next year with an eight-day Best of the Red Sea itinerary.