With a fleet that oozes modern luxury and that looks more like a boutique hotel, Emerald Cruises broke the mould of traditional river cruise ships. As a result, their sleek, glass-heavy ships have been designed to reflect the flow of the rivers they sail on, and feature a variety of innovative features such as a retractable roof that transforms the pool area into a cinema screening space at night.
During all of Emerald Cruises' excursions, guests are able to immerse themselves in the destinations, so that the experience is as authentic as possible. UNESCO world heritage sites, imposing cathedrals, historical forts, as well as a variety of enrichment activities await travellers.
A significant difference between Emerald Cruises and many other river cruise lines is the amount of entertainment offered on board. With its plush sofas and light interior, the Horizon Bar & Lounge makes the perfect place to start the evening with a pre-dinner apéritif before heading to dinner. You can expect live music, dancing, and local entertainment from the towns you are docked in. These opportunities will allow you to take in a piece of the local culture that is part of the river cruise experience.
Emerald Cruises serves the typical European river cruise passenger -- generally well-travelled cruise veterans in the 55-plus bracket. However, the line's contemporary, boutique-style ships also attract first-time river cruisers, including passengers in their 40s, who enjoy the active shore excursions on offer. Around half of the passengers come from the U.K., with the rest coming from Australia, New Zealand, the U.S and Canada.
Not really. Ships have a relaxed, easy-going vibe. There is no special dress code and there are no formal nights. For dinner, smart-casual attire is recommended. Jeans can be worn in the restaurant in the evening, but shorts and flip-flops are not appropriate. Many passengers dress up for the captain's welcome dinner and/or farewell dinner, but mostly opting for smarter casual rather than full-on cocktail dresses and suits.
Mostly. Cruise fares include most shore excursions, all on board meals, complimentary wines, draft beers, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board, Wi-Fi and gratuities. Extra costs are bar drinks, optional DiscoverMORE excursions, beauty treatments and massages, and retail shop purchases.
Shore excursions are the most popular activities for Emerald Cruises' passengers, with the EmeraldPLUS (tours that focus on local customs) and EmeraldACTIVE options particular favourites. Onboard, cruisers love hanging out in the dual-purpose area at the back of the ship that transforms from an indoor, heated pool with retractable roof during the day to a cinema at night.
Fun-loving & active cruisers.
Early-to-bed, traditional cruisers.