NYK Cruises takes delivery of Asuka III

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 10 April 2025 10 April 2025

NYK Cruises took delivery of the Asuka III, the new cruise ship, from Meyer Werft today. On board the ship, Hiroyuki Endo, President of NYK Cruises celebrated the official handover of the ship with Bernd Eikens, CEO of the Meyer Werft Group, executives of Meyer Werft and NYK Cruises employees as well as the ship's captain Hisashai Kogue. The traditional flag change also took place during the delivery ceremony.

The Asuka III stands for a new and Japanese kind of luxury at sea. The 740-guest ship, which sails alongside the Asuka III, will offer cruises from various ports in Japan.

The ship is characterized by a special design that combines open spaces with traditional Japanese aesthetics. Japanese artists will also be exhibited on the ship, including Hiroshi Senju's fresco in the Gallery Café (Deck 6) and Reiji Hiramatsu's paintings in the Noblesse Restaurant (Deck 6).

During its first season, the ship will call at over 30 destinations throughout the country, including Hakodate, Otaru, Takamatsu, Shingu, Muroran and Moji. The highlight of the season will be the “Japan Circumnavigation Cruise” departing from Yokohama in early August, during which the Asuka III will visit Hakodate, Otaru, Kanazawa, Maizuru, Moji and Beppu on a 12-night voyage before returning to her home port.

The ship is one of the most energy-efficient cruise ships ever built and represents an important milestone on the way to reducing emissions and carbon intensity.

“We are delighted to take delivery of the Asuka III,” said Endo. “Providing the best vacation experiences in our home country in a responsible manner is what drives everything we do. We are fortunate to have the best people working together to create unforgettable experiences for our guests.”

“The delivery of the Asuka III is on schedule today and is an important milestone for us,” said Bernd Eikens, CEO of Meyer Werft Group. “The entire Meyer Werft team, together with our partners, has worked hard to bring this ship to life and today we have completed another great ship. Many of the interior elements will only be brought on board in Yokohama, the ship's home port, but it is already apparent that it will be a wonderful ship for the Japanese public,” Eikens continued

After the Asuka III was transferred some 40 km down the Ems from the Meyer shipyard in Papenburg, it completed its technical and nautical sea trials in the North Sea on March 18 - under the supervision of Captain Wolfgang Thos, the shipyard's captain, and experienced pilots on the high seas.

 

Meyer Yachts to build residential yacht Ulyssia

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 08 April 2025 08 April 2025

Meyer Yachts, together with Ulyssia Residences, have announced a partnership in their upcoming project, Ulyssia, a one-of-a-kind 320-metre residential yacht. 2025 marks a milestone year for the project, with the build process on track to begin later this year in Papenburg, Germany, where Meyer Yachts is headquartered.

Set to become the world’s most exclusive residential yacht community with 133 residences and 22 guest suites, Ulyssia is envisioned by Monaco-based Swiss entrepreneur, Frank Binder. It is designed by renowned naval architect Espen Øino, with interiors by FM Architettura. Meyer Yachts will carry out all construction phases of Ulyssia, with completion of the project due within the next four to five years.

The shipyard has a rich history of craftsmanship and quality and is renowned today for its innovation and excellence in shipbuilding. As the world’s prime builder of large passenger ships, it has a notable history of delivering complex and high-value vessels dating back to 1795.

The build process of Ulyssia will be broken down into the following key phases over the next four to five years:
Design: This phase involves the basic design of defining Ulyssia from a global perspective, followed by the detailed design that culminates in workshop drawings.

Construction and Technical Outfitting: Using these workshop drawings, steel and pipe construction then begins, followed by Ulyssia’s technical outfitting. The first elements of Ulyssia – so called ‘blocks’ – are assembled in the historic building dock.

Assembly and Interior Design: After approximately 18 months, the first of these ‘blocks’ are ready to be assembled. Towards the later phases of the project – between months 40 and 44 – equipment and interior outfitting is carried out to complete this groundbreaking vessel.

Test, Trial and Delivery: A test and trial sequence then takes place ahead of delivery and Ulyssia’s maiden voyage

Alain Gruber, CEO of Ulyssia Residences, says: “We are delighted to be working together with Meyer Yachts to create the masterpiece that Ulyssia will become. This generational project is a legacy for Founder & Chairman, Frank Binder and the many talented team members behind Ulyssia, aimed at redefining the standard in luxury, sustainability, environmental impact and crew welfare.

As the leading name within the industry, we knew from the very start of the project that Meyer Yachts would be the perfect build partner to bring Ulyssia to life. We feel so fortunate to have secured this partnership with Meyer Yachts, now that the calendar is fully booked for the next five years. We’re greatly looking forward to these next few years ahead, culminating in Ulyssia setting sail on her maiden voyage from Monaco.”

Lars Kruse, Head of Sales and Design at Meyer Yachts, comments: “The project Ulyssia is revolutionising residential yacht design and construction, in doing so elevating the entire industry to a whole new level. Beside the stunning exterior and concept design, the market Ulyssia is leading into is absolutely unique and setting new milestones within shipbuilding history. We are honoured to have been chosen as a build partner by the Ulyssia Residences team and we look forward to the journey ahead.”

Photo credit: Espen Øino International

Finnlines invests in the Finland-Germany route – three pioneering ro-pax ships ordered

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 08 April 2025 08 April 2025

The Grimaldi Group, of which Finnlines is a part, has signed an order for nine pioneering ro-pax ships. Six vessels will be deployed in the Mediterranean under the Grimaldi Lines and Minoan Lines brands, while three will be operated by Finnlines in the Baltic Sea. Key features include reduced environmental impact and enhanced onboard comfort.

As part of its fleet expansion and renewal program, the Grimaldi Group has commissioned the construction of nine ro-pax vessels from China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Weihai), a China Merchants Group company. The agreement for these cutting-edge new builds, worth a total of $1.3 billion, was signed this morning in Hong Kong.

The new ships have been designed to elevate the quality of maritime transport for both rolling cargo and passengers in the Mediterranean and the Baltic Sea. All nine will be equipped with engines capable of running on methanol, making them ready to achieve the “Net Zero Emission” goal. Indeed, they will combine transport capacity, innovative design and onboard comfort, all perfectly aligned with environmental sustainability.

Four of the new vessels will sail under the Italian flag and be operated under the Grimaldi Lines brand, while two, under the Greek flag, will be deployed by the Greek subsidiary Minoan Lines. These six sister ships belong to the “Next Generation Med” class and will serve routes in the Mediterranean. The other three will be delivered to Finnlines, sail under the Finnish flag and inaugurate the “Hansa Superstar” class – constituting the evolution of the already state-of-the-art “Superstar” series – intended for routes in the Baltic Sea.

All nine ships will be delivered between 2028 and 2030 and will feature ground-breaking, green technology innovations. Optimized hull and propeller designs, energy-efficient onboard power management systems (both at sea and in port), shore power readiness and the application of silicon-based hull coatings will reduce CO₂ emissions per transported cargo unit by more than 50% compared to vessels currently operating on the same routes.

With length of 229 metres, the new Mediterranean ro-pax vessels will have a cargo capacity of 3,300 lane metres for rolling freight and over 300 cars. They can accommodate up to 2,500 passengers, offering more than 300 cabins (for a total of over 1,200 guests) and approximately 700 reclining seats.

Passengers will have access to numerous onboard amenities, including three bars, a shopping area, a conference hall, two self-service restaurants, a panoramic à la carte restaurant, an indoor/outdoor lounge with an impressive sun deck featuring two pools, and a rooftop disco bar. The interior design will be carefully curated, with separate customized furnishings for Grimaldi Lines and Minoan Lines vessels, each specifically catering to the tastes and specific needs of their respective target markets.

This new generation of vessels also marks a breakthrough in energy efficiency: the six “Next Generation Med” ships will be the first in the Mediterranean designed to run on methanol.

As for the three new builds designated for the Baltic Sea, they will be 240 metres long, with a cargo capacity of 5,100 lane metres for rolling freight plus 90 cars, and accommodation in 320 cabins for up to 1,100 passengers. The new design is based on Finnlines’ Superstar-class vessels, Finnsirius and Finncanopus, but has been adapted for the Finland-Germany route. The new ships will better suit longer crossings, feature new cabin categories and provide restaurant options tailored to different passenger preferences, with a strong focus on comfort and onboard experience.

Facilities include five bars and restaurants, a spa with a wide range of services and treatments, including the iconic Finnish sauna, shops, and two children’s play areas designed for different age groups. One of the standout features is the main bar at the bow of deck 12, which will offer breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea during the crossing.

“China Merchants Industry Group and the Grimaldi Group have always been adhering to the concept of ‘innovation-driven, quality first’, making breakthroughs in green ship technology and intelligent shipping, and jointly defining a new benchmark in ro-pax vessels. As a leader in high-end equipment manufacturing in China, China Merchants Industry Group and CMI Weihai Shipyard will bring together a top R&D team, lean manufacturing system and full life cycle service system to ensure high-quality project delivery and help Grimaldi further consolidate its leading position in the European and global ro-ro shipping market,” declared Wu Sichuan, Chairman of China Merchant Industry. “China Merchants Industry is willing to continue to work with the Grimaldi Group to deepen cooperation in cutting-edge fields such as zero-carbon fuel and smart ships and jointly provide more efficient and sustainable shipping solutions for global customers.”

“With the order of these nine extraordinary ro-pax vessels, we continue and strengthen our long, successful alliance with China Merchants Group, an outstanding partner for the building of cutting-edge ships,” said Emanuele Grimaldi, Managing Director of the Grimaldi Group and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Finnlines. “The new Next Generation Med and Hansa Superstar classes are the result of a thorough study of our customers’ needs and, more broadly, those of shipping. Today more than ever, the latter requires quality, efficiency and environmental sustainability to remain a key mode of national and international freight and passenger transport. In particular, the exceptional performance in CO₂ emission reduction and the use of methanol as an alternative fuel bring our Group even closer to the global goal of net-zero emissions, further solidifying our position as a leading player in short-sea transport in the Mediterranean and Baltic regions.”

Emerald unveils three new ships

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 07 April 2025 07 April 2025

Emerald Cruises, part of the Scenic Group portfolio, today unveiled a major multi-ship expansion for 2027, building on the momentum of Emerald Kaia and Emerald Astra, both set to launch in April 2026. The 2027 growth will introduce two new superyachts and one new European river ship – including the brand’s first-ever vessel on the iconic Seine River. Together, these additions reflect the next phase in Emerald Cruises’ evolution and a forward-thinking deployment strategy designed to fuel continued growth in the luxury travel sector. The strategic expansion underscores the brand’s momentum as it sails into its second decade, with a fleet and guest experience shaped by design, destination and innovation.

“This is a transformational moment for Emerald Cruises,” said Glen Moroney, chairman and founder of Scenic Group. “From our first yachts to today’s growing fleet, our vision remains clear: to deliver curated experiences in some of the world’s most captivating destinations – both by ocean and river.”

New superyachts

Following the debut of Emerald Kaia in 2026, Emerald Cruises will introduce two additional next-generation superyachts in 2027, reinforcing its leadership in boutique yachting. The new vessels, Emerald Raiya and Emerald Xara, will reflect the same sleek design language and elevated guest experience as their sister ship, with enhancements shaped by direct guest feedback. Each will offer spacious all-suite accommodations, an expansive Sky Deck with private cabanas and panoramic views and a swim-up marina platform designed for effortless access to the sea.

Signature touches include an open-air fitness area, the Elements Spa, multiple dining venues serving regionally inspired cuisine and a curated collection of water toys – such as paddleboards and SeaBobs – delivering the brand’s hallmark blend of adventure, relaxation and understated superyacht allure.

Each yacht will accommodate 128 guests and offer all-suite accommodations. Like Emerald Kaia, both ships will be designed for seamless open-air living, wellness-focused amenities and immersive coastal exploration.

Deployment highlights:
– Emerald Raiya will debut in the Seychelles in Winter 2026/27, then sail the Eastern Mediterranean in Summer 2027, before returning to the Seychelles in Winter 2027/28.
– Emerald Xara will launch in the Mediterranean in Summer 2027, then head to the Caribbean in Winter 2027/28.
– Emerald Kaia will be redeployed to the Caribbean beginning in Winter 2026/27, joining Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara. Guests currently booked on Kaia for the Seychelles itinerary during that season will be contacted about having their sailing transferred to Emerald Raiya.
– In Winter 2027/28, Emerald Kaia and Emerald Xara will join Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara in the Caribbean, expanding the brand’s warm-weather yacht offerings.

"These new sailings allow us to expand the guest experience into more warm-weather seasons, offering even more ways to enjoy our incomparable superyacht product, from the Seychelles to the Caribbean," said Ken Muskat, president of Scenic Group, USA and LATAM. "It’s a powerful extension of our boutique superyacht portfolio. We look forward to sharing the full itinerary and booking details for our new yachts in June 2025.”

New river frontier

As Emerald Cruises charts a bold new course into 2027, its river cruise portfolio is also set to reach exciting new frontiers. Building on a decade of innovation across Europe’s most iconic waterways, the brand will introduce one purpose-built river ship, marking its long-anticipated debut on the Seine River.

The announcement follows the 2026 debut of Emerald Astra, the 10th Emerald Star-Ship in the brand’s European river fleet, further elevating the contemporary Emerald Cruises experience guests have come to love. With sleek design and immersive itineraries, Emerald Astra sets the stage for what’s to come: a new generation of river ships devised with even greater destination access, onboard comfort and cultural connection.

Emerald on the Seine

In 2027, Emerald Cruises will make its first-ever appearance on the legendary Seine River with Emerald Lumi, a custom-designed ship created specifically for this elegant and storied waterway. Launching curated experiences from Paris through Normandy and beyond, Emerald Lumi will bring a modern take on French river cruising, seamlessly blending luxury, cultural immersion and boutique charm.

Emerald Lumi will feature contemporary interiors, spacious suites and a range of onboard amenities tailored to Emerald Cruises’ signature experience. Purpose-built for the region, the vessel will navigate the Seine’s unique dimensions, unlocking access to coveted ports such as Honfleur, Rouen and other picturesque towns known for their art, history and gastronomy.

Guests can expect:
– Round-trip sailings from Paris
– Overnights and extended stays in marquee ports for deeper immersion
– French-inspired cuisine, wine pairings and locally curated excursions
– Thoughtful onboard programming highlighting art, culture and regional storytelling

“The Seine is a natural evolution for Emerald Cruises,” said Moroney. “It’s a river rich in romance, history and culinary heritage – everything our guests love. We’re excited to bring our distinctive Emerald Cruises experience to France with this beautifully designed ship.”

2027/28 deployment strategy: empowering group and charter growth

As part of the brand’s growth strategy, Emerald Cruises is also previewing its 2027/28 deployment, designed to support increasing demand from the charter and group market, particularly on board its luxury superyacht fleet. Select voyages across the expanded Emerald Yacht Cruises (EYC) program will open for booking in June 2025, with early access and planning support provided to key travel partners and advisors, enabling advance planning and custom group offers in sought-after destinations.

"There’s rising demand for private charters, celebrations and curated group journeys, especially on our yachts," said Muskat. "By releasing deployment details early, we’re helping our partners secure the best product for their most discerning clients."

An epically Emerald Cruises era begins

With new superyachts, a new river cruise and a visionary strategy, 2027 marks the beginning of an epically Emerald Cruises era – a bold new chapter defined by growth, innovation and an unwavering commitment to guest experience. This expansion goes beyond ships and itineraries, signaling a vibrant, confident brand shaping the future of boutique yachting and river cruising. As Emerald Cruises enters its second decade, its promise remains clear: to deliver immersive, design-forward cruises that connect travelers to the heart of each destination. Backed by the global strength and strategic vision of Scenic Group, Emerald Cruises is charting a course for continued success – one unforgettable voyage at a time.