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emerald river cruise reviews 2022

  • Emerald Cruises

Fodor’s Expert Review

Emerald Cruises is a relatively young cruise line with a modern fleet, consisting of nine river ships dubbed “Star-Ships” and two yachts—and growing. Since 2013, Emerald has offered small-ship cruising at an inclusive price point; first, with river cruises and then with the addition of 100-passenger yachts in 2022, beginning with Emerald Azzurra and followed in 2023 with Emerald Sakara. Under Scenic Group, an Australian company, this cruise line geared toward British and North American travelers has become known for steady growth and value for money. Beyond the popular rivers and waterways of Europe, Emerald offers itineraries on the Nile in Egypt; the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia; or ocean cruising in the Red Sea or Mediterranean aboard one of its yachts. Understated elegance, friendly service, and engaging shore excursion offerings are just some of the hallmarks of the brand.

Top Reasons to Cruise

Is this line right for you, what to expect on board.

Meals are served—on both river and yacht ships—in a main dining room where all guests eat.

On the rivers, this is typically called the Reflections Restaurant, while on the yachts it is La Cucina. Breakfast and lunch are gorgeously set buffets, with hot and cold items, including an omelet station, fresh berries, and more. On Emerald yachts, items like pancakes can also be ordered a la carte at breakfast. Dinner is served a la carte each evening across the brand, and options never seem to repeat. A menu of soups, salads, entrees, and desserts typically draws upon European influence, but is tailored to the itinerary. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.

Complimentary coffee, tea, and snacks are offered in the lounges onboard, which also feature a bar serving drinks for purchase. On the yachts, the Observation Lounge is a gem of a place to read and unwind with spectacular views, coffee and tea, snacks, and filtered (or fizzy) water. Most river ships feature a casual rooftop eatery called Sky Barbecue, open weather depending. On Azzurra and Sakara, the Aqua Pool Café serves as the casual dining option out on the pool terrace. It stocks incredible pastries in the morning and an impressive variety of flatbread pizzas in the afternoon, with snacks available throughout the day as well as espresso drinks.

It helps to be content with a glass of wine after a long day in port, because there isn’t a much variety when it comes to entertainment.

An onboard musician tickles the ivories each evening in the lounge, and depending on the itinerary, there might be a guest performance from a local entertainer. On the yachts, the Amici Lounge is the place to be: Dance parties are encouraged, and quizzes become competitive. The Sky Bar is an alternate venue on the top deck, and you might find a cocktail demonstration or a gorgeous sunset from the Jacuzzi. 

Other demonstrations take place throughout an Emerald sailing and are part of what adds to the experience; a chef demo of a local recipe or a workshop in Portugal to make your own tiles, for example. Check the daily program to make sure not to miss these immersive events.

Emerald river ships feature a pool, fitness classes such as yoga in the morning, a fitness facility with equipment, a sun deck with a putting course, and a small spa onboard.

The pool on Star-Ships is a heated indoor pool with floor-to-ceiling windows and a retractable roof that becomes a cinema in the evening. On Emerald Harmony in Asia it is an open-air pool and in Portugal it is a small “serenity-style” pool on the sun deck. Bicycles are offered on select ships for use.

Yachts also feature fitness classes, an outdoor pool, and a larger spa and fitness center tucked downstairs near the restaurant, with a sauna. In addition, Emerald’s yachts carry electric bikes and a marina platform that in good weather can accommodate a small fleet of water toys from kayaks and paddle boards to an inflatable dock. EmeraldACTIVE excursions are the real deal, offering strenuous but rewarding hikes, cycling trips, or kayak opportunities in port.

Key cruising tips

Your shipmates.

Fellow Emerald guests are typically well-traveled couples in their 40s to 60s, hailing from the UK as well as well as other English-speaking nations like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States. Multigenerational groups including adult children aren’t uncommon, though youngsters are less frequently seen onboard.

The dress code onboard an Emerald ship is relaxed, but fellow guests typically dress up a touch for dinner. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring port, especially over the uneven surfaces of ancient Greek ruins, for example. Dress for the weather, which includes a warm coat, hat, and gloves for Christmas market cruises. Don’t forget a swimsuit, especially during the hot summer months on a Douro River sailing. 

A welcome and farewell gala dinner bookend the cruise, so consider packing two dressier outfits for these special evenings onboard.

Junior Cruisers

With the exception of select Christmas market cruises, guests under the age of 12 are ineligible to participate in any Emerald tours. There are no facilities or childcare services available for kids onboard either Emerald river ships or yachts. Anyone under the age of 21 must be accompanied by an adult at all times and are required to share accommodations with an adult.

The crew makes an effort to get to know you onboard an Emerald river ship or yacht, which makes the experience more intimate. Crew members are typically an international contingency, but most times there will be staff onboard from the ports and destinations you are sailing, which lends an additional layer of expertise. Emerald river ships average one crew member for every three guests (1:3). Yachts staff 72 crew members per 100 guests at full capacity (1:1.4).

All gratuities, including tips on drinks, are included in the price of your vacation with Emerald Cruises. A tip to your spa therapist or hairdresser after a treatment is additional and at the guest’s discretion.

Past Passengers

The EmeraldEXPLORER loyalty club has silver, gold, and diamond tiers. Points are awarded after each sailing and vary by cabin category and destination. Passengers automatically become silver members after one sailing, which includes a complimentary silver-level backpack before every cruise; a $200 future cruise credit; and exclusive notice on new promotions and itineraries. Loyalty members also receive invitations to special events onboard. The branded luggage is upgraded at each tier; at diamond level, the future cruise credit is increased to $250.

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Emerald Cruises Review and Profile

By: Brittany Chrusciel · Published on September 20, 2021

Formerly known as Emerald Waterways, the Europe river cruise line entered the market in 2014. Recently rebranded as Emerald Cruises, they also now incorporate yacht cruises under their new moniker.

Part of the Scenic Group, Emerald Cruises is under the same umbrella as Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, and Australian cruise division Evergreen Cruises & Tours. 

Headquartered in Switzerland, Emerald Cruises is still a relatively young river cruise line compared to the competition and is considered a value brand due to its competitive pricing.

Emerald Cruises review includes image of Emerald Sky on the Mosel River in Germany

Emerald Cruises Review

River cruises are offered on eight rivers throughout Europe. Emerald’s super-yacht product, set to debut in 2022 with Emerald Azzurra , differentiates the brand with an oceangoing option.

Joining the fray of river cruise companies with active excursions, Emerald provides its guests with a fleet of bicycles for use on most sailings. Guests have a choice of complimentary excursions that include at least one active option in each port.

A dedicated activity manager is on each ship coordinating guest experiences ashore and onboard, from fitness classes to evening amusements.

READ MORE:  The Best Time of Year for A Europe River Cruise

Emerald Cruises River Ships

Emerald owns nine river ships, referred to by the line as Star-Ships. One of those is a chartered ship that sails the Volga River in Russia. The 410 foot-long MS Nizhny Novgorod was refurbished in 2019. 

The fleet of river ships include Emerald Dawn , Emerald Destiny , Emerald Harmony , Emerald Luna , Emerald Liberté , Emerald Radiance , Emerald Sky , Emerald Star , and Emerald Sun .

Emerald Dawn , Sun , Luna , Destiny , Sky , and Sta r run about 443 feet in length and sail Europe’s Rhine, Main, Danube, and Moselle rivers.

Emerald Liberté is 361 feet long and plies the French waterways of the Rhône and Saône. Emerald Radiance was purpose-built for Portugal’s Douro River at 292 feet long. Emerald Harmony is the line’s dedicated ship on the Mekong River, measuring 239 feet long. 

Emerald’s mega-yacht, Emerald Azzurra , and it runs 361 feet long.

RELATED:  How to Pack for a Spring Europe River Cruise

Onboard Emerald Cruises River Ships

Emerald’s six primary ships on the popular Rhine, Danube, and its tributaries accommodate 180 passengers in 91 cabins. The smaller Emerald Luna has a scant 92 cabins.

Emerald Liberté  hosts up to 132 passengers in 67 cabins, while Emerald Radiance has the capacity for 112 guests in 52 cabins. On the Mekong, you’ll sail onboard Harmony with 84 total guests in 42 cabins. 

The greatest capacity on an Emerald ship is its chartered vessel, Nizhny Novgorod , which can accommodate 204 passengers with 106 cabins. The Yacht Emerald Azzurra carries 100 guests in 50 cabins. 

Children over the age of 12 are allowed onboard all Emerald’s river ships. Any passenger 21 years or younger must room with an adult over the age of 21. Family groups are welcome onboard, but there are no dedicated activities for children.

Cabin Details

Emerald Cruises’ Star-Ships generally offer four cabin categories spread across four decks: Standard Cabins (Deck 1), Panorama Balcony Suites (Decks 2 and 3), Owner’s Suites (Deck 3), and Grand Balcony Suites (Deck 3).

Seven of Emerald’s river ships also offer two 117-square-foot staterooms for solo travelers. These do not require a single supplement and excludes Emerald Radiance and Emerald Harmony . 

Riverview Suites are featured on Emerald Radiance , at a whopping 300-square-feet with views along two walls of your cabin.

Emerald Azzurra offers staterooms closer to an oceangoing ship, with categories like Oceanview, Balcony, Deluxe Balcony Suite, Terrace Suite, Yacht Suite, and Owner’s Suite — a staggering 1,162 square-feet.

Cabin options on Nizhny Novgorod include Twin (142 square feet), Double Deluxe (167 square feet), or Suite (298 square feet). 

Emerald Cruises’ Personality

To say “cheap and cheerful” would be selling the river cruise line short, though good value and friendly service both apply. We like that dedicated ships in France, Portugal, and Southeast Asia are custom fit to each destination, and the experience including the cuisine reflects the itinerary.

The onboard ambiance is casual and comfortable across the fleet. There are no formal nights other than the welcome aboard and farewell dinners. 

Fellow Passengers

Emerald Cruises primarily attracts North American and British passengers. You’ll find a smattering of Aussies and New Zealanders who have crossed over. Expect to mix with lively retirees as well as a handful of working professionals on any given sailing.

Dining Aboard Emerald Cruises

An Emerald Cruises review wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the dining. As with most river cruise lines, basic choices are uniform across their river ships. Dining venues include the Reflections Restaurant, where a destination-inspired multi-course meal is served at dinner. A plentiful buffet for breakfast and lunch are also offered at Reflections. 

There’s the Horizon Bar and Lounge for a casual bite and Sky Barbecue on the top deck and serves hot off the grill, weather permitting.

Emerald Cruises Reflection Restaurant

Guests can also enjoy light fare for breakfast and lunch at The Terrace, on Deck 3. On Emerald Harmony , there is the Lotus Lounge in place of the barbecue, offering tea and snacks on Deck 2. 

Once again, Emerald has thought about solo travelers. They’ve included tables for two in the dining room, for those that prefer a quiet meal alone. 

Emerald’s chartered ship sailing the Volga offers two restaurants and two relaxed bar areas. 

Alternative Dining Options

There are no specialty or additional-fee dining options found on any of Emerald’s ships.

Onboard Amenities

Emerald Star-Ships’ signature amenity is a convertible heated pool that transforms into a cinema by night with a retractable roof. Due to their smaller size, the pool does not convert on Emerald Harmony or Radiance .

Emerald Cruises heated pool

Apart from this fancy feature, river ships feature a sun deck with lounge chairs, a walking track, a putting green, and a small fitness center onboard with both machines and weights.

Nearby is a spa treatment room and a hair salon. Most river ships also offer use of bicycles on a sign-up basis. There is also a small souvenir shop onboard selling logo items as well as local wares.

Emerald River Cruises are Best For…

First-timers looking to explore some of the world’s most popular rivers; friends, couples, or adult families who want to sail in comfort but don’t require luxury. It’s also appealing to cruisers who are yacht-curious but whose entry point is mid-market river cruising. 

Included Alcohol and Beverages

Wine, beer, and soft drinks are included at lunch and dinner, as well as unlimited tea and coffee. An onboard sommelier handpicks local wines to feature each evening, and recommended premium and rare wines are available for an additional charge, as are cocktails.

Depending on the region, special tasting events might take place such as a port tasting while sailing the Douro. A variety of drink packages are offered for a fee.

A true perk of Emerald Cruises is that all gratuities are included in the price of their river cruises. No surprises at the end of your trip. 

Where Emerald River Cruises Go

To recap, Emerald’s river cruises traverse Europe and includes voyages on the Danube, Main, Rhine, Rhône, Saône, Mosel and Douro. Emerald offers country-intensive sailings in France (Rhône) and Portugal (Douro). You’ll also find Emerald cruising the Mekong in Southeast Asia and Russia’s Volga River. 

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Brittany Chrusciel headshot.

About Brittany Chrusciel

Brittany Chrusciel has covered the cruise industry for many years, formerly as Cruise Critic’s Destinations Editor, and has been quoted in publications such as Skift, USA Today, and the LA Times. She is a proud alumnus of Semester at Sea, where she circumnavigated the globe while studying writing, Spanish, and political science. Her favorite river cruise experiences so far have been visiting the Christmas markets with her German grandmother, and Portugal’s Douro River.

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emerald river cruise reviews 2022

Emerald Waterways: Themed River Cruises in 2022

With the surging demand for River Cruising, Emerald Waterways had a particular group of passengers in mind : a more budget-conscious traveler who appreciates a fully inclusive cruise experience at a value price. Emerald has more than succeeded. For five years in a row, Emerald has been voted Best River Cruise Line for Value by Cruise Critic. Emphasizing port calls and excursions, Emerald gives its guests a look at the culture, history and local life of the places it visits. Now the line has gone even further.

In 2022 Emerald will launch its Special Interest Collection. Aboard three of its most popular European River intineraries—the Rhine, the Danube and the Moselle—Emerald will focus on each region’s most iconic offerings: Arts, Spas, Culture and Wine Making. Customized tours will be pared with onboard events to make the whole experience even more memorable.

Emerald Waterways on the Rhine

Emerald Waterways on the Rhine

Aboard Emerald’s “Star Ships” passengers are treated to first class hospitality on sparkling vessels. Carrying just 138 passengers, Emerald’s ships include the bells and whistles of far more expensive River Cruises. These include an infinity swimming pool and the stern of the ship that turns into a movie theater at night.  Guests are treated to staterooms that are masterpieces of spatial design, feeling far more spacious than they really are. These 170 square foot havens feature a new balcony concept. The room’s floor-to-ceiling window descend about halfway down, opening the room to the river breezes.

Meanwhile, in the ship’s galley, talented chefs preside over breakfast, lunch and dinner menus.  These feature familiar Comfort Food appreciated by her large complement of British, Canadian, Australian and New Zealander passengers.  Americans will feel right at home too when served favorites like Chateaubriand, John Dory—even Surf and Turf. Complementary beer and wines served at lunch and dinner reflect every voyage’s route.  The ships’ cellars consistently provide excellent vintages at every meal.  Here’s a look at all three Themed Cruises to choose from.  

The innovative Panorama Balcony Suite

The innovative Panorama Balcony Suite

Dining on Emerald is always a treat min

Dining on Emerald is always a treat min

The Danube Spa, Arts and Culture Cruise begins before the Emerald Star Ship even leaves Budapest. Before setting out on July 21, 2022 for cruise between the Hungarian capital and Passau, Germany, Emerald guests will explore the local arts and crafts scene in Szentendre, Hungary.  This is followed by a traditional spa experience.  Daily life in Bratislava, Slovakia comes into play was guests are welcomed into the home of a local family for an afternoon of coffee, cake and conversation. Then it’s on to the third Capital city of the cruise, beautiful Vienna.  There a tour dedicated to Art culminates in a visit to the Kunsthistoriches Museum. With the largest Bruegel collection in the world, it’s considered to be one of the world’s most eminent museums of Art.

For a change of pace, a hike through the Wachau Valley will feature the regions famous wines for tasting and a chance to taste local specialties. Then it’s on to Linz and a guided photography tour that culminates in a tasting of the city’s famous Linzer Torte. Arriving in Passau, a stunning town at the conjunction of three rivers, the final cultural immersion of the tour awaits. A visit to a local farm features a traditional and delicious Bavarian lunch.  The 8-day Danube Spa, Arts and Culture Cruise fares start from $2945 per person.

Home Visit in Bratislave

Home Visit in Bratislave

Actual view from Emerald dock of Hungarian Parliament Bldg

Actual view from Emerald dock of Hungarian Parliament Bldg

The 8-day Wines of the Moselle Cruise departs August 21, 2022 .  Beloved for its storybook landscapes and towns, Germany’s Moselle Valley boasts a rich, wine-making history to explore. It’s Rieslings are considered among the best in the world.  Timed to sail just before harvest, this voyage will give guests access to the prime growing season without the crowds. Every day has been planned to take in the history of winemaking, exploration of its local wines through talks, daily tastings and tours of its most noteworthy wine estates.

Sailing between Mainz and Bernkastel, a whole program of guided tours and tastings will take in Schloss Vollrads estate in Weisbaden and Eberbach Abbey in Rüdesheim. In Koblenz, a walk through a family-owned wine estate brings guests face-to-face with local vintners. Even more tastings round out the itinerary.  Fares for The Wines of Moselle sailing start from $3295 per person, double occupancy.

Szentendere

Szentendere

The Rhine Spa, Arts and Culture Cruise rounds out Emerald’s Special Interest Collection.

The famed “Castles on the Rhine” are must the beginning of what’s on offer on this 8-day adventure from Mainz to Basel, Switzerland. Departing on June 22, 2020, it features the cultural highlights of Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Mannheim, Rastatt, Strasbourg and Breisach.  There is something for everyone from a romantic philosopher’s walk in Heidelberg to a visit to that city’s lauded University Library.

In Germany’s famous spa town of Baden-Baden, passengers can unwind or a relaxing spa day. In Rüdesheim, the medieval Eberbach Monastery introduces Emerald’s guests to the region’s wine heritage.  In Strasbourg, a photography tour takes in this picture perfect town. Finally, in charming Colmar France, there’s a food tour followed by a cooking demonstration on how to make Flammenkuchen, the pizza of Alsace. Prices for the Rhine Spa, Arts and Culture Cruise start at $3245 per person.

Horizon Lounge Spacious and Light filled

Horizon Lounge Spacious and Light filled

Emerald Waterways Cruises are truly all-inclusive.

Guests booking their 2022 Special Interest Cruise by August 31, 2021 will receive a reduced, round trip air fare of $395 per person, or $650 per person off the cost of booking. Those paying in full 12 months in advance of sailing will receive an additional 10% off the fare. For guests traveling solo—or those who prefer their own cabin—Emerald Cruises river ships offer single cabins that do not carry a supplement. And as with all Emerald Cruises sailings, daily excursions, meals, gratuities, port charges, ship transfers and wine and beer with dinner and lunch, plus all gratuities are included in the price of the sailing.

In addition, all bookings come with the line’s flexible booking policy that allows guests to defer travel plans and transfer to an alternate departure date or itinerary up to 60 days prior to departure with no Emerald Cruises fees. charges, ship transfers and wine and beer with dinner and lunch, plus all gratuities are included in the price of the sailing. In addition, all bookings come with the line’s flexible booking policy that allows guests to defer travel plans and transfer to an alternate departure date or itinerary up to 60 days prior to departure with no Emerald Cruises fees.

Emerald Waterways: Themed River Cruises in 2022

For more information and to book, go to www.emeraldcruises.com .

Don’t miss opinions, suggestions and Reviews of Emerald Waterways  on  Cruising Journal .

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emerald river cruise reviews 2022

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Emerald Sky

My experience on board Emerald Sky was everything I wanted and more. Exceptional staff to delicious food made my trip wonderful. The pool on board is an added bonus, as I could carry out a morning swim and then on one of the nights I enjoyed the area to watch a film as it converted into a cinema by night. I also want to mention that this ship had the best self-service coffee machines. Yes, it makes a difference to the cruise experience, especially if you love coffee like me.

Date of experience : April 06, 2023

Christmas markets & the Rhine river cruise

Lovely holiday along the Rhine taking in several Christmas markets. The high water level meant that the start of the cruise had to be amended, but it was all dealt with in an efficient way and we didn’t lose out in any way. All the trips were well organised and really interesting. Equally time on the ship could be relaxing or entertaining -but we were always looked after. The food was all 5 star and very varied . Definitely looking to book another cruise asap.

Date of experience : December 16, 2023

Emerald Azzurra – what an amazing welcome to the world of cruising

Having never cruised before we were enticed by the small ship experience of Emerald Azzurra (the huge cruise ships have never appealed to us) and we were excited to explore the Croatian coast for the first time. The whole cruise was a fantastic experience. With just 100 guests on board it really felt like your own private yacht. There was always a quiet place to read a book or soak up the sun by the pool. Staff were very attentive and made us feel like part of the Emerald Cruises family – nothing was ever too much trouble. There was a delicious selection of food everyday and the option at lunch to eat in the restaurant or enjoy a lighter bite by the pool was great. A few highlights from our trip include the saxophonist that joined us for the evening in Zadar. It was a great atmosphere and everyone was up dancing and enjoying themselves. The seabobs at the marina platform were such a fun activity that we’d never experienced before and want to do again! Also our excursion to Krka National Park was a great day out, despite the rain! We added the premium drinks package which included pretty much any drink onboard, bar the few wines listed on the Chairman’s wine list which were extra. The mini bar soft drinks in our suite were also included in the package, but we spent most of our time enjoying the public areas and the lovely bar staff – shout out to the fantastic Colin at the Sky Bar who kept us hydrated all day and served us cocktails all evening. In summary, our first cruising experience was the best holiday we’ve ever been on and we are definitely booking another cruise on board Azzurra for next year!!

Date of experience : June 24, 2023

Tried cancelling a cruise for an…

Tried cancelling a cruise for an elderly relative who can't go due to ill health. Cannot get through by phone despite long waits. Emails go unanswered. Their cancellation policy says you must notify them in writing but they don't have their address anywhere on their website. Avoid at all costs. PS Their current Credit Focus credit score is 15/100 which puts them at very high risk of going bust.

Date of experience : June 14, 2022

Awful flight and transfer arrangementsAs the time draws near for booking hols…

As the time draws near for booking hols check carefully that your inclusive flight DOES NOT INVOLVE CONNECTIONS. You should insist on direct flights to avoid the awful experience of being abandoned in Frankfurt airport as we were. Emerald seem to think that an hour is enough for disembarkation, new Brexit rules, finding your onward flight and possible delays. Dont think their emergency number will help !! Also dont rely on their dodgy ship to airport transfers. Unfortunately despite nice ships their admin is chaotic!

Date of experience : June 06, 2022

Emerald cruises ignoring severe illness following cruise

Had a fantastic cruise on the Mekong river. Highly recommended. BUT. A farewell dinner was he,d on our last night in Cambodia. 9 of our group of 22 suffered a gastric infection, taking a full week to recover. 2 needed additional medical attention and one further was hospitalised. Emerald have been contacted and asked to investigate, so as to Protect other customers. However, apart from an automated acknowledgement Emerald have not replied or shown any interest. We are entitled to think that they do not care. Emerald are part of a group with Scenic Cruises. They have also been advised and again no response.

Date of experience : April 01, 2023

We experienced nice ships but dreadful admin

I see that Emerald are offering to include flights again this year ... BEWARE their offer may try and fob you off with INDIRECT flights. When we were abandoned by them in Frankfurt they said afterwards it was nothing to do with them as they ask LUFTHANSA !!! to arrange them. Dreadful airline and Emerald poor admin when we travelled with them .. never again.

Date of experience : June 16, 2022

The CAA have confirmed Vouchers have no value

The CAA have just confirmed to the BBC that the ATOL scheme does not protect Vouchers and etc. Please confirm this news to your Lords and Masters, There is no ATOL scheme for Vouchers/Future Travel credits/whatever the Trade are calling them. The DfT would need to change the law, says the CAA, who run the ATOL scheme. Now that Scenic/Emerald know this, to communicate otherwise would involve each and every employee in conspiracy to defraud.

Date of experience : May 27, 2020

Beware!! Emerald changes ships without notification

We received our paperwork a few days before our cruise departure and found out that we’re not cruising on the DESTINY ship. EMERALD changed our ship to SKY. We booked wanting to go on a newer ship and now we’re going on an older ship. Called EMERALD and they said according to the fine print they can make this modification to our cruise. Ok, BUT WE WERE NEVER NOTIFIED OF THIS CHANGE. We’re screwed because we leave in a few days. They offered nothing other than we’re sorry. This is how terrible EMERALD treats their customers so BEWARE of their lousy business practices.

Date of experience : July 10, 2022

Fantastic cruise on board the Emerald…

Fantastic "Legends of the Moselle, Rhine and Main" rivers cruise on board the Emerald Destiny - lovely new ship. Very efficient, well organized, friendly crew - nothing too much bother for them. In particular Banasz (excuse spelling) is the best cruise director we have had - and we have been on lots of river cruises. The booking process was also efficient and easy. Will certainly cruise with Emerald again. Well done to everyone.

Date of experience : June 13, 2019

Emerald waterways are the most…

Emerald waterways are the most untrustworthy company I have had to deal with .They cancelled our River Cruise the c night before departure no emergency help ,no personnel to talk to over the weekend , They lied about the reason for cancellation Offered a refund but no compensation then offered 100£ off if I booked for 2020 The Md very offhand couldn’t care less . NOW I FOUND OUT THAT EMERALD CANCELLED Another French river cruise without notice . Cruisers arrived at the airport to be told flights have been cancelled as well as River Cruise South France October 2019

Date of experience : November 06, 2019

We loved every moment of our cruise up the Rhine, Main and Moselle. The holiday on the Emerald Destiny could not have been a better break for us both. Extremely comfortable, delicious food and wines, luxurious cabin with everything we needed. The staff were brilliant, polite and helpful and to top it all, the trips ashore, visits to the villages, castles as well as wine tasting, will be remembered for ever. Thank you and we shall definitely go on holiday with Emerald Waterways again.

Date of experience : June 12, 2019

Our first river cruise

Our first river cruise. It was more than our expectations. We loved the profession but friendly approach of all the crew. The relaxed atmosphere on ship and the excellently planned and guided tours. There was a good balance of off ship visits and opportunities if wanted to independently explore or relax back at the ship. We had the basic stateroom which we found surprisingly roomy and well appointed.

Date of experience : April 26, 2019

Need final invoice but can’t get through…

We booked a cruise that was cancelled during the pandemic so we changed for one in October this year. Final payment is due next week but flights have not yet been arranged by Emerald and so there is no up to date invoice - flights should be included in the price but they refuse to give final invoice until they are booked. We have no idea how much is outstanding and can’t talk to anyone.

Date of experience : May 24, 2022

A Wonderful experience

A Wonderful experience The first river cruise we have been on and it didn't disappoint from the moment we stepped onboard to when we left there was nothing we would have altered. The staff were certeous, friendly, hard working and would do their best to help. The food was amazing and plentiful. Special mention should go to Geanina, the way she was calm, always smiling and the most efficient and always there when you needed. We will certainly recommend Emerald Waterways

Date of experience : July 03, 2019

We cruised the Danube last year with Emerald and enjoyed it so much that we booked to return this year. We came down through Germany, Austria and Slovakia, to Hungary. The cities were full of architectural grandeur and were all vibrant. The shops were fun and showed a cultural diversity. Each day we returned for lunch and dinner with complimentary wine or beer. On board the atmosphere is incredibly relaxing and yet there was no reason to be bored.We were already discussing where to take an Emerald cruise next year whilst we were only halfway through our week.

Date of experience : April 24, 2019

I was booked on a Croatia cruise ending…

I was booked on a Croatia cruise ending 4 July as part of a group which Emerald cancelled.initially they obfuscated saying that the boat for the cruise was chartered by them and thus had different TandCs.My colleague acted on our group behalf and eventually got or money back through the credit card used to pay. RESULT NONE OF OUR GROUP WII EVEN CONSIDER USING EMERALD EVER AGAIN AS THEY ARE A BUNCH OF AUSSIE COWBOYS

Date of experience : July 12, 2020

River Douro

Just back from a cruise with Emerald good and bad.Started badly by not receiving paperwork on time but a helpful young man at the Manchester office helped us (good job I live locally) Flew easy jet not the best! Disaster when met at the airport by the transport Co they told us they only take the luggage to the hotel! Same problem on our return journey ended up paying for a taxi!! Staff on board superb friendly and professional. Cruise itself poor value for money paid.Had a balcony cabin balcony was in the room behind the window!!! Tours were disappointing not the guide’s fault just uninteresting. Would I use Emerald again sadly no.

Date of experience : May 08, 2022

Excellent service

Excellent service, food and organisation. Very comfortable cabins. Would improve it a little by having some board games available, a few more on-board activities and more books in the "library" Waiter service was very good but sometimes a little too swift and plates removed whilst we were still chewing.

Date of experience : July 31, 2019

Thought the cruise very good the administration terrible

Thought the cruise very good, staff and food good. Trips most were waste of time eg. Supposed to go to a fort drove past it twice, another fort just looked at it from a distance back on coach, a walking tour was taken to square pointed out church, banks, ATMs restaurants that took Euros lasted 5 minutes then told to be back on coach in an hour. We have never been on cruise before booked through ROL there administration was the worst I have known, lack of information of flights not told depart T5 return T3 as no paperwork would never go through this company ever.

Date of experience : June 17, 2019

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Emerald Radiance Deck Plans & Reviews

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Emerald Radiance

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Activities & entertainment

  • Cooking Demonstrations
  • Enrichment Lectures
  • Fitness Area
  • Nighly Breifings
  • The Terrace
  • Walking Track
  • Wellness Area *
  • Horizon Lounge
  • Deck Chairs
  • Local Entertainers
  • Nightly Music
  • Live Entertainment
  • In-Room Entertainment
  • Guest Speakers
  • Sky Barbecue - Casual
  • Reflections Restaurant - International
  • Horizon Bar & Lounge - Panoramic Lounge *
  • Reflections Restaurant - Main
  • The Terrace - Casual Dining
  • Sky Barbecue - Barbecue
  • Horizon Bar - Scenic Bar *
  • Excellent 7
  • Very Good 3
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IMAGES

  1. Emerald River Cruises Cruise Reviews (2022 UPDATED): Ratings of River

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  2. Viking Emerald River Cruise Ship 2022 / 2023

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  3. Emerald Cruises Unveils Southeast Asia River Cruise Collection for 2022

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  4. Emerald Cruises Review and Profile

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  5. Discover Emerald Cruises’ 2022 European Collection

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  6. Emerald Waterways Cruises 2021 / 2022

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VIDEO

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    Emerald Waterways Cruises are truly all-inclusive. Guests booking their 2022 Special Interest Cruise by August 31, 2021 will receive a reduced, round trip air fare of $395 per person, or $650 per person off the cost of booking. Those paying in full 12 months in advance of sailing will receive an additional 10% off the fare.

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    Learn More About Emerald River Cruises. Explore Europe from a unique perspective with thoughtfully crafted itineraries. Emerald Cruises river cruises range from 8 to 17 days and visit many fascinating villages, towns, and cities. From the Danube to the Rhine to the Saône, travel to stunning locations and immerse yourself in each culture.

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    1 - 10 of 453 Emerald Europe River Cruise Reviews. Staff can't do enough for us! Review for a Europe - River Cruise Cruise on Emerald Radiance. Travelling Mamma. 2-5 Cruises • Age 60s. Read More. Sail Date: November 2023. Helpful. Excellent on-board service.

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  18. Emerald Radiance

    My wife and I visited Portugal in August 2022 and, in that trip, included a 7-day Douro River excursion with Emerald Cruises on the Emerald Radiance. What a delight!! The room was wonderful, with a sitting area and a window that rolled down, allowing us to sit, read, and watch the world go by. The ship was luxurious, and the staff went above ...

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