Emerald Cruises Christens River Ship Emerald Astra in Amsterdam
Toni Lanotte-Day, a United States travel advisor identified as one of Scenic Group’s top global sellers, served as godmother for the Rhine, Moselle and Danube vessel.
Emerald Cruises & Tours christened Emerald Astra in Amsterdam on May 31, 2026, adding a new river ship to Scenic Group’s European fleet. The company named Toni Lanotte-Day, a U.S. travel advisor and entrepreneur, as godmother after identifying her as one of Scenic Group’s top global sellers.
The 2026 vessel brings Emerald Cruises’ European river fleet to eight Star-Ships. Emerald Astra carries 180 guests in 91 cabins, with 52 crew. The 135-meter, 3,544-GT river ship has four decks and was announced for Rhine, Moselle and Danube sailings.
Scenic Group links naming to advisor sales channel
“Emerald Astra reflects the vision for the growth of Emerald Cruises brand globally,” said Glen Moroney, founder and chairman of Scenic Group. He described the ship as “contemporary, immersive and connected to the destinations we sail,” and said naming Lanotte-Day godmother recognizes the role travel advisors have had in building Scenic Group.
Ken Muskat, president of Scenic Group USA & LatAm, called the christening “an exciting step forward” as the company continues to expand its river fleet. He said honoring partners such as Lanotte-Day recognizes advisors “whose passion, expertise and deep connection to their clients help shape the experiences we deliver.”
Emerald Lumi is next in the river pipeline
Emerald Cruises’ next scheduled fleet addition is Emerald Lumi, a 130-guest river ship planned for the Seine in 2027. The vessel can access smaller ports along the Seine, including Honfleur and Rouen.
Emerald Lumi is scheduled to launch in March 2027 with Paris roundtrip itineraries. It is also slated to host Scenic Group’s 2027 President’s Cruise, an eight-day Sensations of the Seine & Normandy sailing departing Paris on August 14, 2027, with Muskat onboard to host dinners and excursions.
