Emerald Cruises & Tours has officially christened the newest addition to its fleet of Star-Ships during a ceremony in Amsterdam.
The event saw leading travel advisor and entrepreneur Toni Lanotte-Day named godmother of Emerald Astra, recognising both her longstanding support of the brand and the important role travel advisors play in the growth of the cruise industry.
“Emerald Astra reflects the vision for the growth of Emerald Cruises brand globally. Contemporary, immersive and connected to the destinations we sail,” said Glen Moroney, Founder & Chairman of Scenic Group.
“Naming Toni as godmother recognises the role travel advisors have played in building Scenic Group and the role they will continue to play in shaping our future.”
The launch marks another milestone for the Australian-founded Scenic Group as it continues to expand its European river cruise offering across the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.
As godmother, Lanotte-Day (pictured) described her role as both symbolic and representative of the broader travel advisor community.
“In maritime tradition, being a godmother represents luck, protection and prosperous journeys ahead,” she said.
“But I also see it as representing the travel advisors who believe in this product and help bring it to life for their clients.”
Emerald Astra joins a growing Emerald Cruises fleet as Scenic Group celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2026.
Emerald’s expansion includes Emerald Kaia (launched April 2026), Emerald Raiya (launching 2027), Emerald Lumi (2027) and Emerald Xara (2028), with the latter set to operate new itineraries spanning Asia, Australia and the South Pacific.
