Emerald launched on the rivers of Europe in 2014 as Emerald Waterways, and belong to the same group as Australian tour operator and luxury river cruise line Scenic. We would place the Emerald river product in the 'Premium' category, a rung below our preferred river operators (including Scenic), so it's not a cruise line we've tended to shout about before.

Emerald's yacht cruises are a different proposition, however, filling a niche that is currently in great demand: small ships designed to cruise warm weather destinations such as the Dalmatian Coast and the Greek Islands. The 100-guest Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara will be sleek and modern, with all except the lead-in staterooms featuring a private balcony, and itineraries have been designed to showcase smaller ports that the bigger ships can't reach.

It's important to point out that this is not an ultra-luxury product, and fares are not fully inclusive. The price includes your flights, transfers, meals, wine and beer with meals, complimentary WiFi, gratuities and included excursions in key ports; drinks outside of mealtimes and optional excursions are extra.

Emerald Azzurra's inaugural season is devoted to Europe and the Holy Land, with a particular focus on the Dalmatian Coast, the Aegean and the Red Sea, while Emerald Sakara will make her debut in the Seychelles before joining her sister ship in the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Red Sea.