Emerald Lumi Floats Out Ahead of New Seine River Cruises for 2027
by Bruce Parkinson
The Emerald Lumi floats out.
Emerald Cruises & Tours has celebrated the ceremonial launch of Emerald Lumi, with the new ‘Emerald Star-Ship’ entering water for the first time at the shipyard in Romania.
The milestone signals a significant step towards her inaugural season on the Seine River from Paris in 2027.
Emerald Lumi has been designed specifically for the Seine River at 110 metres in length, allowing her to cruise right into the heart of Paris and into Honfleur where few other river ships can reach.
Carrying no more than 130 guests, the Emerald Lumi will feature an intimate, contemporary design with spacious staterooms and suites with innovative all-weather balconies. Welcoming social spaces include Reflections Restaurant, Horizon Bar & Lounge and a heated indoor pool that transforms into an evening cinema. The river ship will also include a self-service laundry, a popular addition.
“Emerald Lumi’s water launch is an exciting step in bringing a fresh style of river cruising to the Seine. By combining extended overnight stays in key ports with curated local history and culinary experiences, plus a choice of dynamic EmeraldACTIVE excursions, this new itinerary offers a more immersive, unhurried way to explore northern France than many traditional river itineraries,” said Elisabeth Sadler, VP Product, River Cruises, Scenic Group.
Sensations of the Seine & Normandy Highlights
From March 2027, Emerald Lumi will cruise the new eight-day Sensations of the Seine & Normandy itinerary, round-trip from Paris to Honfleur. Guests will spend extended time in port with overnight stays and later departures in destinations including Honfleur and La Roche-Guyon.
Each day includes a guided tour that showcases the character of each stop and EmeraldACTIVE options such as guided e-bike rides, hikes or kayaking, giving guests the choice of relaxed sightseeing or more energetic exploration.
History lovers will be captivated by included experiences that trace “in the footsteps of Claude Monet” in Giverny and a full-day guided tour of the Normandy D-Day landing sites, visiting beaches, memorials and museums that bring this pivotal chapter of World War II to life.
Food and wine enthusiasts will enjoy included experiences such as a walking tour of Honfleur with fresh oyster tasting, highlighting the town’s maritime heritage and renowned seafood.
This itinerary will have a special twist when it brings together Canadian father-and-son culinary duo Chefs Michael and Oscar Bonacini for their third river cruise partnership, delivering an immersive gastronomic adventure.
Departing August 7, 2027, guests will enjoy an exclusive onboard dinner curated by the Bonacini’s, along with a dining experience at La Couronne, France’s oldest restaurant, where Julia Child famously savoured “the most exciting meal of my life.”
Crafted for travellers with a passion for history, art de vivre, and world-class cuisine, this journey promises an unforgettable culinary escape. For more information visit: Sail the Seine with Michael & Oscar Bonacini.
