Emerald Astra Christened in Amsterdam

Credit: Scenic Group

(Press Release) Emerald Cruises & Tours officially christened Emerald Astra, the newest addition to its European river fleet of 10, in Amsterdam on May 31,2026, marking a pivotal milestone for the brand as it expands its Emerald Star-Ships on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.

At the center of the celebration was Toni Lanotte-Day, a US travel advisor, entrepreneur and one of Scenic Group’s top global sellers, whose appointment as godmother reflects a deeper industry narrative: the growing influence of travel advisors in shaping the direction of modern luxury travel brands.

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As godmother, Lanotte-Day described her role as both symbolic and representative of the broader US 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.”

For Lanotte-Day, the connection to Emerald Cruises is reflected not in title, but in lived experience. From leading tulip season sailings through the Netherlands, where guests painted wooden clogs alongside local artisans, to orchestrating sunrise arrivals into Venice aboard Emerald Yacht Cruises, complete with Bellinis served on deck as the city came into view, her relationship with the brand has been built through the very moments it is committed to delivering.

The launch of Emerald Astra further reflects that evolution. With a sleek exterior design and bright, contemporary interiors inspired by the Scenic Group’s in house ship building division MKM Yachts, the ship introduces a new design direction intended to evoke what Lanotte-Day described as “a feeling of relaxed joy” from the moment guests step onboard. “It’s for travelers who want to truly experience a destination, whether that is through history, culture, or active exploration, but still return to a space that feels like home,” she added.

“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 recognizes the role travel advisors have played in building Scenic Group and the role they will continue to play in shaping our future.”

Ken Muskat, President of Scenic Group USA & LATAM, emphasized the significance of both the ship and its godmother. “The christening of Emerald Astra represents an exciting step forward for Emerald Cruises & Tours as we continue to expand our river fleet with thoughtfully designed ships. Equally important is honoring partners like Toni, whose passion, expertise and deep connection to their clients help shape the experiences we deliver and the future direction of our brand,” he said.

As Emerald Cruises continues its fleet expansion, it will next welcome Emerald Lumi on the Seine river in 2027. Emerald Astra stands not only as a new Emerald Star-Ship, but as a testament to the innovation and vision that has defined the Scenic Group across 40 years.

For further Scenic Group information, to view available sailings, or to secure space on an upcoming journey, visit scenic.cruises or emerald.cruises. Guests may also call Scenic at (844)-788-7985 or Emerald Cruises at (844) 428-8389 or connect with their preferred travel advisor. Hi-res assets may be requested with the contact below. ​