Revolutionary New Design Unveiled by Europe's Newest River Cruise Line

March 25, 2014 – Emerald Waterways, Europe's first new river cruise line in six years, has taken delivery of the first of four revolutionary new "Star Ships" it ordered for 2014 and 2015. The Emerald Sky, the line's first new “Star Ship,” was delivered to the company's owners on March 21 in Lobith, Northern Holland and will be christened by British style icon Twiggy on April 9 in Amsterdam. The Emerald Star will be delivered by the end of April, and the Emerald Sun and the Emerald Dawn are currently under construction for delivery in early 2015.

These revolutionary new ships feature an unrivalled combination of guest amenities, deluxe suites and staterooms as well as new features not seen on other river cruise ships. Guests will be impressed by a spectacular 24-foot-high entry atrium; sundeck swimming pool with a fully retractable "Sun Roof"; full-size cinema for evening movies; spacious gym; hair dressing salon; massage room; guest ice machine; and more.

The spacious 315-square-footOwners Suites feature fully enclosed bedrooms and separate lounge rooms, a walk -in wardrobe, Nespresso machine, 52-inch flat-screen TV and high-quality bathroom amenities. The Grand Balcony Suites, which measure 210 square feet, feature fully enclosable exterior balconies. The unique Panorama Balcony Suites feature vertical sliding windows and an interior teak deck balcony with chairs, allowing guests to enjoy their cabin space regardless of the weather.

Dining is a special highlight on these “Star Ships.” Whether in the Reflections dining room, al fresco on The Terrace or during a top-deck barbecue, service and quality are always the priority. The spacious lounge bar serves as a welcoming space for morning and afternoon teas -- unlimited barista-style coffee and a range of teas are included all day – as well as evening entertainment.

Emerald Waterways' “Star Ships” will initially sail the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers on itineraries ranging from seven to 14 nights. Prices start at US$2,255 and CAN$2,105 per person, double and will include all meals; wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; daily program of excursions and touring; wifi; airport transfers; nightly entertainment; and all gratuities. The 2014 season is selling very quickly, so the company has started selling its Special 2015 Early Bird Deals now, for bookings prior to May 31, 2014.

As part of the Scenic Tours Group, Emerald Waterways is backed by the award-winning expertise of the world's leading luxury river cruise operator, Scenic Cruises. Additional information can be found by contacting your local travel agent or on Emerald Waterways' website, www.emeraldwaterways.com; US reservations line: 855-222-3214; Canada reservations line: 855-444-0161. Brochure orders may be placed on the website or a digital downloadable version is available.

Note: A selection of images of the new ships is available at Emerald Waterways Photos or http://bit.ly/1plPfC4

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Elliot Gillies
Gillies and Zaiser
10 Nytko Drive
Pomona, NY 10970-2646