by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 11:45 AM ET, Mon June 1, 2026
Emerald Cruises & Tours has christened its newest European river ship, Emerald Astra.
The festivities took place in Amsterdam on May 31, with godmother Toni Lanotte-Day bestowing good fortune and safety on a vessel.
Lanotte-Day is a U.S. travel advisor, entrepreneur and one of Scenic Group’s top global sellers.
“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 Cruises & Tours now has 10 river ships sailing in Europe, and has expanded its Emerald Star-Ships on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. The line will next welcome Emerald Lumi on the Seine river in 2027.
“Emerald Astra reflects the vision for the growth of Emerald Cruises brand globally. Contemporary, immersive and connected to the destinations we sail,” says Glen Moroney, founder and 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.”
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