How to spend a day aboard Emerald Sakara

^{Written by Olivia Powling, Digital Communications & PR Manager at ROL Cruise} 

Spending time onboard Emerald Sakara in October gave me the chance to really experience what life with Emerald Yacht Cruises is like. Though small, Emerald Sakara is mighty, with many spaces to enjoy and activities to choose from. 

If you’re wondering how to make the most of a day onboard, this is how I’d recommend spending it: 

Start your day peacefully with a coffee on your balcony as you take in the sights of your latest port of call. Every cabin type has tea and coffee-making facilities which consist of a kettle, a coffee machine, an assortment of tea and coffee, two glasses and two bottles of water. What’s more, of the 50 guest staterooms onboard Emerald Sakara, 44 of them have balconies with a table and two chairs - making them the perfect place to watch the world go by. 

Located on the Emerald Deck (Deck 3), La Cucina and its adjacent terrace are the main dining option onboard Emerald Sakara. At breakfast and lunch, the restaurant operates a buffet, with a huge amount on offer including hot dishes, fresh pastries, fruit and salads. If there’s something you’d like that isn’t available, the chefs are more than happy to cook it up for you. 

After breakfast, head back to your cabin, which has everything you need to comfortably get ready for the day. The ensuite bathrooms are bright and well designed, with good storage, fluffy towels and a walk-in shower in the Balcony Suites. You’ll also find useful little touches like vanity kits and shower caps, so you’re not scrambling for anything before heading ashore. 

Back in the bedroom, there’s plenty of space to stay organised, with generous wardrobes and drawers, plus a dressing table and mirror that make getting ready easy. 

If you enjoy exploring at your own pace, this is a great time to make use of Emerald Sakara’s e-bikes. The yacht carries a fleet of ten e-bikes, which can be hired in advance, and they offer a brilliant way to see more of your destination without straying too far from the ship. 

You can choose to join a guided EmeraldACTIVE excursion, where routes are planned and led for you, or set off independently and explore on two wheels at your own speed. With up to two hours available, there’s plenty of time. 

If the ship is docked in a suitable port, you may also have access to the marina, giving you another active option before the day continues. 

After a busy morning, take the opportunity to slow the pace in the Observation Lounge, found forward on the Observation Deck (Deck 4). It’s one of the best places onboard to sit back and recharge, with comfortable seating and panoramic views that make it hard to rush anywhere. 

Help yourself to a complimentary tea or coffee, then settle in with a book, challenge someone to a game of chess, or pick up a board game and simply enjoy the calm. Just ahead of the lounge, you’ll also find the terrace, a sheltered spot where you can step outside, feel the sea breeze and watch the scenery drift by. 

When lunchtime comes around, make your way to the Aqua Café on the Pool Deck (Deck 6) for a tasty bite to eat. It’s perfect if you just fancy a little something, with a great selection of easy, on-the-go options like burgers and toasted sandwiches. 

The open terrace is a lovely place to settle in, especially if the sun’s out. Find a seat, take in the views and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. And if you still have room, treat yourself to an ice cream before heading to your next activity. 

After a relaxed lunch, this is a lovely time of day to slow down and spend some time at Elements Spa on the Wellness Deck (Deck 2). The treatment menu is extensive, with a wide range of options designed to help you fully switch off. 

If you’d rather keep the active momentum going, the spa area also offers plenty of alternatives. The fully equipped gym is ideal for a quick workout, while the infrared sauna provides a great way to relax tired muscles afterwards. 

Carry those relaxed afternoon vibes through by spending some time at the Aqua Pool on the Pool Deck (Deck 6). This is the perfect spot to stretch out on one of the day beds, order a refreshing drink and enjoy a little downtime under the sun. 

Or, head up a deck to the spa pool. Sink into the bubbling waters, sip a drink from the Sky Bar and let the afternoon drift by at an easy pace. 

Before the evening begins, head back to your suite for a short siesta and a quick spruce-up. Whether you fancy a power nap, a refreshing shower or some chill time on your balcony, your cabin is a lovely way to unwind after a full afternoon. 

As the day turns to night, make your way up to the Sky Bar on the Sky Deck (Deck 7) for sailaway. With a drink in hand and the sun beginning to dip, it’s a lovely spot to take in the views as the yacht slips away from port. 

There’s often a relaxed buzz up here, and it’s a lovely time to chat with fellow guests and newfound friends. On some evenings, you may even be treated to live music. 

When it’s time for dinner, head back to La Cucina to enjoy a delicious three-course meal in relaxed surroundings. The menu here changes regularly, offering plenty of choice, and there’s always a local dish to enjoy. 

If the weather allows, choose a table outside. Dining alfresco as the light fades, a gentle breeze caresses your shoulders, and the yacht gently sails on is a real highlight, and a lovely way to ease into the evening at sea. 

After dinner, make your way to the Amici Bar & Lounge on the Emerald Deck (Deck 3), which is the heart of Emerald Sakara’s evening entertainment. It’s a relaxed, sociable space where you can enjoy a drink while winding down from the day. 

Entertainment here varies from night to night, but you might find live music, a solo vocalist, themed performances or even interactive quiz-style evenings. It’s all designed to be easygoing rather than loud and late. 

And that concludes your day on Emerald Sakara.