LOS ANGELES — Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is adding two new ships to its fleet.
The S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth will begin sailing in Europe in 2024 and 2025 respectively.
Uniworld will take over the ships from Seaside Collection under a three-year, bareboat charter agreement for each ship. The river cruise line will create the Uniworld experience on existing itineraries with an all-Uniworld staff, as well as the brand’s trademark touches and amenities.
Before joining Riverside Luxury Cruises, the identical sister ships were part of Crystal Cruises’ river fleet as the Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler.
“We’re thrilled to add two stunning new ships to the Uniworld fleet, beginning with the S.S. Victoria on the beloved Rhine, fulfilling our promise to maintain the best and most luxurious ships on the rivers.” says Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld.
“The S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth are unique vessels that we know our guests will love, featuring a modern design, some of the largest suites on the rivers, and an ambiance that exudes contemporary luxury. Onboard, guests can expect our Tiny Noticeable Touches throughout every aspect, from the impeccable service provided by the Uniworld crew they know and love to the multitude of all-inclusive amenities available to them,” added Bettridge.
The S.S. Victoria and the S.S. Elizabeth can accommodate 110 guests in 55 suites and staterooms. All rooms feature a similar design and feel, only differing in size, each with full-length windows directly in front of the king-sized beds for panoramic views. Select suite categories offer walk-in closets, fireplaces, and up to 759 square feet of space in a Uniworld-first two-bedroom accommodation with adjoining suites.
Other ship highlights include a massage room, gym, bistro for snacks, rooftop bar and grill for cocktails and light bites, and fine dining restaurant for breakfast, lunch and gourmet dinner.
The S.S. Victoria will be the first to set sail at the start of the 2024 season, sailing a variety of itineraries currently operated.
The S.S. Victoria will debut in March 2024 in Amsterdam onboard the eight-day ‘Holland & Belgium at Tulip Time’ cruise through Belgium and The Netherlands. Next, the ship will sail the 8-day ‘Castles Along the Rhine’ itinerary from Basel to Amsterdam. The ship will also sail along two rivers aboard the ‘Magnificent Moselle and Rhine’ itinerary over the course of 10 days. Travellers can also opt for the eight-day holiday-themed ‘Belgium Holiday Markets’ sailing roundtrip from Brussels.
The S.S. Elisabeth is scheduled to set sail for the 2025 season, with more details to come.