TORONTO — With the world getting ready to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, the timing seemed perfect for a look at a new travel offering that prioritizes a unforgettable vacation experience just for women.

Uniworld’s upcoming Women-Only Cruise sets sail for Burgundy and Provence this August, onboard the S.S. Catherine with an Aug. 24 departure. The itinerary features special programming, activities and entertainment.

As reported last week, headline performer Rachel Dratch, the award-winning actor, comedian and author best known for her tenure on NBC’s Saturday Night Live, will perform a special comedy set and Q&A for the ship’s passengers.

Offshore excursions not regularly found on the itinerary – but part of this special sailing – include a Candlelight Concert in Lyon, a visit to the International Shoe Museum and a trip to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Nîmes at night for a light show.

Other excursion highlights include lavender weaving, truffle hunting and a scenic bike ride to the Chartreuse. There’s even a chocolate and wine pairing event, burlesque sessions and a pajama party.

We wanted to know more, so we connected with Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, for this Q&A.

Travelweek: This women-only cruise combines so many great trends right now, like river cruising, women-only travel and cruise ship takeovers. Can you tell us how the idea for this sailing came about? What was the thought process?

Bettridge: ”In recent years, we noticed an increasing interest from women wanting to travel with their female friends or family members, and a strong curiosity among women looking for adventures after big life transitions, such as their kids leaving home or a career change. And, now more than ever, women are seizing the opportunity to fulfill their travel dreams no matter their circumstances or relationship status.

“With all of this in mind, the Women-Only cruise was created and we feel positive about its success, because our female team members all want to take it themselves! As all these travel trends continue to rise, we’re excited to be a part of it and treat our guests to this one-of-a-kind sailing.”

Travelweek: Was there any feedback that proved inspirational for putting this cruise together?

Bettridge: ”Among our female guests, we noticed more were travelling with other women, such as their sisters, mothers, adult daughters and friends, along with a high repeat female guest rate.

“We also saw the success of our sister brand’s (TTC) Women-Only trips and knew an exclusive itinerary for our female guests would be an amazing experience, perfect for making life-lasting memories.”

Travelweek: Has Uniworld seen a rise in women sailing on Uniworld ships, either solo, or with women friends?

Bettridge: ”From 2019 to 2023, Uniworld saw a 61% increase in female solo travellers, which got us thinking about fun and special ways to engage that group.

“Through plenty of social activities and unique excursions, the hope is that all kinds of women come together for a week of connection, including solo travellers who might make some friends along the way!

“River cruising is also a great way to safely explore multiple destinations in one trip from the comfort of a ship. Through guided onshore excursions that are fully inclusive, Uniworld guests can safely experience lesser-known cities and villages, without ever having to pack and unpack their bags.”

Travelweek: Why do you think it’s important to give women ‘a space of their own’ with a trip like this?

Bettridge: “As a female-led company, Uniworld had a desire to create a space that merges two things many of us women absolutely love – creating new memories through travel and girl time with the favourite women in our lives.

“We want the women on our cruise to always feel pampered and inspired, and this trip will take that to the next level.”

Travelweek: Tell us why you’re excited to have Rachel Dratch as a headliner?

Bettridge: ”We are beyond thrilled to have Rachel Dratch headlining our Women-Only Cruise. She’s hilarious and incredibly talented, and we know she’ll bring even more laughter and fun onboard through a special comedy set and dedicated Q&A.”

Travelweek: The S.S. Catherine is a 158-passenger ship. Do you anticipate this sailing selling out quickly, and could there be more women-only sailings if this one goes well?

Bettridge: ”Due to our boutique ship size and high staff-to-guest ratio, along with the incredible programming that we’ve arranged for this unique sailing, this cruise is already selling very well and we anticipate that it will sell out.

“We don’t have additional Women-Only trips planned at the moment, but always stay tuned.”

To learn more and to book, visit https://www.uniworld.com/ca/themed-cruises/women.