Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has recently announced the introduction of two new super ships, the S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth, which will commence their sailings in Europe in 2024 and 2025 respectively. These two ships will be acquired by Uniworld from Seaside Collection through a three-year, bareboat charter agreement. Uniworld intends to provide its unique and distinguished experience on these ships by employing an all-Uniworld staff and incorporating the brand’s trademark touches and amenities. Prior to joining Riverside Luxury Cruises, the S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth were a part of Crystal Cruises’ river fleet, known as the Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler.
The S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth are identical sister ships that have the capacity to accommodate 110 guests in 55 suites and staterooms. While all rooms have a similar design and ambience, they differ in size and subtle details. Each room features full-length windows that offer breathtaking views, positioned directly in front of the king-sized beds. Guests staying in select suite categories will have access to walk-in closets, fireplaces, and up to 759 square feet of space. Additionally, the S.S. Elisabeth will feature a Uniworld-first two-bedroom accommodation with adjoining suites.
These ships also boast several other notable features, such as a massage room, a gym for fitness enthusiasts, a bistro for casual snacks, a rooftop bar and grill for cocktails and light bites, and a fine dining restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. As with all Uniworld cruises, the dining venues on these ships will offer farm-to-table cuisine that utilizes fresh local ingredients sourced by the onboard chef on a daily basis.
The S.S. Victoria is scheduled to be the first ship to embark on its maiden voyage in March 2024, at the beginning of the cruising season. It will sail various itineraries that are currently operated by Uniworld. The ship’s inaugural journey will take place in Amsterdam with an eight-day “Holland & Belgium at Tulip Time” cruise, providing guests with an immersive experience that combines the classic Amsterdam tulip showcase with visits to historic cities and an abundance of Belgian sweet treats.
Following this, the S.S. Victoria will embark on the eight-day “Castles Along the Rhine” itinerary, taking passengers from Basel to Amsterdam. This enchanting journey will allow guests to explore picturesque towns that resemble fairytales, marvel at historic castles, and appreciate the rich winemaking traditions of the region. Additionally, the ship will offer the “Magnificent Moselle and Rhine” itinerary, which spans 10 days and offers a deeper exploration of multiple cities and their fascinating histories. Finally, guests can opt for the eight-day holiday-themed “Belgium Holiday Markets” voyage, which departs from and returns to Brussels, and offers a delightful mix of well-known and lesser-known Christmas markets.
The S.S. Elisabeth is slated to commence its sailings in 2025, and more details about its itineraries will be announced at a later date.
In conclusion, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is expanding its fleet with the introduction of the S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth. These new ships will offer guests a luxurious and unforgettable experience, with their elegant accommodations, exceptional amenities, and mouthwatering dining options. Uniworld’s takeover of these ships from the Seaside Collection and the incorporation of its distinctive brand elements will further enhance the already remarkable travel experiences offered by these vessels.