Q: River cruising is hotter than ever right now. What’s new at Uniworld for 2006?
A: We’ve got a number of exciting developments. The biggest is our new flagship, River Royale. She’ll be the newest ship in Europe when she launches on April 7, offering river cruises in France.
Q: In addition to luxury, what innovative technology features will River Royale offer?
A: River Royale is the first river vessel to offer Wi-Fi. She’ll have floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in most cabins. And she’ll have an automatic collapsible railing.
Q: How does the collapsible system work?
A: There are some lovely bridges on the rivers of Europe. Some of them are pretty low and clearing them can be a problem. River Royale will have a system to collapse the railings on the top deck, making it easier to maneuver under the bridges.
Q: Uniworld recently launched a new program. Can you tell us more about it?
A: Grand Value Cruising is for folks who want a more informal cruise. The program gives passengers the option of walking into town to explore on their own instead of being tied to daily shore excursions. We have four different European itineraries, and there is a price advantage with the program.
Q: You’re utilizing two recently acquired vessels for the Grand Value Cruising program, right?
A: Yes, the River Baroness and the River Ambassador. They are sister ships, built in 1997, and we’ve renovated them completely.
Q: Other lines are attempting to expand their market by going after disillusioned ocean cruisers. Is Uniworld going to use that approach, as well?
A: Many people who have tried ocean cruising want to go on the rivers next. There is a built-in market coming to us. We’re trying to highlight the benefits and the unique nature of the Uniworld product.
Q: What do you think those characteristics are?
A: Our expertly planned itineraries allow us to pace the ships so that our guests have a quality experience without getting exhausted. We’re also known for our custom-designed ships and our all-English-speaking crew.
Q: You’re doing a media event in New York this month to talk about River Royale and the company. Anything you want to tell our readers first?
A: Things are looking great. We’ve had a strong fourth quarter of sales for 2006, and that’s continuing to be the case for the Wave season.
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