Uniworld Boutique River Cruises will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026 with several new offerings, including a new vessel and expanded itineraries.
The company will introduce the S.S. Emilie, its first new build since 2021, which will sail the Danube River on eight distinct European itineraries. The 154-passenger ship draws design inspiration from Austrian painter Gustav Klimt and is named after his partner and muse, Emilie Floge. The vessel will feature Art Nouveau styling with green, blue, yellow and gold accents throughout.
"As we look to celebrate our 50th anniversary next year, we're incredibly proud of what we've accomplished," said Ellen Bettridge, president and CEO of Uniworld. "Uniworld debuted in 1976 as a tour company that soon became the first North American company to offer cruises throughout Europe."
To commemorate the anniversary milestone, Uniworld will operate a 50-night "Rivers of the World" cruise across three continents, departing April 16, 2026. The journey will begin in Brussels on the new S.S. Emilie before continuing to a mystery destination. Passengers will then board the S.S. Joie de Vivre in Paris, followed by the S.S. Catherine from Lyon to Avignon. The itinerary continues with stays in Cassis and Cairo before a Nile River cruise on the S.S. Sphinx, concluding in Jordan.
In response to client demand, the company will offer other Mystery Cruises in 2026, with departures on April 26 and May 3. The April sailing will serve as the second leg of the 50-night anniversary cruise.
For family travelers, Uniworld is adding a Generations Collection sailing on its Burgundy & Provence itinerary with departures on July 19 and July 26. These family-focused cruises include dedicated youth lounges, two family hosts organizing kid-friendly dining options and special events.
Additional new European itineraries for 2026 include "Vineyards & Palaces Along the Danube," "Vienna & Capital Cities of the Danube" and "Danube Grandeur & Prague." The company is also adding Slovenia to several Italian itineraries onboard the S.S. La Venezia.
All European sailings in 2026 will feature a new "Black & White Party" event.
Travel advisors can complete the updated "What's New for 2026" certification course through Uniworld University's online training portal to learn more about these new offerings.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Uniworld Boutique River Cruises. It was fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
