Uniworld River Cruises

About us

Uniworld—the world’s best and most awarded luxury river cruise line—offers itineraries in spectacular destinations throughout Europe, Egypt, Asia, and Peru. Our fleet features luxurious ships with an average capacity of 120 guests, one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the river cruise industry, enticing shore excursions, world-class gourmet cuisine, impeccable hospitality, and the highest degree of all-inclusive benefits on the rivers. The Highest Standards in Luxury River Cruising In 2004, Uniworld was acquired by The Travel Corporation (TTC), a highly successful international travel group founded by Stanley Tollman. TTC has 40 top brands, including Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, and Contiki, as well as Red Carnation Hotels, a renowned collection of four- and five-star luxury properties. Combining the tour planning and hotel management expertise of TTC’s sister ...Read more

Uniworld River Cruises - About Us

The Highest Standards in Luxury River Cruising

In 2004, Uniworld was acquired by The Travel Corporation (TTC), a highly successful international travel group founded by Stanley Tollman. TTC has 40 top brands, including Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, and Contiki, as well as Red Carnation Hotels, a renowned collection of four- and five-star luxury properties.

Combining the tour planning and hotel management expertise of TTC’s sister companies with Uniworld’s decades of superior nautical experience has created an entirely new category of luxury river cruising. Together, we’ve made major investments in our ships, crew, and staff, with an eye towards providing guests with all the elements of an unforgettable experience: Outstanding Service; The Most All-Inclusive Amenities; One-of-a-Kind Ships; Carefully Curated Experiences; Culinary Excellence; Wellness; and a Commitment to Sustainability.

The Boutique Experience, Onboard & Onshore

The guiding visionary behind our boutique philosophy is Beatrice “Bea” Tollman, founder of Red Carnation Hotels. Bea was named Hotelier of the Year at the European Hospitality Awards in 2012 and was inducted into The British Travel & Hospitality Hall of Fame in 2019.

Bea and her creative team amplify the definition of boutique luxury with every new and updated ship. Our river cruises allow guests to travel from one exciting destination to the next aboard a stylish floating hotel with chic lounges, panoramic restaurants, sumptuous cuisine, exquisite antiques, original art, and luxurious riverview staterooms and suites. Meticulous attention to detail is readily apparent on every company-designed ship, including 12 members of Uniworld’s stunning Super Ship fleet—the S.S. Antoinette, S.S. Beatrice, S.S. Victoria, S.S. Elisabeth, and S.S. Maria Theresa in Central Europe; the S.S. Catherine, S.S. Joie de Vivre, and S.S. Bon Voyage in France; the S.S. La Venezia in Italy; the S.S. São Gabriel in Portugal; the S.S. Sphinx in Egypt, and the Mekong Jewel in Vietnam and Cambodia.

Gracious and Attentive Service

Uniworld takes pride in its long-lasting relationships with guests, for whom there is “No request is too large, No detail too small.” Uniworld employs a dedicated crew, professionally trained to the highest standards of service, so guests never have to worry about being well taken care of during their journeys.

Company Name : Uniworld River Cruises

Company Website

Agent Discount: Yes – agents might be offered as much as 50-70% discount.

News & announcements

21 Nov 25
SPECIALS
Black Friday Savings Are Almost Here
Our 12 Days of Christmas savings event is coming back by popular demand this ...Read more

Black Friday Savings Are Almost Here - News & announcements

Our 12 Days of Christmas savings event is coming back by popular demand this November 28th! Stay tuned to unwrap new offers released every day for 12 weekdays. What do we have in store this year? Think free trip extensions, waived solo traveler supplements, and even savings of up to 50% on our luxurious river cruises. In previous years, these special offers have sold out fast, so keep your eyes on your inbox and be ready to book quickly!
29 Oct 25
Partner News
Uniworld announces largest fleet expansion to date for 2027
~Luxury boutique river cruise line unveils brand new Super Ships, and several new journeys ...Read more

Uniworld announces largest fleet expansion to date for 2027 - News & announcements

~Luxury boutique river cruise line unveils brand new Super Ships, and several new journeys across Europe and Asia~
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises announces its most extensive collection of new offerings yet, unveiling four ships and six itineraries launching in 2027. New ships include three brand-new Super Ship builds, the S.S. Audrey, S.S. Marlene, and S.S. São Rafael on Portugal’s Douro River, as well as exclusive sailings on the Aqua Blu, marking the brand’s debut in Singapore and Indonesia. “2027 is shaping up to be a landmark year for us at Uniworld as we introduce four remarkable new ships to our guests and a range of itineraries that blend cultural immersion, luxury and adventure,” says Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld. “From honouring the timeless elegance of Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich aboard our newest Super Ships, to exploring the rich landscapes of Singapore and Indonesia with the Aqua Blu, these additions mark an exciting chapter of growth and continued elevation.” New Ships for 2027 The S.S. Audrey and S.S. Marlene will join the fleet in 2027 with a similar layout to sister ship S.S. Emilie, debuting in 2026. While the S.S. Emilie channels the artistry of Gustav Klimt with bold jewel tones and Art Nouveau touches, the Audrey and Marlene will each showcase interiors inspired by the screen legends they are named for, Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich. Both icons were born in Europe, making their influence a seamless fit with Uniworld’s tradition of bringing local stories to life onboard. The brand-new builds will pay homage to the stars’ elegance and cinematic glamour, and will both sail the rivers of Europe. Joining them is the new S.S. São Rafael, a brother ship to the S.S. São Gabriel, expanding Uniworld’s popular Douro River voyages in Portugal. The name São Rafael is a nod to Portugal’s legacy of exploration and maritime history. In Vasco da Gama’s first voyage to India in 1497, São Gabriel served as the flagship, while São Rafael sailed alongside under the command of Paulo da Gama. The final addition to the fleet is the Aqua Blu, a sleek expedition yacht operated in partnership with Aqua Expeditions. With just two sailings per year, its exclusive voyages will offer rare access to the islands of Indonesia and Singapore. New Itineraries In 2027, Uniworld will launch six new itineraries across Europe and Asia: ‘Bali, Singapore & Indonesia Expedition’ This 13-night journey is unlike anything Uniworld has offered before, pairing three nights in Bali with a seven-night expedition cruise aboard the intimate, 15-suite Aqua Blu, followed by a three-night luxury stay in Singapore. Guests will sail along Indonesia’s coastline, with rare access to Komodo National Park, the Spice Islands, Pink Beach and more. Along the way, guests can spot manta rays, whale sharks and Komodo dragons, as well as dive, snorkel and kayak in some of the world’s most untouched waters. On land, immersive experiences include exploring Ubud’s temples and rice terraces, discovering Balinese village life and indulging in a Peranakan cultural encounter in Singapore. This Limited-Edition Collection voyage will operate only twice in 2027, offering travellers a blend of tropical escape, cultural immersion and small-ship luxury that is still uniquely Uniworld ‘Paris, Prague & Germany’s Hidden Gems’ An 11-night journey on the new S.S. Audrey, this itinerary will blend stays in Paris and Prague with a cruise through the heart of Germany along the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Travelers can explore the romantic ruins of Heidelberg Castle, canoe through a scenic nature reserve and enjoy pretzels straight from the oven in centuries-old bakeries. Along the way, they’ll also sip fine Rhineland wines in Cochem, wander medieval lanes in Wertheim and end the journey in Prague, known for its culture, architecture and world-famous beer. ‘Scenic Rhine, Paris & the Swiss Alps’ An additional 11-night journey aboard the S.S. Audrey, this itinerary will combine luxurious hotel stays in Paris and Zurich with a Rhine and Moselle River sailing through France, Germany and Switzerland. Activities include enjoying freshly baked bread at a historic mill surrounded by one of Germany’s most beautiful private gardens, hiking through vineyards, cycling along the river and exploring Roman ruins in Trier, all while indulging in Moselle Rieslings and Swiss cheeses along the way. ‘European Gems’ This journey will be a special one-date-only, 14-night departure aboard the S.S. Emilie from Amsterdam to Vienna. This limited-edition cruise brings together the very best of Europe’s most iconic waterways, sailing the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers in one seamless voyage. Guests will glide past castle-topped hills, charming medieval towns and capital cities, discovering the cultural and culinary treasures that make each stop unforgettable. ‘Grand Highlights of the Danube ’ This is a 16-night adventure that will weave together two guest favourite itineraries: ‘Highlights of Eastern Europe’ and ‘Enchanting Danube.’ Guests will sail for 14 nights on the S.S. Marlene along the Danube, from the storybook towns and vineyard-clad hills of Austria’s Wachau Valley to the architectural treasures of Budapest and beyond. Along the way, travellers will discover a private evening of classical music in Vienna, admire where three rivers meet in Passau and pedal through postcard-perfect landscapes on guided cycling excursions. ‘Castles Along the Rhine & Amsterdam’ Expanding on one of Uniworld’s most popular itineraries, ‘Castles Along the Rhine’, this new nine-night journey will include two nights in Amsterdam. Guests will sail from Basel to the Dutch capital, from Alsace and the half-timbered charm of Rüdesheim to the gothic spires of Cologne. The journey concludes with two immersive days in Amsterdam, complete with a guided canal cruise and a tour of the iconic Rijksmuseum.
11 Jun 25
Partner News
Out Now: Our Sustainability Impact Report
It's that time of year again—our 2024 Impact Report is live! Created in tandem ...Read more

Out Now: Our Sustainability Impact Report - News & announcements

It's that time of year again—our 2024 Impact Report is live! Created in tandem with our sister brands at The Travel Corporation (TTC), our yearly Impact Reports are designed to hold us accountable on our climate goals and keep you in the loop on our progress. We're proud of the moves we've made over the last year towards making a more sustainable river cruising industry. Read some of the highlights below, then open the report for the full story!

Read Now
01 Apr 25
Partner News
Uniworld To Celebrate 50th Anniversary In 2026 With New Offerings
~Uniworld Boutique River Cruises Announces What’s New for 2026, Including a New Ship, Additional ...Read more

Uniworld To Celebrate 50th Anniversary In 2026 With New Offerings - News & announcements

~Uniworld Boutique River Cruises Announces What’s New for 2026, Including a New Ship, Additional Mystery Cruises, and a 50-night Rivers of the World Journey~
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises announces its new offerings for 2026, including the debut of the S.S. Emilie, a brand-new build and unique addition to the fleet, inspired by Austrian painter Gustav Klimt. Uniworld will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026, ushering in a lineup of offerings to celebrate the milestone, such as a 50-night ‘Rivers of the World’ sailing, three new Mystery Cruises, a new family-friendly Generations Collection offering and more. “As we look to celebrate our 50th anniversary next year, we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished,” says 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. During our five decades in the industry, we’ve strived to continuously innovate and delight our guests with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Through it all, the heart of who we are has remained the same, and we’re excited to offer new journeys next year to celebrate our history, our future and our treasured guests.” Uniworld’s new offerings for 2026 include: The S.S. Emilie Joins the Uniworld Fleet In 2026, the S.S. Emilie will debut on the Danube River across eight different itineraries throughout Europe. The 154-passenger ship is the brand’s first new build since 2021, with a design inspired by renowned Austrian painter Gustav Klimt and named after his life partner and muse, Emilie Flöge. The new river ship will feature Klimt’s signature style woven throughout the ship's design, showcasing dramatic hues of green, blue and yellow, striking gold accents, and plenty of Art Nouveau touches. In addition to the fine dining restaurant, lounge and bar, the S.S. Emilie will allow guests to book a spacious two-bedroom suite when reserving a Grand Suite with the adjoining Deluxe French Balcony stateroom. Three New Mystery Cruises Due to popular demand, Uniworld will offer three Mystery Cruises in 2026, allowing more travellers the opportunity to participate in a thrilling surprise adventure. With two cruises departing 26 April and one departing 3 May, guests can book now to secure their preferred date. The April Mystery Cruise is also the second leg of the 50-night 2026 ‘Rivers of the World’ cruise. A 50-Night ‘Rivers of the World’ Adventure In celebration of its 50th anniversary, Uniworld will host its third ‘Rivers of the World’ cruise in 2026 for a fitting 50 nights, offering travellers an exclusive adventure across three continents. Departing on 16 April 2026, the journey will begin on the S.S. Emilie, making guests of the ‘Rivers of the World’ cruise some of the first passengers to experience the new Super Ship. The journey begins in the city of Brussels, where guests will sail to Amsterdam, before joining a Mystery Cruise to experience a surprise destination. Following the Mystery Cruise, guests will board the S.S. Joie de Vivre in Paris for a French river cruise along the Seine, with stops throughout the heart of both the city and the countryside, before taking a first-class train to Lyon. There, passengers will sail to Avignon aboard the S.S. Catherine before enjoying a few nights in the quaint Mediterranean fishing port of Cassis. Guests will then fly to Cairo for five nights at a luxury hotel and then sail the Nile River onboard the S.S. Sphinx for an immersive adventure throughout Egypt, including a trip to Abu Simbel and a visit to the much-anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). The final leg of the journey will be spent in Jordan, where guests will visit iconic spots like Petra and the Dead Sea. New Generations Collection Sailing Uniworld will offer a Generations Collection sailing on the 19 July and 26 July departures of the Burgundy & Provence itinerary. Generations Collection sailings are designed with families in mind, featuring an array of activities, amenities and excursions tailored specifically for children. In addition to a lounge just for young travellers, the Generations sailings have two family hosts on board who organise child-centric dining options and special social events like movie nights. New 2026 Uniworld University Course Travel agents are invited to complete the newly revamped “What’s New for 2026” certification course, now available on the Uniworld University online training portal. This updated course provides an in-depth look at Uniworld’s most exciting offerings for 2026, including the highly anticipated debut of the luxurious S.S. Emilie, new itineraries, and the extraordinary 50-night ‘Rivers of the World’ cruise. Agents who complete the course gain exclusive perks, such as a featured spot in Uniworld’s online directory of preferred agents, a personalised certification badge for their email signature, and eligibility for fantastic special rates on Uniworld cruises. To access the course, travel agents can visit www.uniworlduniversity.com.
14 Mar 25
NEWS
Uniworld hosts 70 agents on luxury train journey from Budapest
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises completed an industry first at the CLIA RiverView Conference 2025 in ...Read more

Uniworld hosts 70 agents on luxury train journey from Budapest - News & announcements

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises completed an industry first at the CLIA RiverView Conference 2025 in Budapest by hosting 70 travel agents on a luxury train journey. The ride aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express was aimed at highlighting the opportunity for agents in selling combined rail and river trips, featured in Uniworld’s World’s Greatest Rail and River Journeys collection. Guests were welcomed to Nyugati station in Budapest where they enjoyed a glass of Tattinger in the Royal waiting room before boarding the Golden Eagle Danube Express to the sound of a brass band. During the three-hour round trip, travel agents were given a tour of the private sleeper train, and the restaurant and bar carriages. They enjoyed a demonstration of the onboard cuisine and service during a three-course meal. Chris Townson, Uniworld’s UK & Ireland MD, said: “We wanted to do something that’s never been done before at the CLIA RiverView Conference. We are so grateful to Golden Eagle Luxury Trains for bringing the train into Budapest specially.” “We are seeing an undeniable trend in customers booking longer, bucket list trips that combine ultra-luxury rail, river and land.” Tim Littler, President and Founder of Golden Eagle Luxury Trains, added: “It was a real pleasure to welcome Uniworld’s partners onto the Golden Eagle Danube Express this week so they could see, touch and taste what it’s like to be on board”. Lewis Johnston, of rivercruising.co.uk. said: “The views as we journeyed in parallel with the Danube were spectacular. I was so impressed by the suites and how much space there was. It’s just the perfect fit with a brand like Uniworld.” In response to demand, Uniworld’s World’s Greatest Rail and River Journeys has expanded for 2025 and features a number of new trips including Istanbul to Paris, linking a six day journey from Istanbul to Paris on the Golden Eagle Danube Express with a seven-night cruise on the Seine. Grand Alpine and Enchanting Danube combines Uniworld’s sailing from Passau to Budapest on the Super Ship Maria Theresa with a seven day Alpine train journey to Venice.
27 Dec 24
Partner News
Uniworld expects bookings boom as it features on Susan Calman’s Cruise of a Lifetime
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is excited to announce that its signature India itinerary – ...Read more

Uniworld expects bookings boom as it features on Susan Calman’s Cruise of a Lifetime - News & announcements

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is excited to announce that its signature India itinerary – India’s Golden Triangle and the Sacred Ganges – will feature in the first two episodes of Channel 5’s Susan Calman’s Cruise of a Lifetime. Starting on Friday 3 January at 9pm on Channel 5, the new series will follow presenter and comedian Susan Calman on some epic cruises around the world, with Uniworld’s spectacular India trip, incorporating a luxury land adventure from New Delhi to Agra and Jaipur followed by a seven-night immersive sailing on the Ganges Voyager II, as the subject of the first two episodes. The programme will show Susan taking part in a number of experiences available on this breathtaking holiday, from a pedal-powered rickshaw ride through the streets of Old Delhi to a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, learning block printing techniques in Jaipur, visits to temples and palaces along the Ganges, as well as witnessing life along the river banks, from wildlife to locals bathing and worshipping in the sacred water. Chris Townson, UK & Europe MD of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises said: “It was such a pleasure to welcome Susan and the film crew on our India itinerary and we can’t wait for the programme to air. We know from previous experience how powerful TV exposure like this can be in creating awareness and interest and we fully expect this to generate a big bookings boom. We hope that our travel agent partners take the opportunity to watch it live or on catch up as we think there’s no better way to understand what our incredible itinerary has to offer, especially in Susan’s good company. “The trip is the ultimate in ultra-luxury travel in India. In the Golden Triangle we visit the icons and stay in the world-renowned Oberoi properties in New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur before heading to the comfort and style of the Ganges Voyager II, the Ganges’ most luxurious river ship, which takes guests to towns and villages that few tourists visit. This holiday is true bucket list stuff. I’m not surprised it has been branded a ‘cruise of a lifetime’”. To support agents selling this cruise to their clients, Uniworld has produced a dedicated India brochure timed to launch with the programme’s transmission and will release a supporting special offer priced at £6,239 per person for the 15-day India’s Golden Triangle and the Sacred Ganges, valid on 1 January 2026 departure. Agents can also contact the Uniworld sales team for tailorable marketing assets and to learn about Uniworld’s India portfolio beyond Susan’s experience, including a journey on the Maharajas Express train and a seamless extension to Varanasi, considered one of the holiest parts of the Ganges. Uniworld is urging agents to proactively contact the clients that they believe are seeking bucket list experiences and encourage early booking, as this India cruise is already proving a near sell-out for 2025. Susan Calman’s Cruise of a Lifetime in India will be broadcast across two episodes on Friday 3 January and Friday 10 January at 9pm on Channel 5 and will be available thereafter on www.My5.com
25 Oct 24
Partner News
Tom Kerridge, Raymond Blanc OBE and Monica Galetti amongst Uniworld’s expert cruise hosts for 2025
Uniworld has released a series of celebrity-led cruises for Spring 2025 that are available ...Read more

Tom Kerridge, Raymond Blanc OBE and Monica Galetti amongst Uniworld’s expert cruise hosts for 2025 - News & announcements

Uniworld has released a series of celebrity-led cruises for Spring 2025 that are available to book via travel agents. The cruises will feature Tom Kerridge, Sir Ian Botham and Rosemary Shrager, Raymond Blanc and Monica Galetti, each paired with a destination and cruise that complements their interests and expertise. Sailing in the ultra-luxury of Uniworld’s one-of-a-kind ships, guests will enjoy a bespoke itinerary full of unique experiences, from onboard cooking demonstrations and engaging Q&A sessions to gala dinner menus personally crafted by their special host. Chris Townson, MD of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, said: “We’ve been running expert-led cruises for a few years now, and a number of our celebrity hosts are returning for a second or third time. This is testament to the excellent relationships we’ve built up, the continued appetite for these unique itineraries and the exceptional quality of our onboard delivery, which see both hosts and guests coming back for more. In booking one of these cruises, travel agents can be sure that their clients will have a truly unforgettable experience.” The expert-led cruises include: Tom Kerridge, Brilliant Bordeaux, 20 April 2025, from £2,399 per person Two Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge will join guests on a foodie adventure from Bordeaux, taking in archaeological sites, French market towns and exquisite vineyards offering the finest French wines. Sailing on board the Super Ship Bon Voyage, Tom will deliver a cooking demonstration on board and share personal stories from his phenomenal career. Monica Galetti, Venice and the Jewels of the Veneto, 6 April, from £2,399 per person TV presenter, MasterChef judge and renowned chef Monica Galetti will host Uniworld guests on board the Super Ship La Venezia as part of an immersive sailing exploring Venice and the surrounding lagoon, including the islands of Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello. As well as VIP experiences such as private visits to St Mark’s Basilica after dark and the Doges Palace before it opens to the public, guests will enjoy a cooking demonstration and Q&A session with Monica. Raymond Blanc OBE, Burgundy & Provence, 6 April 2025, from £2,549 per person This bespoke cruise celebrates Burgundy & Provence’s renowned cuisine, worldclass wines and picturesque riverside towns in the company of French chef Raymond Blanc OBE, who joins guests on board the Super Ship Catherine sailing from Arles to Lyon. As well as giving an exclusive cooking demonstration onboard, Raymond will share his passion and expertise in selecting the fresh, seasonal ingredients during a visit to the local market. Ian Botham and Rosemary Shrager, 30 March 2025, from £2,449 per person England cricketing legend turned winemaker Sir Ian Botham and renowned chef Rosemary Shrager join forces to host this one-off cruise also sailing Uniworld’s Brilliant Bordeaux itinerary. Both celebrities will be on board for the entire cruise which culminates with a tasting menu from Rosemary paired with wines selected personally by Sir Ian. A contribution from each booking will go towards the Beefy Charity Foundation. Prices listed above are valid until 31 October or until sold out. Agents can also link together the cruise hosted by Sir Ian Botham and Rosemay Shrager with the cruise hosted by Raymond Blanc as they run on consecutive weeks and can be combined by internal flight or rail to make an epic two-week trip. For more information and to book, travel agents should contact their local Uniworld sales manager.
09 Oct 24
Partner News
Discover the Top 5 Reasons to River Cruise
Sailing by river means enjoying all the conveniences of a traditional cruise, along with ...Read more

Discover the Top 5 Reasons to River Cruise - News & announcements

Sailing by river means enjoying all the conveniences of a traditional cruise, along with the benefits of immersive inland travel, all the while relaxing onboard a floating boutique hotel that caters to your every need. River cruising is absolutely the best way to cruise, and the best and most luxurious river cruises are with Uniworld.
Smaller Ships, Fewer Guests
Our ships feature an average capacity of just 120 guests and a guest-to-crew ratio of 2.4 to 1, meaning you'll get to experience an intimate onboard atmosphere and unmatched service from the most tenured crew in the industry.
Truly Immersive
River ships can take travelers far past the coastline to destinations all over the world, immersing you in the heart of every country you visit. And better still, we can dock in the center of town, so you can step right off the ship and into the action.
A Room with a View
On the rivers, every room comes with ever-changing views. Whether you're relaxing on the sundeck, enjoying a cocktail in the lounge or waking up in your cabin, you'll love watching the serene landscapes of your destination float by.
No Lines or Crowds
Our guides can take you right past the long waits at major tourist sites, or even skip the lines entirely with VIP access and private tours. Plus, unlike on an ocean cruise, you won't have to deal with wait times for embarking or disembarking.
Your Well-Being is our Priority
By nature of river travel, you'll always be mere moments away from the shore and its resources, should you need them. The health and safety of our guests and crew is our top priority, so we've developed stringent security and sanitation protocols for our ships.