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Cruise Lines » Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Award-winning Uniworld—the world's ONLY authentic boutique cruise line^TM—offers itineraries in spectacular destinations throughout Europe, Russia, and Asia. The company’s European fleet features luxurious ships with an average capacity of 130 guests, the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the river cruise industry, enticing shore excursions, world-class gourmet cuisine, impeccable hospitality, and numerous other all-inclusive benefits.

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 more than 30 top brands, including Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, and Contiki, as well as Red Carnation Hotels, a renowned collection of four- and five-star luxury properties.

TTC has made major investments in Uniworld's ships, crew, and staff, with an eye towards providing guests with all the elements of an unforgettable Six-Star Experience: Expertise; Service; Luxurious Ships, Uniquely Designed; Culinary; Choice; and Truly All-Inclusive. 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.

The Boutique Experience, Onboard & Onshore

The renowned Red Carnation Hotel Collection was founded in the early 1980s by Beatrice Tollman, who has many years of experience as a chef, cookbook author, and hotelier in South Africa, Europe, and the US. The family-run business now spans four generations—including her husband Stanley and three children—and owns and operates 17 boutique properties in five countries. Mrs. Tollman was named Hotelier of the Year at the European Hospitality Awards in 2012.

Boutique hotels are known for their destination-specific interior décor, gracious service, and carefully selected amenities, all of which provide an intimate, elegant, and relaxed experience. Similarly, Uniworld’s boutique river cruises allow guests to travel from one exciting destination to the next aboard a stylish floating hotel with inviting lounges, cozy libraries, panoramic restaurants, sumptuous cuisine, exquisite antiques and original art, and luxurious riverview staterooms and suites. Meticulous attention to detail is readily apparent on every company-owned ship, including Uniworld’s three stunning Super Ships—the S.S. Antoinette, S.S. Catherine, and S.S. Maria Theresa (debuting 2015).

Gracious and Attentive Service

In partnership with its sister company, Red Carnation Hotels, Uniworld takes pride in its long-lasting relationships with guests, for whom there is “No request too large, no detail too small.” Uniworld employs a professionally trained, dedicated, English-speaking staff, so guests never have to worry about communication.

Additional Information About Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

	Dining Enjoying an extraordinary dining experience comes down to a few special ingredients. The ambiance of an inviting restaurant. The camaraderie of friends. The talents of an expert chef. The refined service of a professionally-trained crew in an atmosphere of casual sophistication.
	And yes, the food itself – a delicious fusion of style, unique culinary creations, and taste inspired by the regions of your itinerary. With Uniworld, you’ll enjoy menus planned by our international chefs who come to us from such renowned places as Cunard, Silverseas, London’s five-star Meridian Piccadilly and Relais & Châteaux Hotels. Menus are a blend of classic cuisine with a touch of contemporary elegance, and are created using only the finest and freshest ingredients often brought onboard from your ports of call. Tables are dressed with fine linens, cloth napkins and dinnerware, all of which enhance your dining experience. You’re surrounded by the beauty of passing riverbank towns and villages, and your knowledgeable and friendly crew is trained in the best traditions of personalized service—should you have a special meal preference, they will graciously accommodate your request. Morning ...begins with breakfast from an extensive array of choices. Enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet, including omelets, pancakes, Belgian waffles, French toast, bacon and sausages. Or have something light, continental style – cereals, an assortment of homemade breads, pastries, fresh fruits and juices, fine teas and French Press coffee from organic pure Arabica coffee beans. Lunch ...presents a delectable feast, with fresh salads, seasonable vegetables, artisan cheeses, homemade soups, carved-to-order roasts, assorted sandwiches and tempting desserts. Evening ...offers a single-open seating that allows you to vary your perspective on the scenery and meet more fellow travelers. Each night our talented chefs and culinary crew stand ready to fill your desires, from special requests to recommendations from our extensive wine list. With gourmet selections of seafood and meats, our menu is designed to acquaint guests with a special style of cuisine reflective of the destinations you visit. Roasted butternut salad, filet mignon and Crepes Suzette are just some of the specialties available. Fine complimentary wine is served nightly during dinner* on our European company-owned cruises, along with a range of decadent desserts – from Crème Brulee to Chocolate and Hazelnut Gateau to Tiramisu to fresh homemade fruit pies – all which should not be missed! Food choices may vary on ships in Russia, Egypt and China. *Complimentary wine is offered on Europe cruises only. Dining choices may vary on cruises in Russia, Egypt and China.

	Service With a ratio of one crew member for  every three guests, you’ll be well taken care of by our world-class, attentive, all English-speaking crew, who offer exceptional service guaranteed!
	Gracious and accommodating, our professionally-trained staff is with you every step of the way to help you get the most out of your vacation, which means offering you that little something extra that makes your cruise truly memorable. Whether it is an omelet prepared just the way you like it, being greeted with a refreshing beverage by a friendly staff member as you walk back onboard the ship after an excursion ashore, or listening to an informative lecture by your Cruise Manager, there are certain things you expect in good service. You can expect all those things and more when you join us on a Boutique River Cruise. Because for us, service is an art. It is warm and genuine. Here, “well trained” is not just a phrase, but a philosophy. Your English-speaking staff knows both your cruise’s route and your personal preferences. They are eager to share with you their insights into the places you visit. They take pride in seeing you smile. For a few precious days, the world indeed revolves around you, and we would have it no other way. Visiting. Sharing. Laughing. Feeling at home. This is how friendship works. We look forward to welcoming you, a valued friend, aboard soon.

	Staterooms After a day of sightseeing, nothing feels better than stepping into a well-appointed personal sanctuary, where everything is just as you like it. Your Uniworld Boutique River Cruise stateroom fits the bill beautifully.
	Our inviting hotel-style beds are draped with the finest European-style comforters and duvets, soft 100% Egyptian combed cotton sheets, and wool/cashmere blended throws. A choice of pillows, including down-filled and foam pillows, ensure a restful night’s sleep. Private bathrooms stocked with soothing aromatherapy bath amenities and a cozy robe add a touch of luxury. Soft, thick towels will wrap you in warmth. Flat-screen televisions offer a selection of channels, including CNN. And for viewing Europe’s ever-changing scenery, a sitting area by the window could hardly be more perfect. Each stateroom also features generous built-in closet space, a vanity with make-up mirror, complimentary bottled water, hair dryer, individually controlled air conditioning, direct dial telephone and in-stateroom safe. For the ultimate in comfort, try a Uniworld suite, an indulgent space rarely found on other ships. Ours are extra spacious and include a luxurious bathroom, a sitting area with a sofa and two chairs, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Amenities aboard our boutique river cruise ships certainly rival those you will find at the finest boutique hotels of the world. The difference is, your Uniworld stateroom travels with you. Unpack once and make yourself at home! Amenities in staterooms may vary on ships in Russia, Portugal, Egypt and China ships.

• Dining
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• Staterooms

Ships

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  Aria Amazon
  ARIA AMAZON  Designed to explore the Peruvian Amazon in luxury and comfort, the Aria Amazon is an all-suite ship with floor-to-ceiling windows, giving you a full view of the majestic rivers and rainforest. The top deck features a jacuzzi, indoor lounge & bar and an outdoor observation deck. With all-inclusive amenities and five-star cuisine by top chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, this luxurious...
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  Century Legend
  The five-star-rated Century Legend is a state-of-the-art ship designed by European architects and shipbuilders specialising in sophisticated marine design. The many defining features of this well-appointed vessel include restaurants, bars, a cinema, indoor pool, fitness centre, and onboard spa, as well as Uniworld Signature Suites with balconies and a host of special VIP benefits.
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  Ganges Voyager II
  The ship's spacious, high-ceilinged suites are a serene sanctuary, with beautiful hand-painted murals and all the comforts of a five-star hotel. All suites have a cosy sitting area and a French balcony with floor-to-ceiling glass doors. A bed dressed in soft linens, with a choice of pillows. Your roomy bathroom has a rain shower, comfy robes and slippers, and spa-quality bath products. Other...
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  Mekong Jewel
  Debuting on January 3, 2020, the Mekong Jewel will be the newest and most luxurious ship on the Mekong river. This all-suite Super Ship will include two dining venues: one main restaurant and an al fresco eatery on the upper deck. The Mekong Jewel will replace the Mekong Navigator and is being constructed with sustainable, eco-friendly materials, and will feature a swimming pool, spa, sauna...
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  Mekong Navigator
  With a design reminiscent of the French Colonial–era manor homes that once lined the streets of Old Saigon, the all-suite Mekong Navigator features a sophisticated and comfortable ambience. This beautiful ship—a new addition to the fleet in 2017—carries no more than 68 guests, assuring gracious and attentive service from their impeccably- trained staff. Every suite is a beautiful and tranquil...
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  Queen Isabel
  Uniworld’s Queen Isabel provides an up-close and unforgettable view of Portugal’s Douro River Valley—a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site—renowned for its dramatic, rugged scenery and pristine waters. Named after Portugal's beloved queen, this boutique 116-passenger vessel is the most unique and stately ship on the Douro, a wonderful place to admire the region’s steeply terraced hillside...
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  River Ambassador
  A stylish boutique river cruise ship Understated elegance makes the intimate 116-passenger River Ambassador an ideal place to savor Europe’s renowned scenery and centuries-old cultural heritage. An eclectic art collection adorns the walls, and every stateroom and suite is beautifully and uniquely decorated, making for a truly luxurious and one-of-a-kind ship. Ship Features and Amenities...
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  River Countess
  The 130-passenger River Countess is filled with light and colour. Muted shades of turquoise complemented by soothing cream, taupe, and white accents create a luxurious and sophisticated environment for your up-close, unsurpassed and unforgettable Italian adventure. Ciao, bella!
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  River Duchess
  The 130-passenger River Duchess is decorated in soft hues of blue and green complemented by soothing earth tones, providing a tranquil and elegant onboard ambiance. Enjoy spectacular∘ and ever-changing views of Europe’s most enchanting waterways in the ship’s stylish Blue Danube Lounge, Palace Restaurant, or the La Motte Sky Lounge.
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  River Empress
  The cosmopolitan style of River Empress, with its rich jewel tones and vibrant atmosphere, is certain to captivate you. Whether you’re dining in the ship’s sleek restaurant—reminiscent of a New York jazz and supper club—or relaxing over a cup of tea on the Sun Deck as you gaze out at the 360-degree view, there is no better or more relaxing way to travel through the scenic heartland of Europe.
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  River Princess
  The stunning foyer of the 130-passenger River Princess sets an indulgent and luxurious tone for your European journey. Throughout the ship, jewel-tone greens, warm browns, and mix of black of white create a sophisticated∘ ambiance, while stylish public areas—including a Main Lounge, a Sky Lounge, and a Captain’s Lounge and Library—provide comfortable places to curl up with a good book, chat...
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  River Queen
  One of the most unique ships cruising Europe’s waterways, the River Queen has an exterior resembling the steamships of the 1930s and an elegant Art Deco interior. Decorated in richly textured blue and white fabrics—with marble bathrooms and inspiring artwork—River Queen is a sublime floating hotel designed with your every comfort in mind. River Queen was rated the #1 ship in the entire cruise...
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  River Royale
  The River Royale was remodeled in 2012 to capture the essence of the Bordeaux region, with a timeless style that emphasizes elegance and comfort as you sail through southwestern France. Carrying no more than 130 passengers, this intimate ship is a wonderful place to savor the scenery, dine on exquisite cuisine, and relax with friends over drinks in the Salon Gascogne’s Aquitaine Bar and other...
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  River Tosca
  The River Tosca perfectly captures the warmth and style of Egypt, taking guests on a culturally enriching adventure down the Nile in absolute luxury. This all-suite ship is elegantly designed with wood finishes and cosy public spaces. From the sprawling Sun Deck with shaded cabanas and a swimming pool, to the stylish lounge decorated with local wares, every space is inspired by the region in...
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  S.S. Antoinette
  The luxurious décor of the S.S. Antoinette—Uniworld’s first Super Ship—features fine Brazilian marble on the walls and floors, a 19th-century Venetian glass mirror, a stylish Bar du Leopard with full-service bar, and an onboard cinema. The two-story foyer boasts a 10-foot blue Strauss Baccarat chandelier with huge sapphires—a stunning piece that once hung in New York's famous Tavern on the...
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  S.S. Beatrice
  We are excited to introduce our newest Super Ship — S.S. Beatrice. The S.S. Beatrice boasts yacht-style light wood with blue and white finishes throughout, a renovated lobby featuring elegant mirrors, marble floors, a white Murano chandelier with blue shades, and a grand staircase made of nickel and black iron – a signature design element of Uniworld’s Super Ships. The ship’s redesigned lounge...
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  S.S. Bon Voyage
  UNIWORLD are excited to announce that after an extensive full-ship renovation, the River Royale will reemerge as the S.S. Bon Voyage in Spring 2019. Inspired by the renowned wine and gastronomic expertise of the region, the S.S. Bon Voyage will represent the bountiful destination—from the beautiful design on the ship’s bow to the enhanced culinary opportunities onboard.With her transformation,...
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  S.S. Catherine
  Uniworld is committed to building a fleet of ships that represents the absolute best in luxury river cruising, combining quality craftsmanship with high-tech innovations and custom-designed interiors. Their second Super Ship, S.S. Catherine, continues this proud tradition of excellence with sumptuous materials and meticulous attention to detail. The vessel’s opulent interiors include a...
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  S.S. Elisabeth
  Joining our fleet in 2025, the S.S. Elisabeth, sister ship to the S.S. Victoria, exudes contemporary style with luxe velvet and marble accents, while original artwork adds a touch of Uniworld’s signature boutique style. The S.S. Elisabeth has the largest suites on the rivers of Europe, boasting two Royal Suites that offer an incredible 506 square feet each. Guests can even reserve the...
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  S.S. Emilie
  Sailing the Danube River, the next member of our Super Ship™ fleet will be inspired by master Viennese painter Gustav Klimt. In his honor, we’re naming the vessel after his beloved muse, Emilie Flöge. When she debuts in 2026, the S.S. Emilie will bring elements of Klimt’s signature style to our guests, with dramatic hues, Art Nouveau elements, and stunning pops of gold. Guests who book a Grand...
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  S.S. Joie de Vivre
  Uniworld’s newest Super Ship—S.S. Joie de Vivre—is designed to reflect the “joy of living” as it cruises the Seine River in northern France. This luxurious 128-passenger vessel is a showcase for handcrafted furniture, sumptuous fabrics, beautiful antiques, gilded accents and every modern convenience. The Salon de Toulouse features a full-service bar and art and antiques curated from renowned...
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  S.S. La Venezia
  The River Countess will undergo a complete design renovation and debut as S.S. La Venezia on March 27, 2020 bringing guests complete luxury while exploring Northern Italy. The redesign of S.S. La Venezia will be inspired by Venetian culture and feature four elegantly appointed suites, two dining venues, including an Italian kitchen on the upper deck, spa, library, lounge and bar.
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  S.S. Maria Theresa
  "Regal in its opulent 18th-century decor, a floating homage to the former Austrian empress....Besides indulgent dining and an elegant atmosphere, this is one of the prettiest ships out there." - Cruise Critic editorsOne of Europe's most beloved and longest reigning monarchs, the great Habsburg ruler Maria Theresa, was so extraordinary that we built an entire Super Ship in her honor. Named...
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  S.S. Sao Gabriel
  Debuting on March 26, 2020, S.S. São Gabriel will be the newest ship on the Douro river. Designed to embody the beautiful Douro River Valley region, this ship will offer more lavishly appointed suites than the Queen Isabel and bring the destination to life through its décor and delectable food and wine. Butler service will be added onboard, giving guests the option to dine at any time they’d...
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  S.S. Sphinx
  The S.S. Sphinx made her debut on the Nile river in January 2020. As the only luxury river cruise ship in Egypt, S.S. Sphinx offers three gourmet dining venues, including a private dining room and an al fresco dining experience on the upper deck, a swimming pool, massage room and 42 gorgeously appointed suites. Egyptian artwork, fabrics and hand-carved furnishings will bring the beauty of the...
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  S.S. Victoria
  The S.S. Victoria, sister ship to the S.S. Elisabeth, joins our European fleet in 2024 with an ambiance of contemporary luxury and features the largest suites on the rivers of Europe. Two Royal Suites onboard offer an incredible 506 square feet each. Reserve the adjoining standard Suite next door, and that turns into 759 square feet total, with two bedrooms connected by a separate living room....
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  Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer
  The Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer introduces a new standard of cruising in China - more intimate and luxurious. With the largest cabins and suites on the river, all with private balconies, as well as the highest crew to passenger ratio on the river of 1:1, this is a Yangzi cruise unlike any other.Carrying just 124 passengers, compared to the 300 plus accommodated on other cruise ships, the...
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  The A
  OUR SHIPS Part boutique hotel, part yacht, part resort. When your waterfront hotel is also your taxi, bar, favorite restaurant, nightclub and yoga studio, travel becomes a bit more relaxed and a lot more hassle-free. Onboard, you can expect everything you’d find in your favorite boutique hotel. But here’s the best part. Your floating boutique hotel makes it extra-easy to visit several...
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  The B
  OUR SHIPS Part boutique hotel, part yacht, part resort. When your waterfront hotel is also your taxi, bar, favorite restaurant, nightclub and yoga studio, travel becomes a bit more relaxed and a lot more hassle-free. Onboard, you can expect everything you’d find in your favorite boutique hotel. But here’s the best part. Your floating boutique hotel makes it extra-easy to visit several...