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Even if you do not consider yourself a “cruise person,” there’s something special about setting sail along a river, exploring charming towns and discovering local flair. And with our partners at Uniworld unveiling one of their biggest expansions yet for 2026 and 2027, those immersive experiences are about to get better. Between their new Super Ships, exotic new destinations, and a host of innovative itineraries, there is a river journey ready to welcome every type of traveler, from the classics in Europe to the culturally rich waters of Asia. Plus, all of these exciting new destinations are experienced from the comfort of a luxury boutique floating hotel. Let’s dive into what’s in store for 2026 and 2027!
Sail along the Rhine, the Main, or the Danube surrounded by Art Nouveau elegance aboard the S.S. Emilie. Inspired by Viennese master painter Gustav Klimt and named after his muse, Emilie Flöge, this 2026 Super Ship is an art lover’s dream – filled with bold colors, gold accents, and a curated art collection. The exquisite design of the ship is only second to the beauty of the destinations she sails to. Explore palaces and vineyards along the Danube with a chance to extend your stay in Prague. Embrace the romantic feel of the Rhine from Basel to Amsterdam. Enjoy the magic of the holidays at some of the world’s most iconic Christmas markets, from Nuremberg to Budapest. For the ultimate experience discovering the best European gems, spend fifteen days sailing along all three rivers from Amsterdam to Vienna, diving into the culture and traditions of The Netherlands, Germany, and Austria. With three new itineraries coming aboard the S.S. Emilie, chances to experience Europe along its most iconic rivers just got easier.Â
Debuting in 2027, three new Super Ships are joining Uniworld’s fleet in Europe: the S.S. Audrey, S.S. Marlene, and S.S. São Rafael. As a tribute to film star Audrey Hepburn who was born in the region, the S.S. Audrey will set sail along the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, allowing guests to experience the magic of cities like Zurich, Prague, and Paris along with small towns tucked away along the banks that feel straight out of a Hollywood film. In Central Europe, the S.S. Marlene will highlight the best of the region’s art, history, and architecture with journeys to destinations like Budapest, Salzburg, Belgrade, and Bucharest. And wine aficionados are set to experience the famed vineyards of the Douro Valley aboard the S.S. São Rafael, introducing guests to the beauty and culinary delights of Portugal. Though there are many details yet to be revealed, bookings are open, giving you the chance to be the first to experience these new Super Ships for your European river cruise.
Beyond European rivers, Uniworld is entering new waters aboard the luxurious expedition yacht, Aqua Blu, marking its first sailing in Indonesia and Singapore. Holding just 30 guests, this explorer yacht evokes a sense of intimacy and opens access to smaller, more remote regions the larger ships cannot access. Spend fourteen days diving into the exotic landscapes of Bali, Komodo National Park, the Spice Islands, and more alongside highly experienced crew and guides. Active travelers will love the countless opportunities to scuba, snorkel, and kayak through pristine waters of Indonesia in the hopes of seeing manta rays, whale sharks, and a plethora of other marine life. At each stop, guests can disembark to explore the islands, whether you opt for an adventurous hike across active volcanoes or simply choose to unwind on the beaches. Along with the yacht, the journey includes plenty of time on land in both Bali and Singapore to become fully immersed in the local culture and traditions – completely exclusive to Uniworld guests.Â
With so many new ships, itineraries, and destinations, finding the perfect match can be overwhelming, which is where your Brownell advisor comes in. Our advisors are experts when it comes to river cruising, and they will not only find the best ship and itinerary tailored to your desires, but can also help you pick the best stateroom, find the perfect onshore excursions, and get you VIP perks at five-star hotels for those wishing to extend their stay before or after their cruise. With many of these voyages offering limited sailings, now is the time to reach out and secure your spot.