Uniworld Boutique River Cruises Acquires Two Former Crystal Ships

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has announced the addition of two new super ships, the S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth, which will begin sailing in Europe in 2024 and 2025 respectively. Uniworld will take over the ships from Seaside Collection under a three-year, bareboat charter agreement for each ship and create the signature Uniworld experience on existing itineraries with an all-Uniworld staff, as well as the brand’s trademark touches and amenities. Before joining Riverside Luxury Cruises, the ships were a part of Crystal Cruises’ river fleet as the Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler.

Identical sister ships, the S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth can accommodate 110 guests in 55 suites and staterooms. All rooms have a similar design and feel, only differing in size and nuances. Each room has full-length windows directly in front of the king-sized beds. Guests will find in select suite categories walk-in closets, fireplaces and up to 759 square feet of space (in a Uniworld-first two-bedroom accommodation with adjoining suites).

Other ship highlights include a massage room, gym, bistro for snacks, rooftop bar and grill for cocktails and light bites, and fine dining restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Like all Uniworld cruises, dining venues will offer farm-to-table cuisine utilizing fresh local ingredients gathered by the chef in destination daily.

S.S.Elisabeth
S.S. Elisabeth (Uniworld Boutique River Cruises)

The S.S. Victoria will be the first to set sail at the start of the 2024 season, sailing a variety of itineraries currently operated. The ship will debut in March in Amsterdam onboard the eight-day "Holland & Belgium at Tulip Time" cruise through Belgium and The Netherlands, mixing the classic Amsterdam tulip experience with historic cities, vibrant cultures and plenty of Belgian sweet treats.

Next, the S.S. Victoria will sail the eight-day "Castles Along the Rhine" itinerary from Basel to Amsterdam, visiting "fairytale-like" towns, historic castles and fine winemaking traditions. The ship will also sail the "Magnificent Moselle and Rhine" itinerary over the course of 10 days for an in-depth look at multiple cities and their deep-rooted history. Finally, travelers can opt for the eight-day holiday-themed "Belgium Holiday Markets" sailing round-trip from Brussels, offering a mix of famous and under-the-radar Christmas markets.

The S.S. Elisabeth is scheduled to set sail for the 2025 season, with more details to come.

Related Articles

AmaWaterways Expands Combination River Cruise Offerings

Cunard Reveals Wellness Offering Onboard Queen Anne

Regent Launches Content Co-Branding Solution for Travel Advisors

Scenic Eclipse II Offers Submarine Tours in Australia