Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is adding two new Super Ships, the S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth, to 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 plans to operate them with an all-Uniworld staff with the brand’s trademark touches and amenities.
The two ships being acquired by Uniworld were originally slated to be operated by Riverside Luxury Cruises, after that company had acquired them from the bankrupt former Crystal Cruises, which operated them as the Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler. Riverside will continue to operate three other former Crystal ships—Riverside Mozart, River Ravel and Riverside Debussy.
“We’re thrilled to add two stunning new ships to the Uniworld fleet, beginning with the S.S. Victoria on the beloved Rhine, fulfilling our promise to maintain the best and most luxurious ships on the rivers,” says Ellen Bettridge, president and CEO of Uniworld. “The S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth are unique vessels that we know our guests will love, featuring a modern design, some of the largest suites on the rivers, and an ambiance that exudes contemporary luxury. Onboard, guests can expect our Tiny Noticeable Touches throughout every aspect, from the impeccable service provided by the Uniworld crew they know and love to the multitude of all-inclusive amenities available to them.”
Identical sister ships, the S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth can each accommodate 110 guests in 55 luxurious suites and staterooms. All rooms feature a similar design and feel, only differing in size and nuances, each with full-length windows directly in front of the king-sized beds for panoramic views of the passing scenery.
