Uniworld Boutique River Cruises officially returned to service on the rivers of Europe as its newly transformed Super Ship S.S. La Venezia departed on its inaugural sailing on June 20. Departing from Venice, the return to service was celebrated with the sabering of a Champagne bottle while cruising the Venetian lagoon.
Uniworld’s President and CEO, Ellen Bettridge joined clients and the crew for the debut sailing .“We’re overjoyed the day has finally come to set sail again, welcoming back our loyal guests not only for the first sailing of the reimagined S.S. La Venezia, but the first European sailing for any North American river cruise line,” she said. “The well-being of our guests and our crew is our main priority and we’re honored they have entrusted us to welcome travel’s return. We’re taking all necessary precautions to ensure they are comfortable and have enhanced our already stringent security and sanitation protocols.”
The enhanced Covid-friendly precautions include: a face scanner to identify guests and take their temperature every time they board the ship and mandatory mask wearing in hallways and public spaces, but not while outside or seated; booth seating in the dining room . There is also no self-service for dining areas to help with social distancing; and the ship has installed improved disinfecting and air filtration systems.
S.S. La Venezia is inspired by the work of celebrated Italian artist and textile designer Mariano Fortuny, The floating boutique hotel features the signature touches the company’s ships are known for – more suites, more dining areas with space for social distancing and more luxurious finishes, while maintaining the high crew to guest ratio.
