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The majority of this luxury cruise line's 17 ships sail the rivers of Europe — from the castle-dotted Rhine in Germany to the sleepier, wine-centric Douro in Portugal. Five other vessels cruise the Nile in Egypt, the Ganges in India, the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia, and the Amazon in South America. Most notably, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ unique design vision all but guarantees that you’ll know exactly where you are, because each ship's ornate decor is meticulously matched to the destination. If you're cruising the Danube on S.S. Maria Theresa, you’re surrounded by Baroque splendor befitting a Hapsburg monarch; in India, Ganges Voyager II has colonial British decor, including hand-painted murals in the suites. Even the ship it doesn’t own but partners with in Peru, Aria Amazon, offers a contemporary take on Amazonian style.
Because Uniworld's parent company owns the five-star Red Carnation Hotel Collection (Ireland's Ashford Castle is among its properties), the ships' hotel operations are also first-rate. Nearly everything is complimentary, including airport transfers, beverages (aside from some top-shelf brands), Wi-Fi, gratuities, and almost all shore excursions. The line's excellent butler program is also available to guests in suite accommodations on almost all European sailings.
Wide Choice of Shore Excursions: There's almost always an excellent selection of shore excursions — all in small groups — including one for "gentle walkers." There are also active choices, such as hikes and bike tours, along with "do as the locals do" options that might include visiting a village market or participating in a painting class.
Regional Foods and Wines: The culinary program showcases local dishes and wines. You'll enjoy options such as Wiener schnitzel while cruising Austria and sip lovely Bordeaux as you sail through France. Included wines are outstanding, and generously poured.
All-Inclusive: Given everything that’s included in the price, you could happily cruise on a Uniworld ship without spending an extra dime once aboard (with the exception of special Masterpiece Collection excursions at and added cost). That makes for a truly carefree experience.
Thoughtful, High-Quality Details: Expect touches such as heated bathroom floors and towel racks, L'Occitane and Hermès toiletries, and powerful hair dryers. Service is detail-oriented, too. Staff will quickly learn what you drink with breakfast and how you like your martini.
Sophisticated Couples: Travelers drawn to Uniworld are generally age 55-plus and appreciative of the ships’ lavish décor — such as exquisite Fortuny silk wall coverings on S.S. La Venezia in Italy and a stunning Strauss Baccarat chandelier on the S.S. Antoinette on the Rhine — and impressive artwork, as well as the highly attentive service. These elements inspire romantic bliss.
It's Hard to Return to Reality: Uniworld’s itineraries range from eight to 25 days and it’s easy to fall into a routine of pampering and overindulgence on one of its ships — but especially if you opt for a suite with butler service. Reverting to life on land won’t be easy.
Staterooms Are Cozy: At just 151 square feet, the Classic, Deluxe, and French Balcony staterooms on most of Uniworld’s European fleet are quite snug in size (suites are notably larger). Most guests don’t mind since these accommodations are impeccably designed, but those with mobility issues may find maneuverability in such tight quarters somewhat challenging.
