The S.S. Emilie has sailed its inaugural voyage and the first guests have experienced the 10 day Tulips and Windmills itinerary through the Netherlands and Belgium with stops in Amsterdam and Antwerp.
The newest Super Ship in the Uniworld Boutique River Cruises fleet featureds modern and efficient technology as part of the line sustainability efforts. The vessel takes inspiration from Austrian painter Gustav Klimt and his life partner Emilie Flöge and offers 154 guest capacity with 57 staff.
The naming ceremony took place with President and CEO Ellen Bettridge breaking the traditional champagne bottle alongside the brand sustainability officer and godmother Julie Higgins. The ship has scheduled 2026 itineraries including Capital Cities of the Danube Vineyards and Palaces Along the Danube Classic Christmas Markets and the Tulips and Windmills route as well as three Mystery Cruises and the Golden Anniversary President Cruise departing 23 October 2026. The S.S. Emilie represents the first newbuild for the line since 2020.
Julie Higgins shared “Twenty two years ago I stepped onboard my very first river cruise ship with Uniworld and I have felt incredibly fortunate every day since. To now serve as Godmother of the S.S. Emilie is truly one of the greatest honours of my life. This ship is not only incredibly beautiful but it also represents a major step forward in our sustainability journey with the most modern and efficient technology in our fleet something that is such an important part of who we are. What makes it even more special is the team on board whose passion and dedication truly bring the experience to life. I am so proud to be part of this moment.”
