Uniworld Boutique River Cruises marks its Golden 50th Anniversary in 2026 with extraordinary celebrations, a stunning new ship, and once-in-a-lifetime itineraries spanning three continents and six rivers.
In 2026, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises reaches a remarkable milestone — 50 years of redefining luxury river travel. To celebrate this Golden Anniversary, Uniworld is pulling out all the stops with an extraordinary year of celebrations, new experiences, and unforgettable voyages that honor five decades of elegance on the world's most iconic waterways.
A Legacy of Luxury on the Water
Since its founding, Uniworld has set the standard for boutique river cruising. Each of their ships is a floating masterpiece — individually designed with hand-selected antiques, original artwork, and exquisite décor that rivals the finest five-star hotels. As they enter their golden year, the brand continues to push boundaries with new ships, new destinations, and celebrations that promise to make 2026 their most spectacular year yet.
Introducing the S.S. Emilie
At the heart of the anniversary celebrations is the debut of the S.S. Emilie — Uniworld's first new-build since 2021. Inspired by the legendary artist Gustav Klimt, this stunning vessel features Art Nouveau design throughout, with gilded accents, rich textures, and an atmosphere of timeless sophistication. The S.S. Emilie will primarily sail the Danube, offering guests an immersive experience that blends world-class art with world-class cruising.
The Epic 50-Night "Rivers of the World" Cruise
Perhaps the most ambitious offering is the flagship "Rivers of the World" cruise — a breathtaking 50-night journey departing April 16, 2026. This once-in-a-lifetime voyage spans three continents and six rivers, beginning in Brussels aboard the new S.S. Emilie and concluding in Amman, Jordan. It is the ultimate celebration of everything Uniworld has achieved over half a century.
Golden Celebrations on Every Sailing
The festivities aren't limited to a single voyage. Every European sailing in 2026 will feature special anniversary experiences:
- Golden Parties: Elegant evening celebrations with specially curated anniversary menus and themed festivities on every European itinerary
- Black & White Party: A glamorous new themed evening where guests are invited to dress in their finest black and white attire
- Golden President's Cruise: Hosted personally by CEO Ellen Bettridge, departing October 23, 2026, on the new "Vienna & Capital Cities of the Danube" itinerary
- Grand Mystery Cruise: A first-ever 15-day mystery journey (April 26 – May 10, 2026) from Amsterdam to Vienna where the exact stops remain a surprise until arrival
New Itineraries for 2026
Alongside the celebrations, Uniworld is launching exciting new European routes including "Vineyards & Palaces Along the Danube" and "Slovenia, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto" — each offering fresh perspectives on Europe's most enchanting regions.
Family-Friendly Sailings
The anniversary year also expands Uniworld's Generations Collection — family-friendly sailings on the "Burgundy & Provence" itinerary (July 19 and 26) with dedicated family hosts and kid-centric activities, making luxury river cruising accessible to travelers of all ages.
50th Anniversary Savings
To make this milestone year even more enticing, Uniworld is offering savings of up to 30% off on select 2026 departures through their 50th Anniversary Sale. There has never been a better time to experience the magic of boutique river cruising.
Book Your Golden Anniversary Voyage
As a proud Uniworld partner, I would love to help you plan your perfect anniversary sailing. Whether it's the epic 50-night Rivers of the World journey, the intimate Golden President's Cruise, or any of the spectacular European itineraries, 2026 promises to be an unforgettable year on the water.
Visit our cobranded Uniworld page: odysseydesires.uniworld.com/ca
Ready to book? Contact me today to secure your spot on one of these extraordinary anniversary sailings before they sell out.