Celebrating its 50th anniversary soon, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises will introduce a new river vessel, new Danube River itineraries, more Mystery Cruises and a 50-night Rivers of the World Journey during 2026. Here’s the rundown on what’s new and how to get aboard!
(Shown above is the line’s new Emilie. Photo by Uniworld Boutique River Cruises.)
New Uniworld Offerings
1. Luxurious Emilie
The big news? Uniworld’s new 154-passenger Emilie, the luxury river line’s first “new build” since 2021, will debut on Europe’s Danube River in 2026. It will sail eight different itineraries including three new ones. (Keep reading below for more details on those.)
Inspired by Austrian painter Gustav Klimt, the ship’s interior design will showcase dramatic hues of green, blue and yellow, striking gold accents, and plenty of Art Nouveau touches. In addition, the vessel will be named after Klimt’s life partner and muse, Emilie Floge.
The new river vessel will offer a one-of-a-kind onboard restaurant, lounge and bar. In addition, Emilie‘s guests can set sail in a spacious two-bedroom suite by reserving a Grand Suite and adjoining Deluxe French Balcony stateroom.
2. New Mystery Cruises
Due to popular demand, Uniworld will offer several new Mystery Cruises. One will depart April 26, 2026, and another on May 3, 2026
In addition, the April Mystery Cruise is also the second leg of the 50-night 2026 “Rivers of the World” cruise. (It’s described next!)
3. New “Rivers of the World“
For those seeking a “World Cruise-like” adventure on global rivers, Uniworld will operate a 50-Night “Rivers of the World” Adventure. Departing April 16, 2026, it will encompass travel and river cruises across three continents.
First, guests will sail on the new Emilie, making them among the first passengers to experience the new Super Ship. The journey will begin in Brussels, Belgium, and then guests will sail to Amsterdam.
Then, it’s on to the Mystery Cruise to experience a surprise destination. Following that Mystery Cruise, guests will board Uniworld’s Joie de Vivre in Paris for a French river cruise along the Seine.
Stops will be made throughout both the heart of Paris and the countryside. Guests will then board a first-class train to Lyon. From there, they’ll sail to Avignon aboard the Catherine.
Another highlight is a few nights spent in the quaint Mediterranean fishing port of Cassis, France.
On to Cairo
Uniworld’s intrepid global travelers will then take a flight to Cairo, Egypt. There, they’ll stay for five nights at a luxury hotel before cruising the Nile River aboard the Sphinx.
Among the Egypt highlights is a trip to Abu Simbel, designed exclusively for the World Cruisers. Plus, guests will enjoy a visit to the much-anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), which officially opens this summer.
The Meandering Traveler got a sneak peek at that new museum in late 2024. Above is one photo we snapped — showing what guests will encounter as they enter the museum.
The final leg of the journey will be spent in Jordan, where guests will visit such iconic spots as Petra and the Dead Sea.
4. New Uniworld: “Generations Collection”
Uniworld will offer two more “Generations Collection” family-focused voyages on July 19, 2026, and July 26, 2026. Those are sailings of the “Burgundy & Provence” itinerary.
Families will enjoy an array of activities, amenities and excursions tailored specifically for children. Also, a lounge will be provided just for young travelers.
Two family hosts will also sail and organize kid-centric dining options and special social events such as movie nights.
5. Additional New European Offerings
In 2026, Uniworld will launch additional itineraries throughout Europe. Those include three new Danube itineraries on the new Emilie. While these trips combine a cruise with land stays, guests can also book them as a cruise-only itinerary.
“Vineyards & Palaces Along the Danube“
Over 10 days, travelers will be immersed in the sights and sounds of the Danube aboard the Emilie, as the ship sails from Vienna, Austria, to Nuremberg, Germany. Guests will also enjoy a luxurious hotel stay in Prague, the Czech Republic.
‘During this journey, guests will explore Imperial palaces, stroll through wine vineyards, and traverse a forest in Germany’s first national park,” says Shelby Steudle, president, Pavlus Travel.
Here’s the complete itinerary. At press time, prices started at $3,439 per person, double occupancy.
“Vienna & Capital Cities of the Danube“
Designed for city lovers, this 10-day journey allows travelers to enjoy the hustle and bustle of four iconic capitals. It includes a luxurious hotel stay in Vienna. Guests explore that Austrian city plus Budapest, Hungary; Belgrade, Serbia; and Bratislava, Slovakia.
Perks of this itinerary are opportunities to delve into Medieval history, grand architecture and awe-inspiring art. Here’s a complete look at the itinerary. Fares, at press time, started at $3,999 per person, double occupancy.
“Danube Grandeur & Prague”
This new, 17-day itinerary combines the “Capital Cities of the Danube” and “Vineyards & Palaces Along the Danube” voyages with a visit to Prague. Travelers will visit seven European countries and enjoy a grand Danube experience.
Here’s the complete itinerary. Pricing started at $6,879 per person, double occupancy, at press time.
“Talk with a professional personal travel planner today to learn more, discuss accommodations options, and get the absolute best deal with great service,” adds Pavlus’ Steudle.
More New At Uniworld
Uniworld is adding Slovenia to multiple itineraries in Italy onboard La Venezia. So other new itineraries are the “Grand Highlights of Italy & Slovenia” and “Slovenia, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto.”
Also new for 2026 across all European itineraries, Uniworld guests will discover a new “Black & White Party.” Passengers will dress in their best black and/or white attire for an evening filled with music, dancing and magical lights.
Use the information below to learn more about any of the new options discussed above. Start planning that fabulous 2026 river cruise!
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