Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has revealed the first suite of official images of its newest Super Ship, the S.S. Emilie, following the recent launch and christening of its most design-forward vessel to date.
*All details correct at time of publish (29 April 2026)
The 154-passenger ship made its debut on European waterways in March, following a celebratory christening ceremony led by President & CEO Ellen Bettridge. The event featured the traditional Champagne bottle breaking and was officiated by Uniworld’s Sustainability Officer and ship Godmother, Julie Higgins.
Speaking at the ceremony, Higgins said: “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. What makes it even more special is the team on board, whose passion and dedication truly bring the experience to life.”
S.S. Emilie First Look: A Floating Tribute to Klimt
Following the launch, Uniworld has released the first official imagery of the S.S. Emilie, offering a glimpse into a striking onboard aesthetic, inspired by Austrian artist Gustav Klimt and his muse Emilie Flöge.
The ship translates Klimt’s signature style into an immersive onboard experience, with interiors defined by rich greens and blues, gilded accents, intricate Art Nouveau detailing, and bespoke artwork throughout.
Standout spaces include a walnut-clad lobby, illuminated by a crystal chandelier, mosaic-lined bathrooms, and a restaurant crowned by sweeping Jugendstil-inspired ceilings, creating a cohesive and highly distinctive design identity.
Flexible Luxury and Enhanced Onboard Experience
S.S. Emilie has been designed to offer guests a wider choice of accommodation options, including the ability to combine a Grand Suite with an adjoining Deluxe French Balcony stateroom to create a spacious two-bedroom suite – meaning even greater flexibility for families and groups.
Guests can also enjoy Uniworld’s signature dining, lounge and bar experiences, all elevated by the ship’s refined design.
Inaugural Sailing and 2026 Programme
The ship’s inaugural voyage took place from 21-30 March, sailing Uniworld’s Tulips & Windmills itinerary through the Netherlands and Belgium, with calls in Amsterdam, Antwerp, Bruges, Dordrecht and Enkhuizen.
Over the 2026 season, S.S. Emilie will operate a range of itineraries including:
- The NEW Capital Cities of the Danube, first departure 10 May 2026 (eight days, Belgrade to Vienna, from £2,399 pp)
- The NEW Vineyards & Palaces Along the Danube, first departure 24 May 2026 (eight days, Vienna to Nuremberg, from £2,399 pp)
- Danube Grandeur, first departure 17 May 2026 (15 days, Belgrade to Nuremberg, from £6,349 pp)
- Classic Christmas Markets, with the first departure on S.S. Emilie being 8 December 2026 (eight days, Nuremberg to Frankfurt, from £4,799 pp)
A New Chapter for Uniworld
As the brand’s first new build since 2020, S.S. Emilie is a significant milestone in Uniworld’s evolution towards becoming a fully Super Ship-operated fleet in 2027.
Emilie’s launch sets the tone for Uniworld’s future vessel launches next year, including the S.S. Audrey and S.S. Marlene, whose design is also inspired by iconic cultural figures.
Commenting on the launch, Chris Townson, UK Managing Director of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, said:
“The launch of S.S. Emilie represents an exciting step forward for Uniworld and a strong addition to our European programme for UK guests and trade partners.
“The ship combines exceptional design with enhanced flexibility and sustainability, which we know are increasingly important to our customers.
“Having already welcomed more than 100 UK travel agents aboard, I’ve seen Emilie’s incredible design and facilities firsthand, and feedback from these initial visitors has been incredibly positive.
“With her standout look and diverse itineraries across the Danube and beyond, S.S. Emilie offers a compelling new product for agents to sell with confidence.”
More information is available at www.uniworld.com.
