Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has signed a three-year deal to operate the former Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler, which will be renamed as “Super Ships” S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth.
S.S. Victoria will be ready to begin sailing for the start of the 2024 season, while S.S. Elisabeth will follow in 2025. The bareboat charter agreement gives Uniworld the ability to create its signature experience on existing itineraries with an all-Uniworld staff, as well as the brand’s trademark touches and amenities.
Following the demise of Crystal Cruises, the ships had been operating as part of the Seaside Collection of Riverside Luxury Cruises.
“We’re thrilled to add two stunning new ships to the Uniworld fleet, beginning with the S.S. Victoria on the beloved Rhine, fulfilling our promise to maintain the best and most luxurious ships on the rivers.” says Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld.
Exterior of Uniworld's S.S. Elisabeth. (Photo Credit: Uniworld)
“The S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth are unique vessels that we know our guests will love, featuring a modern design, some of the largest suites on the rivers, and an ambiance that exudes contemporary luxury.
“Onboard, guests can expect our Tiny Noticeable Touches throughout every aspect, from the impeccable service provided by the Uniworld crew they know and love to the multitude of all-inclusive amenities available to them,” Bettridge added.
Identical sister ships, the S.S. Victoria and S.S. Elisabeth can accommodate 110 guests in 55 suites and staterooms. All rooms feature a similar design and feel, differing only in size and nuances, each with full-length windows directly in front of the king-sized beds for panoramic views of the passing scenery.
A suite on Uniworld's S.S. Victoria. (Photo Credit: Uniworld)
Guests will find fine materials and finishes onboard such as leather, velvet, and marble, plus lavish features in select suite categories such as walk-in closets, fireplaces, and up to 759 square feet of space in a Uniworld-first two-bedroom accommodation with adjoining suites.
Other ship highlights include a massage room, gym, bistro for snacks, rooftop bar and grill for cocktails and light bites, and fine dining restaurant for breakfast, lunch and gourmet dinner. Uniworld says dining venues will feature farm-to-table cuisine utilizing fresh local ingredients gathered by the chef in destination daily.
The S.S. Victoria will be the first to set sail at the start of the 2024 season, sailing a variety of itineraries currently operated.
Restaurant on Uniworld's S.S. Victoria. (Photo Credit: Uniworld)
The ship will debut in March in Amsterdam onboard the 8-day ‘Holland & Belgium at Tulip Time’ cruise through Belgium and The Netherlands, mixing the classic Amsterdam tulip experience with historic cities, vibrant cultures and Belgian sweet treats.
Next, the S.S. Victoria will sail the 8-day ‘Castles Along the Rhine’ itinerary from Basel to Amsterdam, featuring fairytale towns, historic castles and fine winemaking traditions. The ship will also sail along two rivers aboard the ‘Magnificent Moselle and Rhine’ itinerary over the course of 10 days for an in-depth look at multiple cities and their deep-rooted history.
Finally, travellers can opt for the 8-day holiday-themed ‘Belgium Holiday Markets’ sailing round-trip from Brussels, featuring a mix of famous and under-the-radar Christmas markets in charming small towns.
The S.S. Elisabeth is scheduled to set sail for the 2025 season, with more details to follow.
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