Uniworld Boutique River Cruises announces its newest course within Uniworld University, offering travel advisors an in-depth look at what’s ahead for the brand. This year’s course marks the brand’s 50th anniversary, and advisors who complete it will gain insight into Uniworld’s 2026 celebrations and what’s to come in 2027, including new Super Ships, Cruise & Tour journeys, expanded itineraries and more.
“As we celebrate 50 years of Uniworld, we’re not only reflecting on our legacy, but looking ahead to a future shaped by even more immersive and innovative experiences,” said Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises. “This new course is designed to give our travel advisor partners an inside look at where we’re headed – from new Super Ships to expanded journeys that go beyond the river – and equip them with the insight and tools to inspire their clients and drive bookings with confidence.”
Whether new or returning, advisors who complete the course will gain insider knowledge on the brand’s upcoming offerings for 2026 and 2027. In addition, advisors will receive exclusive travel advisor rates, CLIA certification credits, recognition as a Preferred Specialist on the Uniworld website and an official Uniworld Preferred Specialist badge upon completion. Below is a preview of what advisors will learn in the newly released course:
Five New Ships Join the Fleet By 2027, Uniworld will transform into a fully Super Ship fleet, beginning with the debut of the S.S. Emilie this March. The brand’s first new build since 2020, the new vessel is inspired by Austrian artist Gustav Klimt and named for his muse Emilie Flöge, introducing a bold Art Nouveau design, expanded suite configurations and new sustainability features that will pave the way for the brand’s future ships.
The expansion continues in 2027 with three additional Super Ships. The S.S. Audrey and the S.S. Marlene will boast designs inspired by screen legends Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich, bringing cinematic glamour and refined design to Europe’s rivers. The S.S. São Rafael will pay tribute to Portugal’s legacy of exploration, sailing the Douro River and increasing capacity in one of the brand’s most popular regions. All new ships will feature Uniworld’s signature service, artistry and attention to detail.
The final 2027 addition to the fleet is the Aqua Blu, an expedition yacht operated in partnership with Aqua Expeditions. Sailing twice a year, its exclusive voyages will offer rare access to the islands of Indonesia and Singapore.
50th Anniversary Programming, Rivers of the World & Mystery Cruises
In 2026, Uniworld is celebrating its 50th anniversary, with onboard activations, a special ‘Golden Party’ on European sailings, and the brand’s third ‘Rivers of the World’ cruise, spanning 50 nights across three continents aboard the S.S. Emilie this spring. Additionally, the brand will offer three Mystery Cruises in 2026, with the April Mystery Cruise serving as the second leg of the 50-night 2026 ‘Rivers of the World’ cruise.
Introduction of ‘Cruise & Tour’ Experiences In 2027, Uniworld will launch new ‘Cruise & Tour’ itineraries in partnership with sister brand Luxury Gold. The journeys blend Uniworld’s all-inclusive river cruising with Luxury Gold’s small-group land travel, offering deeper immersion, luxury hotel stays and seamless logistics. Highlights include:
- Cruise & Tour: Revel in Switzerland & the Danube
○ From Geneva to Budapest, this 17-day journey pairs a Swiss land tour with a Danube River cruise, featuring the Glacier Express, a private visit to the Rosengart Collection, alpine hikes and Michelin-starred dining. - Cruise & Tour: Discover Portugal & Spain
○ Travellers can journey from Madrid to Porto on this 20-day adventure, combining a Douro cruise with immersive Iberian experiences, including a private flamenco performance in Seville, visits to The Alhambra and tastings in the Douro Valley. - Cruise & Tour: Experience the Best of Italy
○ This round-trip 19-day journey from Venice blends a lagoon cruise with Italy’s cultural highlights, from Capri’s coastline and Tuscan truffle hunting to Doge’s Palace and Pompeii.
Expansion Into Southeast Asia & Europe
In 2026 and 2027, Uniworld will launch a variety of new itineraries across Europe and Asia, offering travellers curated journeys through exotic and classic European destinations. Highlights include:
- ‘Bali, Singapore & Indonesia Expedition’
○ A 13-night journey unlike anything Uniworld has offered before, this itinerary pairs three nights in Bali, an expedition cruise on theAqua Bluwith access to Komodo National Park and the Spice Islands, plus a luxury stay in Singapore. Travellers can expect wildlife encounters, pristine waters and immersive cultural experiences. - ‘Paris, Prague & Germany’s Hidden Gems’
○ An 11-night trip that combines stays in Paris and Prague with a Rhine-Moselle cruise through Germany on the newS.S. Audrey, featuring Heidelberg Castle, medieval towns and Rhineland wine tastings. - ‘Scenic Rhine, Paris & the Swiss Alps’
○ Taking place on the brand-newS.S. Audrey, this adventure pairs hotel stays in Paris and Zurich with a Rhine and Moselle sailing through France, Germany and Switzerland, complete with vineyard hikes, cycling excursions and Roman history in Trier.
