European Cruises

Once you’ve made the decision that you want to try a European river cruise the next logical step is determining which cruise line you want to book with. Obviously there are many factors that go into this decision. Price is a key consideration, but it would be unwise to use money as the only determining factor in choosing the best European river cruise line. The company’s reputation, their years in business, their fleet of ships, and the amenities and onboard luxuries they offer are all important aspects to consider. Over the coming months we are going to be comparing the various river cruise lines operating in Europe, starting today with a review of Uniworld.

Uniworld has been in business for more than 30 years now, and are not exclusive to Europe. They are a worldwide operation with more than 20 countries on their itinerary, and better than 500 sailings a year. Though their operations in Europe have been key in establishing their good name in the industry, Uniworld also has interests in China and Egypt, offering cruises on both the Yangtze and Nile Rivers respectively.

Uniworld’s Fleet Of Cruise Ships

The company’s current fleet consists of 8 large river boats, each capable of accommodating as many as 140 passengers, including their flagship 70 cabin River Ambassador, and the slightly smaller 64 cabin River Queen. The River Ambassador has two large main decks, a spacious bar and lounge and is one of the few river cruises to offer a fitness facility on board the ship.

Uniworld also operates (though does not own) the famous MS Litvinov, a sleek 423 foot cruiser that is a popular choice for those embarking on a Russian river cruise. It is capable of holding 220 passengers, more than any other ship in Uniworld’s fleet.

On board a Uniworld ship

The cabins on all of Uniworld’s river cruisers are outside, and are well appointed and comfortable. They range from standard cabins to luxury suites and the deluxe rooms include massive floor to ceiling windows and even balconies to really enjoy the European countryside as you float lazily by.

Your cruise ship cabin will always be clean and tidy as Uniworld offers maid service twice a day and the beds are super comfortable with the finest linens, wool blankets and fluffy duvets standard. If you get bored with the view you can flick on the TV and enjoy movies and news.

Dining aboard a Uniworld European river cruise ship

The fine dining offered aboard their vessels are second to none, with fabulous breakfast and lunch buffets offered with a wide variety of carefully prepared dishes of both local delicacies as well as standard American fare for those whose palates aren’t as adventuresome as others. Dinner is open seating and features a fabulous menu, often with country-specific themes.

Entertainment and Amenities

As mentioned above certain ships have spas or fitness facilities available to guests. One of their ships even has a pool, a rarity for river cruisers. Medical facilities, beauty salons, lounges, and large sun decks are all options you can enjoy depending on which Uniworld boat you are voyaging on.

Entertainment is of the quiet variety, and often local musicians - guitar players and/or singers - keep guests enraptured with their songs. Uniworld is very active in helping passengers learn about the areas they are cruising through, and shore excursions with local guides can easily be arranged with the Cruise Manager.

Uniworld cruise itineraries

The highlight of any European cruise is the incredible ports of call you will visit during your voyage. Uniworld’s major routes are the Danube and the Rhine. Their Castles on the Rhine tour is one of their most popular cruises, but is just a taste of what they offer. Enchanting Danube takes passengers from Budapest to Passau, and European Serenade voyages from Vienna to Amsterdam. If money and time are not issues then journeys of up to 30 days can be arranged.

In France you can cruise the Seine with a beautiful 9 day Paris and Normandy tour. In Portugal you can board the beautiful Douro Queen that plies its trade on the Douro River. And in Russia you can enjoy life aboard the aforementioned Litvinov as you see all the wonders of Moscow and St. Petersburg.

As you can see the possibilities are nearly endless with this well-established luxury cruise line, and we’ll wind up our Uniworld river cruise review by giving them our highest recommendation. Their incredible selection of possible itineraries, their luxurious vessels, and their world class service and amenities all combine to make a vacation with Uniworld one you’ll remember for a lifetim.

Related posts:

1. Viking River Cruise Review
2. Volga River Cruise - See Russia In Luxury
3. European River Cruises - A Great Option For Budget Minded Travelers
4. European Cruise Line Review - Princess
5. Russian River Cruises - Are They Worth The Money?

Filed under: Cruise Reviews, European Cruise Lines, European Cruises, European River Cruises