Riverside Luxury Cruises agrees to charter two ships to rival line

It will operate a mix of itineraries, including the eight-day Castles Along the Rhine sailing from Basel to Amsterdam, the Magnificent Moselle and Rhine itinerary, and an eight-day round-trip Belgium Holiday Markets cruise from Brussels.

With an early booking discount, prices for the eight-day Castles Along the Rhine itinerary, including flights, transfers, activities and seven nights’ accommodation on Victoria, start from £3,959pp. 

Elisabeth, meanwhile, which was previously Crystal Mahler, is scheduled to operate from 2025, said Uniworld, with more details to be announced at a later date.

Uniworld president Ellen Bettridge said: “We’re thrilled to add two stunning new ships to the Uniworld fleet, beginning with Victoria on the beloved Rhine, fulfilling our promise to maintain the best and most luxurious ships on the rivers.

“Victoria and 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.”

The move means Riverside Luxury Cruises will have three ships in its fleet during the charter agreement. 

Earlier this month, the line appointed Charlie Hewitt Davies as its UK managing director, tasking her with driving revenue and building brand awareness.

Hours before Hewitt Davies’ appointment was announced, cruise veteran Stuart Perl posted on LinkedIn confirming he was leaving his role as UK managing director of the river line.