Tauck to launch two new-build river ships in France in 2026

Chief executive Dan Mahar said Tauck was continuing to prioritise guests’ comfort and onboard experience rather than "following the industry norm of maximising revenue by maximising passenger capacity".

Mahar claimed ships of a similar size routinely carry in the region of 190 guests – nearly 50% more than Tauck will accommodate on its two new-builds.

"Having fewer guests aboard also ensures each ship’s public areas are less crowded and provide a more relaxed and intimate onboard ambiance," he added.

Both new-builds will sail with a dedicated cruise director and three director guides, and will operate on an all-inclusive basis with fares including shore excursions, gratuities, drinks, airport transfers and taxes and fees.

Mahar declined to provide further details of the two ships’ public areas and communal spaces – their restaurants, lounges, spas and gym facilities – to take onboard feedback from its cruise directors and director guides.

"We’re reimagining our public spaces with some fresh and fun innovations,” said Mahar. “We have some wonderful enhancements in the works, and we’re looking forward to revealing more of our plans in the coming months."

Tauck opened its 2026 river cruising programme for preliminary bookings earlier this month. All guests who book a 2026 cruise now will be able to cancel their bookings and get their deposits back in full once pricing and final itinerary details are announced early next year.

It follows a record year for Tauck’s European river cruising operation, which experienced double-digit year-on-year percentage growth in passenger levels. Pre-season bookings for 2025 are also up by a double-digit figure year-on-year.