The river cruise line’s newbuild offers smooth sailing for groups & charters.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ newest ship, S.S. Emilie, was showcased at the ASTA River Cruise Expo in Amsterdam, where I stayed on board and experienced its culinary offerings, comfy accommodations and elegantly detailed public spaces.
Carrying 154 guests with a crew of 57, the vessel, which is the brand’s first newbuild since 2020, started sailing the Danube last month with a 5-star, all-inclusive program that makes a great option for incentive charters.
Culinary Excellence
We loved the choice and quality of all meals. At breakfast, the buffet is set in a separate room from the main dining area, with both buffet options and an a la carte menu available for breakfast and lunch. Dinner features a changing daily menu, alongside always-available options like a 9-oz sirloin steak and Norwegian salmon fillet. One evening, I started with a standout golden crab cake with pineapple mango salsa, followed by lamb Wellington served on a sweet potato mousse—both paired beautifully with wines. Vegetarian options included a green goddess salad to start and mains such as ricotta and spinach lasagna or lentil balls with Greek yogurt. Desserts ranged from cheese or fruit plates to Stracciatella ice cream with customizable toppings. Additionally, room service is available 24/7.
Elegant Accommodations
I stayed in a comfy 194-sf Deluxe French Balcony stateroom with floor-to-ceiling windows. The bedding was excellent, the lighting well thought out and there was ample drawer and hanging space. Bathrooms were not large, but ample. There are 20 staterooms in this category; 35 French Balcony staterooms measuring 194 to 277 sf, eight standard Suites and two Grand Suites with butler service. There is a total of 77 accommodations.
Hotel-Style Vibe
Says Wesley Bosnic, the line’s VP for Charter & Incentives Sales, “S.S. Emilie offers a boutique hotel-style vibe and experience that incentive groups and top performers deserve. She’s designed to impress from the moment guests arrive. With interiors inspired by Gustav Klimt, including a showstopping lobby, the ship delivers an atmosphere that feels both luxurious and uniquely memorable. Elegant spaces, including a sophisticated lounge, sun deck, bar and restaurant, create the perfect setting for meaningful connections and relaxed networking as guests sail through Europe’s most breathtaking waterways.”
Luxury That Elevates
“Every detail on board the S.S. Emilie is crafted to exceed expectations,” adds Bosnic. “Staterooms and suites feature plush linens, handcrafted furnishings and marble bathrooms, creating a true sanctuary on the river. Grand Suites and Suites include dedicated butler service, adding an extra layer of exclusivity and care. Beyond the accommodations, guests will enjoy included shore excursions, exceptional dining and highly personalized service. A full suite of wellness offerings, including a spa and fitness center, ensures guests feel as good as they are inspired.”
A Powerful Reward
“A Uniworld river cruise is a powerful reward platform where achievements can be recognized and celebrated and where top performers will feel valued, motivated and truly appreciated,” says Bosnic.
Finally, Bosnic notes that if a planner cannot book S.S. Emilie as a full charter, they can “accommodate a group of 50 to 60 percent, or 45 cabins, without interfering with our leisure guests.”
More info: uniworld.com/us/charters-incentives
