Speaking exclusively to TTG, the line’s UK and Europe managing director Chris Townson revealed two 154-passenger vessels – Audrey and Marlene – will be deployed on the Rhine and Danube rivers in 2027, while a 96-passenger ship called Rafael will join Gabriel on the Douro River the same year.
Aqua Expeditions’ 15-suite Aqua Blu ship, meanwhile, will operate a 14-day sailing from Bali to Singapore. If successful, Uniworld hopes to scale up the programme.
The line will also launch 154-passenger Emilie on the Danube river next year.
Asked why Uniworld had decided to expand its offering, Townson said: “We’re so much more than boutique river cruising. The market is there. We’re seeing that year after year in terms of sales, which are so strong whether it is on land or on the river.”
Uniworld president Ellen Bettridge said: “2027 is shaping up to be a landmark year for us at Uniworld as we introduce four remarkable new ships to our guests and a range of itineraries that blend cultural immersion, luxury and adventure.
“From honouring the timeless elegance of Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich aboard our newest Super Ships, to exploring the rich landscapes of Singapore and Indonesia with the Aqua Blu, these additions mark an exciting chapter of growth and continued elevation.”
The luxury operator will also launch five itineraries in 2027, including 11-night Paris, Prague & Germany's Hidden Gems; 11-night Scenic Rhine, Paris & the Swiss Alps and the nine-night Castles Along the Rhine & Amsterdam.
Uniworld sales are up by 18% for 2025 departures, Townson revealed, and are tracking 48% ahead for 2026 departures.
Townson believes Uniworld customers are not obsessing about the upcoming autumn Budget, saying: “I hear from our guests they’d prefer to book these big holidays rather than be taxed. They’re spending their money – it has gone to a new level.”
Meanwhile, Townson dismissed overcapacity concerns with Celebrity River Cruises’ first ships set to make their debut in 2027.
“I think Celebrity coming into the market is great,” he insisted. “It will shine a light on river cruise. We’re in our lane and Celebrity is in theirs – river is still small compared with ocean."
Looking ahead to next year, when Uniworld will celebrate its 50th anniversary, Townson added: “Agents will be central to those celebrations. We’ll be creating business opportunities off the back of those events.”
