Saga today announced plans to launch a newbuild boutique river cruise ship to sail on European rivers starting in spring 2021.

The Spirit of the Rhine will be sailing on rivers including the Rhine, Moselle, Main and Danube as well as through the waterways of the Netherlands.

“I am delighted to announce that we are using our experience in ocean cruising to design a bespoke ship for those guests who want a luxurious, boutique river cruise experience,” said Robin Shaw, CEO of Saga Travel. “This launch of Spirit of the Rhine heralds a step change in the future of river cruising and when it comes to the onboard experience, our boutique approach to cruising will ensure that our guests have an experience that combines unrivalled, first class service with bespoke authentic experiences that are tailored just for them.”

The popularity of river cruising with Saga customers has been steadily increasing in recent years, the company said, in a statement. 

The new ship will be built by Vahali.