“This is such an exciting time of growth for us at Uniworld,” said Ellen Bettridge, president and CEO of Uniworld, in the 2026 European River Cruise Market Report by Cruise Industry News.

“We have a newbuild debuting next year on the Danube, the S.S. Emilie, followed by three more newbuilds the following year,” Bettridge added, noting that 2026 marks Uniworld’s 50th anniversary, and so the company has a number of plans for its guests.

The company is also adding a variety of themed sailings, new itineraries and land portions, and it is bringing back its “Rivers of the World” trip next year, which is said to be a guest favorite.

2026 Expansion

Bettridge added that Uniworld is also introducing new European itineraries in 2026, including three trips on the Danube and a sailing in Italy that takes guests to the city of Slovenia, a new destination for the company.

A consistent focus for the company is addressing its impact on the environment and the tourism industry.

Uniworld released its 2025 Impact Report as well as “How We Tread Right,” a plan consisting of 11 measurable sustainability goals.

To meet the goals, the company appointed Sustainability Officer Julie Higgins to lead initiatives like achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across the fleet by 2050.

Higgins also leads Leanpath, which is the company’s onboard food waste reduction program.

The Market 

According to Bettridge, the United States remains a large portion of Uniworld’s market, but it also has strong demand from guests within the UK, Canada, Australia and cities throughout Europe. These travelers are looking for personalized, one-of-a-kind experiences.

Unique Offering

Guests have also taken to themed cruises, and so Uniworld is offering its first women-only cruise, providing groups, friends and solo travelers a journey through France.

There is also a music-themed cruise, additional “Generations Collection” sailings and the “Out! On the Rivers” cruise, in addition to the “Nights Out” exclusive experiences.

“What really sets Uniworld apart is the overall experience onboard: it’s personal, curated and incredibly thoughtful,” Bettridge said.

“Our key to success is our continued and intentional dedication to providing the most luxurious and authentic experience possible,” Bettridge said. “With several new ships and more, this is shaping up to be one of Uniworld’s most exciting seasons of growth.”