Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has announced the debut of three new ships in 2028: the S.S. Helen, S.S. Clara and Mekong Mystique, bringing the brand to a total of 22 ships.
The announcement builds on the momentum of the company’s recent fleet expansion, with four new ships joining the Uniworld fleet in 2027.
“This is one of the most significant periods of investment and growth in Uniworld’s history,” says Ellen Bettridge, president and CEO of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises.
“As demand for immersive travel continues to grow, every new ship we build allows us to continue raising the bar for luxury river cruising. It’s also an opportunity to create deeper, more meaningful connections between our guests and the destinations we sail,” added Bettridge.
The company said in a press release that, as of today, bookings for Uniworld’s 2028 season are now open.
S.S. Helen
Named after Helen of Troy, the S.S. Helen draws inspiration from European classical antiquity and the enduring influence of Greek culture throughout the Danube region.
The ship embraces the philosophy of Mediterranean elegance, offering a serene atmosphere inspired by nature, architecture and the Greek concept of philoxenia or warm hospitality.
Sailing the Danube, the S.S. Helen will offer the 15-day “Danube Grandeur” sailing, among others, where guests will discover the cultural treasures of six countries.
S.S. Clara
Joining Uniworld’s Rhine fleet, the S.S. Clara honors the pioneering 17th-century Flemish painter Clara Peeters, one of the Dutch Golden Age’s most celebrated female artists.
Inspired by her still-life paintings, the ship’s interiors will feature vibrant florals, elegant textures and refined European craftsmanship.
The S.S. Clara will debut on “Holland & Belgium at Tulip Time,” a seasonal itinerary celebrating springtime in the Netherlands and Belgium.
Mekong Mystique
Expanding Uniworld’s presence in Southeast Asia alongside the existing Mekong Jewel, the Mekong Mystique brings additional capacity, the company stated.
Drawing inspiration from Indochine design, the ship combines European architecture with natural materials to create interiors that reflect the heritage and landscapes of Vietnam and Cambodia.
The Mekong Mystique will exclusively sail on Uniworld’s immersive “Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong” itinerary along the Mekong River.
Image: S.S. Clara stateroom rendering
