Uniworld’s 2026 President’s Cruise to Celebrate 50 Years on the Danube
by Marsha Mowers
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ CEO CEO Ellen Bettridge.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has announced its Golden Anniversary President’s Cruise for 2026, hosted by President and CEO Ellen Bettridge in celebration of the brand’s 50th anniversary.
The commemorative sailing will depart on October 23, 2026, operating the new Vienna & Capital Cities of the Danube itinerary aboard Uniworld’s newest Super Ship, S.S. Emilie, which will debut for the 2026 season.
Designed as a one-time-only experience, the President’s Cruise will feature exclusive onboard events and shore excursions, opportunities for guests to interact with Bettridge throughout the journey, and special anniversary surprises created specifically for the sailing.
“Travelling with our incredible guests is something I always look forward to, and hosting my 2026 President’s Cruise on our beautiful new S.S. Emilie makes it even more special,” says Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld. “With our 50th anniversary ahead, this is an especially meaningful year for us. We’ll be setting sail on a brand-new Danube itinerary, complete with a few special moments, activities and surprises to mark the occasion.”
The S.S. Emilie is Uniworld’s first new build in five years and draws its design inspiration from Austrian painter Gustav Klimt. Named after Klimt’s muse and life partner, Emilie Flöge, the ship accommodates 154 guests and features a bold Art Nouveau aesthetic with rich greens, blues and yellows, signature gold accents and bespoke design elements throughout. In addition to Uniworld’s signature restaurant, lounge and bar, the ship will introduce a new accommodation option that allows guests to reserve a spacious two-bedroom suite by combining a Grand Suite with an adjoining Deluxe French Balcony stateroom.
The 10-day Vienna & Capital Cities of the Danube itinerary is tailored for travellers with a passion for culture and cities, featuring four European capitals along the Danube. The journey begins with a luxury hotel stay in Vienna, followed by visits to Budapest, Belgrade and Bratislava, offering guests access to centuries of history, architecture and art.
Pricing for the sailing starts from CAD$10,249 per person.
For more information, visit uniworld.com/ca.





