U by Uniworld Ramps Up for 2019
by Kerry Tice
A new itinerary in Northern France, including weekend nights spent in Paris, plus unique excursions and onboard amenities have been added, based on consumer feedback. Photo: Uniworld
As the popularity of river cruises continues its upward swing, U by Uniworld, the river cruise brand dedicated to a new generation of adult travelers, is doing its part to keep its product fresh and relevant to the market it is looking to attract.
The river cruise line has announced it will add a new itinerary in Northern France on The B ship, along with new excursions and onboard amenities across its fleet for 2019 – moves the company says are in response to consumer trends and feedback from guests.
“We’ve introduced river cruising to a completely new segment of travelers this year, with the launch of U by Uniworld,” said Ellen Bettridge, president and CEO of Uniworld. “Our first year was all about disrupting the industry – quite literally ‘testing the waters’ as we debuted a never before seen product. Entering into our second season, we’re following the ever-evolving consumer trends and listening [to guests] as we seek new ways to push the limit on the river cruise experience.”
Starting Apr. 21, 2019, The B’s new 8-day itinerary, “Northern France at a Glance,” will sail along the Seine River with stops in Paris, Vernon, Les Andelys, Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, Rouen and Caudebec-en-Caux. The itinerary will begin and end on Sundays, allowing for guests to spend Friday and Saturday night in Paris.
Also, just in time for the 75th anniversary of D-Day, U will take guests to Normandy’s beaches to celebrate the historic event, including a stop at the American Cemetery for a special memorial ceremony. Some of the other new immersive excursions offered on this sailing include following U’s chef to Rouen’s local market to choose fresh ingredients for dinner; climbing to the top of the Étretat’s legendary cliffs for scenic views of France; and tea time at Château du Champ de Bataille. Rates start at $1,999 per person.
The A, recently named “One of the World’s Greatest Places” by TIME magazine, will offer new “U Time” excursion options along the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers in 2019. Highlights include paddle-boarding, canoeing or swimming in the Ilz River near the Danube Bridge and visiting World War II sites. Rates for The A’s sailings start at $1,799 per person.
U by Uniworld’s onboard inclusions are already unique with its mixology classes, silent discos and sunrise rooftop yoga, but the company is ramping things up even more with the addition of rooftop BBQs, karaoke nights, themed parties and even the option to camp on the ship’s rooftop (for an additional cost).
