Century Cruises Reveals Plans for Second European River Cruise

Century Cruises will expand its European river cruise fleet with a second ship, the Century Diamond, with sailings scheduled to begin in August 2027. It will be the second of four ships planned to sail Europe’s rivers.

Beginning in August 2027, Century Diamond will make the Rhine River its primary home, complementing sister-ship Century Star’s presence on the Danube. It will focus on eight-day voyages between Basel and Amsterdam. Select voyages will expand beyond the traditional Rhine itinerary, exploring additional waterways in the region.

Like Century Star, the 174-guest Century Diamond will combine environmentally-conscious construction with a contemporary design that connects Century Cruises’ Asian heritage with the history and culture of Europe. Both ships are designed specifically with North American and European travelers in mind.

“… the team at Century One in Basel have brought our vision for ‘Rivers Intertwined’ to life,” said David Fredericks, president and general manager – the Americas for Century Cruises said. “It is a philosophy that makes Century Cruises distinctly different on the rivers of Europe. We are bringing our heritage from the East and allowing it to intertwine with the extraordinary cultures, traditions, and destinations of the West, creating something truly special.”

“It puts Century Cruises is a very unique position on the rivers of Europe. We are not trying to recreate what already exists. We are bringing two worlds together – East and West, the Yangtze and the great rivers of Europe – as Century Cruises continues its expansion around the world.”

Where East Meets West

Century Cruises has embraced a “Rivers Intertwined” philosophy for its European river cruise fleet, bringing together the history, art, food, landscapes, and traditions of East and West aboard its ships. Onboard Century Diamond this will visible at the main restaurant, which takes its inspiration from Germany’s Black Forest, but features subtle details reflecting Century’s Chinese heritage. In the lounge, the elegance and atmosphere of a traditional Viennese coffee houses is blended with artwork inspired by the company’s Asian roots.

This philosophy extends to the ship’s culinary offerings, as well.

“Alongside our daily menus, guests will experience regional foods, local wines, and beers inspired by the destinations through which we sail,” said Fredericks. “At the same time, there will always be a taste of our heritage, including a Chinese dish on the menu that reminds us of our origins along the Yangtze.”

Environmentally-Conscious Construction

Century Diamond also represents a step forward in Century Cruises’ commitment to developing an environmentally-responsible generation of river vessels. Following Century Str, Century Diamond will be the second Asian new-build river ship in the company’s fleet using approximately 60% recycled steel and incorporating hybrid propulsion technology.