Saga plans to launch a newbuild boutique river cruise ship to sail on European rivers in 2021
Following the launch of Saga’s luxury boutique ocean cruise ship, Spirit of Discovery in July 2019, and the launch of its sister ship in 2020, the new river ship will bring the “boutique luxury of ocean cruising to river cruising”.
Saga will use the inspiration of their ocean cruises to design the newbuild ship. Almost all of the 17 m2 cabins will have a French balcony and floor-to-ceiling windows to ensure guests can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding scenery.
The new ship will be built by Vahali, a Dutch-founded company who has been building rivers ships since 1923.
Over recent years the popularity of river cruising has been steadily increasing year-on-year with Saga customers, the cruise operator said.
Spirit of the Rhine will sail on rivers including the Rhine, Moselle, Main and Danube and through the waterways of Holland. When it comes to onboard facilities the ship will include a lounge with a bar, a library, a main restaurant as well as a reservation-only restaurant with show cooking. A large sun deck, jacuzzi, barbecue and extensive seating area will also be features of the ship.
In addition, Spirit of the Rhine will have a small gym on board and free wifi will be available throughout.
Saga Travel chief executive Robin Shaw said “I am delighted to announce we are using our experience in ocean cruising to design a bespoke ship for guests who want a luxurious, boutique river cruise experience.
“This launch of Spirit of the Rhine heralds a step change in the future of river cruising and when it comes to the onboard experience, our boutique approach to cruising will ensure our guests have an experience that combines unrivalled, first-class service with bespoke authentic experiences tailored just for them.”
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