Two new river cruise ships ordered by Transcend Cruises

Transcend Cruises has signed a contract with Holland’s Den Breejen Shipyard for the construction of two new river cruise ships, expanding its fleet to four vessels by 2028. The specialist charter-only river cruise company had previously contracted the Dutch shipbuilder to build two 135-m river cruise vessels.

Transcend said the agreement marks a significant expansion milestone as it prepares for the delivery of its inaugural 135-m ship, Connect, this July. The 120-guest, 54-crew vessel will begin sailing on the Rhine during the European summer season.

Like Connect, the two new luxury river cruise ships, Create and Engage, are being designed by Tillberg Design of Sweden. Their hulls will be built in Orsova, Romania, with final construction and outfitting taking place at Den Breejen Shipyard in Hardinxveld-Giessendam, Netherlands. Delivery of Create is slated for October 2027, with Engage scheduled for delivery in Q1 2028.

Transcend describes itself as the first cruise brand built for “creating tailored, unforgettable experiences for the group market, including meeting, incentive, corporate group and event buyers.”

Transcend aims to grow its fleet to 12 river cruise vessels.

The keel-laying for Transcend’s second vessel, Evolve, took place in mid-March, with delivery slated for May 2027.

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