Uniworld Debuts Its Latest Masterpiece as the S.S. Emilie Sets Sail on the Danube

The S.S. Emilie officially set sail on the Danube in March, marking a defining moment for Uniworld as the brand’s first new build since 2021.

This “Super Ship” serves as a floating tribute to the Austrian painter Gustav Klimt and is named after his beloved muse, the visionary designer Emilie Flöge. The newly released images confirm that the vessel is a floating Art Nouveau masterpiece, heavily leaning into the dramatic jewel tones and gold accents that defined Klimt’s “Golden Phase.”

The sensory experience begins the moment you board, and the design details are stunning. As Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises notes, “One of the first things guests will notice is the use of rich, dark wood throughout the ship. Today, authentic wood detailing is increasingly rare, yet it creates an immediate sense of warmth and intimacy. Combined with custom furnishings and one-of-a-kind art pieces, the S.S. Emilie feels less like boarding a ship and more like stepping into a beautifully curated boutique hotel.” This warmth extends into the social spaces, where bold patterns and metallic textures enliven the lounges and restaurants.

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The stateroom configuration is equally innovative, offering a level of flexibility rarely seen on the rivers. Guests who book a Grand Suite and the adjoining Deluxe French Balcony next door can see their stateroom transformed into an incredibly spacious 2-bedroom suite. The Grand Suites themselves are lavishly appointed with custom sateen sheets and marble bathrooms featuring Asprey products. Betteridge emphasizes that this ship represents both “progress and purpose as our most sustainable vessel to date, while introducing a design concept unlike anything currently sailing the rivers.”

Dining on board is equally transportive, with menus tailored to the destination—whether the ship is sailing the Rhine, Main or Danube. “Because everything is included—from premium wines and spirits to locally inspired cuisine and curated excursions—there’s no hesitation, no second-guessing,” notes Betteridge.

As the S.S. Emilie begins her inaugural season, she represents the brand’s mission to explore without limits. “She isn’t simply the next ship in our series; she’s a statement about where Uniworld is headed,” leadership explains. “We’re building ships that are not only more environmentally advanced but also more expressive in their design and storytelling. It’s an exciting moment because we’re honoring our heritage while boldly shaping the future of river cruising.”

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