Amanda PhillipsRiver Cruises have traditionally been a peaceful way to travel, popular with retired travellers looking for an easy way to explore different cities in the one holiday.
U by Uniworld is a new river cruise line (owned by luxury Uniworld) that is bringing something new to the rivers of Europe. On-board their modern ships, you’ll find late nights bars, fluorescent accents and rooms you’d more typically associate with a hostel than a cruise ship. Also, their range of excursions varies from laid-back activities to energetic adventures. Does a river cruise now feel like something you’d want to book? Here are 10 things to know about U by Uniworld.
1. They have two ships
Named the A and the B, they each sail through a dedicated area of Europe. The A can be found floating along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers in Central Europe. While the B cruises down France’s Seine River. The small size of their ships also means they can dock in the city centre of most destinations.
2. There’s solo rooms and dorms
Anyone travelling by themselves who wants to save some money (and make friends in the process) can book a bed in one of the dorm rooms. Though if you are travelling alone and don’t fancy sharing with someone, single rooms are also available.
3. Fully functioning dining
The two U by Uniworld vessels both have a fully-functioning restaurant like any other cruise ship. The main dining room, called Dine, serves brunch and dinner (including vegetarian and vegan options). Then on the top-deck, you’ll find the U Lounge, which serves tapas-style sharing plates and after-hours snacks.
4. There’s a lot included
U by Uniworld isn’t all-inclusive, but you won’t need to reach for your wallet too often. You’ll enjoy two meals on-board per day (usually brunch and dinner) selected non-alcoholic drinks, selected daily shore excursions, and onboard entertainment. Gratuities are also included.
5. There are bikes on-board
More and more ships boast onboard bikes that guests can take out for a day exploring – and U by Uniworld is no exception. Each ship has 50 U Bikes onboard for complimentary use.
6. Immersive excursions
All the U by Uniworld itineraries have complimentary excursions, along with additional U Time excursions that were designed by local destination experts. There’s a wide range to choose from – including a mixology lesson in Amsterdam, rock climbing in Germany, classical music in Vienna, and a street art tour in Paris.
7. There are six itineraries to choose from
Starting with Rolling on the Rhine, Seine Experience, Germany’s Finest, and the Danube Flow – and then ending with the festive-themed Dashing Through the Danube and A Merry Little Christmas Cruise.
But that’s not all: since Europe’s rivers are home to some incredible festivals, so U by Uniworld offers special itineraries that include them. Such as an Oktoberfest Cruise, and a Danube cruise that stops by the Sziget Festival (one of the largest music festivals in the world).
8. There’s an onboard gym and spa
You’ll find treadmills, TRX bands, yoga mats, free weights, and other equipment to help keep up your fitness routine while on holiday. You can then relax in the spa afterwards.
9. U by Uniworld has charity partnerships and a sustainability pledge
U by Uniworld work alongside TreadRight, Just a Drop and One Tree Planted to make sure that the world remains as beautiful as it is now for years to come. They also have a partnership with All Hands and Hearts, which rebuilds resilient schools in areas impacted by natural disasters.
10. It’s open to all
U by Uniworld has been regularly described as a “river cruise by millennials” – but it is actually open for all. In fact, it’s largely been the 40+ cruisers who are booking themselves onto these stylish boats.
