Uniworld Announces 50th Anniversary President’s Cruise Onboard New S.S. Emilie. President & CEO Ellen Bettridge to Host Exclusive Sailing
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises announces its Golden Anniversary President’s Cruise for 2026, hosted by President and CEO Ellen Bettridge in celebration of the brand’s 50th anniversary.
This commemorative sailing will depart on October 23, 2026, on the new ‘Vienna & Capital Cities of the Danube’ itinerary, aboard Uniworld’s latest Super Ship, the S.S. Emilie, making her debut for the 2026 season.
Guests can look forward to exclusive activities and excursions, opportunities to connect with Ellen throughout the journey and special surprises created specifically for this one-time-only cruise.
“Traveling with our incredible guests is something I always look forward to, and hosting my 2026 President’s Cruise on our beautiful new S.S. Emilie makes it even more special,” says Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld. “With our 50th anniversary ahead, this is an especially meaningful year for us. We’ll be setting sail on a brand-new Danube itinerary, complete with a few special moments, activities and surprises to mark the occasion.”
The S.S. Emilie is Uniworld’s first new build in five years, drawing design inspiration from Austrian painter Gustav Klimt and named after his muse and life partner, Emilie Flöge.
Accommodating 154 guests, the ship is the first of its kind and showcases Klimt’s iconic aesthetic throughout, with dramatic hues of green, blue and yellow, striking gold accents and abundant Art Nouveau touches. Along with a signature onboard restaurant, lounge and bar, the S.S. Emilie will debut a unique accommodation option that allows guests to book a spacious two-bedroom suite by reserving a Grand Suite combined with an adjoining Deluxe French Balcony stateroom.
The 10-day ‘Vienna & Capital Cities of the Danube’ itinerary is ideal for city enthusiasts, offering the chance to explore four vibrant capitals along the Danube.
Following a luxurious hotel stay in Vienna, guests will sail to Budapest, Belgrade and Bratislava. With Medieval history, grand architecture and world-class art at every turn, the itinerary offers endless opportunities for discovery.
Prices for the sailing start at $7,249 per person.
(Uniworld Announces 50th Anniversary President’s Cruise Onboard New S.S. Emilie. President & CEO Ellen Bettridge to Host Exclusive Sailing)

