Uniworld Boutique River Cruises debuted its newest super ship, S.S. São Gabriel, on the Douro river in Portugal last Sunday [27 June 2021].
Uniworld’s President and CEO Ellen Bettridge was onboard to christen the new ship with its Godmother Joke De Bruyn, Uniworld’s Director of Hotel Operations and a long-standing loyal employee since 2009. The christening events included speeches, a traditional performance by a Portuguese University, surprise gifts, dinner and a much-deserved toast.
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“It was a delight to toast with our beloved loyal guests and crew, and celebrate being back on the rivers aboard our beautiful brand-new super ship,” says Ellen Bettridge, CEO and President of Uniworld.
“This is only the beginning for us. It’s been a journey, but after recently setting sail in Italy and now Portugal, we’re looking forward to continuing this momentum with the restart of our itineraries in France and Central Europe next month.”
Alice Ager, General Manager of Uniworld Australia, states: “Although we couldn’t be there to celebrate the launch of this amazing new super ship, we know our Australian guests can’t wait to return to Europe and see the S.S. São Gabriel for themselves – so we’ve opened up bookings for her 2022 and 2023 sailings. Of course, our guests can always book with confidence, thanks to Uniworld’s comprehensive flexibility promise backed by The Travel Corporation’s commitment to our clients’ comfort and peace of mind.
“Australian guests will need to act quickly to secure their place, though – before all the international guests snap them up,” Ager adds.
Designed to embody the Douro River Valley region, the ship brings the destination to life through its décor and delectable food and wine. The entire top deck offers all lavishly appointed suites, enhanced with Butler service, giving guests the option to dine at any time they’d like while enjoying the ship.
Guests on S.S. São Gabriel experience the UNESCO-designated Douro River Valley and indulge in the best of Spanish and Portuguese culture and cutting-edge, locally sourced cuisine. The first itinerary departure is Portugal, Spain & The Douro River Valley from Porto to Lisbon for 11 days.
Uniworld resumed operation in Europe earlier this month in Venice on the lagoon and on the Po River aboard the reimagined S.S. La Venezia following a voluntary COVID-19 pause.
See uniworld.com/au.