By
Rebecca Gibson |
Saga Cruises is to build a boutique river cruise ship named Spirit of the Rhine, which will begin operating on Europe’s rivers in spring 2021.
To be built by the Vahali shipyard, the new vessel will feature 17-sqaure-metre cabins, almost all of which will have a French balcony and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Other onboard highlights will include a large sun deck with a hot tub, barbeque and an extensive seating area, as well as a small gym, a lounge with a bar, a library area, a main restaurant and a reservation-only restaurant with facilities for ‘show cooking’. Guests will be able to access free wi-fi throughout the vessel.
“I am delighted to announce that we are using our experience in ocean cruising to design a bespoke ship for those guests who want a luxurious, boutique river cruise experience,” said Robin Shaw, CEO of Saga Travel. “This launch of Spirit of the Rhine heralds a step change in the future of river cruising and when it comes to the onboard experience, our boutique approach to cruising will ensure that our guests have an experience that combines unrivalled, first-class service with bespoke authentic experiences that are tailored just for them.”
Spirit of the Rhine will sail itineraries on the Holland’s waterways and the Rhine, Danube, Main and Moselle rivers, calling at both popular and less well-known destinations. Saga will offer exclusive excursions and will provide multiple tour options in key ports to enable guests to tailor their onshore experience to meets their personal needs and preferences.