As the end of the year (and decade!) draws ever closer, now is the best time to look ahead at the exciting happenings in the river cruise industry for 2020. Typically, a new year means new ships and 2020 is no different, as cruise lines look to expand their capacity and venture into new parts of the world.

So, here are five new vessels we’re looking forward to seeing emerge over the next 12 months.

Amadeus Imperial, Amadeus River Cruises

Coming in April, Amadeus Imperial will be the 16th luxury addition to the fleet and will sail on the Rhine, Danube and Main Rivers, as well as the Belgian and Dutch Waterways. Built in the image of Amadeus Silver, Silver II and Silver III, she will bare plenty of the same features as her sumptuous predecessors. Many of the 72 deluxe cabins and 12 Amadeus Suites will offer a retractable window which slides down to create a balcony the entire width of the cabin.

Whilst Amadeus Imperial will fit the same mold as other ships before her, she will be larger than them all, carrying 168 passengers at full capacity. Her entranceway has also undergone a significant redesign, creating an impressive welcome for all who climb aboard.

S.S. São Gabriel, Uniworld

Named after the flagship of Vasco da Gama’s fleet, S.S. São Gabriel will make her debut on the Douro River in April 2020. Uniworld has made the decision to increase capacity in this popular region and the newest addition to Portugal’s river of gold will offer more cabins than fleet-mate Queen Isabel, who also operates in the valley.

Boasting Uniworld’s trademark flare for design and custom-built features to help her navigate the narrow locks of the Douro, S.S. São Gabriel will carry 100 guests. As well as relaxing in the well-appointed lounge, you can look forward to cooling off in the swimming pool on the sun deck when the heat gets too much.

American Jazz/ American Melody, American Cruise Lines

In August 2020, American Jazz will become American Cruise Lines’ third modern river boat, joining a fleet that also includes four authentic paddle wheelers and five coastal ships. Sailing along the Lower Mississippi, she will be the sister to both American Song and American Harmony and so will feature the innovative bow that opens up to reveal a retractable gangway.

As well as the stunning, five-storey glass atrium that allows natural light to flood in from all directions, American Jazz will offer a brand new grade of accommodation in the form of Grand Suites. These boast wrap-around balconies and glass walls that create an abundance of space for guests who wish to invite their new-found friends over for dinner or a cocktail party.

Incidentally, American Cruise Lines will also launch their fourth modern riverboat, American Melody, later in the year.

Viking Osiris, Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises is well known for launching multiple ships in any given year (even breaking a world record for launching 14 ships in 24 hours in 2014), and 2020 is no different. Alongside four new Seine Ships, custom-built to be able to sail further into the heart of Paris, the cruise line will launch its second vessel in Egypt.

Viking Osiris will join Viking Ra in offering sailings along the historic River Nile, bringing with her popular onboard Viking venues such as the Aquavit Terrace and Viking Lounge. As one of the most luxurious ships sailing the river, she will take just 82 guests on ‘Pharaohs and Pyramids’ itineraries. As well as a seven-night Nile river cruise, these include time in both Cairo and Luxor to give you more chance to discover the breathtaking sights. Plus, new extensions that include Privileged Access to attractions in London and Oxford will be offered to help you brush up on your Egyptology before you even set sail.

If you would like to know more about any of the new ships arriving in 2020, or you would like to book your next exciting river cruise, call the team on 0800 954 0064. You can also contact us through the website to order brochures or sign-up to our mailing list.

Zimbabwean Dream, CroisiEurope

Responding to demand and growth in the region of Africa, CroisiEurope is building their second boutique vessel to sail across Lake Kariba on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Interest continues to increase for this fascinating river cruise adventure and so the ship has been created to join African Dream, currently operating in the region.

With just eight cabins available, two of which offer balconies, the atmosphere on board Zimbabwean Dream will be intimate and almost like being on your own private charter. Luxurious public spaces include the restaurant, panoramic lounge bar and sun deck – all of which allow you to feel closer to the magnificent nature in this part of the world.

The ship will launch in March 2020 and packages will include a stay at a lodge within the Chobe National Park, as well as visits to places like Victoria Falls and Johannesburg.