About Uniworld
Uniworld was established in 1976. Whilst the company has its headquarters in LA, there are also bases in France, Switzerland, China and the Netherlands. With an interest in sustainability, efforts are made to reduce energy within these offices by recycling, using energy saving lighting, and keeping waste to a minimum. The line also encourages guests to be mindful of the environment during their cruise so that the beautiful regions they visit can remain as such.
As a boutique operator, there is a major focus on style and luxury aboard Uniworld’s ships. Artwork and antiques can be found in various places and the general décor oozes style at every turn. There is an abundance of choice throughout Europe, Asia and even Africa, with 500 departures available annually on around 40 different trips. There are even specially selected multi-generational cruises available which take place during the school holidays, offer child-friendly menus, and provide shore excursions specifically aimed at younger travellers.
Accommodation
There are staterooms and suites available on all of Uniworld’s ships, but whichever style of accommodation you choose, you’re in for a comfortable and luxurious stay. Sweet dreams will be had on the Savoir® of England beds, complete with multiple pillow options, whilst you will feel as good as new after using the L’Occitane products in the bathroom.
Balconies are available on all ships, offering the most stunning of views as you sail along. Splash out on a suite and you can look forward to a packing and unpacking service, along with in-room breakfast and your very own butler.
Dining
The award-winning food served on board Uniworld’s ships features the finest ingredients that are locally-sourced where possible. Having earned Top Dining notoriety from restaurant reviewer Zagat, you will be able to choose from mouth-watering menus that include international cuisine alongside many different regional options in line with where you are sailing. You could sample a dim sum lunch when in China, bite into ‘Baked Fish Amok in Banana Leaves’ whilst sailing through Vietnam and Cambodia, and feast on dishes full of flavour and spice whilst in India.
As well as the standard options, there are also a number of other dining experiences that you can enjoy when sailing with Uniworld. There’s the option to eat outside as you dine under the stars, experience the British tradition of afternoon tea, or simply grab an early breakfast before everyone else has awoken from their slumber. The ‘Travelling Lite’ menu is also a great option for anyone looking for something smaller or lower in calories.
Drink also plays a key role in the dining experience when travelling on a Uniworld river cruise. Your itinerary could include tastings and demonstrations, as well as dinners that feature carefully chosen wine or beer accompaniments to each course. What’s more, the wine list currently features the 1995 Nikolaihof Riesling from Austria; a vintage that recently earned the highest possible score (100) from renowned connoisseur Robert Parker.
Facilities
You will be welcomed onboard by the smiling concierge staff as they take your bags from you and encourage you to leave everything to them. The stunning lobby will immediately steal your attention, as you begin to realise that your time on board is going to be a very pleasant one. Other public areas include relaxing lounges, bars in which to sip a refreshing glass of wine, a library in which serenity reigns and, of course, the luxurious retreat of your stateroom or suite.
On top of this, there are also plenty of health and wellness facilities that beckon you to take it easy. The gym is there if you wish to use it, but otherwise, there is the comprehensive Serenity River Spa, a heated swimming pool, and the glorious sun deck.
Excursions
Shore excursions are included in the price on all European sailings with Uniworld. This means that you can experience carefully selected activities that are run by English-speaking guides without paying anything extra. There’s also the opportunity to personalise some of the experiences if you wish.
Make your holiday your own by choosing to explore each port in your own style. There are many different ways in which you can do this in Europe, including Uniworld’s ‘Choice Is Yours’ options that provide alternative activities for those who may have already seen the main sites in a certain destination.
There’s also the option to embark on a ‘Go Active’ excursion, which features cycling routes and hikes aided by Nordic walking sticks; a ‘Gentle Walking’ tour aimed at those who want to take things at a slower pace; or a ‘Village Day Trip’ which takes you into rural areas to spend time in the homes and workshops of the people living there. Finally, you can ‘Do As The Locals Do’ as you sample regional cuisine and follow in the footsteps of the local residents.
Outside of Europe, shore excursions will also involve you being immersed in the local culture. You may experience a traditional local art, watch a cultural performance, or enjoy a themed dinner on land.