I cannot begin to tell you what a wonderful time my husband Bob, and myself had on our recent Uniworld River Cruise. We sailed on the newest ship in their fleet the SS Maria Theresa. A fabulous ship, well appointed, with spacious accommodations, and beautiful public rooms, and a self-service laundry, complimentary of course.  

From the moment we boarded to the day of disembarkation we were treated like family. A family of staff that enjoys their work, is eager to please, and has a deep respect for the passengers and co-workers, as well as their Captain.

Upon check-in, we were greeted at reception, completed the necessary paperwork, and shown to your stateroom, category B French Balcony. Many of the newer riverboats have what they consider as Balconies, or French Balconies, a window which goes down, with or without the screen. A new concept that allows passengers to enjoy the scenery without stepping away from your stateroom. We enjoyed this as it allowed for fresh air in our stateroom.

There is a main dining room onboard, which serves, breakfast and lunch as buffet, dinner is a la carte. Wine, beer, cocktails, soda’s, coffee and tea flow freely throughout the day and the evening. There is a complementary alternative dining venue, open on a specific day’s, which serves the same menu throughout the sailing. Reservations are required and dinner is served in the rear bar area known as the Bar du Leopard.

Entertainment was quite good. We had local entertainment onboard as well as the onboard piano player and singer, who played till the last person left the bar. One day we had a local glass blower onboard who demonstrated his work, as well as selling many of his treasures.

The itinerary was superb. We had 68 locks in total from start to end, with the largest being the first evening out. When we were sailing we had commentary from our cruise director explaining the sights around us, while pointing out many castles and farms. Our land tours were exceptional. Uniworld employs local guides, who speak excellent English, are from the area, and generally off season school teachers. We are kept in small groups to allow interactive conversation, and questions. They also provide a “gentle walkers” group for those who have walking issues. They always saw the same sights, but, they were bussed to the starting location to allow a more enjoyable experience.

Uniworld is an all-inclusive venue. There is no tipping on or off the ship, including our bus drivers, and guides. There are no public announcements. We had a briefing each evening before dinner, that outlined the next day’s activities. If you want to participate, just show up, if you prefer to stay onboard, no worries, if you prefer to bike around on your own, so be it, there are a number of bicycles on board for use while in port, which of course are complimentary. There are a few excursions offered that require an additional cost. A helicopter ride, an evening concert, and a few others. Want to have a cocktail before dinner, the bar is open, and you are free to ask other passengers to join you, without the uncomfortable situation of who buys the drinks. It is all included.

I would not hesitate suggesting Uniworld to my passengers, and I look forward to my next cruise with them. Ready to book, just give me a call.