TORONTO — Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has debuted its newest super ship, a milestone moment that CEO and President Ellen Bettridge said was “only the beginning” for the river cruise line.

The S.S. São Gabriel was christened on the Douro River in Portugal on June 27 with its Godmother Joke De Bruyn, Uniworld’s Director of Hotel Operations, in attendance to help Bettridge host the day’s celebrations. Christening events included speeches, a traditional performance by a Portuguese University, surprise gifts, dinner and a celebratory toast.

“It as 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,” said Bettridge. “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.”

Designed to embody the beauty of the Douro River Valley region, the S.S. São Gabriel features an entire top deck of lavishly appointed suites that come with butler service. The first itinerary departure is the 11-day ‘Portugal, Spain & The Douro River Valley,’ departing from Porto to Lisbon. 

Last month, Uniworld became the first North American river cruise line to resume operations in Europe since the start of the pandemic, with the S.S. La Venezia departing on its inaugural sailing from Venice on June 20. 

For more information contact the reservations team at 1-800-257-2407.