WILTON, CT — Tauck has revealed plans to add two new riverboats to its roster in 2026.
The yet-to-be-named ships, set to sail along the Rhône and Seine rivers in France, will launch in spring 2026 following construction in Serbia and the Netherlands. The announcement marks an exciting milestone for the company, which is experiencing record growth in demand for its European river cruises.
The first of the two new vessels, a 135-meter ship, will sail along the Rhône River, accommodating up to 130 guests. This ship will feature 68 cabins, including 22 spacious 300-sq.-ft. suites on its Diamond Deck, 34 mid-sized 225-sq.-ft. cabins on its Ruby Deck, and 12 180-sq.-ft. Category 1 cabins on the Emerald Deck. The second ship, a slightly smaller 125-meter vessel, will accommodate up to 124 guests and will be dedicated to cruising the Seine River. It will offer similar cabin configurations, with 20 300-sq.-ft. suites on the Diamond Deck, 30 225-sq.-ft. cabins on the Ruby Deck, and 12 180-sq.-ft. Category 1 cabins on the Emerald Deck. Notably, all Category 1 cabins on both ships will be 20% larger than those found on Tauck’s existing riverboats.
Both ships are designed with Tauck’s signature focus on comfort, space, and personalized service. In keeping with the company’s longstanding tradition of welcoming solo travellers, the single supplement will be waived for all Category 1 cabins on the new ships.
Tauck riverboat docked near Château Gaillard on the River Seine
COMFORT OVER CAPACITY
While many river cruise operators maximize the capacity of their vessels, the two new Tauck ships will host fewer guests than similarly sized vessels in the industry. For example, where many 135-meter riverboats carry up to 190 passengers, Tauck’s ships will only accommodate 130, allowing for more spacious cabins, less crowded public areas, and a more intimate onboard atmosphere.
“By intentionally carrying fewer guests, we can offer larger cabins, roomier public spaces, and the high level of service that has become a hallmark of our brand,” said Tauck’s CEO, Dan Mahar. “Our smaller guest capacity ensures that our ships maintain a relaxed, community-oriented feel—something our travelers truly value.”
Each of the new ships will also feature a dedicated Tauck Cruise Director and up to three Tauck Director guides to provide a personalized, all-inclusive travel experience. Tauck’s river cruises are known for their inclusivity, covering all shore excursions, gratuities, onboard beverages (including wine, beer, and spirits), transfers, taxes, and more, in the cruise fare.
EXCITING NEW FEATURES
While specific details about the new ships’ upper Sun Deck and communal spaces, including dining rooms, lounges, and wellness facilities, have yet to be revealed, Tauck has hinted at significant updates and enhancements to these areas. Mahar noted that feedback from past guests and Tauck staff had inspired some fresh, innovative changes in the design of these spaces.
“We’ve been listening closely to what our guests want, and we’re reimagining these areas with exciting new features and innovations that will further elevate the onboard experience,” Mahar explained. “We’re looking forward to sharing more details in the coming months.”
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2026 NOW OPEN FOR BOOKING
The announcement of the new ships comes as Tauck celebrates a record year for its European river cruises. Passenger levels have surged, with the company reporting double-digit growth over last year’s figures. Demand for 2025 sailings is also strong, with pre-season bookings up significantly from 2023.
Tauck has also opened its 2026 river cruise itineraries for booking, allowing guests to reserve spots on the newly announced ships. Guests who book now will have the option to cancel their bookings and receive a full deposit refund when final pricing and detailed itineraries are confirmed in early 2025.
