New Ships For 2014 
23.01.2014
New Ships For 2014
OK, we have banged the drum loud and often about 2014 being the Year of the River-Cruise, so we thought we would provide a little more insight into what's on offer. Or, rather the 26 - count them, TWENTY-SIX! - new ships on offer this year.
The line-up is extensive and deep, from the latest example of the Viking Longships (above) to new ships for a whole new river-cruise line. Here's what to look out for:
Viking Cruises: the popular line will become the biggest operator in Europe with the launch of no less than 14 of their Longship vessels at a special ceremony in France in March. Each will carry 190 passengers and boost Viking's total to 30 of these vessels in just 3 years.
Avalon Waterways: get ready for 3 more 'Suite ships' from this operator. The Avalon Illumination and Impression will each accommodate 166 passengers while POetry II will carry 128. All three will sail the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. Suite Ships have two decks of 200sq ft suites, each with a wall of windows that can be opened into a balcony.
Tauck: the stylish American operator has 2 two new 130-passenger ships, the Savor and Inspire. Each hasstaterooms measuring at least 150sq ft and suites of 225-300sq ft. Eight cabins will feature a “loft” design with a raised platform seating area and a taller window that can be opened for fresh air.
Scenic Cruises: guests will be able to choose from 2 more of their 'Space Ships', the 126-passenger Scenic Gem, offering 11-day trips in France, and the 169-guest Scenic Jade, which will sail on the Rhine, Main and Danube. Both will have have multiple dining venues and staterooms with walk-out balconies converting to indoor sealed lounges at the push of a button.
Emerald Waterways: this will be the mor budget-minded sister company for Scenic, aiming to attract a lightly younger cusotmer, and entering service in April with 2 new 182-passenger ships, Emerald Star and Emerald Sky on the Rhine and Danube.
AmaWaterways: here's another line introducing 2 new river vessels, 164-passenger AmaSonata (artist's impression, above) and AmaReina on the Danube and Rhine respectively. They’ll have twin balcony staterooms and suites, several dining venues, a heated pool with swim-up bar, a glass elevator and the line's trademark fleet of bicycles.
Uniworld: March will have only 1 newcomer, but the 159-passenger SS Catherine will be a sister to 2013's highly regarded SS Antoinette. It will feature lavishly appointed staterooms and suites with full or French balconies, plus a main restaurant with an outdoor terrace for al fresco dining, as well as a bistro and will sail in France..