Saga - Spirit of the Rhine

Saga Holidays has announced plans to launch a new-build boutique river cruise ship to sail on European rivers from spring 2021. Following the launch of Saga’s new luxury boutique ocean cruise ship, Spirit of Discovery last July, and the launch of her sister ship next summer, the new river ship will bring the boutique luxury of ocean cruising to river cruising for the first time. Using more than 60 years of insight gained from providing products and services exclusively to the over-50’s, Saga will be building on the inspiration of their ocean ships to design the new river ship which will echo this luxury styling.

The new Spirit of the Rhine will be built by Vahali, a Dutch-founded company who have been building rivers ships since 1923 and has constructed some of the finest river cruise ships afloat. Almost all of the 183-sq ft cabins will have a French balcony and floor-to-ceiling windows to ensure guests can truly revel in the beauty of the surrounding scenery.

Robin Shaw, CEO Saga Travel said, “I am delighted to announce that we are using our experience in ocean cruising to design a bespoke ship for those guests who want a luxurious, boutique river cruise experience. Spirit of the Rhine heralds a step-change in the future of river cruising and when it comes to the onboard experience, our boutique style of cruising will ensure that our guests have an experience that combines unrivalled, first class service with bespoke authentic experiences that are tailored just for them.”

Spirit of the Rhine will sail on the Rhine; Moselle; Main; and Danube as well as along the stunning waterways of Holland. When it comes to onboard facilities the ship will ooze boutique style with a spectacular lounge with bar; separate library area; main restaurant; as well as a reservation-only restaurant with show-cooking, A large sun deck; Jacuzzi; barbecue; and extensive seating area will also be a feature of the ship and will allow guests to take in the impressive views. In addition, Spirit of the Rhine will have a small gym onboard and free Wi-Fi will be available.  All cruises will be full-board to include wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, gratuities will also be included for the first time and VIP transfers will be included as standard.