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Uniworld River Cruises

Uniworld River Cruises

Choose from 73 Uniworld river cruises and read 90 verified Uniworld reviews from past clients of Global Journeys. When you book your Uniworld river cruise with us you'll enjoy exclusive online savings, a dedicated travel advisor to look after your booking and the best price guaranteed!
CRUISE DEPARTURES: 1,431
FLEET SIZE: 18
KNOWN FOR: Boutique River Cruising
90 Reviews (4.7/5)
CRUISE STYLES:
River Cruises
DESTINATIONS:
Amazon Asia Europe Nile

Featured River Cruises View all

24 Days Amsterdam to Bucharest

Operator: Uniworld

From 17,071
Save 380

8 Days Amsterdam to Basel

Operator: Uniworld

From 5,984
Save 195

8 Days Bordeaux to Bordeaux

Operator: Uniworld

From 5,690
Save 167

15 Days Budapest to Amsterdam

Operator: Uniworld

From 11,086
Save 251

Popular Destinations View all Explore the following regions on one of 1,431 river cruises with Uniworld

Uniworld Amazon River Cruises
Amazon
Uniworld Asia River Cruises
Asia
Uniworld Europe River Cruises
Europe
Uniworld Nile River Cruises
Nile

Cruise Fleet View all Inclusions, itineraries, onboard facilities & deck plans of each Uniworld cruise ship.

S.S. Elisabeth
Ship Class: River Ship

Launching in 2025, the S.S. Elisabeth, sister to the S.S. Victoria, epitomizes contemporary luxury with lavish velvet, marble accents, and Uniworld's boutique style. Its spacious suites include two 506 sq ft Royal Suites, offering...

S.S. Victoria
Ship Class: River Ship

Introducing the S.S. Victoria, the newest addition to our European river cruise fleet in 2024. With the most spacious suites on Europe's rivers, the ship features three dining venues, a relaxing spa area, a rooftop bar, and thoughtful...

S.S. Sphinx
Ship Class: River Ship

The S.S. Sphinx made her debut on the Nile river on January 4, 2020. As the only luxury river cruise ship in Egypt, S.S. Sphinx will offer three gourmet dining venues, including a private dining room and an al fresco dining experience on...

Mekong Jewel
Ship Class: River Ship

Debuting on January 3, 2020, the Mekong Jewel will be the newest and most luxurious ship on the Mekong river. This all-suite ship will include two dining venues: one main restaurant and an al fresco eatery on the upper deck. The Mekong...

Uniworld River Cruises Reviews View all

4.7
AVG. RATING 4.7 / 5
90 Reviews
5 Star
70%
4 Star
26%
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Excellent Venice Cruise But Disappointing Transfer From Milan   0 , South Australia, Australia, Oct 2024
We arrived at Milan airport and the Uniworld representative was there to meet us and transfer us to the Milan hotel. The hotel was 5 star and in an excellent location. The next morning we did the city tour and the Last Supper visit which was very good. We then chose to do the optional extra cost Lake Como tour in the afternoon. This was a mistake as ...read more it is very expensive and took about 7 hours overall, about 5 hours of which was spent getting there and back. We would recommend spending the afternoon around Milan instead.

The next day was the transfer to Venice and to the ship and which we thought was very poor for a luxury cruise. We were required to get our own bags on the bus at 6am which meant rising very early. We were then given 30 minutes for 70 to 80 people to scramble to have breakfast and then all get on a double decker bus for the trip to Venice. We stopped in Verona for a walking tour with virtually no free time and then back on the bus to a winery for lunch. Lunch was OK but nothing exceptional and then back on the bus and off to Venice. A very long day (9-10 hours to travel about 270 km.

Things improved remarkably upon reaching the ship in Venice about 3:30pm to 4pm. The ship is very comfortable although the over the top décor is an acquired taste. The service was excellent and the food was very good. The rooms are on the small side but are very comfortable. The bathroom is very tight. The cruise is very well run and all places visited were interesting and very nice. Visits to the Venice attractions were well organised to avoid the crowds. Overall, the cruise was thoroughly enjoyable but Uniworld needs to rethink the Milan transfer.
Castles along the Rhine   0 , WA, Australia, Aug 2024
Hannah at Global Journeys made sure that all bases were covered. The Uniworld trip was amazing truly a 5 star experience.
Amsterdam to Bucharest River Cruise 10 May 2024   2 , New Zealand, May 2024
Uniworld berth in Amsterdam not from around Central Station, so used a Uber ride, approx 20 min 31 Euro ride our Hotel ( City Hotel Amsterdam ... recommend also ). SS BEATRICE room 203 our home for the next 24 sleeps. Room 203 is on the lowest floor and one could look out and see the water level very easily. Room size big enough for us and the bathroom ...read more ..... shower, toilet and had basin in a small room...... no complaints. Good things we liked about down there. Close to gym, free laundry....( 2 washing machines and 2 dryers ) iron and ironing board. Up a flight of stairs to dining room, then up another flight to bar area. No noise, just no view, but we were up and about from 6.30am to 11pm, then only in the room to sleep. Our choice so we can continue having holidays.

We meet a couple who had a suite 406, and visited their room........ very nice and spacious, but then again more expensive. Each morning we got up and did the fitness/yoga/stretching with the Dusko the instructor. Sometimes did it up on the sun deck if weather not cool at 7am, but mostly in the lounge/bar. Did Nordic walking twice. Fitness lasted usual about 1 hour. Most excursions started at 9am and lasted until about 1pm. Back to boat in time for lunch. If longer excursions, usually provided a meal at the location. Very good meals and toilet breaks.

Evening meals start at 7pm and finish in time for local entertainment. one night was a dress up night 60's night....bit of a laugh, most did not able to recognise us. Meals and drinks. Beautiful. We were unable to use the sundeck for about 6 days as the river level for clearance under the bridges insufficient. Our cruise left on 10th May 2024. Only 1.5 days of rain. Uniworld also took along 2 tour buses, who meet us at city to take us on the excursions, plus arranged extra buses as required up until Budapest. From Budapest to Bucharest they used another bus company. Liked all the excursions apart from the last one up to see the churches.......a long day and not much to see......maybe I needed a holiday .....hahaha. Booking process etc perfect. Recommend to others. Meet some wonderful people from around the world. Score the trip 10/10.
Enjoyable Bordeaux Cruise   2 , SA, Australia, Oct 2023
We didn't get off to a good start as the included transfer to the ship was 40 minutes late to meet us at Bordeaux airport but things improved from there. Overall the cruise was very good and well organized. The ship is in good condition and the cabin was well appointed, comfortable and very well serviced. The cabin size however is on the small side ...read more compared to other river cruise companies we have cruised with but we knew that when we booked and we know that you don't spend a lot of time in the cabin other than sleeping. The bathroom however was tight.

The food and service was very good and drinks were free flowing. The included excursions were all very good and the guides for the excursions were excellent. The passenger mix was about 50% Americans with the balance comprising Australians, British and Malaysians. We did enjoy the cruise but for a cruise longer than 8 days we would choose a river cruise company with larger cabins.
Wonderful cruise on Venetian Lagoon     5 , VIC, Australia, May 2023
Check-in was quick and efficient. Cabin and crew were great. Crew knew our names very quickly and you feel like one of the family. Fellow passengers were easy to get along with and you could choose to dine and/or chat with new people or have a quiet dinner. Included excursions were well chosen and organised. One can do as little or as much as desired ...read more each day.
Unbelievable Uniworld   2 , WA, Australia, Sep 2022
If you are looking for a luxury cruise then Uniworld is the one. The Bordeaux, France, cruise is excellent for first time wine buff's to this famed area. The boat has had a very nice fit out and the lounge, dining room, top deck and cabins are a delight to be in. The food matched with Bordeaux wines was excellent, and there is always a number of choices ...read more for all palates. The cabins are fitted out with luxurious bedding and linens to ensure the best nights sleep. We thoroughly recommend this cruise and Uniworld.
Perfect and faultless cruise   5 , VIC, Australia, Aug 2022
It was our first time travelling with Uniworld and I would have to say it felt like you were in a floating luxury five star hotel and we were made to feel very comfortable, special and important. Would not hesitate to travel with them again. Just ready now to book our next global river cruise thanks to the wonderful service that we got with Jemma.
Grand France , indeed, back to back wonderful river cruising.   2 , WA, Australia, Jul 2022
July 2022 we left Australia to join Uniworld's Grand France on S.S Catherine and S.S Joie de Vivre. Luxury boats with all amenities. Beautiful boats, excellent staff, lovely sites and food, all along the way. All transfers on arrival and departure days were spot on and even an escort came with 7 of us on the TGV train from Lyon to Paris and our luggage ...read more was already in our cabin when we got there.

I probably shouldn't comment on other passengers but on the first leg there was a large group of Americans 60-70 guests, belonging to "The Presidents Club". They do" good work " and travel around the world on holidays together at least once a year, very jolly etc. Next time I think I would be inclined to enquire if there was such a big group booked in and might choose a different date!

Enough said , it really is a marvelous way to see France from South to North and the guides are excellent so knowledgeable and fun too. And still at the helm of Global Journeys, Georgie was there to guide us with all her expertise and knowledge, Thanks again, Georgie.

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River Cruises

River Cruises (2024-25)

Sailing by river means enjoying all the conveniences of a traditional cruise, along with all the benefits of land travel. Stopping in multiple destinations on every trip, you’ll visit bustling cities and hidden gem villages, unpacking only once. River...more cruising is the best way to cruise, and the best and most luxurious river cruises are with Uniworld.
River Cruises

River Cruises (2023-24)

The world has finally opened and is waiting with open arms to welcome you back. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to journey abroad or even take that bucket-list trip you’ve always dreamed of, now is that time. Let us welcome you back onboard...more any one of our 17 one-of-a-kind ships, to cruise in all-inclusive luxury on the rivers of Europe, Egypt, Peru, India, Vietnam and Cambodia.
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The Uniworld River Cruise Experience Choose to travel with Uniworld on your next adventure!

Uniworld's Boutique River Cruising Experience
Uniworld's Boutique River Cruising Experience

As a luxury river cruise line, Uniworld handles all aspects of our onboard operations - nautical, hospitality, and culinary. And with the synergy we share with our award-winning sister company Red Carnation Hotels, which has over 50 years of experience owning and operating luxury boutique hotels, we have created the world's ONLY floating luxury boutique hotels.

One-of-a-kind, exquisitely appointed river cruise ships are each a work of art, designed to be as unique as our guests, and as inspiring as the destinations they visit.

Uniworld Europe - Truly All-Inclusive
Uniworld Europe - Truly All-Inclusive

Experience the luxury of effortless travel, with everything included in your fare.

  • The world's only authentic boutique cruise line offering one-of-a-kind luxurious ships with an average capacity of just 130 guests.
  • The most elegantly appointed riverview staterooms and suites afloat - many with French balconies - offering exclusive signature touches such as handcrafted beds from Savoir® of England, an array of pillow options, flat-screen TVs with infotainment centers, and spacious marble bathrooms stocked with robes, slippers, and L'Occitane en Provence bath and body products.
  • All scheduled airport transfers.
  • Expertly planned shore excursions hosted by English-speaking local experts, with personalization options including Choice Is Yours, Go Active, Do as the Locals Do, Village Day, and Gentle Walking programs and a host of exclusive experiences designed for Uniworld guests only.
  • All gratuities onboard and onshore for your convenience and comfort.
  • All meals onboard, impeccably prepared with the finest and freshest ingredients sourced from farmers' markets and other local suppliers as well as unlimited beverages onboard, including an extensive selection of distinctive wines; craft and regional beers; spirits; cocktails; soft drinks; juices; cappuccinos, lattes, espresso, and French press coffee; fine teas; and mineral water.
  • A variety of onboard dining options and special culinary experiences with open seating and a casual-elegant dress code
  • Ship-wide Internet and Wi-Fi access, so you can stay connected.
  • Well-equipped fitness center with exercise classes onboard and use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks for onshore enjoyment.
China River Cruises & Tours
China River Cruises & Tours

Marvel at the geographic diversity of China, from the mountains of Tibet to the grand gorges of the Yangtze. Witness the great contrast between ancient Chinese culture and its more modern entrepreneurial spirit. Be inspired by ethereal landscapes and historical sites, all while enjoying the modern-day comforts of five-star hotels and luxurious yangtze river ships.

From the moment you arrive, you'll be in the hands of Uniworld's professional, English-speaking Cruise/Tour Managers, who will happily share their vast knowledge of China's history, art, culture, and natural landscapes with you.

Vietnam & Cambodia River Cruises
Vietnam & Cambodia River Cruises

There can be no more striking cultural contrast between bustling Vietnam and the tranquility of Cambodia. From Ho Chi Minh City, through the Mekong Delta so rich in human life and endeavor, to the diverse countryside of Cambodia, you'll discover two countries, two cultures, and two ways of life linked by one river, the Mekong, that have shaped these nations.

Explore More Explore more Your guide to travelling with Uniworld River Cruises

Safe River Cruising with Uniworld’s Elevated Health and Security Protocols

01 July, 2020

Safe River Cruising with Uniworld’s Elevated Health and Security Protocols

Uniworld have taken careful measures so you can travel without worry. As an experienced traveller you are well informed, prepared and mindful. Uniworld approaches every cruise with that same thorough diligence. Stringent sanitation and security protocols on board their ships are nothing new....

The Freshest Seasonal Ingredients

09 July, 2019

The Freshest Seasonal Ingredients

“The idea was that I would help my husband out at the beginning [with his first hotel] before going on to teach, but I ended up staying in the kitchen for 15 years.” So says Bea Tollman about her hands on approach and attention to detail in a culinary career that was founded on a temporary...

Meet Uniworld’s Guiding Visionary

04 July, 2019

Meet Uniworld’s Guiding Visionary

“I wanted something different for our guests. I knew that there was this vision of mine and I set out to create it”.   Bea Tollman, founder of Uniworld’s sister brand, Red Carnation Hotels, has brought passion, poise and personalisation into everything she does, including Uniworld’s...

Cam and Fran's Paris to Normandy River Cruise on Uniworld's Joie de Vivre

01 March, 2019

Cam and Fran's Paris to Normandy River Cruise on Uniworld's Joie de Vivre

I think that Spring is a wonderful time of year to visit Paris. The days are sunny and warm with just enough nip in the air to wear a nice coat (living on the Sunshine Coast makes coat wearing a rare treat!) and the city and parks are coming to life with spring flowers and blossoms. So I was...

Uniworld River Cruise FAQ's Frequently asked questions for those considering travelling with Uniworld River Cruises

Which cruise itinerary is best for me?

A good choice for first-time river cruisers is a Danube River cruise, which offers an enjoyable "tasting menu" of many top cultural sites. A Rhine River cruise, with stunning scenery and dozens of castles, is another great option. Second or third-timers may enjoy visiting Eastern Europe via a cruise along the Lower Danube, the River Po in Italy or the Douro River in Portugal.

Are three people per room allowed?

Triple bookings are allowed only in some suites on board the S.S. Catherine and the S.S. Maria Theresa (excluding the Royal Suite).

What should I wear on my cruise?

It's best to pack for a range of weather conditions, depending on the season and regions visited. Wearing layers will allow you to easily adjust to temperature changes. Limiting your wardrobe to a simple mix-and-match colour scheme will keep your bags to a minimum. We recommend wearing comfortable, smart-casual clothing both onshore and on board. We also suggest sturdy walking shoes, as you will do a significant amount of walking on shore excursions, often over cobblestones or uneven terrain. A sun hat, rain gear, and a coat or wrap for chilly evenings are useful items to have. For dining ashore, concerts, special events on board, etc., men may want to bring a sports jacket and women a cocktail dress or pantsuit. Neckties are optional. Please note that shorts are not allowed at dinner aboard the ship.

Is laundry service available?

Most ships have either a self-serve laundrette (with ironing board) or laundry service for an additional fee. No dry cleaning services are available on any ship.

Can I drink the water?

The tap water on board is filtered and safe to drink, and bottled mineral water is replenished daily in your stateroom. Additional bottled water can be purchased just about anywhere onshore throughout Europe.

Can you accommodate special diets?

Kindly inform us in advance if you have specific dietary requests (e.g., low-fat, low-calorie, gluten-free, sugar-free, vegetarian, etc.). We have a "Traveling Lite" menu for guests seeking more health-conscious options, as well as light lunches, vegetarian options, and generous buffets that offer something for everyone. We will do our very best to accommodate your needs given the resources available to us.

What is the voltage?

Voltage in Europe and aboard our ships is 220v/50Hz with 2-pin "Schuko" outlets. All staterooms also have 110v outlets. Your electrical appliances from home may require an adapter and/or converter.

Is there on board Internet access?

Select ships offer complimentary Wi-Fi access. Please view your ship's specific information page or contant your Global Journeys travel advisor. Service may be briefly interrupted in remote areas, while sailing, or when moving through locks, and the speed will likely be slower than what you are used to back home.

What is Gold Seal Protection?

With the Uniworld "Gold Seal Protection" Policy, Uniworld will provide you with 100% of the Uniworld cancellation penalties in the form of a future cruise credit certificate, should you cancel your cruise/tour prior to your original scheduled flight departure date. If you wish for us to include this protection in your quote, please let us know when enquiring.

Do we always dock in the heart of the city?

In many ports, your river ship is small enough to dock within easy walking distance of the historic city center. Elsewhere, the ship may need to dock farther away and a motorcoach transfer will be provided. There may be times when your ship moors next to another ship or between ships, especially in busy ports. Docking locations are determined by the local harbor authorities, not Uniworld or the ship's Captain.

How much walking should I expect?

Our itineraries focus on places of cultural and historical interest, which are often best experienced on a guided walking tour. You'll enjoy your cruise most if you are in good health and able to walk significant distances, often on cobblestones, uneven terrain, and up and down stairs. River cruise ships are not designed to accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters, nor are many older European buildings or historic sites. Guests with mobility issues may be unable to participate in all shore excursions, but are always welcome to relax on board and enjoy a spa treatment or quiet time with a good book.

How do I book optional excursions once on board?

Optional excursions can be booked with your Cruise Manager and charged to your on board account. Some optional excursions need a minimum number of participants to operate. There are no refunds for cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time or for pre-paid tours. On pre/post-cruise extensions, you may book optional excursions with your Local Host and pay by credit card (cash not accepted). Optional excursions cannot be reserved prior to the cruise.

Could my itinerary change for any reason?

We make every effort to follow our itineraries exactly as promoted, but reserve the right to make any necessary changes to ensure the safety of our guests and ships. Time permitting, we will let you know of any known changes before you board the ship.

Does each sightseeing group on excursions have its own guide?

Yes, each group has its own English-speaking guide. Our local experts are considered the best in the industry, and our complimentary QuietVox audio headsets make it easy to hear every word of their insightful commentary.

Can I take children on my cruise?

In our experience, most young children - especially those under 4 - are simply not yet old enough to enjoy river cruising. We make no special arrangements for little ones and offer few kid-friendly activities on board or onshore.

What about gratuities, either on board or onshore?

All gratuities for the ship's staff and crew, as well as your onshore tour guides are included in your cruise fare. When going ashore on your own, keep in mind that tipping is less expected and more modest in Europe than it is in North America (although equally appreciated).

Do I need vaccinations?

We recommend consulting your doctor to make sure your vaccinations are up to date and that you are in good health for the trip.

What should I wear on my cruise?

It's best to pack for a range of weather conditions, depending on the season and the regions visited. Wearing layers of lightweight clothing—ideally in light colours—will allow you to easily adjust to temperature changes. Limiting your wardrobe to a simple mix-and-match colour scheme will keep your bags to a minimum. Attire in Southeast Asia is more casual than it is in Europe, due to the warmer temperatures. We recommend wearing comfortable, smart-casual clothing onshore and on board. We also suggest sturdy walking shoes, as you will do a significant amount of walking on shore excursions, often over unpaved or uneven terrain. A sun hat and rain gear are good items to have. Sports jackets and cocktail dresses are not necessary on this itinerary. Please note that shorts are not allowed at dinner aboard the ship.

Is laundry service available?

Laundry service is available in all hotels and on board your ship for an additional fee. No dry cleaning services are available on board.

Can I drink the water?

The ship's tap water can be used for washing, but please do not drink or brush your teeth with it. Complimentary bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth is provided on board, and additional bottled water is available free of charge on all excursions. All hotels on this itinerary provide complimentary in-room water. When going ashore, we strongly advise against drinking tap water or any beverage served with ice.

What's the food like?

On board the ship, our skilled chefs use fresh, locally sourced ingredients to prepare all meals, a mix of regionally-inspired and western dishes. Most included meals onshore will be at restaurants serving Asian cuisine.

Can you accommodate special diets?

Kindly inform us if you have specific dietary requests (e.g., low-fat, low-calorie, sugar-free, vegetarian, vegan, etc.). We will do our best to accommodate your needs given the resources available to us.

What is the voltage?

The voltage in Vietnam and Cambodia is 220/50Hz in all hotels and on board the ship. On board ship, the outlets in your stateroom can accommodate both 110v and 220v appliances. In hotels, your electrical appliances from home may require an adapter and/or converter, which your hotel might be able to loan to you. You will need a two round-pin plug adapter in Cambodia and a three-flat-pin plug adapter in Vietnam.

Is there on board Internet access?

Select ships offer complimentary Wi-Fi access. Please view your ship's specific information page or contant your Global Journeys travel advisor. Service may be briefly interrupted in remote areas, while sailing, or when moving through locks, and the speed will likely be slower than what you are used to back home.

What is Gold Seal Protection?

With the Uniworld "Gold Seal Protection" Policy, Uniworld will provide you with 100% of the Uniworld cancellation penalties in the form of a future cruise credit certificate, should you cancel your cruise/tour prior to your original scheduled flight departure date. If you wish for us to include this protection in your quote, please let us know when enquiring.

Where does the ship dock?

In many Asian ports, your ship is small enough to dock within easy walking distance of places of interest. Elsewhere, the ship may need to dock farther away and a motorcoach transfer will be provided. There may be times when your ship moors next to another ship or between ships, especially in busy ports. Docking locations are determined by the local harbor authorities, not Uniworld or the ship's Captain.

How much walking should I expect?

Our Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary focuses on places of cultural and historical interest, some of which prohibit vehicles. You should be in good health and able to walk significant distances, often on unpaved or uneven terrain and up and down stairs. Docking facilities may differ from port to port and may be somewhat rudimentary; we will always ensure that gangways are safe and have crew members on hand to assist you. River cruise ships are not designed to accommodate wheelchairs or motor scooters, nor are many Asian buildings or historical sites. Guests with mobility issues may be unable to participate in all shore excursions, but are always welcome to relax on board and enjoy a spa treatment or quiet time with a good book. Riverbanks and walkways can be dusty or muddy, so we kindly ask that you remove your footwear upon returning to the ship. We will clean your shoes and return them to you as soon as possible.

How do I book optional excursions once on board?

Optional excursions can be booked with your Cruise/Tour Manager and charged to your on board account. Some optional excursions need a minimum number of participants to operate. There are no refunds for cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time or for pre-paid tours. On pre- and post-cruise/tour extensions, you may book optional excursions with your Local Host and pay by credit card (cash not accepted). Optional excursions cannot be reserved prior to the cruise.

Could my itinerary change for any reason?

We make every effort to follow our itineraries exactly as promoted, but reserve the right to make any necessary changes to ensure the safety of our guests and ships. Time permitting, we will let you know of any known changes before you board the ship.

Does each sightseeing group on excursions have its own guide?

Yes, each group has its own English-speaking guide. Our local experts are considered the best in the industry, and our complimentary QuietVox audio headsets make it easy to hear every word of their insightful commentary.

Can I take children on my cruise?

In our experience, most young children - especially those under 4 - are simply not yet old enough to enjoy river cruising. We make no special arrangements for little ones and offer few kid-friendly activities on board or onshore.

What about gratuities, either on board or onshore?

Gratuities are customary expressions of appreciation for a job well done, and it is our goal to ensure that the service you receive is as wonderful as the sites you visit. The amount of the gratuity you choose to give is entirely subject to your satisfaction with your travel experience. To assist you in determining the amount of your gratuities, we recommend the following as a guideline:

  • Cruise/Tour Manager: USD $8 to $10 per guest, per day (given on the last day of the cruise/tour before departure)
  • Ship staff and crew: USD $8 per guest, on 3- or 4-night cruises to be shared among all staff and crew (this will be charged to your on board account at the time you check in, and the amount can be adjusted by the Reception Desk on board at the end of the cruise)

Tips and gratuities are included for local experts, drivers, local river guides, rand the rickshaw driver and boatman during your trip, as well as on post-cruise land extensions purchased in conjunction with your cruise/tour.

Do I need vaccinations?

We recommend consulting your doctor to make sure your vaccinations are up to date and that you are in good health, especially if traveling in Tibet's high altitudes (approx. 11,000 feet).

What should I wear on my cruise?

It's best to pack for a range of weather conditions, depending on the season and the regions visited. Temperatures in China can vary greatly, from 90°F in Hong Kong to as low as 30°F in Lhasa, Tibet. Wearing layers of lightweight clothing will allow you to easily adjust to any temperature changes. Limiting your wardrobe to a simple mix-and-match colour scheme will keep your bags to a minimum.

We recommend wearing comfortable, smart-casual clothing onshore and on board. We also suggest sturdy walking shoes, as you will do a significant amount of walking on excursions, often over slippery or uneven terrain. A sun hat, rain gear, and a warm coat for chilly evenings or high altitude areas are useful items to have. For dining ashore, special performances, festive dinners on board, etc., men may want to bring a sports jacket and women a cocktail dress or pantsuit. Please note that shorts are not allowed at dinner aboard the ship.

Is laundry service available?

Laundry service is available in all hotels and on board your ship for an additional fee. No dry cleaning services are available on board.

Can I drink the water?

The ship's tap water can be used for washing, but please do not drink or brush your teeth with it. Complimentary bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth is provided on board, and additional bottled water is available free of charge on all excursions. All hotels on this itinerary provide complimentary in-room bottle water. When ashore, we strongly advise against drinking tap water or any beverage served with ice. Soft drinks, water, coffee and tea are included with all meals on board. Red and white house wine and draught beer will be also included at all on board dinners.

What's the food like?

All restaurant breakfasts are served buffet-style and offer both Western and Asian menu items. Most other meals onshore will feature authentic Chinese cuisine. On board your ship, breakfast and lunch will be buffets featuring Chinese and some Western cuisine, and dinners will highlight Chinese food served at table. You will also enjoy special themed meals through your journey, such as a Peking Duck dinner, a dinner show in Xi'an, and a dumpling lunch in Xi'an.

Can you accommodate special diets?

Kindly inform us if you have specific dietary requests (e.g., low-fat, low-calorie, sugar-free, vegetarian, vegan, etc.). We will do our best to accommodate your needs given the resources available to us.

What is the voltage?

The voltage in China is 220v/50Hz in all hotels and on board the ship. Your electrical appliances from home will require a 3-pin plug adapter and a voltage converter.

Is there on board Internet access?

Select ships offer complimentary Wi-Fi access. Please view your ship's specific information page or contant your Global Journeys travel advisor. Service may be briefly interrupted in remote areas, while sailing, or when moving through locks, and the speed will likely be slower than what you are used to back home.

What is Gold Seal Protection?

With the Uniworld "Gold Seal Protection" Policy, Uniworld will provide you with 100% of the Uniworld cancellation penalties in the form of a future cruise credit certificate, should you cancel your cruise/tour prior to your original scheduled flight departure date. If you wish for us to include this protection in your quote, please let us know when enquiring.

Where does the ship dock?

In many Asian ports, your ship is small enough to dock within easy walking distance of places of interest. Elsewhere, the ship may need to dock farther away and a motorcoach transfer will be provided. There may be times when your ship moors next to another ship or between ships, especially in busy ports. Docking locations are determined by the local harbor authorities, not Uniworld or the ship's Captain.

How much walking should I expect?

Our China itineraries focus on places of cultural and historical interest, some of which prohibit vehicles. Guests should be in good health and able to walk significant distances, often on slippery or uneven terrain and up and down stairs. Docking facilities may differ from port to port and may be somewhat rudimentary; we will always ensure that gangways are safe and have crew members on hand to assist you.

Although our ships in China are equipped with elevators, they are not designed to accommodate wheelchairs or motor scooters. Many Asian buildings, historical sites, and embarkation/disembarkation facilities are also not wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility issues may be unable to participate in all shore excursions, but are always welcome to relax on board and enjoy a spa treatment or quiet time with a good book.

How do I book optional excursions once on board?

Optional excursions can be booked with your Cruise/Tour Manager and charged to your on board account. Some optional excursions need a minimum number of participants to operate. There are no refunds for cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour start time or for pre-paid tours. On pre- and post-cruise/tour extensions, you may book optional excursions with your Local Host and pay by credit card (cash not accepted). Optional excursions cannot be reserved prior to the cruise.

Could my itinerary change for any reason?

We make every effort to follow our itineraries exactly as promoted, but reserve the right to make any necessary changes to ensure the safety of our guests and ships. Time permitting, we will let you know of any known changes before you board the ship.

Does each sightseeing group on excursions have its own guide?

Each group has its own English-speaking guide. Our local experts are considered the best in the industry, and our complimentary audio headsets make it easy to hear every word of their insightful commentary .

Can I take children on my cruise?

In our experience, most young children - especially those under 4 - are simply not yet old enough to enjoy river cruising. We make no special arrangements for little ones and offer few kid-friendly activities on board or onshore.

What about gratuities, either on board or onshore?

Gratuities are customary expressions of appreciation for a job well done, and it is our goal to ensure that you have the most enjoyable trip possible. Therefore, the amount of the gratuity you choose to give is entirely subject to your satisfaction with your travel experience. To assist you in determining the amount of your gratuities, we recommend the following as a guideline:

  • Cruise/Tour Manager: USD $8 to $10 per guest, per day (given on the last day of the cruise/tour before departure)
  • Ship staff and crew: USD $25 per guest, on 3- or 4-night cruises to be shared among all staff and crew (this will be charged to your on board account at the time you check in, and the amount can be adjusted by the Reception Desk on board at the end of the cruise)

Tips and gratuities are included for local experts, drivers, local river guides, rickshaw drivers, and boatmen during your trip, as well as on post-cruise land extensions purchased in conjunction with your cruise/tour (excluding Hong Kong).

European Transfers

Transfers to/from airports will be provided only for flights arriving/departing on the start/finish day of the cruise (and for extensions/extra nights). There may be a waiting period of up to 2 hours or more unless private car transfers have been purchased. Passenger flight details must be given to Global Journeys 45 days prior to departure. Let your Travel Advisor know if you wish to purchase a private car transfer from Uniworld or you'll make your own transfer arrangements. Uniworld will not be responsible for late arrivals or missed transfers due to delayed or cancelled flights, for missed cruise/trip days or for extra costs resulting from the foregoing.

Asia Transfers

Transfers are available 24 hours on the date of arrival and the date of departure. Normally the wait is not more than 30 minutes.

Boarding Time

On turnaround day, the entire ship must be cleaned in preparation for your arrival. The facilities of the ship, including your cabin, will not be available before 4pm. We appreciate your understanding on this matter. Should you arrive early, you may leave your bags in the Reception area and take a walk into the city, or relax in the lounge.

Terms & Conditions All the boring small print. We recommend you read them, as no one likes surprises!