- Friday 16 December 2016
I had the privilege of being invited on the ITAA's (Irish Travel Agent's Association) annual conference this year which was hosted in Amsterdam on board the Uniworld River Cruise Ship SS Antoinette.
We flew from Cork to Amsterdam and within 30 minutes of arriving in Amsterdam we were at the dock and boarded the ship. The first thing that catches your eye is the two-story foyer which boasts a 10-foot blue Strauss Baccarat chandelier with huge sapphires—a stunning piece that once hung in New York's famous Tavern on the Green.
This 443 foot ship is true luxury and with over 50 staff and only 154 passengers, you can feel the personal touch throughout.
The staterooms range from Riverview, French balcony and Open Air Balcony to Suites and are all decorated with very plush interiors. Uniworld provide you with those little extras like bathrobes and slippers and L'Occitane products in the bathroom.
The meticulously designed public areas feature fine Brazilian marble on the walls and floors, a 19th-century Venetian glass mirror, a large lounge bar area with live entertainment in the evenings, 2 dining areas, a swimming pool and spa area, fitness cantre, a stylish Bar du Leopard with full-service bar, and an onboard cinema.
To take in the ever changing views, you can stroll up to the deck and relax on the cushioned loungers (they even provide blankets for the colder season).
This journey for us was only for 2 nights on board so we sailed up the Rhine towards Cologne but we still got to experience what is on offer onboard for the longer River Cruises. There are some fantastic itineraries to choose from with Uniworld sailing along the Rhine or Danube or Moselle to name but a few European Rivers. Docking by the riverside you're never that far from the city centre and you have the option to take one of the many Exclusive tours or take one of the courtesy bicycles that they provide to do your own exploring.
The prices on these ships may look pricey on the outset but when you consider the 5 star dining, All Inclusive drinks, Personalised escorted excursions, 24 hour butler service and all your tips included, then you are truly getting your moneys worth and more.
A River Cruise with Uniworld is unique and you feel special from the moment you set foot onboard, it is true affordable luxury and I will definitely be taking one again in the near future.