Tauck has announced the addition of two new ships to its award-winning fleet of riverboats, set to launch in spring 2026. These new vessels will sail the picturesque rivers of France, with one navigating the Rhone and the other the Seine.
New Ships, New Adventures
The two newbuilds, currently under construction in Serbia and The Netherlands, will bring Tauck’s renowned luxury and comfort to more travellers. The 135-meter ship, designed for the Rhone, will accommodate up to 130 guests in 68 cabins, including 22 spacious 300-sq. ft. suites on the upper (Diamond) deck, 34 roomy 225-sq. ft. cabins on the middle (Ruby) deck, and 12 180-sq. ft. Category 1 cabins on the lower (Emerald) deck.
The slightly smaller 125-meter sister ship will sail the Seine, hosting up to 124 guests. It will feature 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, the Category 1 cabins on both ships will be 20% larger than those on Tauck’s other riverboats, and solo travellers will enjoy waived single supplements on every sailing.
Tauck’s Commitment to Quality
Tauck CEO Dan Mahar emphasized the company’s dedication to guest comfort and quality experiences. Tauck’s new ships prioritise spacious accommodations and a relaxed onboard ambience, unlike other riverboats that maximise passenger capacity. “With our two new riverboats, we’ll continue to prioritize our guests’ comfort and the quality of their onboard experience,” said Mahar.
Tauck ensures roomier cabins and less crowded public areas by accommodating fewer guests, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among travellers. Each ship will sail with a dedicated Tauck Cruise Director and up to three Tauck Director guides, providing exceptional service and fully inclusive itineraries. This includes all shore excursions, gratuities, onboard beverages, airport transfers, taxes, and fees.
Innovative Public Spaces
While specific details about the ships’ Sun Decks and communal spaces are still under wraps, Mahar hinted at exciting innovations. “We’ve been listening carefully to what our guests have been saying, and we’re reimagining our public spaces with fresh and fun innovations,” he said. More information about these enhancements will be revealed in the coming months.
Record Sales and Future Bookings
The announcement of the new ships comes as Tauck celebrates a record year for its European river cruises, with double-digit growth over last year’s passenger levels. Demand for 2025 sailings is also strong, and preliminary bookings for 2026 are now open. Guests who book 2026 cruises can cancel their reservations and receive a full refund of their deposits when final pricing and itinerary details are announced in early 2025.
Stay tuned for more updates as Tauck prepares to launch these exciting new riverboats, promising unforgettable journeys through the heart of France.