Founded in 1976 by Serbian entrepreneur Serba Illich, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection began as a modest river cruise operation in California. Over the decades, it has evolved into one of the world’s most luxurious and artfully curated river cruise lines. In 2004, Uniworld was acquired by The Travel Corporation (TTC), a family-owned global travel group, which further elevated its standards and global reach.
Uniworld specializes in boutique, all-inclusive river cruising, offering guests a five-star hotel experience onboard uniquely designed ships. Each vessel in their fleet is inspired by the destinations it sails through—featuring hand-selected artwork, antique furnishings, and opulent décor. With a capacity of just 120 to 160 passengers per ship, Uniworld emphasizes personalized service, with an industry-leading guest-to-staff ratio and meticulous attention to detail. Guests enjoy gourmet farm-to-table cuisine, unlimited beverages including premium wines and spirits, curated shore excursions, and wellness programs, all included in the fare. In recent updates, Uniworld continues to enhance its sustainability initiatives under the "U by Uniworld" and "MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®” programs. They also launched their new Cruise & Rail programs, combining luxury train journeys with river cruising, providing a seamless and elegant way to explore inland Europe.
Uniworld remains at the forefront of river cruising with its dedication to quality, exclusivity, and innovation. Whether it’s a romantic sailing through the vineyards of Bordeaux or an adventurous journey along the Amazon (announced for late 2025), Uniworld continues to redefine the art of river travel, blending timeless elegance with modern luxury.
Fellow passengers
Uniworld primarily attracts English-speaking guests, typically a blend of seasoned, well-travelled cruisers and a rising number of younger couples and solo travelers eager to enjoy the unique charm of river cruising.