2026 Rivers of the World Cruise - Full Itinerary (US/CA)
2026 RIVERS OF THE WORLD
50 nights • Brussels to Amman • April 16 to June 5, 2026
We’re celebrating our 50th Anniversary with a 50-night Rivers of the World cruise! With no shortage of spectacular experiences to be had, this journey spans six different countries across Europe and North Africa. In honor of our history, many of our guests’ favorite experiences have been included, such as a show at the Moulin Rouge in Paris, a visit to an olive farm in the south of France, and an entire 7-night Mystery Cruise! In addition to memorable local experiences, we’ve curated a fantastic selection of five-star hotel stays to complement our fleet of luxury river cruise ships for this journey.
Rivers of the World Highlights
Visit the master craftsmen of Royal Delft in their workshops to see how their worldfamous blue and white porcelain is made.
Experience a signature Uniworld Mystery Cruise, where every day is a surprise and each new port brings once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Be treated to a show at Paris’s Moulin Rouge, one of several Masterpiece Collection experiences made complimentary for Rivers of the World cruisers.
Taste fine olive oils at a family-run mill, followed by an immersive art show projected on the walls of a limestone quarry.
Get to know blissful Mediterranean Cassis with a guided walking tour, a wine tasting, and a stay at a beautiful seaside resort.
See the Great Sphinx, the Giza Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings, and more with an expert Egyptologist by your side.
Join a spectacular Farewell Celebration in Jordan.
Onshore experiences fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
Special Traveling Concierge just for Rivers of the World guests
PART 1 Netherlands, Belgium • S.S. Emilie
Day 1 | April 16 | Brussels
Arrive at Brussels Airport. If your cruise/tour package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, a Uniworld representative will be on hand to greet you and escort you to the centrally located Hotel Amigo.
Get to know your fellow Rivers of the World cruisers tonight at a special Welcome Dinner held to celebrate the launch of our 50th Anniversary Rivers of the World cruise.
Day 2 | April 17 | Antwerp (Embark)
Transfer to Antwerp to board the brand-new S.S. Emilie, an art nouveau masterpiece inspired by the works of Gustav Klimt.
Day 3 | April 18 | Antwerp
It may be the diamond capital of the world, but Antwerp is also known for a number of other sought-after cultural gems, including Golden Age art and Belgian beer, waffles and fries. Visit Antwerp’s striking Cathedral of Our Lady, with its UNESCO-designated belfry and its historic surroundings, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, hop on the metro and experience the city like a local.
A special Captain’s Welcome Celebration will be held tonight to honor the beginning of our third annual Rivers of the World Cruise.
Day 4 | April 19 | Ghent (Bruges)
Your next day in Belgium offers you the chance to visit one of two national gems: beautiful Bruges, the capital of West Flanders and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, or fascinating Ghent, the capital city of East Flanders, whose long history does not weigh on its vibrant present. Belgium’s second largest city, Ghent abounds in medieval architecture, but there’s nothing museum-like about the city. It’s lively and brims with cutting-edge boutiques and galleries.
Day 5 | April 20 | Veere
Today, your ship docks in the Zeeland village of Veere. A harbor village on the shores of the Western Scheldt, Veere may be a small town now, but its stately 15th-century town hall tells of a grander past. For three centuries it was the bustling center of the wool trade with Scotland; the wealth from this trade built the splendid church with its tall and ornate steeple that dominates the village, as well as the handsome mansions on its main street.
Day 6 | April 21 | Rotterdam (Kinderdijk)
Rotterdam is thoroughly modern—you’ll soon understand why it’s sometimes called “Manhattan on the Meuse.” Begin your day by exploring this exciting city. Alternatively, Rivers of the World cruisers enjoy complimentary access to our Masterpiece Collection visit to see the porcelain craftsmen of Delft at work. Later, head to Kinderdijk to discover why windmills are such an iconic symbol of Holland; marvel at their engineering and learn about their role in changing the course of Dutch history.
Day 7 | April 22 | Nijmegen
For your choice of excursions today, visit the Kröller-Müller Museum, which is home to 97 works by native son Vincent van Gogh as well as other notable artists and sculptors. Or opt for a walking tour of Nijmegen.
Day 8 | April 23 | Hoorn, Enkhuizen
Discover the town of Hoorn’s seafaring past, where the swashbuckling derring-do of Dutch explorers will come to life on a guided walking tour of this historic locale.
Day 9 | April 24 | Haarlem
Spend half a day among millions of brilliantly colored flowers in Keukenhof, then mix it up a bit with a visit to and exploration of Haarlem’s art, history and Dutch lifestyle.
Day 10 | April 25 | Amsterdam
The Netherlands’ largest city, Amsterdam, has been an international port and financial center for 400 years. Your day begins with a morning visit to the Fabrique des Lumières. Later, see the sites by canal boat.
A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.
Suite, S.S. Emilie
PART 2
Mystery Destinations • Mystery Ship
Days 11 to 17 | April 26 to May 2 | Mystery Cruise
You didn’t think we’d give the details away that easily, did you? Today marks the start of one of our signature Mystery Cruises, a unique-to-Uniworld experience you won’t find anywhere else. Everything about the next week, from your daily ports of call to excursions and onboard activities, will be a complete surprise up until the night before they happen. What you do know is this: every Uniworld Mystery Cruise is a totally new itinerary, and we go above and beyond to treat our guests to special experiences.
PART 3
France • S.S. Joie De Vivre
Day 18 | May 3 | Paris (Embark)
Your Mystery Cruise has come to a close, and it’s time to transfer to the S.S. Joie de Vivre in Paris to begin the next leg of your journey
Day 19 | May 4 | La Roche-Guyon, Vernon, Giverny
Today is a celebration of northern France’s natural beauty, with an excursion to a splendid château and gardens situated in an equally grand setting, plus a chance to immerse yourself in the very landscapes that inspired Impressionist master Claude Monet. In the morning, choose between a scenic hike or a visit to the hilltop Château de La RocheGuyon, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers sweeping views over the Seine. Later, explore the beautiful gardens of Monet. You’ll have the opportunity to take in the French countryside on your way there with an invigorating bike ride or opt to arrive by coach instead.
In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
Day 20 | May 5 | Rouen
Walk in the footsteps of greatness in Normandy’s medieval capital, a city with a historic quarter that remains amazingly intact. From the cathedral Monet painted dozens of times to the cross marking the spot where Joan of Arc was martyred, Rouen is a treasure trove for the culturally curious. The roll call of famous people who lived or died in Rouen is long and varied—Richard the Lionheart, Joan of Arc, Gustave Flaubert, and Claude Monet are among them.
Day 21 | May 6 | Caudebec-en-Caux (Honfleur or Étretat)
Caudebec-en-Caux, a lovely little town on the right bank of the Seine Estuary, is your base for one of two very different excursions. You could drive through the beautiful Calvados countryside to Honfleur, a delightful seaside harbor and city of painters, or head to the windy cliffs of Étretat for a game of golf.
Day 22 | May 7 | Rouen (Normandy Beaches)
There are moments when we travel that move us on an otherworldly level—experiences that stir a profound emotional connection. The Normandy beaches certainly have that effect. On your full-day outing, you’ll visit Normandy’s beaches, with a choice to venture to either the American, British and Commonwealth, or Canadian beaches. After, partake in a private memorial ceremony for a sentimental remembrance of Operation Overlord.
Day 23 | May 8 | Mantes-La-Jolie (Versailles)
How did France’s rulers live over the centuries? Step into the private rooms of the Palace of Versailles, the lavish palace built by the Sun King, to find out.
A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.
Day 24 | May 9 | Paris
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the “City of Light” or you’ve been here many times before, there’s something for everyone today in Paris. Enjoy a panoramic overview of the city or join a local expert for a walk through two much-loved neighborhoods. Tonight, Rivers of the World guests are invited to join a complimentary show at the Moulin Rouge.
Day 25 | May 10 | Paris (Disembark), Lyon (Embark)
You’ll transfer from the magical S.S. Joie de Vivre cruise ship in Paris to the striking S.S. Catherine in Lyon via high-speed TGV train for the second half of this fabulous grand tour. Once you’ve settled into your new home, you’ll have some time to explore delightful Lyon, which is nestled alongside the Saône River.
Salon Toulouse, S.S. Joie de Vivre
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
PART 4
France • S.S. Catherine
Day 26 | May 11 | Lyon
Ancient Lyon is a city of tantalizing contrasts, from Roman roots to stunning modern architecture and plenty of Renaissance flair in between. There’s much to explore here, from the city’s bike paths to the silk weavers’ secret passageways.
A special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.
Day 27 | May 12 | Mâcon (Beaune)
The pace of life is decidedly more relaxed in Burgundy, where endless rows of grapes hang heavy on the vine. The capital of the region’s wine trade, Beaune is renowned for its history, beauty, and highly prized wine, as well as its medieval-era hospital—the Hospices de Beaune.
Day 28 | May 13 | Tain-l’Hermitage (Tournon)
If you love fine wine, you’ll love the twin villages of Tournon and Tainl’Hermitage. Tournon may be a small town, but stirring events took place here: A castle was raised on the hilltop in the 10th century to protect the region, and new fortifications were added over the centuries, including two “new” towers built to defend against Protestant attacks in the 16th century. You’ll see the handsome houses constructed by wealthy merchants and garrison officers when you walk through the Rue de Doux area, and you’ll pass the 14th-century church and the oldest secondary school in France.
Day 29 | May 14 | Viviers
An enchanting village where time seems to have stopped centuries ago, Viviers has a long and storied past that goes back more than 1,600 years—and a splendid architectural heritage to match. At one time, Viviers was divided along religious lines—the clergy lived in the upper part of the town, the laity in the lower part. Your exploration of the town will take you through both parts, as you begin at the crest and make your way to the riverbank.
Day 30 | May 15 | Avignon
The walled city of Avignon is one of the most fascinating towns in southern France, with a host of historic gems to explore—including the fortress residence of rebellious popes who broke from Rome and once lived and ruled here. You’ll see the Palace of the Popes and much more today or have the chance to visit a 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct.
A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.
Day 31 | May 16 | Arles
Explore a sun-drenched Provençal town today with an allure all its own. Known for its remarkable Roman ruins, Arles so inspired Van Gogh that he painted some 200 paintings there. Arles has existed since the sixth century BC, when the ancient Greeks founded it and named it Theline. And as a special amenity for our Rivers of the World cruisers, we’ve included our Masterpiece Collection excursion to a local oil mill, followed by a visit to an enchanting light and sound experience in a limestone quarry.
Van Gogh Lounge, S.S. Catherine
Day 32 | May 17 | Arles (Disembark), Cassis
Transfer to Cassis, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant on your way to the seaside Hôtel Les Roches Blanches, a Belle Époque mansion that was transformed into a five-star hotel. After you check in and drop off your bags, you may wish to enjoy the hotel’s amenities or go out and explore on your own.
Day 33 | May 18 | Cassis
Situated on the Mediterranean coast, sunny Cassis is a charming fishing port and an excellent viticultural destination. Today, explore this laidback destination on a walking tour, followed by a wine tasting at a local vineyard. Cassis has its own AOC, known for its white wines rather than the reds and rosés typical of the rest of Provence.
Tonight, join your fellow guests for dinner at the hotel.
Day 34 | May 19 | Cassis
Take advantage of a full-day at your leisure in Cassis. Whether you’re looking to get to know this charming seaport a little deeper or would like to see more of the area’s outstanding natural landscape, your Traveling Concierge will be able to point you in the right direction.
Day 35 | May 20 | Cassis, Cairo
Check out of our hotel today and board a flight to Cairo, Egypt. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and escorted to the Four Seasons Hotel at Nile Plaza. This five-star stay boasts luxurious accommodations, a central location, and gorgeous views of the city.
Bar du Leopard, S.S. Catherine
Hôtel Les Roches Blanches, Cassis
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
PART 5
Egypt, Jordan • River Tosca
Day 40 | May 25 | Cairo, Luxor (Embark), Dendera
Prepare to be amazed at the legendary Temple of Karnak, a massive and absolutely astounding site, with gigantic columns, broad avenues lined with stone sphinxes and halls of truly epic proportions. This evening, you’ll revel in a Welcome Reception and Dinner onboard.
Before dinner onboard this evening, guests will be treated to a folkloric dance performance. A local band of dancers, in traditional costumes representing different Egyptian districts, will perform a Whirling Dervish show.
Day 41 |
May
26 | Dendera, Luxor
Day 36 | May 21 | Cairo
The ancient quarter of Cairo is intense—the colors, the sounds, the density of people—and it’s likely been this way for thousands of years. Your local expert will show you a 12th-century citadel and the beautiful Alabaster Mosque.
During your outing today, please enjoy lunch at the Nile Ritz-Carlton, included just for our Rivers of the World cruisers.
Day 37 | May 22 | Cairo
Visit the world’s largest archeological museum dedicated to a single civilization, The Grand Egyptian Museum. For the first time in history, the complete Tutankhamun collection, consisting of over 5,000 artifacts, will be housed together, and you can see it all today.
Day 38 | May 23 | Cairo
Explore Cairo at your leisure today or join us on a guided tour of The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, where over countless artifacts and several royal mummies are on display, telling the story of Egyptian civilization from prehistoric times to the present day. Guests will also have a Visit of Old Coptic Hanging church of St. Mary, Abu Serga Chruch & Ben Ezra Jewish Synagogue.
Tonight, join your fellow Rivers of the World cruisers for dinner at your hotel.
Day 39 | May 24 | Cairo
It’s a day of Bucket List Moments today as we venture to see a number of amazing monuments—including the enigmatic Great Sphinx. You’ll have a thrilling opportunity to view the pyramids from an up-close perspective, the only way to fully appreciate their remarkable size and grandeur.
During your Giza day trip, enjoy lunch at the Mena House Hotel.
Like its twin shrine, the Temple of Karnak, the Temple of Luxor stands on the site of ancient Thebes, the once flourishing capital of Egypt’s New Kingdom. It was built over hundreds of years and even in ruins it is still an extraordinary place. You’ll also visit the Temple of Hathor, dedicated to the goddess of love and beauty.
Day 42 | May 27 | Luxor, Kom Ombo
The word “colossal” will take on a whole new meaning after today’s excursion to the gigantic twin statues known as the Colossi of Memnon. And that’s just the beginning—you’ll also visit the temple of one of Egypt’s rare female pharaohs as well as the Valley of the Kings, used as a royal burial place for nearly 500 years and where the mummified remains of Tutankhamun are on display.
After dinner onboard tonight, guests will enjoy a Galabeya Party with music, dancing, and singing by crew members. Guests are encouraged to bring their own Galabeya clothing.
Day 43 | May 28 | Kom Ombo, Aswan
After visiting a temple dedicated to a crocodile god today (don’t miss the display of some of the 300 mummified crocs found in the local area), hop aboard a small boat for a bird-watching excursion along the Nile.
Day 44 | May 29 | Aswan
Today is an epic day, filled with wonders from start to finish. You’ll visit a marvel of modern engineering—the Aswan High Dam—as well as the Unfinished Obelisk and the beautiful Philae Temple complex, which was moved from one island to another back in the 1970s. But wait, there’s more. You’ll also take a ride in a felucca—a traditional Egyptian sailboat—and enjoy afternoon tea at a famous hotel depicted in Agatha Christie’s novel Death on the Nile
After dinner onboard this evening, you’ll be treated to an enchanting Nubian show featuring traditionally attired performers, live music and dancing.
Day 45 | May 30 | Aswan, Edfu
Spend the day at leisure or join us for an optional excursion to see the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel, a Masterpiece Collection TM experience included specially for our Rivers of the World cruisers.
Main Lounge, River Tosca
Day 46 | May 31 | Esna, Luxor
On today’s excursion, you’ll learn how the Temple of Esna, also known as Temple of Khnum, was buried under debris for many centuries and is one of the last great Egyptian temples ever built. Your Egyptologist guide will share all sorts of fascinating insights about this significant cultural site and show you the façade bearing the last known hieroglyphic inscriptions ever recorded in Egypt. Later, savor the Nile’s majestic scenery as the ship cruises to Luxor.
Day 47 | June 1 | Luxor (Disembark), Madaba, The Dead Sea
Arrive in Jordan today as your plane lands at Queen Alia International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by a local host who will fast track you through immigration services. From here, your explorations of this extraordinarily historic country begin right away! We’ll start with lunch in Madaba, followed by visits to Saint George Church and Mount Nebo. Later, we’ll check into the Kempinski Ishtar Dead Sea.
Day 48 | June 2 | The Dead Sea, Petra
After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy the morning at your leisure—this is a great time to float in the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth. Jordan’s coastline along the Dead Sea is one of the most miraculous natural and spiritual landscapes in the world and has enticed travelers for centuries. Rejoin the group for lunch at the hotel, then depart for your next stay, the Mövenpick Resort Petra.
A Rivers of the World Farewell Celebration will be held tonight.
Day 49 | June 3 | Petra
Start your day in Petra, Jordan’s most famous archeological site. Both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the “New 7 Wonders of the World,” Petra is famous for the rich red hue of its monumental buildings, all carved directly into the sandstone mountainsides.
Day 50 | June 4 | Jerash, Amman
Embark on a tour of Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy. Our day then ends in Amman, where you will embark on a tour of the Citadel before checking into the Ritz-Carlton Amman for your final stay.
Day 51 | June 5 | Amman
Your Rivers of the World cruise has come to a close! Today, you’ll check out of your hotel and transfer to the Queen Alia International Airport for your flight home. Thank you for your adventurous spirit in joining us on the trip of a lifetime.
