S.S. Catherine

Embarking from its home port in Lyon since 2014, the S.S. Catherine provides a unique and sophisticated journey along the Rhone River, weaving through the storied regions of Burgundy and Provence. Boasting a cozy capacity of 159 guests, complemented by a dedicated crew of 57, this vessel offers an intimate cruising experience that prioritizes luxury and attentive service, hallmarks of the Uniworld experience. The S.S. Catherine stands out for its exceptional design, lavish amenities, and bespoke service, establishing a gold standard in river cruising for discerning passengers who desire a mix of cultural discovery, gourmet dining, and supreme comfort.

The ship’s interior is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship, adorned with silk wall finishes, opulent furniture, and a notable art collection that includes an eye-catching green Murano glass chandelier and an impressive waterfall encircling the glass elevator. The Bar du Leopard, with its jungle-inspired décor and featuring a rare river ship glass-enclosed swimming pool, is among the ship's signature attractions. Accommodations onboard the S.S. Catherine, ranging from 162 to 194 square feet for most staterooms, offer the luxury of French balconies or private open-air balconies. Selected suites expand the indulgence with 305 to 410 square feet of space, outfitted with premium amenities such as bespoke Savoir of England beds, marble bathrooms with underfloor heating, and plush bathrobes, catering to the refined preferences of its passengers.

The clientele typically includes mature, well-traveled couples and solo adventurers seeking an engaging and sophisticated travel experience. Consequently, the atmosphere onboard is more genteel and serene, in contrast to the dynamic vibe of larger ocean liners. While Uniworld's Generations voyages might be more appealing to those traveling with younger children, the luxurious allure of the S.S. Catherine principally attracts adult guests.

Distinguishing itself within the Uniworld fleet and the broader river cruising segment, the S.S. Catherine is celebrated for its singular design ethos and impeccable attention to detail. Unlike the uniform fleet model adopted by many river cruise lines, Uniworld cultivates a distinct personality and charm for each vessel, with the S.S. Catherine exemplifying this philosophy beautifully. Onboard dining focuses on quality, with menus featuring locally-sourced ingredients crafted to exquisite standards. While the ship might offer fewer dining venues compared to others, the culinary quality and personalized service onboard are unmatched. Nonetheless, guests looking for a plethora of onboard activities may find the ship's emphasis on cultural engagement and exploration more limited compared to larger vessels.

In essence, the S.S. Catherine epitomizes the zenith of luxury river cruising, tailored for those who value an exquisitely designed ship, exceptional service, and a close-knit cruise experience. Marrying unique design elements with a dedication to cultural enrichment and culinary excellence, the vessel promises an unforgettable voyage. While not geared towards the youngest crowd or those seeking extensive onboard activities, the S.S. Catherine shines in offering a serene, luxurious passage through France’s most captivating landscapes.