From River to Radiance: My Night Aboard Uniworld’s S.S. Victoria

I’ve been lucky enough to experience some incredible destinations in my time as a travel consultant, but stepping aboard the S.S. Victoria with Uniworld was something else. Think floating five-star hotel with all the style of a boutique retreat — minus the hassle of packing and unpacking every few days. Bliss.

?? Route: Amsterdam to Antwerp (just a taster, but what a taste!) ?? Vibe: Luxe, grown-up, and unapologetically elegant ??? Highlights: Butler service, plushest bed I’ve ever slept in, and waking up to river views worthy of a postcard

Why I’m Obsessed (and You Might Be Too)

I’ll be the first to admit — cruising wasn’t always on my radar. I used to think it was all sequins, shuffleboard and “early bird specials.” But this? This was more Michelin dining, chic interiors, and personalised service that made me feel like royalty without needing to lift a finger.

The butler (yes, you get one in the suites) brought coffee just the way I like it, the onboard spa was dangerously tempting, and dinner felt more like dining in a stylish Parisian restaurant than floating down a river. You could almost forget you were sailing — until you glance out and see castles, vineyards or cute European towns passing by your window.

Perfect For:

Couples or solos who want to slow down and soak it all in Foodies who love a glass of wine with a view River cruise rookies who want their first time to be unforgettable

Would I Go Again? Absolutely. And next time, I’m staying longer. I’ve got my eye on their Christmas market cruise because let’s be honest — twinkling lights, mulled wine, and a floating luxury hotel? That’s my kind of festive.

If this has got you thinking, “Actually, this could be for me…” — you’re not alone. I’ve already had clients messaging to say, “Tell me more!”

Want to know if a river cruise would work for your next adventure? Let’s chat — you bring the dream, I’ll bring the planning magic

?? DM me or email: vicki.thompson@travelcounsellors.com ?? Follow along on Insta for behind-the-scenes cruise content: @vickit_travelcounsellor