AMSTERDAM -- Uniworld Boutique River Cruises showed off its newest vessel at the ASTA River Cruise Expo last week, giving attendees the opportunity to tour the Super Ship.
The Emilie, which will sail the Danube River, is a 154-passenger ship named for Emilie Floge, the partner and muse of Austrian painter Gustav Klimt.
A bedroom in the Grand Suite on the Emilie. Photo Credit: Brinley Hineman
The ship was designed with nods to Klimt's style, with art nouveau influences and touches of gold. A towering portrait of a bejeweled Floge is the first thing passengers see as they board the ship, and her presence is felt through the interior designs.
River cruise executives and travel advisors often liken a river cruise ship to a floating hotel, and that rings true with the Emilie.
The colors of fabrics on the ship -- carpets, furniture, linens -- are rich and jeweled shades of plum, blue and red, exuding a warmth throughout the vessel. The curved staircase in the lobby adds a luxe feel similar to a boutique hotel.
Artwork in a cabin on the Emilie. Photo Credit: Brinley Hineman
Crystal sconces lining the hallways offer a chic touch, while mirrors reflect both the artwork and light of the ship. Gallery lights highlight different paintings throughout the vessel.
Uniworld will add two more ships named after iconic women to its fleet next year: the Audrey and Marlene. Both ships draw their inspiration from the big screen. The Audrey is named for actress Audrey Hepburn, the Marlene for actress-singer Marlene Dietrich.