Tauck to launch two newbuild ships in 2026

US operator Tauck plans to launch two new vessels to its fleet in France in spring 2026.

The first will be a 130-passenger vessel sailing itineraries on the Rhone.

The 135-metre river boat will have 68 cabins and 22 suites on its upper deck, 34 larger cabins on its middle deck and 12 category one cabins on the lower deck.

The second ship is smaller and will carry up to 124 passengers on Seine itineraries.

It will have 20 suites on the upper deck, 30 larger cabins on the middle deck and 12 category one cabins on the lower deck.

The category one cabins on the ship will be 20% larger than on the fleet’s other riverboats.

The two ships will launch after construction in Serbia and The Netherlands.

Tauck chief executive Dan Mahar said: “With our two new riverboats, we’ll continue to prioritise our guests’ comfort and the quality of their onboard experience, rather than following the industry norm of maximising revenue by maximising passenger capacity.

“Other lines’ 135-metre ships carry a full 46% more people than Tauck’s riverboats, and you simply can’t provide the same service or quality of experience with nearly half-again as many guests.”

He hinted at future enhancements to public spaces on both ships based on passenger and staff feedback, with more details due in the coming months.

The new ship announcements come as the company posted a record year for European river cruises with double-digit percentage growth on last year’s passenger levels.

Pre-season bookings for 2025 itineraries are also up double-digits year over year.

River cruises for 2026 opened for booking earlier this month and all passengers who book a cruise now will have an opportunity to cancel bookings for a full deposit refund when pricing and final itinerary details are announced in early 2025.

Prices for Tauck river cruises include shore excursions, gratuities, onboard drinks which comprise wine, beer and spirits, airport transfers and all taxes and fees.