Century Cruises Takes Delivery of First European River Ship

Updated July 1, 2026

Century Cruises and United Waterways have confirmed the delivery of Century Star from Dutch shipbuilder Concordia Damen, giving the Yangtze River operator its first river cruise vessel for Europe. The 174-guest newbuild is scheduled to begin Danube service in September 2026, with pre-inaugural sailings available starting Aug. 11 and an inaugural sailing set for Sept. 18, 2026, from Budapest to Passau.

The delivery moves Century Cruises beyond decades of Yangtze River operations and into a European program backed by United Waterways' operating infrastructure. United Waterways manages more than 100 passenger ships across river cruise, event, day-trip and charter operations.

Century's European operating partnership

Thomas Rooch, managing director of Century ONE in Basel, called the delivery "a milestone not only for Century Cruises but for river cruising in Europe." Rooch said the vessel brings together "Chinese innovation" and "European expertise," adding that the company is preparing to welcome its first guests aboard.

United Waterways said the project is part of Century Cruises' longer-term international expansion strategy, with the European deployment structured around local operational support. Century Star is the first in a series of three sister ships, and Concordia Damen is expected to deliver the second vessel in August 2026.

David Fredericks, president and general manager of The Americas, said Century Star was delivered on time in Europe and called the project "a true testament to international collaboration and a commitment to excellence." He also said the company is "excited about launching our vessels on the Nile in Egypt in 2027."

Michaela Julian, EVP of operations at River Advice, said Century Star connects "two of the world's great river traditions" by bringing Asian hospitality onto Europe's rivers. River Advice's role, Julian said, is to ensure that the operating layer behind the guest experience runs "flawlessly."

A hybrid vessel for Danube and Rhine service

Century Star has 78 cabins for 174 guests and measures 134.99 meters, or about 443 feet. Concordia Damen designed the vessel for European waterways, with hybrid propulsion, integrated electric propulsion and a hull made with recycled steel.

The ship's interiors draw on European river destinations and Century Cruises' Asian heritage. Three passenger decks include a restaurant, lounge and bar, aft lounge, outdoor bow lounge, fitness area and lobby.

Sailing dates and itineraries

Century Star is now in final preparations for its maiden season. Pre-inaugural sailings are available starting Aug. 11, 2026, and the inaugural sailing is scheduled for Sept. 18, 2026, operating from Budapest to Passau.

Danube itineraries come first, followed by sailings on the Rhine. Century Cruises will offer two Classic eight-day Journeys: a Danube River Cruise between Budapest and Passau, and a Rhine River Cruise between Amsterdam and Basel. The program also includes two 15-day Grand Journeys: a Danube voyage from Passau to the Black Sea and back, and an Amsterdam-to-Budapest-and-back journey.

Century Cruises is also introducing The Heritage Collection, a portfolio of premium shore excursions along the routes. The line said the collection is intended to reveal the history of the Danube, from Vienna and Budapest to the Iron Gates Gorge, the ancient Tabula Traiana, medieval fortresses and local traditions. Additional experiences will range from private concerts in historic castles and churches to meetings with boutique winemakers and visits to local markets with the ship's chef.