Our journey began in the vibrant and sunny city of Amsterdam, where we boarded the stunning SS Victoria, a super ship operated by Uniworld. From the very moment we arrived at the dock, everything felt exceptionally well-organised and elegant. We were immediately escorted into a beautifully decorated lounge area where a glass of chilled champagne awaited us—a perfect touch after a long journey. As we sipped our drinks, we were invited to enjoy a superb buffet lunch filled with a wide variety of delicious options that catered to every taste.
Check-in was done in a wonderfully relaxed and personal manner. Small groups were invited to complete the process, and it didn’t feel like the usual long, impersonal queues you might expect. Once we received our keys, a friendly Uniworld staff member introduced us to our butler. He would be our go-to person throughout the journey, and we quickly realized just how helpful he would be. After guiding us to our luxurious suite, he patiently demonstrated how to operate all the amenities, from the air conditioning to the state-of-the-art coffee machine. He even showed us how to use the beautiful French balcony window that lowered smoothly, allowing us to take in the views of the Rhine in style.
After a quick unpacking session in our walk-in wardrobe — plenty of space for even the most extravagant packer — we decided to explore the top deck. It was an inviting oasis of relaxation, complete with a stylish bar, a comfortable lounge area, and plenty of sun loungers and shaded seating options. The weather was perfect, and as we settled into our chairs, a waiter appeared almost instantly to take our drink orders. That level of attentive service would prove to be a theme throughout the entire trip.
We spent a peaceful afternoon sailing down the majestic Rhine River. The sun was shining brightly, and the scenery drifting by was nothing short of breathtaking. Eventually, we returned to our suite to get ready for dinner. We called our butler once again, and in no time at all he appeared with two expertly mixed cocktails and an extra bucket of ice for our water. The bathroom was a highlight: elegant and indulgent, with a rainforest-style shower, double basins, and a generous supply of fluffy white towels, plush slippers, and high-end toiletries.
Before dinner, we gathered in the main lounge for pre-dinner drinks, where the atmosphere was cool, comfortable, and sociable. When it was time to eat, we made our way to the dining room, where we were shown to our designated table. Our waiter greeted us warmly, handed us the menus, and gave us a detailed overview of the wine pairings that would best complement each dish.
Dinner itself was an absolute delight. The menu featured sophisticated dishes including smoked duck breast, mussels, and a variety of exquisite main courses such as rump of beef, sirloin steak, grilled salmon, and thoughtfully prepared vegetarian options. The food was served promptly yet without any sense of rush, allowing us to savour each course at a relaxed pace. The wine flowed freely, matched beautifully to each dish. We concluded our meal with a delicious tiramisu, a well-curated cheese board, and a glass of smooth, rich port.
The evening’s entertainment took place back in the lounge, where two talented female performers provided a varied selection of music. They encouraged audience participation, and many of us got up to dance or sing along. It was the perfect way to round off an already perfect day. We even stole a few moments to pop up to the deck to capture some magical sunset photos as we glided through a wind farm — an unexpectedly serene and captivating sight.
Later that evening, we returned to our suite. The room had become a little warm, but our butler was only too happy to return and assist us in adjusting the temperature to our liking. That kind of on-demand service really made a difference and reinforced the feeling that nothing was too much trouble aboard the SS Victoria.
As we settled into bed, we were struck by how incredibly comfortable it was. The beds, supplied by the prestigious Savoir company — famous for serving royal families and celebrities like Elton John — were like sleeping on a cloud. We drifted off quickly and peacefully.
Morning arrived with bright sunshine and the delightful sight of Antwerp waiting outside our window. For breakfast, there were several choices depending on your mood. Early risers could enjoy a continental spread of fresh pastries and croissants, while those preferring a heartier start could head to the main dining room for a full buffet or an à la carte breakfast served directly to the table.
Since the ship docked right in the heart of the city, we were able to explore on foot. Antwerp’s charming architecture, vibrant streets, and local delicacies were a joy to experience. We found a cozy café where we sampled Belgian waffles and local beer — both were absolutely delightful.
After a few leisurely hours exploring, we made our way back to the ship to take advantage of the well-coordinated transport options for our onward journey by train or plane.
Although our stay on the SS Victoria lasted just 24 hours, it was a truly unforgettable experience. It was only a taster, but one that left us thoroughly impressed and eager to explore more of what Uniworld has to offer. The combination of elegant comfort, exceptional service, gourmet dining, and stunning scenery created the perfect short getaway — and a promise of even more wonderful journeys ahead.
