Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection’s newest Super Ship, the SS Joie de Vivre, set sail today on its maiden voyage along the Seine River. The inaugural events included a christening ceremony in Paris led by the ship’s Godmother, Dame Joan Collins. Following the event, the S.S. Joie de Vivre embarked on its journey through northern France along Uniworld’s Paris & Normandy itinerary, with unique programming in celebration of the launch.
With a length of 125 meters, rather than the typical 135 meters, the SS Joie de Vivre can dock in the heart of Paris, close to the Eiffel Tower. The ship has two Royal Suites, eight Junior Suites, and 54 staterooms for a maximum capacity of 128 guests. Sailings on the SS Joie de Vivre in 2017 run from April 2 to December 27.
The family-run design team from Uniworld’s sister brand, Red Carnation Hotels, created a bright, colorful and classic design for the ship, with décor inspired by 20th-century Parisian influences ranging from the Golden Twenties to the free-spirited Sixties, all blending with modern conveniences. Other design elements include polished wood finishes throughout the vessel, fabrics and carpets in a minimalistic setting.
Farm-to-table cuisine and local wines are served throughout the ship’s culinary venues, including Restaurant Le Pigalle, Salon Toulouse and Le Bistrot. Le Cave des Vins is a venue for an exclusive hands-on dining experience. Guests select fresh ingredients and prepare a seven-course meal with the ship’s onboard chefs, with French wine pairings from the sommelier.
Passengers can also relax at Club L’Esprit, the onboard spa and wellness venue. Club L’Esprit offers a variety of massage therapies and beauty treatments, as well as a fitness center. Yoga sessions and aquatic fitness classes are also offered daily and refreshing smoothies are served in the L’Esprit Bar.
A pool with a hydraulic floor transforms the space from day to night for guest entertainment. By night the venue becomes Claude’s and offers a French Supper Club experience, serving from a tapas menu accompanied by curated cocktails with live music. For a few nights throughout the duration of the journey, Claude’s presents classic French cinema under the stars.
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