Century Star Set for Inaugural Sailing

Credit: Century Cruises

(Press Release) Miami, FL - The elegant new vessel, Century Star, has left the shipyard on schedule and is undergoing the final finishing touches ahead of her inaugural sailing on September 18, 2026, from Budapest to Passau. A series of pre-inaugural sailings is set to begin on August 11 as the ship prepares to welcome its first guests. 

The new vessels, the first of three to be delivered over the next two years, are built with advanced technology to protect the fragile environment of the European Rivers. This is something Century Cruises has always advocated since it was established 30 years ago.  

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​Apart from being environmentally responsible, the interiors of Century Star are designed by renowned MG Design, offering an immersive on-board experience. The restaurant was built from the black forest wood, where the Danube originates. The lobby is decorated with rosewood, a material Bulgaria is known for. The coffee shop breathes Vienna atmosphere, while the cabins are decorated in the style of Serbian homes. Walking through the Century Star is walking from one country to another.  

Century Star will offer a collection of thoughtfully curated journeys, with two Classic Journey: an 8-day Danube River Cruise between Budapest and Passau, and an 8-day Rhine River Cruise between Amsterdam and Basel. 

For discerning travellers seeking a deeper exploration of Europe's great waterways, Century Star will also offer two Grand Journeys.  

The 15-day Danube voyage from Passau to the Black Sea and back covers centuries of history, diverse cultures and spectacular scenery. The 15-day Journey from Amsterdam to Budapest and back follows Europe's legendary rivers through some of the continent's most captivating cities, landscapes and cultures. 

Following Century Cruises' years of expertise in providing authentic cultural experiences on the Yangtze River, the company is introducing The Heritage Collection, a curated portfolio of premium shore excursions designed to enrich the Europe travel experience. 

A journey along the Danube is travelling through the pages of history. From the legacy of the Roman Empire to the grandeur of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the lasting influence of the Ottoman world, each civilisation has shaped the landscapes, architecture and cultures you'll encounter along the way. Century Star will capture the depth of the unfolding history through the unique shore excursions. The Heritage Collection aboard Century Star will reveal the rich history of the Danube, from the regal beauty of Vienna and Budapest to the spectacular Iron Gates Gorge, the ancient Tabula Traiana, medieval fortresses and authentic local traditions. 

Cruising the Rhine is more than simply travelling from one destination to the next. It's an opportunity to experience Europe at an unhurried pace, where medieval castles crown the hillsides, storybook villages line the riverbanks, and vibrant cities reveal centuries of history. Around every bend, there is something new to discover, making every day on the Rhine as memorable as the last. The Heritage Collection aboard Century Star offer exclusive experiences, from private concerts in historic castles and churches to meeting boutique winemakers and joining the ship's chef at local markets. 

The onboard dining experience has all the hallmarks of East meets West. Guests can indulge in a truly international culinary journey, meticulously planned to meet the expectations of discerning travelers from around the world. 

Life on board Century Star will be filled with enriching cultural experiences. From history lectures exploring the cities and regions along the vessel’s route to presentations and onboard classes, each day will be designed to create lasting memories. 

Mr. David Fredericks, President and General Manager of The Americas, said: “We are very proud to see the first of many vessels, Century Star, delivered on time in Europe. This achievement is the result of working without borders and bringing together expertise from across the globe - from the USA, through Europe, to China and back again. It is a true testament to international collaboration and a commitment to excellence. We are also excited about launching our vessels on the Nile in Egypt in 2027. The future of cruising is bright with Century Cruises, and we look forward to bringing our unique vision to even more destinations around the world.” 
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