Century Cruises Takes Delivery of First European River Ship
United Waterways brings more than 100 passenger ships under management on the European side, with River Advice handling the operating layer behind the guest experience.
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.
The delivery moves Century Cruises beyond decades of Yangtze River operations and into a European program backed by United Waterways’ operating infrastructure. United Waterways brings scale on the European side, with more than 100 passenger ships under management 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.
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. Julian said River Advice’s role 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. It 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.
Following delivery, Century Star will undergo final preparations before entering service. Additional Rhine itineraries are planned later in 2026 after the initial Danube deployment.
