Transcend Cruises unveiled further details of its first purpose-built river cruise vessel at the IMEX America meetings and events trade show in Las Vegas.
The ship, set to sail on the Rhine River during the fourth quarter of 2025, can carry up to 120 passengers. It has been designed from the ground up to carry only group charters.
"The global corporate meetings and incentive market and the luxury travel events sectors have been clamoring for our solution," said Kimberly Daley, Transcend Cruises' chief revenue officer. "Through this ship, we can more effectively assist corporate and private event planners just in time for the peak MICE, leisure and specialty group travel demand period in a way never done before."
The design includes five separate venues that accommodate all guests for group programs, including a two-story Forum theater for events from lectures to concerts. There will be three dining venues, numerous bars and a 2,600-square-foot spa/wellness center.
The ship's 60 cabins can be converted to double rooms, allowing for groups as small as 30 guests.
Advanced electronic displays will allow groups to project their identity throughout the ship, using cutting-edge digital signage, custom lighting, sound and imagery.
The ship will also offer abundant support spaces and technology. Cabins for the group's staff, sleeping up to six, are available in addition to the guest staterooms. The ship will offer a client-dedicated office with printing capabilities. A digitally branded reception desk in the lobby puts the group's staff front and center with guests.
Ample storage space is available for the materials that a group requires to bring aboard, Transcend said.
Bookings are open for the Rhine cruises and for Danube voyages on a sister ship launching in June 2025.