River Duchess

A PASSION FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AND A PENCHANT FOR GIVING BACK

Travel has provided us the chance to give back and lift up others, and we strive to do so whenever possible. We focus on making a positive impact, with a mission to #MakeTravelMatter for people, wildlife and the planet for generations to come. And as a signatory of The Glasgow Declaration that has united several travel companies and organisations to hold each other accountable to vital carbon emissions goals, we’re part of a global effort to make the travel industry better for our planet—not just for our brand.

People: We work with local artisans and small business everywhere we travel, so we can bring you authentic local experiences while also supporting the livelihoods of the people who make these communities special.

Planet: Every year, we find more ways to cut back on our carbon footprint, from committing to eliminate more than 60 types of single-use plastics to reaching Net Zero by 2050.

Wildlife: Partnering with leading wildlife organisations, we work to protect and rehabilitate elephant, rhino and big cat populations around the world, while ensuring that all of our experiences meet strict animal welfare standards. Learn more about our wildlife projects here.

How We Tread Right
MEET OUR SUSTAINABILITY OFFICER

Travel can and should be a force for good, which is why we've introduced an entirely new role to help keep pushing us towards a brighter future.

"What has become blatantly clear for us is that to make progress, we need to ensure that we can measure, and understand our impact. Once we can measure, only then can we manage!"

–Julie Higgins, Sustainability Officer for Uniworld

WE’RE COMMITTED TO NET ZERO BY 2050 OR SOONER

We conduct comprehensive measurements of our emissions in order to reduce and offset our carbon footprint, with the goal of reaching Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050. On our way, we’re supplementing our efforts by supporting third parties that remove the existing carbon in the atmosphere.

REDUCING FOOD WASTE ONBOARD
Food waste is one of the largest contributors to climate change, so we’ve partnered with a food waste management company, Leanpath, to reduce our carbon footprint. Their system measures how much food gets discarded after every meal onboard. With the precise measurements it will provide us, our chefs will have the data and confidence necessary to make the perfect amount of each dish. Watch the video below to learn more about how Leanpath works.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® EXPERIENCES
We offer a selection of included MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences on our cruises. They are chosen for the positive environmental or social impact they have on the guests who experience them, and the people and places they visit, and they support one or more of the United Nation’s Global Goals.

Say Goodbye to Single-Use Plastics

It is estimated that an additional eight million tons of plastic pour into our oceans every year. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, if nothing is done to push back against the deluge of plastics currently overwhelming our oceans there could be more plastic in the oceans than fish by 2050.

We're banning more than 60 types of single-use plastics across all operations—including straws, water bottles, and plastic bags. It's all part of our commitment to ensure the environment remains vibrant for generations to come.

Kindly inform us in advance if you have specific dietary requests (e.g., low-fat, low-calorie, gluten-free, sugar-free, vegetarian, etc.). This information can be provided to us when completing your Passenger Information Form. We have a “Travelling Lite” menu for guests seeking more health-conscious options, as well as light lunches, vegetarian options, and generous buffets that offer something for everyone. We will do our very best to accommodate your needs given the resources available to us.

In our experience, most young children—especially those under 4—are simply not yet old enough to enjoy river cruising. We make no special arrangements for little ones and offer few kid-friendly activities onboard or onshore. Please note: Our Generations program departures include programs and services designed for families traveling with children. Adults accompanying children are responsible for their safety and behaviour onboard and onshore.

Europe, Asia, India, and Egypt: Guests must be 4 years of age or older. Guests who are less than 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and booked in a cabin with someone who is 21 years of age or older.

For the comfort of all our guests, smoking is only permitted on the sun decks of our ships. Smoking is not permitted on motorcoaches. This policy applies to all forms of smoking materials including vapour e-cigarettes.

We also ask guests to refrain from smoking on shore excursions/tours, especially since many historical sites and other tourist attractions are now smoke-free as well.

High quality, luxurious amenities

There’s all-inclusive, and then there’s the unmatched level of inclusive luxurious amenities that only we provide. To ensure truly carefree and effortless travel, we’ve gone ahead and included it all—so the only thing you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy your holiday.

NEVER BE BORED

Our onboard programming leaves nary a dull moment. Early risers will appreciate morning yoga sessions. Foodies may want to join a cooking demo. And those looking to dance the night away will find local entertainment in the lounge.

NEVER SETTLE FOR LESS

With every carefully selected inclusion, you'll find that we are committed to providing only the highest quality amenities. This makes every moment an opportunity for surprise and delight.

NEVER GO HUNGRY

Enjoy sumptuous buffet breakfasts and lunches during the day, then a four-course gourmet dinner in the evening. Craving a bite in between? Inquire about 24-hour room service and å la carte menus.

NEVER BE THIRSTY

Never restricted to mealtimes or happy hours, you'll find that fine wines, local beers, and premium spirits flow freely throughout the cruise. Our bar closes when the last guest turns in for the evening.

When to go: There is truly no bad time of year to visit the Netherlands. A spring trip is perhaps the most iconic, for the chance to see the tulips in bloom. Summer offers warmer weather, while the fall boasts less rain and lower crowds. Winter might be the most unique time to go, with crowds at their lowest and a festive holiday atmosphere.

How to pack: We suggest comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear both onshore and onboard. Depending on your travel season, the weather can range from cool to warm. Check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Layering clothing items is always your best bet, allowing you to adjust to most temperatures. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket (preferably hooded) in case of rain, though we will also have umbrellas onboard. You may participate in a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during your time ashore, so please bring comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support. Sturdy sandals are another good option.

• Spring - MAR–MAY - Avg. Temp. 49º F / 9.4º C
• Summer - JUN–AUG - Avg. Temp. 61º F / 16º C
• Autumn - SEP–NOV - Avg. Temp. 52º F / 11º C
• Winter - DEC–FEB - Avg. Temp. 39º F / 3.9º C
• Currency - Euro (EUR, €)
• Time Zone - Central European Time (CET) Central European Summer Time (CEST)
• Official Language - Dutch
• Electricity - European 230V Plug type E