New Century Star Debuts in 2026: Eco-Friendly Luxury River Cruises on the Danube and Rhine

Published on December 3, 2025

Century Cruises is preparing to make waves in Europe’s river cruise market with the debut of its first river ship, the Century Star, set to begin sailing the Danube and Rhine rivers in 2026. The new vessel, designed with luxury and sustainability in mind, marks a significant expansion for the Chinese cruise line, known for its high standards of hospitality and innovation in the industry.

The Century Star will embark on its inaugural voyage from Budapest on 18 September 2026, offering an eight-day Danube cruise. The vessel will then sail the Rhine starting in November 2026, providing passengers with the opportunity to experience two of Europe’s most iconic river routes. The ship, which can accommodate 174 passengers, combines eco-friendly technology with luxurious design, ensuring that passengers can enjoy a more sustainable yet opulent cruising experience.

A Luxurious Yet Sustainable River Cruise Experience

The Century Star is designed with an emphasis on both luxury and sustainability, making it a compelling choice for eco-conscious travellers seeking a premium experience. The ship is equipped with a hybrid propulsion system, which significantly reduces fuel consumption and lowers emissions. Additionally, the hull is constructed using recycled steel, contributing to the line’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. This makes the Century Star one of the most environmentally responsible ships in its class, aligning with the growing trend of sustainable tourism.

The vessel’s design focuses on creating a comfortable, intimate environment for its passengers. With just 174 guests on board, it offers a more personalised cruising experience compared to larger ships. The smaller capacity ensures that passengers receive top-tier service, enjoy more space, and can access exclusive areas with ease. This is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more refined river cruise experience.

The Cultural and Aesthetic Influence on Century Star’s Design

The Century Star is not only technologically advanced but also features a striking design that blends Eastern elegance with Western aesthetics. The ship’s interiors, crafted by the design firm MDesigns, draw inspiration from the stunning destinations along the Danube and Rhine. For instance, the Black Forest has influenced the design of the main restaurant, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meals. The Baroque architecture and Viennese coffee house theme found in the bar and lounge areas bring a touch of European sophistication and charm.

The cabins on the Century Star evoke the comfort and warmth of a Serbian home, with local folklore-inspired décor adding a cultural touch. This fusion of Eastern and Western influences provides a unique and immersive onboard experience, where luxury meets cultural authenticity. The ship’s design has already received recognition, having been named a CSI Awards 2025 Finalist for Concept of the Year.

What Passengers Can Expect on Board

The Century Star is equipped with a range of facilities that enhance the overall passenger experience. Beyond its comfortable and stylish cabins, the ship boasts several premium features, including a spa and wellness centre, a fitness area, and an observation lounge with panoramic views of the riverbanks.

In addition to its state-of-the-art amenities, Century Cruises promises a variety of cultural enrichment programmes designed to immerse passengers in the destinations they are visiting. This includes local excursions, historical lectures, and tasting events that highlight the culinary traditions of the regions along the Danube and Rhine.

Eco-Friendly Features and Technological Innovations

In an effort to appeal to the growing demand for sustainable travel, Century Cruises has made the Century Star a leader in eco-conscious river cruising. The ship’s hybrid propulsion system reduces reliance on traditional fossil fuels, while its use of recycled materials contributes to the growing movement towards greener tourism practices. This is a significant step for the river cruise industry, which is increasingly prioritising sustainability as part of its business model.

The Century Star’s design incorporates advanced energy-efficient technologies that allow it to operate with minimal environmental impact, making it an attractive option for travellers who are mindful of their carbon footprint. This commitment to sustainability aligns with the broader efforts to promote eco-friendly tourism across Europe, particularly in regions such as the Danube and Rhine, where the environment plays a central role in the region’s charm.

A New Chapter for Century Cruises in Europe

For Century Cruises, the launch of the Century Star represents a bold move into the European market, traditionally dominated by established river cruise operators. By combining luxury, sustainability, and cultural richness, Century Cruises is positioning itself as a fresh, attractive option for both first-time and seasoned river cruisers.

The ship’s unique design and innovative features promise to offer an unforgettable experience to passengers exploring the Danube and Rhine. As Century Star begins its voyages in 2026, it will undoubtedly change the landscape of European river cruising, providing a more eco-conscious and culturally immersive alternative for travellers looking to explore these historic rivers in style.

A New Era in River Cruising with Century Star

With the debut of the Century Star, Century Cruises is set to offer a unique and luxurious river cruise experience across Europe’s most celebrated rivers. Featuring eco-friendly technology, culturally inspired design, and personalised service, the Century Star promises to be a game-changer in the European river cruise market. As the ship embarks on its inaugural voyage in September 2026, passengers can look forward to a memorable journey that combines Eastern elegance with Western sophistication while navigating some of Europe’s most picturesque and historic waterways.