Following the successful inaugural voyage of Century Star on Europe’s Danube River, Century Cruises has announced the next chapter in its European expansion: Century Diamond, the second vessel in the company’s new generation of premium sustainable river ships.
Century Diamond is scheduled to embark on its inaugural voyage in August 2027, marking another major milestone in Century Cruises’ international expansion and the continued growth of its European river fleet.
Purpose-built for the rivers of Europe, Century Diamond will combine innovative technology, environmentally conscious construction and contemporary luxury with a design philosophy that connects Century Cruises’ Asian heritage with the history and culture of Europe.
At approximately 135 meters in length, Century Diamond will feature 76 cabins and suites, accommodating up to 174 guests across four decks. The vessel will incorporate advanced hybrid propulsion technology and will be constructed using approximately 60% recycled steel.
Following Century Star, Century Diamond will be the second of four new ships to join Century Cruises’ growing European fleet, each designed with the environment in mind.
Sustainable river ships
Century Diamond represents an important step in Century Cruises’ commitment to developing a more environmentally responsible generation of river vessels.
Following Century Star, Century Diamond will become the second Asian new-build river ship in the company’s European program constructed using approximately 60% recycled steel and incorporating hybrid propulsion technology.
The combination of recycled materials, advanced propulsion technology and modern ship design reflects Century Cruises’ belief that the next generation of luxury river cruising should consider not only how guests experience the world’s great rivers, but also how those rivers are protected for generations to come.
Beginning with its first voyage in August 2027, Century Diamond will make the Rhine River its primary home, complementing Century Star’s presence on the Danube.
The ship will focus on eight-day voyages between Basel and Amsterdam, taking guests through one of Europe’s most historic river corridors — a landscape of medieval towns, vineyards, castles, cultural capitals and centuries of European history.
Select voyages will expand beyond the traditional Rhine itinerary, allowing Century Diamond to explore additional waterways and destinations within Century Cruises’ growing European program.
David Fredericks, President & General Manager – The Americas, Century Cruises, said: “Thomas and the team at Century One in Basel have brought our vision for ‘Rivers Intertwined’ to life. It is a philosophy that makes Century Cruises distinctly different on the rivers of Europe. We are bringing our heritage from the East and allowing it to intertwine with the extraordinary cultures, traditions and destinations of the West, creating something truly special.”
“Our European ships are designed specifically with North American and European travelers in mind. Guests will see strong European influences throughout the public spaces and staterooms, while discovering thoughtful reminders of our Asian heritage and where the Century Cruises story began.”
“That philosophy extends to our culinary experience. Alongside our daily menus, guests will experience regional foods, local wines and beers inspired by the destinations through which we sail. At the same time, there will always be a taste of our heritage, including a Chinese dish on the menu that reminds us of our origins along the Yangtze.”
“It puts Century Cruises in a very unique position on the rivers of Europe. We are not trying to recreate what already exists. We are bringing two worlds together — East and West, the Yangtze and the great rivers of Europe — as Century Cruises continues its expansion around the world.”
