Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has revealed the design of its newest ship, SS Maria Theresa.

The vessel, launching March 26th, represents Uniworld’s most ambitious ship to date; a floating palace on water exemplifies true artistry.

Fashioned in the spirit of her great namesake, the much beloved Maria Theresa, the Archduchess of Austria and Empress of the Holy Roman Empire who reigned as the only female ruler of the Habsburg dynasty from 1740 to 1780, Uniworld’s SS Maria Theresa is a majestic masterpiece of epic proportion.

The design team was led by design visionaries from Uniworld’s award-winning sister company The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, president Beatrice Tollman, her daughter Toni Tollman, and projects director Brian Brennan, all of whom took inspiration from the Baroque period over which Maria Theresa presided.

“Our aim is to transport each guest into experiencing the fantasy of living in an 18th-century Baroque castle.

“We designed the SS Maria Theresa to take our guests on a journey back in time with an on-board atmosphere and style seamlessly integrated with the history and architecture of the very places they will visit onshore, as well as provide them with the latest in luxurious comfort and technology, of course,” stated Toni Tollman.

Certainly this is evident when guests step on-board the.

Classical Baroque interiors adorn the striking three-tiered lobby dominated by a sweeping marble staircase with wrought-iron, hand-gilded balustrade, and royal crown detailing.

Shimmering walls are panelled top to bottom with stunning antique mirrors.

A hand-painted Tromp L’Oeil-inspired mural and glittering Venetian Murano glass chandelier grace the ceiling evoking feelings of walking through the great hall of Maria Theresa’s 18th-century Schönbrunn palace.

And perhaps the ultimate focal point of this grand entranceway and the centrepiece of Uniworld’s majestic ship is a regal ten-foot high original oil on canvas painting of the beloved ruler of the Habsburg Empire, Maria Theresa.

Other public areas include the authentic Viennese Café, where guests can linger for hours enjoying local specialties, such as classic Austrian sachertorte, Würstle, and famous Viennese coffee.

Uniworld’s stylish signature Leopard Bar designed with elegantly muted colours and intricate mosaic tile murals created by the famous South African mosaic tile artist, Jane du Rand, is an enchanting and playful venue to have a drink or dance the night away.

The stunning ten-seat Lipizzan Cinema configured with deep blue velvet loveseats offers the perfect place for movie viewing.

And a well-equipped fitness centre, swimming pool, and Serenity River Spa, provide a place to exercise and unwind.