Transcend Cruises and Den Breejen Shipyard have finalized a contract for the construction of Transcend’s inaugural river cruise ship, according to a press release.

The delivery of the first vessel is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2025, with a second newbuild planned for 2026, pending additional financing.

Transcend said it targets affinity markets, tour operators, travel advisors, and meeting and incentive planners, offering elevated and functional options on Europe’s rivers. The design, created in collaboration with Tillberg Design of Sweden, aims to provide a bespoke luxury experience as an alternative to traditional land-based conferences and events, the company said.

“These sectors of the industry are hungry for something new, viable and cost-effective that delivers a level of service they would expect from a five-star hotel on land. This is truly a game-changer for these market segments,” said Hans Rood, CEO of Transcend Cruises.

Transcend Cruises’ 135-meter vessels will feature spaces and services tailored exclusively for the group market. Each ship will accommodate up to 120 guests in 60 staterooms that can be paired to form suites, allowing charterers to adjust the capacity for groups ranging from 30 to 120 attendees. As a B2B-focused platform, Transcend Cruises will equip its ships with advanced technologies to enhance brand experiences, including cutting-edge digital signage, customizable lighting, sound systems and imagery.

“Transcend Cruises brought us, a leader in European river cruise shipbuilding, a unique, detailed vision,” said Peter Burger, CEO of Den Breejen Shipyard. “Our partnership is a deep expression of both companies’ successes, and we look forward to launching these truly innovative vessels.”

Photo: Shown left to right: Hans Rood, CEO, Transcend Cruises and Peter Burger, CEO, Den Breejen Shipyard