Trafalgar outlines ambition to have 10-strong fleet by 2030

River cruise newcomer Trafalgar Tours has signed contracts for two new-build ships as part of plans to develop a 10-strong fleet by 2030.

The company has created a cruise arm in less than a year by chartering an initial two ships from sister brand Uniworld, with a third being added next year.

The first two new vessels, costing around $40 million each, will carry 180 passengers and are due to start sailing on the Rhine and Danube rivers by June 2028.

However, Trafalgar River Cruise operations vice-president Damien O’Connor revealed that the operator had global ambitions with a further five new ships.

Destinations on the radar include the Amazon, Vietnam, the US Great Lakes, the Mississippi in addition to Portugal.

O’Connor, with 30 years cruise industry experience with Disney and Royal Caribbean Group, described Trafalgar’s entry into the sector as a “natural progression” for the brand, creating the ability to match land tours with river itineraries.

He emphasised that the ships will target multi-generational travellers with the new vessels to include connecting and family cabins. Solo passengers will also be catered for with eight to 12 dedicated cabins.

While Trafalgar sources a large proportion of travellers from North America, Asia, Australia and South Africa, the operator aims to ramp up its trade presence to attract more passengers from the UK and Ireland.

The new ships may feature pools but will definitely include an alternative dining bistro for 30 to 40 guests as well as a multi-purpose lounge with an al fresco element

Trafalgar officially made its debut in the sector with the naming of one of Trafalgar Verity in Amsterdam and Trafalgar Reverie in Passau within 24 hours of each other at the weekend.

The 128-passenger Trafalgar Verity then started its first season operating on the Rhine while Trafalgar Reverie is being deployed on the Danube.      

A third ship, the 126-passenger Trafalgar Harmonie, is due to sail in France on the River Seine between Paris and Normandy next year.

Deputy chief executive and chief sales officer Melissa DaSilva praised travel agents at the Amsterdam naming ceremony, saying: "Every decision we make is with you and your clients in mind.”