The UK-based SAGA Cruises officially named its newest river vessel, Spirit of the Moselle, in Amsterdam (Netherlands) on June 30th, before the boat's maiden voyage. As the third purpose-built ship to join Saga Group’s river fleet, following Spirit of the Rhine and Spirit of the Danube, the ceremony introduced both the ship and its connection to the Moselle River.
Louise Robinson, editor of Saga Magazine, fulfilled the role of godmother, breaking a champagne bottle against the hull and blessing the vessel in front of the captain, crew, and company leadership, including CEO Nigel Banks. In her remarks, she expressed pride in participating in this milestone alongside the Saga cruise team.
The Spirit of the Moselle, measuring 135 metres in length and accommodating 172 guests across four decks, features 92 cabins—73 with French balconies. The vessel includes two dining venues: the main Panorama Restaurant and the speciality Beilstein Restaurant, whose design pays homage to regional architecture and wine heritage.
Passenger amenities extend to a lounge divided into three areas—a main bar, a Parisian-style café with self-service refreshments, and a library—as well as a splash pool on the sun deck.
Following the christening, the ship sailed on an 8-day maiden voyage encompassing the Dutch waterways and the Rhine, with calls in Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, and Cologne.
Future itineraries will guide her through the Main River during the 2025 season, transitioning to the Moselle in 2026. The Moselle, flowing from France through Luxembourg and Germany, joins the Rhine at Koblenz.
Saga’s River Hotel Operations team noted that the ship’s design draws inspiration from J. M. W. Turner’s artworks and the lush landscapes of the Moselle Valley—elements translated into the ship’s interior palette and public spaces.
By maintaining Saga’s all-inclusive boutique river cruise experience—which includes dining, beverages, excursions, Wi‑Fi, gratuities, and UK chauffeur services—the Spirit of the Moselle underscores the line’s commitment to comfortable and enriching journeys tailored for guests over 50.