Transcend Cruises, which claims to be the first global charter-only river cruise company, and Den Breejen Shipyard have announced the contract signing of the construction agreement for the initial Transcend new-build river cruise ship, with its delivery scheduled for fourth quarter, 2025, followed by a second new-build in 2026, subject to additional financing.

Transcend covers the affinity market, tour operators, travel advisors, and meeting and incentive planners with highly functional and elevated new options on the rivers of Europe, providing innovative alternatives to land-based conferences and events, according to the announcement.

Hans Rood, CEO of Transcend Cruises , 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 gamechanger for these market segments.”

Transcend Cruises’ 135-meter ships will offer spaces and services designed exclusively for the group market and redefine the luxury group experience. Up to 120 guests will be accommodated in 60 identical spacious staterooms that convert in pairs to suites, allowing the charterer to flex the offering for between 30 to 120 attendees. As a B2B focused platform, Transcend Cruises ships will also be outfitted with a wide range of technologies that empower charter clients to amplify their brands for their guests, through experiential elements such as digital signage, custom lighting, sound, and imagery.