Is Uniworld Really All-Inclusive?

If you’ve been researching river cruises, you’ve probably seen Uniworld described as “the most all-inclusive.” But what does that actually mean, and is it truly as comprehensive as it sounds? 

Short answer: yes, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises delivers a genuinely all-inclusive experience. From dining and drinks to excursions, gratuities, and thoughtful onboard extras, Uniworld is designed so guests can relax and enjoy their journey without constantly reaching for their wallet.  

Here’s a closer look at what’s included, along with answers to some of the most common questions travelers ask. 

What’s Included in a Uniworld Boutique River Cruise?

Uniworld’s all-inclusive approach focuses on luxury, convenience, and immersion, creating a seamless river cruise from start to finish.

Most of what you’ll want during your cruise is already covered in your fare, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than the details.

Award-Winning Cuisine: Dining Is Part of the Experience

Dining on a Uniworld river cruise is a major highlight. All meals onboard are included and crafted with a strong focus on regional flavors inspired by the destinations you’re visiting.

Menus often feature locally sourced ingredients and change throughout the itinerary to reflect the cultures along the river. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all included, along with thoughtfully prepared dishes that balance classic favorites and destination-inspired cuisine.

Just imagine enjoying a warm bowl of pho in Vietnam while sailing down the Mekong or sampling local port wines after spending a day exploring 13th century castles in Portugal. With Uniworld, you can expect your days to be full of cultural exploration and evenings highlighting local dishes.

Special dietary needs can also be accommodated with advance notice, adding to the ease of the experience. Our cruise experts are more than happy to help you with this during your booking.

Unlimited Beverages, Including Fine Wines & Spirits

Uniworld’s beverage program is another cornerstone of its all-inclusive promise. Guests enjoy unlimited beverages throughout the day, including fine wines and premium spirits.

Wine selections are often chosen to complement the regions being sailed, while spirits, cocktails, beer, soft drinks, specialty coffees, tea, and bottled water are also included.

There’s no need to purchase a drink package or track consumption; everything is already taken care of.

Shore Excursions: Explore More at No Extra Cost

Every Uniworld itinerary includes a wide variety of shore excursions, with options designed to suit different interests and activity levels.

From guided city walks and cultural experiences to more active outings, excursions are included in every port of call. Uniworld is known for its thoughtfully curated excursions.

Examples of just a few of the excursions you may enjoy, all included in your cruise fare:

• On a Danube River cruise, you can experience architectural marvels like Schönbrunn Palace in Austria or the famous Our Lady Before Tyn, a famous Gothic church in Prague, on a cruise extension.
• While sailing down the sacred Ganges River in India, you'll have the opportunity to learn from local brass artisans in Matiari, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER experience, as part of Uniworld's mission for sustainable tourism in local communities.
• In Peru, cruise the Amazon River and explore the heart of the rainforest, with the option to extend your journey to Machu Picchu for an unforgettable encounter with one of the world’s most iconic ancient sites.

If you're looking for a less structured experience, guests also have the flexibility to explore independently if they prefer, but having excursions included adds significant value and convenience, especially in destinations where guided insight enhances the experience.

Plus, as a bonus, guests have free use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks to fully experience every destination.

Onboard Comforts That Make It Truly All-Inclusive

Uniworld goes beyond the basics by including amenities that many travelers don’t realize can add up quickly elsewhere.

Included for Every Guest:

• 24-hour room service
• Wi-Fi onboard
• All gratuities for onboard staff and local guides
• Onboard entertainment
• Daily fitness classes
• Onboard laundry room
• Free use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks -- imagine yourself pedaling past vineyard-covered hills, medieval wine villages, fairy-tale castles, and UNESCO-listed river landscapes.

These inclusions help create a relaxed, worry-free atmosphere where guests can fully enjoy their time onboard and ashore.

Airport Transfers: A Seamless Start and Finish 

Uniworld includes complimentary airport transfers on embarkation and disembarkation days when the flights are purchased through Uniworld in conjunction with your itinerary. This means you won’t need to arrange separate transportation to or from the ship, making arrival and departure days smoother and less stressful. 

The Cruise Web’s experts can also assist with flight planning to ensure transfers align perfectly with your cruise.

Suite-Level Extras: Additional Perks for Suite Guests 

Guests staying in suites enjoy extra touches that elevate the experience even further.

Suite Guests Receive:

• An in-room treat, replenished daily
• Personalized butler service
• A fully stocked mini-bar included in the fare

These added perks enhance comfort and convenience, especially for travelers who enjoy a more personalized level of service.

Who Is a Uniworld Cruise Best Suited For?

Uniworld river cruises are ideal for travelers who want a refined experience without complicated planning. They’re especially appealing to guests who appreciate thoughtful details, immersive destinations, and the comfort of knowing most expenses are already covered.

Whether you’re new to river cruising or a seasoned traveler looking for an elevated experience, Uniworld offers a balance of elegance, ease, and enrichment.

Is Uniworld Worth It?

For travelers seeking a truly all-inclusive river cruise, Uniworld delivers. With dining, drinks, excursions, gratuities, and logistics included, the overall value is clear, especially when considering the quality of service and experience provided.

Rather than managing upgrades and add-ons, guests can simply enjoy their journey.

Plan Your Uniworld River Cruise With The Cruise Web 

Booking with The Cruise Web means more than just reserving a cruise. Our experienced travel experts help match you with the right Uniworld itinerary, assist with flights and transfers, and ensure every detail is thoughtfully planned. 

If you’re considering a Uniworld Boutique River Cruise, our team is here to help you navigate your options and create a seamless, unforgettable experience. Visit cruiseweb.com or call 1-800-377-9383 to chat with a cruise expert and start planning your river cruise with confidence. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Uniworld River Cruises

Is Uniworld really all-inclusive?

Yes. Dining, beverages, excursions, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and many other onboard amenities are included in the cruise fare. 

How can I spend my Onboard Credit on Uniworld?

As a Cruise Web client, you will receive up to €150 per person onboard credit on select itineraries, which can typically be used for spa treatments, boutique purchases, enhanced excursions (like special Masterpiece Collection experiences), and select ultra-premium beverages while on your cruise.

Are gratuities included on Uniworld cruises?

Yes, gratuities for onboard staff and local guides are included. 

Do Uniworld cruises include excursions in every port?

Yes, Uniworld offers included shore excursions throughout the itinerary, plus optional Masterpiece Collection experiences for deeper, more exclusive cultural access.

Is Wi-Fi free onboard?

Wi-Fi is included for all guests; connectivity and internet speed may vary. 

Are drinks included all day?

Yes, unlimited beverages—including fine wines and spirits—are available throughout the day. 

What’s the dress code onboard?

The atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable. Casual attire is appropriate during the day, with smart-casual dress typical in the evenings.