Concordia Damen delivers Century Star to Century Cruises: First river cruise ship for the European market

Delivery marks Century Cruises’ entry into Europe; vessel is the first of a series of three.

Shipbuilder Concordia Damen has delivered the Century Star to Century Cruises. The vessel is the first river cruise ship that the China-based cruise operator has commissioned specifically for the European market and marks the beginning of a series of three sister ships. The Century Star will begin sailing on the Danube in September 2026, with Rhine itineraries to follow at a later stage.

The vessel was developed in cooperation with United Waterways, which is supporting Century Cruises in adapting to European operational standards, including regulations, safety management, crewing, and hospitality. The Century Star is based on Concordia Damen’s proprietary CDS River Cruise 135 design and accommodates 174 guests in 78 cabins. Several vessels based on this design have already been built.

Hull made from recycled steel

Sustainability played a central role in the vessel’s design. The ship features a hybrid propulsion system and a hull constructed from recycled steel. Its interior combines elements inspired by European river destinations with references to the brand’s Asian heritage, aiming to blend Eastern hospitality with the quality standards expected by European travellers.

Chris Kornet, Managing Director of Concordia Damen, said: “The delivery of the Century Star demonstrates that, as a family-owned company, we are capable of entering an entirely new market segment together with international partners. We are grateful to Century Cruises and United Waterways for their trust in this first project of a three-vessel series. It proves that Dutch shipbuilding expertise and sustainable innovation can make a difference in the international river cruise market as well.”

For Century Cruises, the Century Star serves as the foundation for a long-term presence in the European river cruise market. The second hull in the three-vessel series is expected to arrive at Concordia Damen in August 2026.

Thomas Rooch, Managing Director of Century ONE in Basel, commented: “The delivery of the Century Star is an important milestone, not only for Century Cruises but for the European river cruise sector as a whole. The vessel embodies the innovative spirit and expertise of all parties involved, as well as a shared ambition to deliver exceptional travel experiences. We look forward to welcoming our first guests on board.”