Cruise Control

From Danube to the Nile River, Ellen Bettridge is never landbound for long. The president and chief executive officer of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises shares with Jessica Chan the best boltholes in the world.

The numerous stamps on Ellen Bettridge’s passport draw envy. The president and chief executive officer of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has ticked off most of Europe, the United Kingdom and big bucket list spots like Egypt - onboard the luxury cruise line’s River Tosca - before joining the company in 2016. Her decades of experience in hospitality, with American Express, Silversea Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises, puts her in good stead to oversee the multinational staff and 19-ship fleet. The 52-year-old also manages the brand’s latest Super Ship (S.S.), a term for ships upgraded with more suites, restaurants and luxe finishes. Recently, she joined the crew of S.S. Beatrice along the Danube River. Next on her plate: the launch of S.S. Bon voyage in Bordeaux next April.

What does Uniworld have in-store for 2019?

As a company, we are ahead of the curve. Our customers live hectic lives and want to be pampered to the hilt. It was a natural decision to rebrand our popular ships into S.S., but the upgrade offers more than just added suites and dining options.