Experiences

Spirit of the Moselle – from concept to creation

Spirit of the Moselle sailing beside a forest

In February 2024 we announced that we were expanding our river cruise fleet with the addition of a new ship, Spirit of the Moselle, who would set sail on her inaugural cruise in July 2025. Although the ship’s official construction began in 2024 at the Vahali shipyard in Serbia, the planning began much earlier in collaboration with specialist interior design and architect company, Cubik 3.

Choosing a theme

The cultural age of Romanticism was the guiding theme in the development of the design concept for Spirit of the Moselle. Artists such as William Turner travelled to the Moselle during the Romantic era, because the dramatic landscape with its castle ruins, vineyards and misty river courses corresponded to the Romantic ideal of the sublime. It is this combination that still attracts travellers to the Moselle today. The world-famous wines of the region offer an additional attraction, which is why the wine theme has also found a place in the design concept.

Jochen Hagen Dipl. - Ing., (FH) Interior Architecture at Cubik 3

Drawing inspiration from art and literature

The Panorama restaurant on Spirit of the Moselle

The ship’s colour palette of green, blue and pink has been taken from Turner’s painting Beilstein and Burg Metternich, created in soft hues of gouache and watercolour.

Inspiration was also drawn from the descriptive poem Mosella, by the Roman poet Magnus Ausonius, which is a celebration of the verdancy of the river and describes, 'the riverbanks; hills, green with vines, beneath them, flowing noiselessly. The fair Moselle.'

Contemporary, yet functional design

On board we have created an enticing space for our guests, taking inspiration from the sights and experiences of the ship’s namesake river. The counter front in the reception nods to the half-timbered architecture seen in the medieval towns of the Moselle. The sculptural pendant lights have been hand made using traditional weaving techniques and the area is further enhanced with specially commissioned artwork combining wood and slate. While the ship’s lounge incorporates warm earthy tones, custom made furniture, and a carpet based on a bird’s-eye-view of vineyards.

The flow as you move through the ship gives a sense of light and space, important when working with river cruise ships, as well as a premium feel from the richness of the materials used. We have some unique art installations throughout the ship which bring the theme of the ship to life too. The layout and furnishings are practical, yet comfortable, so guests can rest and be ready for a new day exploring their destination.

Lorraine Friend, Head of River Hotel Operations

Stylish restaurants

The speciality Bielstein restaurant on Spirit of the Moselle

Spirit of the Moselle has two restaurants; the main Panorama restaurant features a light colour code with pastel tones and dividing walls which are reminiscent of wooden shutters.

While the more intimate speciality restaurant Beilstein, meaning 'Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle', incorporates dark green and earthy tones, to underline the concept of a modern interpretation of a traditional wine restaurant.

Elegant cabins with attention to detail

A French Balcony cabin on Spirit of the Moselle

Every little detail has been carefully considered within the ship’s 92 cabins. On the back wall of each cabin is a modern interpretation of William Turner’s artwork to link to the theme throughout the ship. The classic colour scheme, sumptuous soft furnishings, and ornate carpet design are also inspired by Turner’s paintings.

Sailing soon…

Spirit of the Moselle will offer the same high standards and a similar cruise experience to her sister ships, Spirit of the Rhine and Spirit of the Danube, with some interior design differences.

Find out more about river cruises with Saga.

The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not held by Saga unless specifically stated.

The material is for general information only and does not constitute investment, tax, legal, medical or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.