• 2 min de lectura
• 2 min de lectura
(4:56 p.m. EDT) — Transcend Cruises has launched MS Connect, the world's first river cruise ship built exclusively for the charter and group market.
The vessel was officially named on August 3, 2026, in Dordrecht, before embarking on its inaugural sailing to Zaandam, Netherlands.
Marja van Bijsterveldt, former Dutch minister of education, culture and science, served as the ship's godmother.
Transcend Cruises executives, including CEO Gregg Marston, Chief Development Officer Hans Rood, Chief Operating Officer Kimberly Daley, Founder Emeritus Matthew Shollar and Chairman Shawn Horwitz, addressed guests during the ceremony.
"With MS Connect, we are completely redefining river cruising for groups," said Marston. "Every detail of this ship has been purpose-built for meetings, incentives, conferences and exclusive events. Our goal was to create a flexible, premium and sustainable platform that meets the needs of today's event organizers while delivering experiences that simply cannot be replicated on land."
The 120-guest ship features five event spaces suitable for large conferences, workshops and networking events. Guests sailing aboard MS Connect will also have access to a 240-square-meter wellness and fitness area.
Earlier this year, Transcend Cruises ordered two additional ships, named Create and Engage. With MS Evolve set to enter service in May 2027, the company will operate a four-ship fleet in Europe.
