Milestone achieved with keel laying for Transcend Cruises

We have reached a significant milestone with the keel laying of the first custom-built river cruise ship for Transcend Cruises. This ceremony marks another step forward in the construction process, bringing the launch of this innovative cruise liner even closer.

On February 4th, executives of our client Transcend Cruises were present in Orsova, Romania to commemorate this moment. Wouter Henstra represented Den Breejen Shipyard, alongside partners from RensenDriessen, including Edwin Diepeveen and Thomas de Bree.

A longstanding maritime tradition

As part of an age-old maritime tradition, representatives from Transcend Cruises and Den Breejen Shipyard placed a specially minted coin on the ship's hull. This commemorative coin, designed in honor of Transcend Cruises’ first custom-built vessel, features an image of the ship on one side and the Transcend Cruises logo with the keel laying date on the other.

Next construction phase

Hans Rood, CEO of Transcend Cruises, shared his excitement about this milestone: “After years of planning and design, in collaboration with Den Breejen Shipyard and RensenDriessen, it is incredible to see our vision take shape. We look forward to the next phase of construction when the completed hull will be transported to the Netherlands this summer for final outfitting and commissioning ahead of its 2026 launch.”

Final outfitting and interior completion

After the ceremony, attendees participated in a shipyard tour and received an overview of the next construction steps. This summer, the vessel will journey up the Danube River to the Netherlands, where final outfitting and interior construction will take place at Den Breejen Shipyard in Hardinxveld-Giessendam.

Innovation, luxury and sustainability

Wouter Henstra added: “The keel laying of Transcend Cruises’ new vessel marks the beginning of a remarkable journey. This ship represents innovation, luxury, and sustainability. Carefully crafted by our dedicated team. We are proud to partner with Transcend Cruises and look forward to seeing this incredible ship come to life!”

Want to read more? Than also take a look at the article about the steel cutting ceremony for Transcend Cruises in December.