Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection’s newest vessel, the SS Joie de Vivre, has set sail on its maiden voyage along the Seine River.

The inaugural events included a christening ceremony in Paris led by the ship’s godmother, Dame Joan Collins on Monday 27 March.

The ship has now embarked on its journey through Northern France along Uniworld’s Paris & Normandy itinerary.

“We are delighted to welcome the SS Joie de Vivre to our impeccable fleet of floating boutique luxury hotels, as the first of Uniworld’s Super Ships to sail the renowned Seine River,” said Ellen Bettridge, president and CEO of Uniworld.

“Our company has brought travellers to France for more than 70 years and we are thrilled to introduce a new, enticing way to experience the country. Godmother Dame Joan epitomises the same ‘joy of living’ philosophy embodied by the SS Joie de Vivre, and we are honoured to have had her christen the ship before its inaugural journey.”

With a length of 125 metres, rather than the typical 135 metres, the Joie de Vivre can dock in the heart of Paris.

Launching the gorgeous SS #Joiedevivre in #Paris on a brilliant #spring day! @UniworldTradeUK pic.twitter.com/o5Bb6zk4Y4

— Joan Collins (@Joancollinsdbe) March 28, 2017

The ship, which was designed by the team from Uniworld’s sister brand, Red Carnation Hotels, has two Royal Suites, eight Junior Suites, and 54 staterooms for a maximum capacity of 128 guests.

Dining options on board are Le Pigalle, Salon Toulouse, Le Bistrot, plus Le Cave des Vins, which Uniworld calls “an intimate venue for an exclusive hands-on dining experience.” Here, guests select fresh ingredients and prepare a seven-course meal with the ship’s onboard chefs, with French wine pairings from the sommelier.