5 Essential Tips to Know Before You Board a Riviera Travel Cruise Ship

Discover all the essential information about Riviera Travel, a river cruise expert that boasts a ‘happiness guarantee’ and complimentary shore excursions.

Established by Midlands entrepreneur Michael Wright, Riviera Travel is preparing to celebrate its significant 40th anniversary in 2024.

This reputable brand began its journey in 1984 by offering camping holidays in southern France, before expanding into coach tours to Paris and eventually to destinations around the globe.

In 2009, Riviera Travel introduced its inaugural river cruises, navigating the scenic Rhine and Moselle Rivers.

As of today, the cruise line spans across nine rivers: the Danube, Douro, Rhine, Rhône, Seine, Saône, Moselle, Nile, and Mekong — all offering complimentary shore excursions such as scenic railway journeys in the Swiss mountains and delightful wine tastings included in the pricing.

Although the primary focus of the brand is on river cruises within Europe, the company based in Burton-on-Trent also provides small-ship ocean, yacht, and tall ship sailing experiences globally. Additionally, they offer escorted tours that cater to solo travelers, walking vacations, and city escapades.

The cost of all vacations is reasonable, and the brand’s popular price promise ensures that if customers discover a similar quality experience at a lower price with another provider, Riviera Travel will match that price. 

What truly distinguishes Riviera Travel from the competition is its “happiness guarantee.” If you find yourself dissatisfied by the second day of your trip, the cruise line will arrange for your return home and refund the full cost of your journey.

Europe is home to numerous river cruise destinations that may surprise you. Sailings are available on famous rivers such as the Seine, Rhine, Rhone, Douro, and Danube, with tributaries like the Main and Moselle broadening the cruising experience.

Each itinerary is crafted to include daily stops at charming villages, bustling towns, vibrant cities, and notable attractions along the rivers, complete with organized excursions that are optional but highly recommended.

Exciting highlights include Vienna, the cultural heart of Austria; the stunning port vineyards of the Douro Valley; the picturesque canals of Amsterdam; chocolate tasting experiences in Cologne; the culinary delights of Lyon, France’s gourmet capital; and the enchanting Paris, renowned as the City of Light and Love.

In Europe, river cruises are available nearly year-round, from the season’s first sailings in spring to festive Christmas market voyages.

For those looking beyond Europe, the majestic Mekong River flows through six countries—China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Travelers can expect to explore ancient pagodas, picturesque floating villages, vibrant markets, and historic monasteries along the way.

Starting in 2025, Riviera Travel is set to launch a new ship on the Mekong River. The Victoria Mekong will operate a new cruise titled Vietnam, Cambodia and Hidden Treasures of the Mekong between January and November 2026, featuring 15-night trips upstream from Saigon to Siem Reap and 14-night voyages downstream from Siem Reap to Saigon. This itinerary will include stops at Can Tho, Long Xuyen, Tiger Island, Phu Tan, and Tan Chau in Vietnam, as well as Phnom Penh, Silk Island, Oudong, Koh Chen, Angkor Ban, and Kampong Cham in Cambodia.

Alternatively, a four-hour flight from the UK opens up a journey along the Nile—the longest river in the world—providing an excellent opportunity to uncover the mysteries of Egypt’s pharaohs, prophets, and ancient pyramids, especially now that the highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum has finally opened its doors after an 11-year wait.

Beyond river cruises, ocean itineraries feature stunning destinations such as Croatia, Canada, the idyllic Greek islands, and captivating Italy.

No casinos or Broadway-style performances are available on board, which is ideal for those who want to concentrate on the journey and the destinations. Unlike ocean cruises, river cruises often dock right in the city center, making it easier to explore and return to the ship.

The ships of Riviera Travel reflect a timeless British charm and attract a predominantly British clientele, with most passengers being over the age of 55.

While couples make up a significant portion of the guests, families are also welcomed, as the cruise line accommodates children aged 12 and above.

Riviera Travel has gained popularity among solo travelers, prompting the expansion of its solo cruise offerings from nine to twelve itineraries for the upcoming 2024-25 season.

The three latest offerings include a six-day cruise titled Danube’s Imperial Cities & Yuletide Markets, which stops at Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava; an eight-day journey called Bruges, Medieval Flanders, Amsterdam & the Dutch Bulbfields, making stops at Antwerp, Amsterdam, Arnhem, and Bruges; and a five-day exploration known as Enchanting Rhine Yuletide Markets, which visits Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Bonn, and Cologne.

All solo river cruises offered by Riviera Travel come with direct flights from one of 13 airports in the UK, full-board dining, a double cabin, and a selection of daily excursions.

Riviera Travel boasts a fleet of 14 luxury European river ships, with plans to add two more (the 178-passenger Riviera Resplendence and the 70-passenger Victoria Mekong) by 2026. These ships feature some of the most spacious suites and cabins within the cruise industry.

Named after renowned British authors, these vessels accommodate between 121 and 178 passengers, ensuring a more intimate experience without feeling overcrowded.

The cruise line boasts a diverse fleet, operating ships on the Nile and the Mekong, alongside six 40-passenger yachts: MS II Mare, MS Adriatic Sun, MV Corona, MS Stella Maris, MS Adriatic Sky, and MS Mendula, which explore the beautiful coastline of Croatia’s Adriatic. They also feature three tall ships — Royal Clipper, Star Clipper, and Star Flyer.

Launching in March 2025, the 178-passenger Riviera Radiance will offer three dining options and the largest suites in the fleet. The Grand Suites, covering 344 square feet, will include a separate lounge area and a private balcony for relaxation.

In April 2025, the 114-passenger Riviera Rose will commence operations with 57 cabins, featuring four Balcony Suites that lend themselves to outdoor seating. Like its counterpart, Riviera Radiance, Riviera Rose will also provide a bar and lounge, a fitness room, and a sun deck complete with a swimming pool across three levels.

Sails to: The Danube and the Douro

MS Oscar Wilde, MS Emily Bronté, MS Geoffrey Chaucer, MS William Wordsworth, and MS Thomas Hardy are the luxurious all-suite ships offered by Riviera Travel. Each of these ships features 86 cabins that vary in size from 16 square metres to 25 square metres, distributed over three distinct decks: the lower Emerald deck, where you can find the fitness centre and spa/salon; the middle Ruby deck, which houses the main restaurant; and the Upper Diamond deck, complete with an observation lounge, a bar, and a restaurant that boasts an open kitchen.

Destinations include: The Danube, the Dutch Waterways, Rhine, Rhône, Seine, Saône, and Moselle.

Specially designed to smoothly navigate the five locks of the River Douro, MS Douro Splendour, MS Douro Elegance, and MS Porto Mirante can accommodate 121, 119, and 120 passengers, respectively.

Each of these three ships boasts sun decks with swimming pools, while their upper decks feature a sophisticated lounge/bar. The main restaurant and spa are located on the middle decks, whereas the lower decks are equipped with fitness facilities.

Sails to: The Douro

Among the fleet of Riviera Travel, the MS George Eliot can accommodate 132 passengers and features 70 cabins, a restaurant, a bistro, an observation lounge/bar, a hair salon, and a refreshing splash pool – complete with a putting green.

The same amenities can be found on the MS Lord Byron, MS William Shakespeare, and MS Jane Austen, with the addition of a spa and sauna on board. The MS William Shakespeare also includes a fitness centre.

Sails to: The Danube, Rhine, Rhône, Seine, Saône, and Moselle

Riviera Travel provides an array of cruises on the picturesque Nile River aboard the elegant RV Mekong Prestige II, as well as on the Mekong River with the luxurious five-star MS Darakum. This vessel, managed by the Swiss hospitality brand Mövenpick, is specifically crafted with a shallow draft, enabling it to navigate the entirety of the river. With 52 cabins and suites available, the MS Darakum stands out as one of the largest ships sailing the Nile.

Destinations: The Mekong and the Nile

Although Riviera Travel currently does not have an official loyalty program, they do offer discounts to returning customers on selected cruises.

It’s important to note that Riviera Travel’s ships are not equipped for wheelchair accessibility. The company advises: “We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your cruise with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the cruise due to reduced mobility, we encourage you to contact us (info@rivierarivercruises.com) or call 888-838-8820 to discuss these concerns.”

Explore the curated range of top-notch river and ocean cruises offered by Telegraph Travel.

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