Riviera Travel
River Cruising
Riviera Travel is the line I recommend when clients want a genuinely five-star river cruise without the eye-watering price tag. The ships are Swiss-built, the excursions are well-organised, and the included drinks package has become increasingly generous. They're not trying to be Viking — they're carving out their own lane as the best value proposition in European river cruising.
Riviera Travel has been quietly building one of the most compelling river cruise operations in Europe since its founding in the UK in 1984. What began as escorted tours to the French Riviera has grown into a fleet of 16 Swiss-built five-star river ships, each named after celebrated British writers — from the William Wordsworth to the Jane Austen and Emily Bronte. The newest additions, Riviera Radiance and Riviera Rose, launched in 2025, with Riviera Resplendence joining the fleet in 2026 carrying 178 guests across three dining venues.
What distinguishes Riviera Travel from its competitors is an unwavering commitment to delivering genuine quality at a price point that consistently undercuts the market leaders. The ships feature spacious staterooms, multiple dining options, complimentary Wi-Fi, and an increasingly generous drinks package — now covering premium beverages from 10am to midnight on 2026 departures. Excursions at every port are included in the fare, led by knowledgeable local guides who bring each destination to life.
The onboard atmosphere is relaxed and sociable, with a smart-casual dress code and no pretension. Berlitz rates Riviera’s ships among the finest on European waterways, and repeat booking rates reflect genuine passenger satisfaction. The dining has drawn particular praise from reviewers, with menus that balance European sophistication with approachable variety.
Riviera Travel sails the Rhine, Danube, Douro, Moselle, Main, and other European waterways, with itineraries ranging from short breaks to extended voyages. For travellers who want the river cruise experience without compromise but also without unnecessary extravagance, Riviera Travel delivers a remarkably complete package.
Tell us your travel dates and our Riviera Travel specialists will create a tailored proposal.