Riviera River Cruises
A friendly, well-priced British take on Europe's classic rivers, from the Rhine to the Douro.
Europe's rivers, the British way
Riviera River Cruises is the river arm of Riviera Travel, a British company founded in 1984 and long trusted by UK travelers for good-value, well-organized holidays. Its river program brings that same reputation to the waterways of Western Europe.
The fleet has grown to more than a dozen modern vessels, most carrying between about 126 and 169 guests. The ships are comfortable and unpretentious rather than opulent, with the focus kept firmly on the destinations and the ease of the trip.
The style is warm, sociable and straightforward, and the value is a genuine draw. It suits travelers who want a relaxed week on the river, capable guiding ashore and a price that leaves room to enjoy themselves.
- Style
- Friendly, good value
- Fleet
- A dozen-plus ships
- Guests
- 126 to 169
- Fares
- Inclusive of tours
- Sails to
- Western Europe & Douro
- Founded
- 1984, United Kingdom
“Riviera River Cruises built its name on doing Europe's rivers well and doing them at a price that makes sense.”
Comfortable ships, sensibly sized
The vessels are modern and well kept, with river-view staterooms, many featuring a French balcony, and calm, uncluttered public spaces. Carrying roughly 126 to 169 guests, they are small enough to feel personal and large enough for good company at dinner.
The mood aboard is easy and social, with a British sensibility that many guests find reassuring. Newer additions to the fleet, including purpose-built ships for the Douro, keep the standard current across the program.
Guiding, dining and the details handled
Fares include a rich program of guided excursions in each port, along with meals and a friendly, attentive crew. The emphasis is on making the week effortless, so you can concentrate on the towns, castles and vineyards rather than the logistics.
Dining is generous and regional, with drinks packages available to suit. It is a considered, good-value approach rather than an ultra-luxury one, and that clarity is a large part of the appeal.
From the Rhine and Danube to the Douro
The program covers the classic rivers of Western Europe, among them the Rhine, Danube, Moselle, Main, Seine and Rhone, with festive Christmas market sailings a seasonal highlight. Most cruises run to a comfortable seven nights.
Riviera also sails the Douro in Portugal on ships built for the river, winding through the terraced vineyards from Porto. We help you match the river, the ship and the season to the trip you have in mind.
Why book through us
Exclusive Riviera value
Group amenities and onboard credit on Riviera River Cruises sailings that you will not find booking direct.
Combinable offers
Our exclusive value can usually be layered with Riviera's current promotions, plus full loyalty credit.
River specialists
Advisors who know the fleet and its itineraries and match the right river, ship and season to you.
Seamless land and sea
Because we run our own tours ashore, we make it easy to add a CDV land tour where your river cruise begins or ends.
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Explore Viking RiverFrequently asked questions
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Ready to sail with Riviera River Cruises?
Complimentary quote, exclusive CDV value, and a specialist who plans it around you.