The sun sparkled on the surface of the Rhine while hill-top castles floated by, swans stared territorially and we relaxed on sun loungers next to tables cradling glasses of chilled sauvignon blanc, frothy cappuccinos or a glasses of healthy crystal water. A VIVA Cruise on the Rhine is the way to experience slow travel especially on the VIVA ENJOY.
Ironically named ENJOY, I was, in fact, travelling on the new VIVA ENJOY and it certainly held up to its name. Gleaming in its newly launched glory, neatness and smartness travelled along the decks. Geometric carpets looked fresh and harboured that bounce only a newly-laid carpet can offer and colourful paintings looked as if they had just been framed.
Wellness River Cruising
Travelling in the month of March, this river journey was themed as a wellness cruise, guided by a dedicated Wellness Coach, Ann Smets, who led a holistic health programme for the 4-night journey. Up at 7.30am I chose to learn the basics of Qi Gong as well as a class in standing yoga, tricky on a moving ship, but achievable. These morning classes proved popular and were repeated for those speaking German and the few of us who spoke English. Also in demand were the 30-minute complimentary massages for each guest during the cruise – bliss. The ship offered three treatment rooms catering for a range of therapies, including its one-hour signature “Shinetsum” which involved a massage focusing on abdomen and acupuncture points. There was also a small but compact gym and studio. As we sailed past parklands, cultivated fields and sleepy villages carpeting the slopes, there were fascinating workshops on aromatherapy and the benefits of essential oils, and a presentation on the healing qualities of water which seemed very relevant as we watched to the memorising ripples of the Rhine following us.
Wellness flowed through into the excursions too with a visit, and experience, to ancient thermae baths, Nordic walking along scenic pathways near the river’s shores while for those preferring to explore on two wheels, cycling – the ship travelled with a number of bicycles for guests. The itinerary complemented the slow relaxing journey from Frankfurt. It called into the idyllic towns of Mainz, Speyer and Strasbourg. Known as the Christmas capital, Strasbourg is particularly interesting with its Gothic Cathedral which features daily shows from its astronomical clock and Petite France, a district often compared to a little Venice and well worth strolling around.
Healthy, hearty dining on board
A healthy appetite gave appreciation to the three restaurants onboard. Three dining options are a unique feature on this ship and provided a pleasing variety of atmospheres. Draped in greenery, Moments served authentic Italian fare with pizzas at lunchtime while the main Riverside Restaurant was spacious with an attractive spiral staircase from the bar and lounge above and offered an international gourmet menu. The Bistro at the stern had a gastro pub feel with a limited but good choice, think Burgers and Tiger Prawns, followed by generous sized desserts which could all be savoured while watching the river in its wake. All dishes were attractively presented, not heavily laden, with a good choice each day and meal time. At breakfast and lunch a healthy buffet was laid while hot dishes were cooked to order. I found the wellness menu nourishing and varied to support the nurturing and well-being theme of the river cruise. There were detox drinks, fresh juices, jugs of water in crystal stones and a good non-alcohol drinks list too.
A premium floating hotel experience
The VIVA ENJOY is a floating premium hotel experience, with 95 stylish cabins, including eight suites, most with French balconies, spread across three decks, accommodating up to 190 passengers. Guests are cossetted in contemporary, elegant comfort with sufficient space. The ship is designed with an open-plan lounge, and a spacious sun deck. And for those with mobility requirements, there was a lift which operated between decks 1 and 3.
I disembarked feeling relaxed and in the moment with the sun still glimmering on the Rhine and no swans in sight. This VIVA Cruise on the Rhine certainly lived up to its name: VIVA ENJOY.
Enjoy the moment on a VIVA River cruise.
All VIVA Cruises itineraries feature VIVA Cruises’ signature VIVA All-Inclusive product, which includes high tea, full board, high-quality alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, minibar, beauty products from cosmetic brand, Rituals, Wi-Fi and all tips and gratuities. Wellness cruises operate between January and March 2026 and travel on the Upper Rhine and on the Middle Rhine. They start and end in Frankfurt.
In line with VIVA Cruises’ commitment to sustainability, VIVA ENJOY employs eco-friendly technologies, including the use of sulphur-free GTL and biofuels, responsible route planning and reliance on shore power whenever possible. These energy-efficient practices meet the requirements of the Green Award certification, which recognises the use of sustainable technologies and quality measures.
The Wellness Traveller was a guest of VIVA Cruises on the VIVA ENJOY
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