River cruising continues to attract more travellers, with Riviera Travel reporting a 14% year-on-year booking increase, as guests seek holidays that combine exploration with time to unwind on the water. Additionally, six in ten river cruise guests are also new to Riviera Travel, suggesting that the sector is attracting both experienced cruisers and travellers trying river cruising for the first time.
The booking growth comes as the operator launches MS Riviera Resplendence, its newest premium river cruise ship, which embarked on its maiden voyage along the Rhine on 4 July. 2026. Designed to accommodate 178 guests across 89 cabins and suites the 135-metre vessel features three restaurants, a spa and wellness area, a splash pool and a spacious sun deck. More than 80% of cabins and suites include floor-to-ceiling French balconies.
The ship’s accommodation has also been designed with space in mind. Grand Suites, located on the Diamond Deck, include separate living and sleeping areas, private balconies and the option of in-suite dining. Superior Suites and standard cabins incorporate boutique-style details such as Nespresso machines and climate control. For wellness-minded travellers, the focus on space and comfort creates a more restorative onboard experience, with private balconies and generous living areas providing opportunities to slow down and take in the changing scenery along the river.
Speaking about the launch, Matt Luscombe, CEO of Riviera Travel, said that while all of the company’s river cruise ships are designed to create a feeling of “timeless elegance,” MS Riviera Resplendence takes this approach further by combining classic style with modern design. He said the ship offers guests “the best of both worlds,” pairing the feeling of a traditional river cruise experience with contemporary features and thoughtful touches.
The new ship also represents Riviera Travel’s continued investment in the river cruise sector, with the company highlighting the importance of ongoing innovation as demand grows. “We can’t take that success and customer loyalty for granted, so we’re continually innovating and investing in our fleet,” said Luscombe. “This new ship is the best vessel we have yet and is the first of a series of new ships we’ll be launching over the next few years.”
With its combination of spacious accommodation and wellness facilities, MS Riviera Resplendence reflects the changing appeal of river cruising for travellers seeking a more relaxed way to experience Europe’s waterways. As bookings continue to rise and more first-time guests discover the sector, river cruising looks set to remain a growing part of the travel landscape.
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