 This week I’ve been privileged to sail with Riviera Travel, traversing the beautiful Rhine River from Cologne, Germany, to Basel, Switzerland. This is my fifth European River cruise, but my first time on the Rhine and also my first sailing with Riviera Cruises. Previously, I’ve sailed on the Danube with both Tauck and Amadeus … the South of France with AMA … and Tulip Time with Avalon. I would say that this gives me a pretty solid basis for evaluating and comparing this cruise experience to other providers in the industry. Riviera began operations as a tour operator in the UK in 1984. They expanded into the river cruise market and launched in North America in 2015. They are considered one of the most trusted UK travel brands and are targeting their U.S. market for expansion. PUBLIC AREASAs I initially boarded the vessel, I was impressed by the openness of the public areas. The unobstructed floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides of the spacious lounge allows for exceptional viewing opportunities as we have sailed through the famous Rhine valley. The ship accommodates just 170 guests, so that the vessel never feels crowded, even during hours of peak participation. Riviera’s five-star vessels are Swiss-built and among the youngest fleets in all of Europe. They feature the latest in technology and the Berlitz Guide to River Cruising rates their vessels as among the finest ships on European waterways. All in all, Riviera hits a home run for me with regard to their beautiful décor, contemporary ambiance and spacious design. Further, if you have sailed on one of Riviera’s lovely vessels, you will feel right at home on all their ships, as each of their ships is virtually identical in design and décor.  ACCOMMODATIONSFrom the moment I stepped aboard, I have felt right at home aboard this Riviera Cruise. Staff and crew have been warm and welcoming…and the bottle of chilled champagne waiting in my room’s mini-fridge did not go unappreciated. Guests are always delighted by the unexpected extras, and this is a nice touch that Riviera provides to all guests. I’m traveling solo on this trip, assigned to Room 302 on the Geoffrey Chaucer…a Superior Suite measuring 210 square feet. The room is beautifully arranged with more-than-adequate space for all my belongings and plenty of space remaining should I have a companion. The bathroom is perfectly appointed with lovely finishes and, again, more than sufficient space for toiletries and necessities. The bed is comfortable … and even the pillows exceed my somewhat finicky preferences. All in all, I believe any supplier would be hard pressed to exceed the level of comfort and convenience provided aboard my sailing on Riviera’s vessel. DININGWhat can I say? I hate to be redundant, trying hard to find new ways to say “amazing.” The food on this cruise has been exceptional. There is a main dining room, providing the three standard meals daily. Halfway through our itinerary, and I have yet to order anything that wasn’t spot on. Portion sizes have been perfect, and others seem to feel likewise. On occasions when tablemates have requested an additional appetizer or dessert, they have cheerfully been accommodated. There are always vegetarian options and the staff inquires about allergy concerns when taking orders. Food has been well prepared and beautifully presented at each meal. Breakfast and lunch both offer a nice variety of buffet options as well as table service. Service has been spot on, food served quickly and at proper temperature. There is an alternative specialty restaurant on Deck 3 aft that can be reserved at no additional cost, guests are allowed to dine at least once per cruise for dinner, and lunch being first-come, first-served. If you enjoy a perfectly cooked steak, this will not disappoint. FELLOW TRAVELERS The majority of guests onboard this sailing have been from the U.K. I’ve found them a delightful bunch, interesting, friendly and welcoming. The number of U.S. passengers is expanding each year as Riviera continues to reach into the U.S. market. SERVICEService in every area is prompt and cheerful. This has been the case for my room attendant, front desk, dining and bar service. Even at times of peak demand, I’ve never had to wait more than a very few minutes for a smiling face to appear to take my order. RHINE ITINERARYAs above indicated, this is my first Rhine sailing. The itinerary has been spectacular, especially yesterday’s sail through the famous Rhine Gorge. Sailing from Cologne, Germany, to Basel, Switzerland, we’ve had opportunities to visit both large cities and small villages. Tours are included with virtually every stop, with alternative options to accommodate a variety of interests. Walking tours also offer a “gentle walkers” option for those who may have mobility challenges or simply prefer a somewhat slower pace for their tour. This is an exceptional itinerary choice for wine lovers as you sail right through the heart of Germany’s wine region. Options for visits to local wineries are included, and regional wines have been served onboard each evening with meals. VALUERiviera is, quite simply, the best value currently to be had in the European river cruise market. Having sailed on the competition, I can state that their experience is second to none… and their current fares are significantly under the prevailing rate in the river cruise market. If a European river cruise is on your travel bucket list … and if it isn’t, it should be!… reach out for a no-obligation quote. Questions? I’m always happy to chat! Touch base with me at 404.735.5774 or email [email protected].
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