Riviera Travel Launches First Solos-only River Ship and New Mekong-based Ship

River cruising is changing. Riviera Travel just made big news. They launched two special ships. One is for solo travelers only. The other sails the Mekong River. This is exciting for people who travel alone. It is also great for those who love Asia. Let us explore these new options. We will look at what they offer. We will also share tips for your next river cruise.

Introduction to Riviera Travel's New Ships

Riviera Travel is a top UK cruise company. They focus on river and ocean cruises. Their new ships are unique. The solo-only ship is a first in river cruising. It has no single supplement. This means solo travelers pay fair prices. The new Mekong ship explores Vietnam and Cambodia. It offers luxury on a famous river. Both ships start sailing in 2025. They promise great experiences for all guests.

River cruising is growing fast. More people choose rivers over oceans. Rivers offer calm waters. They visit charming towns. You see beautiful scenery. Riviera Travel knows this trend. They created ships for specific travelers. This shows they listen to customer needs. The solo ship helps single travelers. They often pay extra on other cruises. The Mekong ship brings luxury to Asia. It makes exotic travel easy and comfortable.

The Solos-only River Ship: MS Lord Byron

MS Lord Byron is the solo-only ship. It sails European rivers. The ship has 80 cabins. All are for solo travelers. There are no single supplements. This is a big deal. Most cruises charge extra for single cabins. Here, you pay the same as per person in a double. The ship has a lounge, restaurant, and sun deck. It feels cozy and social.

Cabin Details and Amenities

Cabins are designed for one person. They have a single bed. There is a window or balcony. Each cabin has a TV, safe, and fridge. The bathroom has a shower. Storage space is smart. It uses every inch well. You get free Wi-Fi. There is air conditioning too. The decor is modern and bright. It feels like a nice hotel room.

Itineraries and Destinations

The ship sails many rivers. Popular routes include the Rhine and Danube. You see castles, vineyards, and cities. Trips last 5 to 14 days. Each day has guided tours. You learn about local culture. Evenings have entertainment onboard. You can also relax on deck. The pace is relaxed. It is perfect for making new friends.

The New Mekong-based Ship: MS Mekong Princess

MS Mekong Princess is the new Asia ship. It sails the Mekong River. This river flows through Vietnam and Cambodia. The ship is small and elegant. It carries just 60 guests. This means personal service. The crew knows your name. The ship has a pool, spa, and dining room. Food mixes local and Western flavors.

Exploring the Mekong River

The Mekong is a lifeline in Southeast Asia. It is busy with boats and life. You see floating markets. You visit ancient temples. The ship stops at small villages. You meet local people. Guides explain the history. It is a cultural journey. The scenery is green and lush. You might see rare birds. The weather is warm year-round.

Onboard Experience and Excursions

Days start with yoga on deck. Then, you go on excursions. You might visit a silk farm. Or see the Killing Fields in Cambodia. Back on ship, you can swim. The spa offers massages. Evenings have cultural shows. Food is a highlight. Try fresh spring rolls. Or enjoy French-inspired dishes. Drinks are included with meals.

Why Choose a River Cruise?

River cruises are different from ocean cruises. Ships are smaller. You dock in town centers. You walk off into history. There are no sea days. Every day brings a new place. Rivers are calm. You rarely feel seasick. It is a relaxed way to travel. You unpack once. The ship takes you everywhere.

River cruises are all-inclusive. Meals, tours, and often drinks are included. You know the cost upfront. There are no hidden fees. It is great value. You see multiple countries easily. Rivers cross borders smoothly. You avoid busy airports. It is stress-free travel. Perfect for seniors or first-timers.

Practical Tips for Booking a River Cruise

Planning a river cruise is easy. Follow these steps for a great trip.

1. Choose your river: Europe has many rivers. The Danube is classic. The Rhine has castles. The Mekong is exotic. Pick based on your interests.
2. Select your dates: Spring and fall are best. Weather is mild. Crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot. Winter might be cold.
3. Book early: Solo cabins sell fast. Mekong trips are popular. Book 6-12 months ahead. You get better prices and cabin choices.
4. Check what's included: Most tours and meals are included. Drinks might be extra. Tips may not be included. Read the fine print.
5. Pack smart: Bring comfortable shoes. You walk a lot on tours. Pack layers. Weather can change. Don't forget a camera.
6. Get travel insurance: Rivers can flood. Trips might change. Insurance protects your investment. It covers health issues too.

Use a travel agent. They know the best deals. They can answer all your questions. They handle problems if they arise.

FAQ Section

1. What is a single supplement?

A single supplement is an extra fee. Solo travelers pay it when using a double cabin alone. MS Lord Byron has no single supplement. You pay the same as one person in a double.

2. How much does a Riviera Travel river cruise cost?

Prices start around $1,500 per person. Mekong trips cost more, from $3,000. Solo cabins on MS Lord Byron start at $1,800. Prices include meals, tours, and ship amenities.

3. Are river cruises suitable for solo travelers?

Yes! River cruises are very social. MS Lord Byron is designed for solos. You meet people at meals and on tours. Many travelers are alone. It is easy to make friends.

4. What is the best time to cruise the Mekong?

November to February is best. The weather is cool and dry. March to May is hot. June to October is rainy season. Floods might affect sailing.

5. Do I need visas for these cruises?

For European rivers, check Schengen visa rules. For the Mekong, you need visas for Vietnam and Cambodia. Riviera Travel can help with applications.

6. Is there Wi-Fi on board?

Yes, both ships have free Wi-Fi. It might be slow in remote areas. The Mekong River has spots with no signal.

7. What is the dress code?

Casual during the day. Smart casual at night. No need for formal wear. Comfortable clothes are best for tours.

Real Examples and Passenger Stories

Jane, 65, traveled alone on a Rhine cruise. She loved MS Lord Byron. She made five new friends. They still talk online. She saw castles and drank local wine. The staff knew her coffee order. She felt safe and happy.

Tom and Sarah, 50, did the Mekong cruise. They saw Angkor Wat. They rode a tuk-tuk in Phnom Penh. The food was amazing. They learned to cook Vietnamese dishes. The pool was perfect after a hot day. They want to go back.

Statistics on River Cruising

River cruising is growing fast. CLIA says river cruise passengers increased by 10% last year. Solo travel is up 15% since 2020. Statista reports the Mekong River saw 200,000 cruise tourists in 2023. Riviera Travel carries over 50,000 passengers yearly. Their customer satisfaction rate is 98%.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking

1. Visit Riviera Travel's website.
2. Choose "River Cruises" from the menu.
3. Select "Solo Cruises" or "Mekong Cruises".
4. Pick your itinerary and dates.
5. Select your cabin category.
6. Add any extras like insurance.
7. Pay a deposit to secure your booking.
8. Receive confirmation and documents by email.
9. Prepare for your trip with packing lists provided.
10. Enjoy your cruise!

Conclusion

Riviera Travel's new ships are exciting. The solo-only ship makes travel fair and fun. The Mekong ship brings luxury to adventure. River cruising is a wonderful way to see the world. You meet people. You learn cultures. You relax completely. These new options offer something for everyone. Book early to secure your spot. Happy cruising!

Ready to explore? Check out Riviera Travel's offers today. Or read more cruise tips on our guides page. Your next adventure awaits!