The UK’s number one river cruise line, Riviera Travel River Cruises, has announced the launch of another ship – Riviera Resplendence – in 2026. This announcement marks the cruise line’s third in a new generation of ships, starting with the launch of Riviera Rose and Riviera Radiance in 2025 and Riviera Resplendence in 2026.
Once again, moving away from the cruise line’s ode previous ode to famous British authors, the new ship will feature the brand name prominently.
Riviera Resplendence will feature a split-level bar and restaurant, pool with sundeck, spa and wellness area, fitness centre and 89 staterooms, in addition to Grand suites and Superior suites with spacious balconies.
Hosting 178 passengers, Riviera Resplendence will feature the river cruise line’s largest suites till date with the Grand Balcony suites measuring a sprawling 32sqm with a separate balcony and lounge area. The ship will also offer spacious Super suites and Double Cabins with a French balcony.
Riviera Resplendence will offer three dining venues, including Mosaic, offering a selection of European-river-inspired bite-sized options, also available on its sister ship, Riviera Radiance. Options include a Market menu of fish and meat dishes along with a vegetarian and vegan Garden menu.
Steven Taylor, International Sales Manager at Riviera, said: “We’re thrilled to reveal this latest addition to our river cruise fleet, which further underlines our commitment to delivering a high-quality onboard experience for our guests. There will be a wealth of new facilities and features to enjoy, while we’ll also ensure we maintain the distinct elements of a Riviera ship that have proved so popular over the years.
“We are determined to keep pace with ever-increasing demand for our cruises, and at the same time making certain everything we do – both on and off our ships – is unmistakably Riviera.”
Riviera Resplendence has a brand-new split-level lounge and dining room, providing an even more open and airy feel and is the first ship that qualifies for the Gold Standard on the Green Awards programme for shipping.
Riviera Travel River Cruises also recently announced its early bird sale for 2026 itineraries FROZEN at 2025 prices until 15th December 2024, along with a raft of new and exciting itineraries with two new ships Riviera Rose and Riviera Radiance set to join the fleet in 2025 and Riviera Resplendence in 2026. To add even more value, all 2026 bookings will also include a complimentary all-inclusive drinks from 10am to midnight each day.
Riviera Travel River Cruises is preparing for big years ahead with several new booking incentives for guests and their travel advisors, turning it into one of the most competitive river cruise operators connecting with Australian travellers.
Riviera’s five-star ships support an intimate atmosphere of between 126 and 176 guests – featuring a range of onboard facilities, including a restaurant, bistro and wellness centre services of a Cruise Director and Concierge, dedicated excursion in every port and all port charges.
Guests enjoy a more relaxed sailing experience at their own pace in a friendly environment with light-hearted banter and a sense of comfort that Aussies will love. Paired together with delicious meals and a complimentary drinks package, Riviera is proud of its reputation of providing excellent value for money as one of the best-priced European river cruises.
With more airlines committing to flights between Europe and Australia, it’s easy for Australians to travel to the different embarkation points as they embark on a European experience from a truly unique vantage point.
Riviera also offers back-to-back combination cruises, allowing guests to combine itineraries and extend their river cruising experience. On board, guests relax while an attentive, English-speaking crew look after every detail, from arranging shore excursions to managing dietary preferences.
In 2026, Riviera Travel is set to deliver its most expansive offering, with a remarkable 17 river cruises, five combination cruises, five themed journeys, seven cruises with exclusive tour extensions and eight sailings dedicated to solo travellers. This represents the largest selection of sailings in the cruise line’s history, providing an unparalleled variety of immersive and tailored experiences for every type of traveller.
For any questions or reservation enquiries, call your local travel agent or connect with Riviera Travel River Cruises in Australia on 1300 857 437 or visit www.rivieratravel.com.au.
