Riviera Travel has expanded its programme for 2027, with a river cruise ship exclusively for solo travellers, and its first long-haul ship, on the Mekong River.
The operator says its ship George Eliot will become the ‘world’s first’ river ship for solo guests when the programme launches in June 2027.
The ship has capacity for 140 passengers at double occupancy, but during its solo season it will carry half that amount, as each solo guest will have their own cabin.
Director of Trade and Partnerships UK and Ireland Vicky Billing said that, while there will be a single supplement, in many cases it will be around £150 for a week’s cruise.
The first solo sailing on George Eliot will depart in June 2027. Options include three eight-day cruises on the Danube, Rhine and Moselle, from £2,449 per person.
In response to demand, Riviera has added longer cruises for single people, with three 15-day itineraries, from £5,599pp.
Further afield, Riviera is introducing a brand-new long-haul ship, Riviera Alba, on Mekong River itineraries. Currently, Riviera offers Mekong cruises as part of packages, taking allocated cabins on two other ships.
The boutique-style Alba will be the operator’s first ship outside Europe, with capacity for 50 guests in 25 suites when it launches in September 2027, operating three separate Mekong cruises, including a 16-day Vietnam, Cambodia and Mekong River cruise from £4,799, with regional departure options.
Vicky said 13% of the operator’s business is currently for solo travel and demand is growing.
“We’ve spoken to agents about the new programme and have had really great feedback,” she said. “They have said it’s a bold move, but it is a move that is needed. We’ve done our research and there is no way on earth we’d put these on sale if we weren’t confident we could sell them. We’ve already had a lot of advance registrations, from the trade and direct.
“Guests have told us they love the Mekong, but would like smaller itineraries. Alba is perfect, with 50 guests in 25 cabins – all balconies – and smaller ports.”
Riviera Travel CEO Phil Hullah said: “This is a landmark moment not only for Riviera but for the river cruise industry as a whole.
“The launch of MS George Eliot, the first river cruise ship to operate exclusively for solo guests, allows us to offer independent travellers a choice and focus that no other operator provides.
“Alongside this, the debut of Riviera Alba on the Mekong marks our first step beyond Europe, expanding our horizons and giving our guests the opportunity to experience Asia’s most iconic waterways with the same trusted Riviera service. These milestones mark a bold new chapter for river cruising.”
Early booking offers on its solo cruises include a free upgrade from middle to upper deck for bookings made by 31 October this year.
