Riviera River Cruises has been in business for decades. For much of that time, it quietly focused on serving the UK market, earning a strong reputation for high-quality river cruise experiences with an emphasis on value, service, and thoughtful itineraries.

In recent years, however, Riviera has been steadily growing its presence in North America. And in my personal opinion? They’re doing it the right way: not by trying to be like every other river cruise line, but by staying true to their strengths while enhancing the features that today’s North American travelers expect.

Stunning Ships from Top Builders​
Riviera’s fleet — and Riviera Radiance in particular — reflects the craftsmanship of one of Europe’s premier shipbuilders (yes, the same trusted partner that builds for Tauck, known for its exceptional standards). The ships have a clean, modern elegance: airy lounges, generous staterooms, and beautiful touches that feel upscale without being ostentatious.

Personally, I think their ships are among the most beautiful on Europe’s rivers — designed to complement the landscape, not compete with it.

Solo Traveler Friendly — Truly​
Riviera stands out in a big way for solo travelers. They offer solo-only sailings, where every stateroom is occupied by a solo cruiser — no single supplements, no feeling like the odd person out. These sailings have been a hit with my solo clients, who appreciate the camaraderie and the ease of meeting fellow travelers.

Value without Compromise​
Riviera is known for delivering a luxury-caliber experience at a price point that often surprises guests — in a good way. While other lines may include more in the base fare (such as drinks at all times), Riviera lets guests choose whether to add drink packages — making it a flexible choice that appeals to different travel styles.

Expanding Pre- and Post-Cruise Options​
Recognizing that North American travelers often want more than just the cruise itself, Riviera is actively growing its pre- and post-cruise programs to offer richer land extensions and smoother connections — whether you want a few nights in a European capital or a fully escorted land package.

The Riviera Radiance is the new flagship, and it shows Riviera’s thoughtful evolution:

For North American travelers seeking a river cruise that feels intimate, elegant, and thoughtfully priced - without sacrificing comfort or style - Riviera deserves a place on your list.

Their ships, itineraries, and growing attention to what the North American guest values make them an appealing alternative to the larger, better-known brands - and one that I’m personally excited to see flourish on this side of the Atlantic.

If you’re considering a river cruise - whether as a couple, a solo traveler, or part of a small group - and want a line that blends beauty, value, and authenticity, Riviera River Cruises is worth a serious look.

As always, I’m happy to help explore itineraries, solo-only sailings, and options that fit your travel style.

Ready to explore? Let’s set up a consultation and find your perfect river journey.

Discovering the Hidden Magic of the Burgundy Region by River, Properly known as the Rhone and Saone Rivers.

If you’ve ever dreamed of slowing down to truly savor France — glass of wine in hand, sunlight glinting off medieval rooftops, the air scented with lavender and warm bread — I want to introduce you to one of Europe’s most overlooked river cruise treasures: Burgundy.

While travelers flock to the Rhine, Danube, or Rhône, the rivers and canals of Burgundy offer something else entirely: quiet charm, intimate exploration, and the sense that you’ve stepped into a living postcard — one where you’re invited to linger.

A typical Burgundy river cruise glides gently along the Saône River and its connected canals — small waterways that larger ships simply can’t access.

Most itineraries begin and end in or near Lyon, the gastronomic heart of France and a city worth exploring in its own right.

From there, you’ll meander north through towns like Chalon-sur-Saône, Tournus, Mâcon, and Beaune — names that roll off the tongue as smoothly as the local wine.

Along the way, you’ll pass vineyard-laced hillsides, Romanesque abbeys, charming stone villages, and markets that feel untouched by time.

The pace is slow. And that’s exactly the point.

Because these rivers and canals are narrow and winding, you won’t find massive river ships here. Instead, cruises in Burgundy are aboard small, elegant vessels — sometimes purpose-built barges or boutique river ships that carry just a handful of guests (think 12–40 people, not 150).

It’s the kind of intimate cruising where the crew knows your name, where you’ll dine on dishes inspired by the local markets that day, and where every day’s pace feels like an exhale.

Burgundy is known for its understated elegance. Here, the culture centers around craftsmanship — from winemaking to mustard blending to cheese aging.

The wine? As legendary as you’ve heard — from silky Pinot Noirs to crisp Chardonnays, sipped in family-run cellars or shaded courtyards where the vines seem to lean in and join the conversation.

You’ll visit historic Beaune, with its famous Hospices and cobbled lanes, and stroll through local markets where artisans sell their wares beside farmers offering truffles, cheeses, and honey.

For river cruising in Burgundy, the sweet spots are late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October).

The summer months can be lovely too — just expect warmer days and more visitors in the towns.

Since most Burgundy river cruises begin or end in Lyon, I always recommend spending a few days there.

If your cruise ends in Chalon-sur-Saône, you’re just a short hop from the heart of the Côte d’Or wine region — perfect for a guided vineyard stay or independent exploration.

What sets Burgundy apart isn’t just the scenery or the food (although both are spectacular).

It’s the feeling of it all:

It’s river cruising at its most personal. And in a world that moves too fast, Burgundy invites you to slow down — and feel France.

If you’re ready to experience a river cruise that’s off the well-trodden path but rich with rewards, let’s chat. I’d love to help you plan your journey through this gem of a region.