Riviera Travel has established itself as Ireland’s premier choice for river cruising win a repurposed category, winning the votes of Irish agents with its meticulously crafted, fully escorted voyages that combine cultural immersion with effortless luxury.
A frequent winner and shortlisted finalist in the River Cruise Operator of the Year category at the Irish Travel Industry Awards, organised by the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA), Riviera secured the title in 2026 against peers such as Avalon Waterways, Scenic, and Viking River Cruises, Riviera’s repeated recognition reflects its deep understanding of Irish travellers’ preferences for value, guided expertise, and enriching itineraries.
Riviera’s activities in the Irish market focus on all-inclusive river cruises across Europe’s most scenic waterways, with strong emphasis on the Rhine, Danube, Moselle, Main, Douro, Rhône, Seine, and Dutch and Belgian waterways. The company specialises in fully escorted tours that include flights from Dublin, Cork, or Shannon, transfers, premium accommodation aboard elegant ships, all meals, selected excursions, and the services of knowledgeable tour managers. This seamless package appeals particularly to Irish passengers who value convenience and reassurance, eliminating the complexities of independent travel while maximising time for discovery.
Riviera Reflection, Riviera Travel’s third Radiance-class vessel, is scheduled to debut on the Danube River in September 2027. It is the sister of 2025’s Riviera Radiance, which introduced the line’s split-level design, and Riviera Resplendence, scheduled in early summer 2026.
Popular itineraries include the five-star Rhine Gorge and Cologne cruise, which showcases fairy-tale castles, vineyards, and historic cities; the enchanting Danube from Budapest to Nuremberg or Vienna; and the atmospheric Douro Valley in Portugal, with its terraced vineyards and port wine tastings. Seine cruises through Normandy and Paris, as well as Rhône voyages through Provence, draw strong interest for their blend of history, gastronomy, and landscapes. Riviera’s ships, intimate vessels carrying between 100 and 180 guests, feature spacious cabins with French balconies, fine dining, panoramic lounges, and wellness facilities, creating an atmosphere of refined comfort.
What distinguishes Riviera for Irish clients is the inclusion of guided excursions in every port, led by local experts who provide insightful commentary on UNESCO sites, medieval towns, and cultural landmarks. Optional experiences, such as wine tastings in the Wachau Valley or cycling along the Danube, add variety without additional pressure. The company’s no-fly river cruises from the UK, accessible via ferry or Eurostar for those preferring overland travel, have also gained traction among environmentally conscious Irish travellers.
Trade partnerships form a vital part of Riviera’s Irish strategy. The operator maintains close relationships with agents through dedicated support teams, familiarisation trips, and comprehensive marketing materials. Agents benefit from competitive commissions, promotional campaigns highlighting seasonal offers, and training that positions Riviera as the gold standard in river cruising. These efforts help agents meet the growing demand for multi-generational holidays, milestone celebrations, and solo traveller-friendly programmes.
Sustainability increasingly influences Riviera’s offerings. The company partners with eco-certified suppliers, promotes low-impact excursions, and invests in energy-efficient ships, aligning with Ireland’s environmental goals. These practices resonate with passengers who seek responsible ways to explore Europe’s rivers and heritage.
Ireland’s river cruise market has flourished, with strong growth in bookings for 2026 driven by interest in cultural enrichment and relaxed pacing. Riviera has capitalised on this trend by expanding flight options from regional airports and introducing new itineraries that highlight lesser-known gems. Challenges such as water level fluctuations and seasonal demand are managed through flexible scheduling and alternative programmes.
2026 awards
Previous winners
