![What to expect on board a Riviera river cruise](/https/www.telegraph.co.uk/content/dam/riviera-bar.jpg?imwidth=680)
What to expect on board
Riviera Travel river cruise ships are some of the youngest in Europe – and the most advanced
![What to expect on board a Riviera river cruise](/https/www.telegraph.co.uk/content/dam/riviera-bar.jpg?imwidth=680)
On board you’ll find a main restaurant (and sometimes an extra restaurant at the back), cabins, a bar/lounge, boutique gift shop, free Wi-Fi, laundry service, fitness centre, swimming pool or splash pool, spa and wellness area (sometimes with a hairdresser and nail salon) and entertainment. Here are three top vessels from the Riviera Travel fleet:
MS Geoffrey Chaucer
A ship of understated elegance. The spacious marble-floored lobby is flooded with natural light from the atrium above. One of Europe’s finest design studios has produced a balanced interior with rich hardwoods, brass and polished copper, sparkling glass and intricate wrought iron. The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout, and imaginatively furnished with harmonious colour schemes, all designed to create a serene atmosphere.
MS George Eliot
The five-star MS George Eliot – named after one of the leading English novelists of the 19th century – is 110 metres of fine Swiss engineering and craftsmanship. As with all Riviera Travel cruise ships, MS George Eliot was built to the highest specifications and strict safety regulations by Scylla AG, renowned builders of the most modern cruisers in Europe.
![What to expect on board a Riviera cruise](/https/www.telegraph.co.uk/content/dam/riviera-cuisine.jpg?imwidth=350)
MS Douro Elegance
Constructed with the latest technology and a strong environmental ethic, the ship retains a classic style reminiscent of a bygone era. This five-star, fully-air-conditioned river cruiser has been purpose-built to fit the unique size limitations of the Douro’s five locks. Accommodating just 119 guests, the ship feels light and airy, and features all the facilities you would expect in a desirable hotel.
![What to expect on board a Riviera cruise](/https/www.telegraph.co.uk/content/dam/riviera-music.jpg?imwidth=350)
Cabins and suites
- Waiting beyond the wooden door is a spacious cabin full of homely touches. Riviera Travel cabins and suites are some of the largest on any river cruise vessel.
- Every cabin has a modern en-suite bathroom and shower with thick fluffy towels, slippers and free toiletries. The hotel-style double bed has cotton linen sheets and super soft pillows. If you’d prefer twin beds, just ask.
- Your cabin is your sanctuary, so tea and coffee are a must. You’ll be pleased to see well-loved British brands on offer. You’ll find ample storage space, a safe for your valuables, a small desk, flat-screen TV, hairdryer, telephone and free Wi-Fi.
- Over 80% of cabins have French or full balconies. They extend your living space and give you a vantage point from which to admire the view. You’ll see ports appear from around the river bend and watch cities drift away as you relax with a drink.
Onboard activities
- There is plenty to entertain you on board. On the sun deck, sip a drink on a lounger, sit back with a book, or take a dip in the splash pool or Jacuzzi (available on most vessels) with the sun on your face.
- Life on board is relaxed and sociable. The ships carry 178 guests maximum, so it’s easy to make new friends. You’re sure to meet like-minded people who share your love of travel, history, art, gardens, food and wine. Simply head to the bar and lounge, the social hub of the ship. Why not test the bartender’s skills by ordering a decadent cocktail? Selected alcoholic drinks are complimentary on European cruises*. Freetea and coffee is served throughout the day.
- Evenings might include a performance on board by a classical quartet or local folk dancers. Live entertainment is chosen to give a taste of your host port. You can also attend quizzes, expert talks, demonstrations and card games. The highlight of the social calendar is the Captain’s Dinner, a chance to get dressed up, mingle and meet the captain.
View our partner’s full collection of river cruises and more or call 0330 818 8569
Terms and conditions: *Unlimited quantity of drinks at lunch and from 6pm to midnight while on board (selected drinks available). Calls charged at local rates. Lines open Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat 9am-5pm and Sun 10am-4pm. Travel insurance not included. Holidays provided by Riviera Travel (co. no. 1869298; ABTA V4744 & ATOL 3430 protected), a company independent of Telegraph Media Group Ltd. Terms and conditions apply. For deposit details and all terms and conditions, visit telegraph.co.uk/tt-traveltcs. See the Data Protection Notice in today’s Personal Column.