Riviera Travel River Cruises, the UK’s leading river cruise line, has announced an exciting new addition to its fleet with the upcoming launch of Riviera Resplendence in 2026. The announcement comes as part of Riviera’s continued expansion of its fleet, following the launch of Riviera Rose and Riviera Radiance in 2025.
Riviera Resplendence marks the third vessel in a new generation of ships for the cruise line, showcasing a contemporary design that places the brand name front and centre, moving away from its previous theme of honouring famous British authors. The new ship will feature luxurious amenities, including a split-level bar and restaurant, a pool with sundeck, a spa and wellness area, a fitness centre, and 89 state-of-the-art staterooms. Guests can also opt for the ultra-spacious Grand suites and Superior suites, which boast expansive balconies for picturesque river views.
Hosting up to 178 passengers, Riviera Resplendence will offer the cruise line’s largest suites to date. The impressive Grand Balcony suites, measuring a generous 32 square metres, come complete with a separate balcony and lounge area. In addition, the ship will feature Super suites and Double Cabins, all equipped with French balconies, providing a sophisticated and comfortable river cruising experience.
Dining will be a highlight on Riviera Resplendence, with three unique venues to choose from. Mosaic, one of the dining options also available on its sister ship Riviera Radiance, will serve up a selection of European-river-inspired small plates. The Market menu will offer a variety of fresh fish and meat dishes, while the Garden menu will cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences.
Steven Taylor, International Sales Manager at Riviera Travel, expressed excitement over the launch, saying: “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, while ensuring everything we do – both on and off our ships – is unmistakably Riviera.”
In addition to its luxurious offerings, Riviera Resplendence will be the first ship in the fleet to qualify for the prestigious Gold Standard on the Green Awards programme for shipping, thanks to its innovative design and sustainable features.
Riviera Travel River Cruises is also offering an early bird sale for 2026 itineraries, with prices frozen at 2025 rates until 15th December 2024. The cruise line’s growing fleet, combined with enticing booking incentives, makes it one of the most competitive river cruise operators for Australian travellers looking to explore Europe’s scenic waterways.
With its five-star ships accommodating between 126 and 176 guests, Riviera delivers a more relaxed sailing experience, complete with a range of onboard facilities, including a restaurant, bistro, wellness centre, and dedicated concierge service. Guests can enjoy the services of a Cruise Director, along with curated excursions in every port.
Travellers also benefit from the opportunity to combine itineraries for extended back-to-back river cruising experiences. Riviera Travel’s upcoming schedule for 2026 promises to be its most expansive yet, offering an impressive 17 river cruises, five combination cruises, five themed journeys, seven cruises with exclusive tour extensions, and eight sailings dedicated to solo travellers. This variety ensures there’s an itinerary to suit every traveller’s needs and interests.
Riviera’s commitment to delivering quality and value for money has made it a popular choice for Australians seeking a unique and immersive way to explore Europe. As more airlines continue to increase flights between Australia and Europe, it’s never been easier for Aussies to join a Riviera cruise and experience Europe from a fresh perspective.
For reservations or more information, contact your local travel agent or connect with Riviera Travel River Cruises in Australia on 1300 857 437. Alternatively, visit www.rivieratravel.com.au.
