The UK-based Riviera Travel/fleet has expanded its 2026 cruise portfolio with the introduction of new festive sailings and themed itineraries.
The additions include holiday voyages along the Seine, Rhine, and Danube, featuring visits to renowned Christmas markets, as well as three culinary-themed voyages that highlight regional flavors and hidden gastronomic gems of Europe.
Festive Cruises for 2026
Among the latest offerings is the "Magical Paris & Festive Seine River Cruise," a 5-day itinerary aboard MS Jane Austen. This round-trip voyage from Paris includes visits to historic country estates adorned with seasonal decor, a guided tour of Bizy Castle with a curated tasting experience, and explorations of three French châteaux showcasing unique holiday traditions. Guests will also enjoy a private evening organ recital at Vernon Cathedral and have the opportunity to explore Parisian Christmas markets. This itinerary is scheduled for December 2026.
Riviera Travel’s festive cruise collection further includes the "Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise" and "Christmas on the Danube." Dedicated departures for solo travelers are also available, with no single supplement across all cabins. These include "The Danube’s Imperial Cities & Yuletide Markets River Cruise" and "Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise." Riviera Travel’s Christmas market voyages visit renowned destinations such as Budapest, Rüdesheim, Cologne, Vienna, and Paris, offering guests an immersive seasonal experience.
Themed Cruises for 2026
Expanding its range of specialty voyages, Riviera Travel introduces new gastronomy-themed cruises designed to immerse travelers in Europe’s culinary heritage. The following itineraries are now available for booking in 2026:
- Gastronomy of the Danube – This 8-day voyage navigates Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria, featuring 15 curated shore excursions. Guests will sample apple strudel at Schönbrunn Palace, taste the wines of the Wachau Valley, and explore Budapest’s bustling markets. Departures are scheduled from April to October 2026.
- Gastronomy of the Rhine & Moselle – Spanning 8 days, this itinerary includes 11 immersive experiences across Germany. Highlights include tastings in Bernkastel and Rüdesheim, as well as a visit to the Koblenz Wine and Sparkling Wine Museum. Departures are available between April and August 2026.
- Gastronomy of the Seine – This 8-day itinerary explores the culinary traditions of Normandy, with 13 included experiences. Travelers will enjoy macaron tastings in Paris, wine and cheese pairings at Bizy Castle, and a tarte Tatin cooking demonstration onboard. Departures are scheduled from April through October 2026.
Riviera Travel’s 2026 cruise collection continues to expand, offering passengers an array of expertly curated itineraries that combine cultural exploration with culinary and seasonal highlights.