Experience long-haul river cruising with Riviera Travel

27 February 2026

Long-haul travel is no longer just about ticking off landmarks; it’s about seeing a destination properly, with the right balance of exploration and downtime. That’s exactly where Riviera Travel’s river cruise and tour combinations come into their own. These itineraries begin with expertly guided touring in some of Asia’s most iconic cities, before transitioning to a river cruise where the pace softens and everything is seamlessly organised for you. For travellers who want depth without the hassle of planning every detail, it’s a smart way to explore further afield.

Experience long-haul river cruising with Riviera Travel

Introducing Riviera Alba on the Mekong

A major attraction is Riviera Alba, Riviera’s first-ever owned ship, built specifically for the Mekong River. Carrying a limited number of guests, it offers a more intimate on-board atmosphere, with spacious suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows so the river remains the focal point. Public areas include a restaurant serving a mix of regional dishes and international cuisine, a comfortable lounge for evening talks and drinks, and a sun deck with a pool for relaxed afternoons between excursions.

Vietnam, Cambodia, and the Mekong River

The Vietnam, Cambodia, and Mekong River cruise mixes cultural highlights with in-depth local experiences. The journey typically begins with guided touring in Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City, before moving into Cambodia to explore Phnom Penh and the temples of Angkor near Siem Reap. Once on the Mekong aboard Riviera Alba, daily excursions bring visits to floating markets, riverside workshops, and traditional villages, offering insight into everyday life along the water. The contrast between busy cities and quieter river communities gives this itinerary real variety, while the cruise element ensures travel days are comfortable and unhurried.

Panoramas of China with a Yangtze River cruise

This cruise covers an impressive sweep of the country’s most significant sights. Guided stays in Beijing and Shanghai frame the experience, with time to explore landmarks such as the Great Wall and the historic Bund, while Xi’an introduces the remarkable Terracotta Army. The Yangtze River cruise provides a change of pace, sailing through the Three Gorges and past major engineering feats, including the vast dam project. Combining city stays with several nights on the river allows travellers to experience both China’s scale and its quieter, scenic stretches in one journey.

India’s golden triangle and the Ganges River

On this tour, Riviera pairs India’s most famous touring route with time on its most sacred river. The land programme takes in Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, including the Taj Mahal and a range of Mughal and Raj-era architecture, all explored alongside knowledgeable local guides. The cruise along the Ganges then reveals a different perspective, calling at riverside towns and temples where daily rituals and traditions play out on the ghats. As with all Riviera’s long-haul combinations, the logistics are handled throughout, allowing guests to focus on the experience rather than the practicalities of travelling in a vast and varied country.

To book your next long-haul adventure with Riviera Travel, get in touch with your Travel Counsellor today.

Why a festive river cruise with Riviera should be on your Christmas wish list

22 June 2026

One of the biggest advantages of travelling with Riviera Travel is the simplicity. Unpack once, settle into your floating hotel, and wake up in a new destination each day. Their contemporary ships provide a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, with spacious lounges, panoramic views, and attentive service throughout your journey. Add in the convenience of regional flight options available on selected departures, and it's easy to see why festive river cruising has become such a popular way to experience Europe's Christmas markets.

Where to cruise when: 6 destinations to book at the perfect time of year

19 June 2026

One of the biggest advantages of cruising is the ability to visit destinations when they're at their very best. Whether that's exploring Norway beneath the Midnight Sun, sailing through the Caribbean during the winter months, or discovering Japan during cherry blossom season, choosing the right destination at the right time can completely transform your holiday. If you're wondering where to cruise next, here are six destinations that are particularly rewarding during specific times of the year.

Which cruise is right for you? A guide to expedition, river, and small-ship cruising

19 June 2026

Cruising has never offered more choice. Beyond the familiar image of large ocean liners sailing between famous ports, there's a whole world of alternative cruise experiences designed around discovery, culture, and immersive travel. Whether you're dreaming of remote polar landscapes, Europe's historic waterways, or hidden coastal harbours that larger ships can't reach, there's a style of cruising to match the way you like to travel. The key is finding the one that's right for you.