The joys of solo river cruises with Riviera Travel

30 July 2025

Travelling by yourself is an opportunity to connect with the world on your terms at your own speed. For those looking to pair independent exploration with the comforts of luxury, Riviera’s river cruises for solo travellers provide the perfect getaway. These curated journeys allow you to immerse yourself in remarkable destinations while enjoying the ease of all-inclusive travel. Whether you’re new to travelling solo or a seasoned adventurer, a river cruise offers a unique and fulfilling way to see Europe.

The joys of solo river cruises with Riviera Travel

Explore unique destinations

One of the highlights of a river cruise is visiting Europe’s most beautiful and culturally rich locations. Riviera’s expertly crafted itineraries take you directly to the heart of iconic cities and charming towns, from the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley to the storybook streets of Strasbourg. Because the ships dock centrally, you can step right off and start exploring immediately.

Solo travellers have the benefit of optional guided tours that balance local insight with personal flexibility. Whether you’re admiring Vienna’s historic Ringstrasse or wandering Prague’s cobbled alleyways, each destination offers its own blend of stunning history and modern appeal. And since you’re travelling at a relaxed pace, there’s always time to savour a riverside café, tour a hidden gem, or enjoy the local culture at your leisure.

Comfort and luxury on the water

Riviera’s fleet of modern river ships feels more like a boutique hotel on water. For solo travellers, the experience starts in a thoughtfully designed cabin, complete with panoramic views of the river—a front-row seat to Europe’s jaw-dropping scenery. Relaxation is easy with spacious lounges, elegant dining areas, and outdoor decks perfect for soaking in the sights.

Dining on board is an experience in itself. Three-course meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients invite you to sample the flavours of Europe, from a perfectly prepared Wiener Schnitzel in Austria or handcrafted desserts inspired by French patisserie. And because all of this is included, there’s no need to stress over planning or budgeting along the way.

The ideal blend of solo time and social connection

Some might assume solo travel means being alone, but Riviera’s cruises strike the perfect balance. Designed exclusively for single travellers, these voyages create a welcoming space to connect with others.

Shared excursions, communal dining experiences, and onboard activities naturally foster conversations and camaraderie. You could be engaging in a lively discussion over a glass of wine one day or sharing your favourite city highlights during the evening on another; the cruise provides plenty of opportunities to meet fellow like-minded travellers. At the same time, the ship design and flexible itineraries ensure you can enjoy quiet moments to yourself whenever needed. Riviera’s no single supplement policy means you’ll also have a cabin entirely for yourself - a private retreat to unwind after a day of exploring.

Effortless travel with everything included

Travelling solo can often mean juggling logistics, but that’s where Riviera stands out. From the moment you book your trip, all the small details are taken care of. Flights, transfers, guided tours, and onboard dining are included, so you can simply focus on enjoying the experience. With ships that dock right in the heart of Europe’s most captivating locations, there’s no need to deal with the hassle of long transfers or complicated itineraries. Each day is seamlessly planned, whether you’re exploring medieval castles in Germany, drifting past the lavender fields of Provence, or stepping into Amsterdam’s world-class museums.

To book your solo river cruise, speak to your Travel Counsellor today.

Meet the new ships set to transform Oceania Cruises in 2027

24 July 2026

Oceania Cruises is preparing for an exceptional 2027, with two new ships joining its fleet within a matter of months. Oceania Sonata™, the first ship in the revolutionary Sonata Class, will make her debut in August, followed by Oceania Aurelia™ in November. Both ships will bring a fresh take on the refined, small-ship experience for which Oceania Cruises is known, combining residential-style interiors, thoughtfully planned itineraries, highly personalised service, and the exceptional dining behind its reputation for The Finest Cuisine at Sea®.

Why the Douro should be your next river cruise

24 July 2026

River cruising has a wonderful way of slowing the pace of travel, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in a destination rather than simply passing through it. That couldn't have been more true for our Head Office colleague, Janet Whitingham, who recently returned from Riviera Travel's ‘Highlights of the Douro Valley & Salamanca’ itinerary on board MS Riviera Rose. Sailing through one of Europe's oldest wine regions, Janet discovered a journey that combines spectacular scenery, charming riverside towns, exceptional food and wine, and fascinating history - all while unpacking only once.

Japan in 2028: See more aboard the renewed Celebrity Solstice

24 July 2026

Celebrity Cruises’ new 2028 sailings offer an easy way to experience Japan’s energetic cities, historic districts, mountain scenery, and celebrated food, all aboard Celebrity Solstice following its $250 million makeover. With thoughtfully planned itineraries, longer stays in key ports, and plenty of Japanese-inspired experiences on board, guests can explore more without constantly packing, changing hotels, or organising complicated rail journeys.

The joys of solo river cruises with Riviera Travel

Meet the new ships set to transform Oceania Cruises in 2027

Why the Douro should be your next river cruise

Japan in 2028: See more aboard the renewed Celebrity Solstice

Keep dreaming with us

Every unforgettable journey starts with the right person by your side.