Review: Riviera Travel – Upscale Comfort with a British Twist

If you’re overwhelmed by choosing a river cruise, this guide will help you figure out if Riviera Travel fits your style. This is Real Talk from a Travel Advisor Who’s Been Onboard

I recently stepped aboard a Riviera Travel river cruise to get a true feel for what this brand is all about—and let me tell you, the experience felt like being welcomed into an elegant home across the pond.

During my time on board, I had the chance to hear from Marilyn Conroy about what Riviera means to her, and meet Bruce Metzendorf—whose passion for guest experience was unmistakable.

Websites are great for specs, sure—but nothing compares to walking the decks, meeting the crew, and actually feeling the onboard vibe. her. Meeting Bruce Metzendorf also made me realize how this brand goes above and beyond for their guests.

The Riviera Vibe

When I asked the team to describe their brand in three words, they said:
Legacy. British. Confidence.

I’d add:
Polished. Guaranteed. Delightful.

Every river cruise line has its own personality, and Riviera made me feel like I was staying with friends in the UK—where the service was warm, the design was elegant, and the food felt like a highlight, not an afterthought.

If you’re planning a milestone trip and want to make the right call,
I’d be glad to help match you to the right cruise for your priorities.
No pressure, just honest guidance.

Who Riviera Travel Is Perfect For ✅

• You want a premium experience without pretension.

• You’re curious to try something new, but want peace of mind—they offer a Happiness Guarantee: if you’re not enjoying your trip by Day 2, they’ll help get you home and refund you. (Seriously.)

• You appreciate a touch of British charm and hospitality.

Who Might Skip This One ❌

• Maybe if you really don’t like British things? (Is that even a thing? Asking for a friend.)

Riviera is for the traveler who values comfort, class, and the freedom to explore without worry. The onboard atmosphere felt welcoming and relaxed—but still refined. This isn’t a party cruise—it’s a gracious getaway.

If that sounds like your kind of trip, I’d love to help you see if Riviera is your perfect match.

Still comparing river cruise lines?

The wrong cruise line can turn an unforgettable trip into a missed moment - but the right one? It becomes a core memory. Let’s make sure you choose the best one that fits you.

Confused by all the river cruise options? This 1 page cheat sheet shows you the differences between 10 major brands - at a glance. Riviera is known for great value, but it’s not the only option out there. I put together a one-page River Cruise Cheat Sheet that lines up 10 major brands side by side—so you can see exactly how Riviera stacks up against Viking, AmaWaterways, Uniworld, and more.

👉 Drop your email below and I’ll send the guide straight to your inbox. It’s the quickest way to figure out which river cruise is your best fit.