MS George Elliot will pave the way in 2027 as the world’s first river cruise ship operating exclusively for solo travellers in a landmark move that CEO Phil Hullah says marks “a bold new chapter for river cruising”
Riviera has reported a 66% year-on-year increase in solo river cruises booking via the trade, with single travellers making up nearly 13% of all bookings.
The world-first exclusive solo ship will set sail on her debut itinerary in June 2027, offering travellers a full season of departures. The new itineraries feature 15-day sailings – the longest solo river cruises on the market – including ‘Budapest to the Black Sea’ from £5,699 per person, and ‘Cruise the Heart of Europe – Rhine, Main & Danube’ from £5,599 per person.
Travellers can also enjoy a free upgrade from middle to upper deck on 2027 European river cruises, including aboard MS George Elliot, by booking before October 31st, 2025 and quoting ‘Upgrade 27’ at checkout.
It is not just MS George Elliot leading Riviera’s river cruise evolution, as the brand-new long-haul Rivera Alba will also make her debut in the same season navigating the Mekong.
Phil continued, “The debut of Riviera Alba on the Mekong marks our first step beyond Europe, expanding our horizons and giving our guests the opportunity to experience Asia’s iconic waterways with the same trusted Riviera service.”
Riviera Alba will introduce three new long-haul itineraries in 2027, including the 16-day ‘Vietnam, Cambodia and Mekong’ river cruise from £4,799; the 16-day ‘Panoramas of China’ from £5,999; and the 14-day ‘India’s Golden Triangle and the Ganges’ cruise from £4,099.
