By Geoff Percival,Stephen Aherne
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River cruise operator Riviera Travel has announced an industry first – the world’s first ship operating solely and exclusively for solo travellers.
The launch of the expanded MS George Eliot‘s service – for the 2027 cruise season – reflects the growing popularity in solo travel. This launch also marks a transformative moment for river cruising, showcasing Riviera’s commitment to “innovation, choice, and unforgettable travel experiences”.
Carrie Day, Country Manager for Ireland at Riviera Travel, said: “At Riviera Travel, we’re proud to be leading the way in the solo travel space. The launch of the world’s first solo-exclusive river cruise ship is a milestone not just for us, but for the industry. Everyone should have the chance to experience these special holidays, whether travelling with family, friends, or independently and it certainly responds to demand I’ve received directly from agents.
“By expanding our solo programme and introducing brand-new itineraries, including the longest solo river cruises yet, we’re giving travellers more choice, flexibility, and opportunity than ever before. While other operators might offer the occasional solo departure, our dedicated ship means we can truly put solo travellers centre stage, and we think that makes our offering second to none.“
The highlights:
The world’s first river cruise ship operating exclusively for solo guests, with the first sailing departing June 2027.
A full season of solo-exclusive departures, dramatically increasing capacity for independent travellers and putting them centre stage.
Two brand-new 15-day itineraries – the longest solo river cruises ever offered.
Early booking bonus: free upgrade from middle to upper deck on 2027 European river cruises (book by 31 October 2025).
Solo travel takes centre stage in Europe
Demand for solo river cruises is soaring. Riviera Travel has seen a 66% year-on-year increase in bookings via trade partners, with solo travellers now making up nearly 13% of all bookings. Almost half of these guests are repeat travellers, reflecting strong satisfaction, and the programme boasts a 61 Net Promoter Score. Revenue from solo guests has grown 52% year-on-year, highlighting the rising popularity of independent travel.
With 64% of solo travellers preferring solo-exclusive trips, it’s clear that more people are embracing the freedom of exploring alone while enjoying the camaraderie of like-minded adventurers.
MS George Eliot expands Riviera Travel’s solo programmeClassic itineraries now sailing on the ship include:
The Blue Danube for Solo Travellers – Vienna, Budapest & Salzburg: 8 days from €3,343 pp
Rhine Cruise to Switzerland for Solo Travellers: 8 days from €4,034pp
Rhine & Moselle for Solo Travellers: 8 days from €2,824pp
Rhine, Strasbourg & Heidelberg for Solo Travellers: 8 days from €4,034pp
Two brand-new 15-day solo itineraries, the longest ever for river cruising alone:
Budapest to the Black Sea: 15 days from €6559pp
Cruise the Heart of Europe – Rhine, Main & Danube: 15 days from €6,449pp
These journeys offer solo travellers the ultimate opportunity to experience Europe in depth, with the comfort and camaraderie of a ship operating exclusively for them.
To celebrate the launch, Riviera Travel is offering a free upgrade from middle to upper deck on European river cruises departing in 2027. The offer is valid for bookings made between 17th September and 31st October 2025, and agents must quote ‘Upgrade 27’ when booking to redeem. Offer applies to standard cabins and is subject to availability.
With the solo programme growing from 12 cruises with 42 departures to 27 cruises in 2027 and 42 in 2028, Riviera Travel now offers more dedicated solo river cruises than any other operator, putting independent travellers front and centre.
