Viva Cruises has introduced Viva Boutique, a new premium river cruise brand, with its inaugural vessel, Viva Beyond, offering a luxury experience along the Seine. Launching week-long itineraries themed around art, food, and culture, the cruise line aims to provide an upscale yet accessible alternative in a market typically defined by high prices.
The itineraries start at approximately £282 per night and include all meals, beverages, and onboard entertainment. The ship docks in central locations, including a spot within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower, eliminating the need for additional hotel accommodation. An overnight stay and full day in Paris are built into the route, effectively combining a river cruise with a city break.
Viva Beyond, though not brand new, underwent a comprehensive refurbishment to present a contemporary and elegant atmosphere. The design features soft blush tones and modern furnishings, creating a sophisticated ambiance. Notably, half of the accommodations are suites, large by river cruise standards, with amenities such as dressing rooms, surprise gifts, bottomless minibars, in-room breakfast service, and boiling water taps. The ship accommodates up to 112 passengers, fostering a more intimate setting with personalized service.
Culinary offerings are central to the Viva Boutique experience. A standout is Moments, an intimate restaurant that presents a seven-course menu crafted by Michelin-starred chef David Goerne. Guests in all cabin categories dine there at least once during the cruise at no extra cost. The menu includes Goerne’s signature pâté en croute, alongside vegetarian options. Additional dining choices include a riverside restaurant and a casual brasserie serving French classics like onion soup, escargot, and boeuf bourguignon. Special onboard events celebrate local gastronomy, featuring afternoon tea with French pastries and an evening pairing oysters, steak tartare, and champagne.
Excursions are structured to encourage flexibility and value. An included tour visits Conflans and Auvers-sur-Oise, locations famously depicted by Vincent van Gogh. Optional shore excursions are offered separately, allowing guests to customize their activities without paying for unwanted trips, contrasting with many river cruise packages that bundle excursions into the fare.
In Rouen and Le Havre, passengers can explore historic and cultural sites independently. Viva also partners with a company providing classic Citroën 2CV sightseeing tours in Paris, offering a two-hour guided drive past landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe for £143 per person.
By combining carefully curated onboard experiences with strategic itinerary planning, Viva Boutique aims to balance indulgence with value, presenting a differentiated luxury river cruise product on the Seine.