In this conversation with Riviera River Cruises, the company details how innovative itineraries and an unmatched value proposition are redefining premium river cruising
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Leisure Group Travel: How do you define Riviera’s position in the premium river cruise market for North American groups?
Riviera River Cruises: We are the top of the premium river cruise lines but offer less than premium prices. Price value is our mantra.
LGT: What do you feel differentiates the onboard experience from other European river cruise lines?
RRC: First, we are one of the most inclusive of all premium or upper premium lines. Our cruises offer virtually an open bar from 10 a.m. to midnight – the only premium line to do this. We have the best Trust Pilot score from our guests, 4.7, no other line beats this. We offer a happiness guaranteed program: if guests are not completely satisfied with their river cruise and they let us know by Day 2, we will make arrangements to bring them home and give them a full refund. We have never had to do this as our clients are happy as our Trust Pilot scores confirm. We offer choices for shore excursions, not just one included complimentary. Gratuities are totally at our client’s discretion, not mandatory.
LGT: Which itineraries are currently generating the strongest interest from organized groups?
RRC: Danube, as it’s the iconic river, and Douro in Portugal, as it’s relatively new. Riviera boasts the most innovative itineraries. We have been in business primarily in the UK for 41 years, marketing in North America for seven years and have won many awards for our product in general and innovative itineraries. We also operate over 30 departures each year with no single supplement across all grades, this is perfect for the ever growing solo or single market. The group policy also applies to the solo departures.
LGT: What types of affinity groups are the best fit for Riviera?
RRC: Collection of friends and family, yacht clubs, church groups, book clubs. We have many themed cruises on various topics such as art, history, food, wine, gardening etc. Clubs with this common interest are perfect for Riviera. With the themed cruises, the benefits are already made for the group – I.E. special wine tasting events on wine cruise, visits to famous museums or art cruises.
LGT: What are some of your group benefits, minimum group size, and how are amenities or tour conductor credits structured?
RRC: We have the best group policy in the industry. Tour conductors, on the basis of one for seven, the eighth person free. We take the group space out of inventory and hold with no deposit for six weeks, giving the partner plenty of time to market. We assist marketing efforts with flyers, webinars, cruise nights, etc. Our all-inclusive drinks package makes it so much nicer for groups not having the hassle of signing every time you want a drink.
LGT: For groups new to river cruising, why is Riviera a smart entry point?
RRC: Rivera offers the best value for money with the most innovative itineraries. We are extremely user-friendly to groups assisting in sales and marketing as well as holding space without a financial commitment. Our ships hold a maximum of 178 guests, which is small compared to Ocean Cruise Lines, therefore the group feels more special and gets true personalized attention. Everything is included: meals, alcohol, tours dining in the alternative restaurants, there are no hidden charges. We can offer one-stop shopping namely not to just provide a river cruise but provide the air, hotels, transfers, the full package.
Your next group adventure starts here! Get your free copy of Leisure Group Travel magazine and explore the best destinations, itineraries, and travel ideas.
