Life Aboard: Sailing the Rhine Onboard Riviera Travel’s Geoffrey Chaucer

I was recently privileged to sail with Riviera Travel, traversing the beautiful Rhine River from Cologne, Germany to Basel, Switzerland aboard the vessel Geoffrey Chaucer.  

While this was my first European River cruise, it was actually my first sailing on the Rhine — and was also my first sailing with Riviera Cruises.  I had previously sailed on the Danube with both Tauck and Amadeus … explored the South of France with AMA Waterways … and did a lovely Tulip Time cruise with Avalon Waterways.

Riviera began operations as a tour operator in the UK in 1984.  They expanded into the river cruise market and began to reach into the U.S. market in 2015.

PUBLIC AREAS

Boarding the vessel, I was instantly impressed by the openness of the public areas.  The neutral color palate felt contemporary and welcoming.  The unobstructed floor-to-ceiling windows of the spacious lounge allows for exceptional viewing opportunities which was especially welcomed when we sailed through the breathtaking Rhine Gorge.

Riviera’s five-star vessels accommodate under 170 passengers and their fleet is among the youngest in the European river cruise market.  Their Swiss-built ships are virtually identical in design and feature the latest in technology.  The Berlitz Guide to River Cruising rates their vessels among the finest sailing European waterways.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Staff and crew have been warm and welcoming.  There was a bottle chilled champagne waiting in my room’s mini-fridge.  Guests are always delighted at the unexpected extras, and this is a nice touch that Riviera provides to all guests.

I traveled solo on this sailing and was assigned Room 302 … a very comfortable and spacious Superior Suite measuring 210 square feet.  The room provided more-than-adequate space for all my belongings with plenty of room left over should I have traveled with a companion.  The bathroom offered lovely finishes and outstanding space for toiletries and necessities.  The bedding was all comfy.

DINING

The food on my Riviera Waterways cruise was nothing short of exceptional.    The main dining room provided three multi-course meals daily.  Over the course of our 7-day cruise, I didn’t order anything that was less than spot on.  Portion sizes were generous, and on occasion I observed fellow travelers ordering extra appetizers or desserts which requests were cheerfully accommodated.  The staff inquires about allergy concerns when taking orders and there are always vegetarian selections on the menu as well.

There is a small specialty restaurant at the aft of Deck 3 that is available on first come/first serve basis for lunch or by reservation for dinner.  Honestly, the food in the main dining room was so good, that when I did avail myself of the specialty restaurant, I suffered a bit of “FOMO” – wondering what outstanding entrée I might miss in the main dining room!

FELLOW TRAVELERS

The majority of guests on my sailing were from the U.K.  They were a delightful and interesting bunch of fellow travelers.  The percentage of of U.S. passengers is expanding each year as Riviera continues to reach into the U.S. market. 

RHINE ITINERARY

As above indicated, this was my first Rhine sailing.  The itinerary was simply spectacular, sailing from Cologne, Germany to Basel, Switzerland, with opportunities to explore major cities and charming small villages.  A choice of excursions is included at all ports, with options to accommodate a variety of interests.  Walking tours also offer a “gentle walkers” option for those who may have mobility challenges or simply prefer a somewhat slower pace for their tour.  

This is an exceptional itinerary choice for wine lovers as you sail right through the heart of Germany’s wine region.   Options for visits to local wineries are included, and regional wines have been served onboard each evening with meals.   

One huge plus was the pacing of our trip which was different than any other provider I’ve sailed with.  Mornings tended to feel leisurely and relaxed … the cruise director would do a presentation in the lounge around 10 each morning and excursions generally scheduled right after lunch.  This is in marked contrast to other carriers where mornings typically feel rushed with a hurried breakfast and excursions departing around 8:30.  I LOVED this pacing, as it felt very much like I was actually on vacation and not an endurance run!

VALUE

Riviera is, quite simply, the best value currently to be had in the European river cruise market.  Having sailed on the competition, I can state that their experience is second to none other … and their current fares are significantly under the prevailing rate in the river cruise market.  If a European river cruise is on your travel bucket list … and if it isn’t it should be! … reach out for a no-obligation quote.  Questions?  I’m always happy to chat!  Touch base with me at 404.735.5774 or email ph@dancingmoontravel.com.