Riviera Travel, an award-winning river cruise and escorted tour specialist, proudly celebrated the launch of its newest five-star cruise ship, MS Riviera Radiance, with its official naming ceremony, which took place from 25-27 November 2025.
Sarah Roberts, CEO of Practical Action Riviera Travel’s official charity for tackling poverty and climate change, officially christened the vessel during the festive themed event on the Danube. The event marks an exciting milestone for the growing brand, following the ship’s maiden voyage earlier this year. Riviera Travel chose Sarah Roberts as Godmother of MS Riviera Radiance to reflect the strong partnership between the two organisations and their shared commitment to responsible travel.
Instead of the traditional champagne smash, the team marked the moment in a more environmentally friendly way by pouring champagne over a beautiful ice sculpture of the ship. It created a thoughtful and memorable celebration that felt perfectly in tune with the values of both Riviera Travel and Practical Action. Sarah Roberts Practical Action CEO said: “It’s a privilege to work alongside Riviera Travel on a partnership that truly reflects shared values.
“Their commitment to responsible travel and long-term support has already made a meaningful difference to communities in Kisumu, and it’s inspiring to see how deeply they care about creating positive impact. Together, we’re demonstrating what’s possible when purposeful travel and practical, people-centred solutions come together - improving lives, protecting the environment, and empowering communities to shape their own futures.” During the ceremony in Budapest, Riviera Travel unveiled bold plans for fleet expansion, confirming the launch of MS Riviera Resplendence in 2026 and MS George Eliot, the world’s first river cruise ship dedicated entirely to solo travellers, in 2027.
These future launches, will join recent introductions Riviera Rose and the newly named Riviera Radiance, further underlining the company’s position as the leader in River cruise. These launches showcase Riviera Travel’s ambition to accelerate growth and continue investment in elevating guest experience across European waterways. Guests at the event soaked up Budapest’s festive spirit, exploring the cities famous Christmas markets before enjoying exclusive ship tours and a gala dinner aboard MS Riviera Radiance.
Attendees brought together a prestigious guest list including Riviera Travel’s senior leadership team, key trade partners, and a select group of media. Designed specifically for the British market, MS Riviera Radiance offers a contemporary yet welcoming style throughout. Highlights include a striking lobby designed to create an immediate sense of space, a new split-level layout connecting the lounge, bar and restaurant for a lighter and more dynamic atmosphere, and cabins inspired by boutique hotels with bespoke furnishings and thoughtful details.
The ship also debuts Mosaic, Riviera’s new third dining venue. Inspired by mosaic tiles, where many small pieces come together to create something beautiful. Mosaic brings together some of the finest elements of European cuisine to create a warm, intimate dining experience. With its lower deck position and smaller windows, the design team embraced the opportunity to give the space a more atmospheric feel, elevated with subtle oriental inspired touches.
Phil Hullah, CEO of Riviera Travel, said: “We could not be prouder of MS Riviera Radiance.
“She reflects everything we stand for – innovation, exceptional quality, understated luxury and the kind of experience that keeps our guests travelling with us time and time again. With our most spacious suites to date and the introduction of a third dining venue, Riviera Radiance sets a new standard on Europe’s waterways. We are already receiving glowing feedback from guests who have travelled on the ship so far. Her naming ceremony, alongside the confirmation of two further ships for 2027 and 2028, marks an exciting new chapter for Riviera and our future.”
MS Riviera Radiance is now sailing the Danube, with itineraries through Hungary, Slovakia and Austria. Explore some of the cruises she features on here:
