Riviera Travel will expand its European river cruise fleet with the introduction of Riviera Rhapsody, scheduled to enter service in April 2028.
Built for the North American market, the vessel will join the line’s Radiance-class series alongside Riviera Radiance, Riviera Resplendence and Riviera Reflection. The newbuild has been designed with split-level architecture, elevated ceilings and broad public spaces intended to create an open, residential atmosphere throughout the ship.
Public areas will include a two-storey lounge and three dining venues comprising the main restaurant, the tapas-style Mosaic venue and the Riverview Bistro, which will feature panoramic glazing, an open kitchen and outdoor seating.
Accommodation aboard Riviera Rhapsody will consist of 89 cabins across three passenger decks. Among the principal categories are 334-square-foot Grand Suites fitted with separate living and sleeping areas, king-size beds, private balconies and full bathrooms. The ship will also offer 258-square-foot Superior Suites with French balconies and sitting areas, in addition to standard staterooms with indoor seating and French balconies. Entry-level cabins on the lower deck will be equipped with fixed windows.
Riviera Travel stated that the vessel represents a further investment in the North American market and reflects continued demand for contemporary European river cruising. The company indicated that the ship’s design and deployment strategy were intended to combine modern comfort with immersive itineraries across the continent’s inland waterways.
Riviera Rhapsody is scheduled to debut on April 1st, 2028 on the “Bruges, Medieval Flanders, Amsterdam & The Dutch Bulbfields” itinerary through the Dutch waterways. During the summer season, the vessel will reposition to the Rhine River for additional European sailings.