Riverside Luxury Cruises is making waves—quite literally—on Europe’s most iconic rivers. With exquisite interiors, exceptional service, all-suite accommodations, and elevated dining backed by curated wine selections, Riverside Ravel offers a river cruise experience unlike any other. For travel professionals and prospective clients alike, this is a product that overdelivers on luxury at every nautical mile.
THE GERLACH FAMILY’S HOSPITALITY HERITAGE SETS RIVERSIDE APART
Behind the brand is the Gerlach family, known for the Seaside Collection of boutique resorts from the Canary Islands to the Maldives. CEO Gregor Gerlach saw an extraordinary opportunity in the former Crystal Cruises river fleet. With the acquisition of three purpose-built luxury vessels—now named Mozart, Debussy, and Ravel—Riverside Cruises launched with a clear mission: to elevate European river cruising to the standards of a luxury hotel stay.
Ravel, which sails the Rhône and Saône rivers, embodies this mission beautifully.
ALL-SUITE LUXURY: EVERY ROOM, A RIVERFRONT RETREAT
Unlike most river cruise lines, every Riverside Ravel stateroom is an above-waterline suite. Each offers a king-sized bed facing a panoramic river view, a full-size bathroom with dual vanities and walk-in showers, ample closet space, and personalized butler and maid service. Add nightly sweets, in-suite refrigerators, and thoughtfully curated décor, and your clients may never want to leave their suite—until they discover what’s outside.
A FIVE-STAR FLOATING HOTEL EXPERIENCE
Public spaces onboard reflect a commitment to design and indulgence. Palm Court, with its glass ceiling, hosts everything from port briefings to live performances. The onboard spa, fitness center, and inviting swimming pool ensure relaxation between ports. The Vista Deck offers top-deck views and Riverside’s clever retractable Vista Bar—designed to vanish when navigating under bridges.
CULINARY CREDIBILITY, FROM CROISSANTS TO CHÂTEAUNEUF
Dining aboard Riverside Ravel is an experience unto itself. French Chef Benoit, whose résumé spans Brittany to Latin America, brings regional inspiration to life daily. From handmade croissants and house-churned butter to multi-course menus spotlighting local specialties, the cuisine reflects both artistry and authenticity. Riverside chefs shop local markets at every port—such as Lyon’s renowned Paul Bocuse Market—often turning ingredients into evening dishes hours later.
AN ITINERARY INFUSED WITH FLAVOR
Ravel’s Rhône and Saône itinerary doubles as a culinary journey. Think truffle hunting, visits to Valrhona’s Cité du Chocolat, and gourmet lunches ashore. Wine lovers will be especially thrilled: from onboard pairing classes to vineyard visits by e-bike, the connection between wine and place is deeply celebrated. The highlight? A golden-hour Signature Event at Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s ancient château ruins, followed by a tasting at Maison Bouachon.
FLEXIBILITY THAT BUILDS TRUST—ESPECIALLY IN CHALLENGING CONDITIONS
River cruising can be impacted by water levels. On our journey, high waters kept Ravel docked in Lyon. Rather than canceling excursions, Riverside fulfilled each one with style and professionalism. Passengers who’d expected to cruise the Saône were instead treated to seamless logistics and premium experiences, whether it was wine tasting in Beaune or exploring Lyon’s culinary treasures.
Riverside even honored a Burgundy wine trail excursion for just two guests (including this writer), complete with a private driver, local guide, and a sumptuous lunch at Le Cheval Noir in Beaune. That kind of commitment creates lasting client loyalty—and earns repeat bookings.
WHY RIVERSIDE SHOULD BE ON EVERY TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL’S RADAR
With its luxury pedigree, all-inclusive pricing, and personalized service, Riverside Ravel offers agents an aspirational product to present to discerning clients. And for clients accustomed to high-end travel, Riverside offers the comfort, cuisine, and culture they expect—paired with the novelty and intimacy of river cruising.
All photos credit Monte Mathews
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