Riviera Travel Welcomes New North American Advisory Board for First Meeting

Fort Lauderdale HQ Sessions Covered the State of the River Cruise Industry, Progress Update on Brand’s Aggressive U.S. Growth Plan & Collaboration on Innovative Travel Advisor Programs

 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – (September 26, 2025) – On September 23, Riviera Travel welcomed members of its new North American Agent Advisory Board for an inaugural meeting at the brand’s U.S. headquarters in Fort Lauderdale, marking a significant milestone in the company’s aggressive regional growth campaign. A select group of advisors were appointed to the new board and gathered to celebrate Riviera’s success thus far in 2025, sharing insights and guidance to help further drive the brand’s future expansion. The day, spent alongside Riviera Travel’s executive team – including Phil Hullah, chief executive officer; Stuart Milan, president of North America; Marilyn Conroy, executive vice president of business development; and Eric Schmit, vice president of sales for North America – concluded with a cocktail reception and dinner.

 

“Over the past 40 years, collaboration with the travel advisor community has been a central part of Riviera Travel’s success, and as we expand our river cruise product – with a laser target on gaining North American market share – we are certainly more committed to our partners than ever,” said Stuart Milan, president of North America for Riviera Travel. “The new advisory board was launched to demonstrate just how important this group is to our business and give our executive team the chance to listen and learn, gaining valuable insights and identifying new ways to continue forward on our path of innovation and growth.”

 

Members of the board include the following, who represent a dynamic cross-section of industry leaders:

•       Jenn Lee, president of TPI
•       Tara Minson, president of InteleTravel
•       Bill Coyle, vice president of agent engagement at KHM
•       Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacations/World Travel Holdings
•       Eric Maryanov, owner and president of All-Travel
•       Anthony Hamawy, president of Cruise.com

 

Key discussions during the inaugural meeting highlighted Riviera’s strong performance already in 2025 and outlook on the North American market. The group reviewed new tools Riviera is offering to support the trade, such as its new website and Riviera Explorer – the recently launched digital training platform.  Upcoming technology enhancements, including API integrations with Revelex, Odysseus, and VacationPort were shared by the Riviera leadership team. In addition, the board discussed the continued evolution of Riviera’s product, including the launch of its dedicated solo ship and Mekong ship. The session also addressed plans to expand the brand’s sales team with new regional sales directors, strengthen its inside sales department, and further build out support functions across reservations and customer service.

 

Riviera is North America’s only all-inclusive, premier river cruise line. As a result of the momentum generated by the brand’s 2025 growth campaign, emphasizing its one-stop-shop approach and the unveiling of a multitude of new services, amenities, and programs, North American operations are on track to see more than 80 percent growth this year.

 

“It is awesome that Riviera has launched an Advisory Board to learn more about North American consumers from the Travel Advisor community,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacation/World Travel Holdings. “As a member of the board, I am honored to contribute and provide Riviera with feedback so they can enhance their value proposition to North American consumers.  Our time together was collaborative, informative and exciting to learn about the future growth for the brand.”

 

Following recent announcements — including the launch of the world’s first dedicated solo ship and the introduction of Riviera Alba on the Mekong River, marking the brand’s entry into Asia — Riviera is continuing its global expansion and offering new opportunities for North American travelers and advisors. The brand also has a variety of new offerings planned for the months ahead, further strengthening its growth and innovation. 

 

Stay up-to-date on the latest news by following the company on Facebook Facebook.com/RivieraTravelUSA, Instagram @Rivieratravelusa, and LinkedIn.

 

About Riviera Travel

Riviera Travel is accelerating its presence in the U.S. market with the recent opening of its North American headquarters in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, bringing ultra-premium river cruise experiences to American travelers. With more than 40 years of heritage as the UK’s largest river cruise and tour operator, Riviera Travel operates a fleet of 13 custom-designed ships sailing along Europe’s most iconic waterways, including the Danube, Douro, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Seine, and the Dutch Waterways. The company is renowned for its exceptional cruise directors and local guides, immersive itineraries, and elegant ships. Riviera Travel is also a leader in the solo travel market, offering more dedicated solo traveler departures than any other river cruise brand including a dedicated ship for solo travelers. Each of Riviera’s ships feature amenities such as a panoramic observation lounge, five-star dining, a spa and wellness area, and a sun deck, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere for travelers exploring Europe’s rivers and landscapes. Riviera Travel consistently earns high marks for guest satisfaction and value, making it a top choice for discerning travelers seeking memorable river cruise experiences.