The new premium ship will accommodate 116 passengers and feature 26 suites
Fort Lauderdale, Florida – October 14, 2024 – European river cruise specialist, VIVA Cruises, is taking the concept of exclusivity and enjoyment to a whole new level with the launch of its brand-new VIVA Boutique product, aimed at offering a premium experience to guests. VIVA BEYOND will be the operator’s first boutique river ship in line with VIVA Boutique – launching in May 2026 and sailing down the Seine.
Exclusive overall experience for the senses and soul
VIVA Boutique will offer an unparalleled experience that will transport guests into a world of exclusivity both ashore and on board. VIVA Boutique is a holistic concept that not only combines the amenities of a boutique hotel with the diverse experiences of a river cruise, but also appeals to the senses. Launching in 2026, VIVA BEYOND will be VIVA Cruises’ first boutique ship with a redefined exclusivity – from the elegant design to the exciting adventures available for guests.
“VIVA Boutique marks another important milestone in the success story of our young company. The development of our own boutique brand was a project close to our hearts, which we will offer to those guests who want to experience the extraordinary. VIVA BEYOND’s maiden voyage will take place on the picturesque Seine in May 2026. The new ship combines the best of both worlds: the comfort of a boutique hotel with the diversity of a river cruise,” says VIVA Cruises CEO, Andrea Kruse.
Elegant design meets feel-good atmosphere
VIVA BEYOND, part of the Scylla shipping company’s fleet, will undergo a comprehensive renovation in early 2026 to align with the new premium brand. With a spacious sun deck and a high-quality treatment area, relaxation and well-being are also ensured for the ship’s 116 passengers. Guests will have access to state-of-the-art fitness equipment as well as massages and wellness offers.
The new addition to the family will have more suites than any other ship in the VIVA Cruises’ fleet. Guests will be able to choose from twelve suites, four junior suites and, for the first time, ten spacious master suites.
All-inclusive enjoyment and exclusive experiences
VIVA BEYOND will set off on its maiden voyage in May 2026, with an eight-day cruise taking her from Paris via Normandy to the Atlantic coast, and back to the French capital. On board, passengers will experience unparalleled flair and atmosphere that captures the spirit of France. For all guests on the maiden voyage, two shore excursions on the theme of “Impressionism” will be included in the price.
VIVA BEYOND will also feature a comprehensive VIVA All-Inclusive product, which includes everything on board, so guests can relax and travel carefree.
VIVA BEYOND will be home to three first-class restaurants, including MOMENTS, where guests will be spoilt with culinary highlights at the highest level. In addition, guests will be also able to enjoy the finest French delicacies such as crêpes, macarons, and croissants once per trip – as well as a “VIVA Signature” experience in one of the shore excursions.
Travelers staying on a master suite will enjoy additional benefits, including the possibility of having breakfast in their cabins, seasonal delicacies, and a personal aperitif with the captain and hotel manager – accompanied by champagne and fine canapés. They will also receive the best choice of table in the restaurants and an exclusive shore excursion, included in the tour price.
Art, culture and culinary delights in harmony
VIVA Cruises’ new premium travel experience will begin on the river. VIVA BEYOND guests will have the chance to immerse themselves deeply in the world of art, culture and culinary delights of France – whether through the curated signature excursions of or the upscale ambience onboard. Within the new VIVA Boutique concept, guests will be able to choose from tours dedicated to the three main themes of “Impressionism,” “Culture & Lifestyle” and “Culinary”. Art lovers will experience the era of Impressionism in the footsteps of great masters such as van Gogh and Monet. Culture enthusiasts will enjoy exploring castles, palaces and fascinating cities along the Seine; while foodies will be treated to VIVA Boutique’s exquisite delicacies, regional wine specialties and a chat and drink with renowned top chefs.
Unique experiences on land and on board
Also new are three signature excursions. VIVA Boutique offers hand-picked excursions that combine art, culture and culinary delights with the charm and sophistication of the French lifestyle.
The first of the hand-picked tours (“Culinary”) will take guests to the impressive castle ruins of Château Gaillard – built by Richard the Lionheart. After their guided visit, guests will be able to enjoy local delicacies on a traditional apple farm.
Another signature excursion (“Culture & Lifestyle”) will have the Renaissance castle of La Roche-Guyon, near the Seine, as center stage. A tour of the former fortress will reveal an impressive variety of architectural styles, accompanied by stories of the different eras that shaped the building.
The third signature excursion (“Impressionism”) is about Auvers-sur-Oise, a village where impressionist artists such as Cézanne, Pissarro and Henri Rousseau spent significant time in. The excursion also includes a visit to the world-famous Paris art museum, the Musée d’Orsay; and to the Gardens of Étretat, with privileged views of the rugged Alabaster Coast and the Atlantic Ocean.
Once on board, guests will be treated to fine jazz, relaxed swing and classics sounds of the last few decades during the evenings. A highlight will be the show “Paris Pétille” with singer Titi Parisien, who will take guests on a musical journey through the City of Lights.
For more information about VIVA Cruises and to book your next cruise, please visit the VIVA Cruises website at www.viva-cruises.com/en-us/. For additional details or to book, travel advisors can call 1-833-YES-VIVA.
About VIVA Cruises
Backed by its cruise-pioneering parent Scylla that shares its tradition of excellence in river and expedition cruising since 1973, VIVA Cruises invites travelers to experience the very best of Europe, the way it was meant to be discovered: with good company, unique perspectives, and award-winning service and amenities. Knowing that not all travelers are the same, VIVA Cruises has made it their mission to give customers greater ease, flexibility, and choice. With decades of experience cruising to Europe’s most popular destinations, the company is proud to offer a cruise experience lik e no other, designed to enrich, inspire, and renew. Following all the greatest rivers (Danube, Elbe, Moselle, Rhine, Rhône, Seine, and the Main-Danube Canal) and Baltic Sea, guests will delve into the heart of timeless towns and villages as well as the world’s most thriving capitals.