Riviera Travel Announces First Dedicated Solo River Ship

Meet MS George Eliot: The World’s First Solo-Exclusive River Cruise Ship

MS George Eliot - Riviera’s first Solo-exclusive ship

Exciting, ground-breaking news from Riviera Travel, as they announce the first ever dedicated solo river cruise ship

Solo travellers, this one’s for you. In June 2027, Riviera Travel will sail the MS George Eliot, as the world’s first river cruise ship dedicated exclusively to solo travellers - for at least for one season. With no single supplements, private double cabins, and a season of solo-only departures, this ship is set to redefine the future of river cruising. No compromises—just freedom, comfort, style, and community.

If you’ve ever longed to explore Europe’s rivers without paying extra, sharing a cabin, or compromising your itinerary, Riviera has heard you.

Here’s what makes it unique:

Your own double cabin — no roommate required.
No solo supplement — you pay for one cabin, that’s it.
A full season of solo-specific departures.
Thoughtfully curated excursions with expert Tour Managers.
Communal spaces designed for meeting others, dining, relaxing or just enjoying the view.

Example accommodation on MS George Eliot. Image: Riviera Travel

On board you’ll find boutique-hotel luxuries: beautiful design (sustainable hardwoods, wrought-iron accents, copper/brass detail, Italian fabrics), elegant public spaces, and the kind of service that makes solo travellers feel at home. All cabins/suites include en-suite bathrooms, air-con, flat-screen TV, tea/coffee facilities, safe, hairdryer, WiFi throughout.

Linda Harris, Riviera’s Solos Product Manager, sums it up:

“We are so excited that from June 2027 the George Eliot will become the world’s first solo-exclusive river cruise ship. This really shows our dedication to solo travellers …”

Why MS George Eliot is a Game-Changer for Solo Travellers

Not only is this a cruise industry first, it is also recognition of just how may solo travellers now enjoy cruising. Here’s what makes this a gamechanger:

Private double cabins — no sharing, no compromises.
No solo supplements — what you see is what you pay.
Hand-picked itineraries — designed for culture, scenery and flexibility.
Elegant public spaces — ideal for making connections or enjoying quiet moments.
Expert Tour Managers — guiding you through Europe’s most iconic rivers.

Two Spectacular Solo-Traveller Itineraries for 2027

Riviera has unveiled two headline itineraries for solo travellers aboard MS George Eliot. Both offer unique landscapes, cultures, cities, nature, local food & wine, and unforgettable experiences.

Itinerary One: Budapest to the Black Sea — Gems of Eastern Europe

Sail from Budapest to the Danube Delta and the Black Sea, discovering dramatic gorges, medieval towns and vibrant cities along the way. Highlights include:

Belgrade, Serbia — explore the fortress and old town.
Iron Gates Gorge — one of Europe’s most scenic cruising stretches.
Bucharest, Romania — the “Little Paris” of Eastern Europe.
Danube Delta — UNESCO-protected wetlands teeming with wildlife.
Constanța, Romania — ancient Greek and Roman heritage by the sea.

15 nights From £5699 solo occupancy

Itinerary Two: Cologne to Vienna — Cruise the Heart of Europe

This classic journey along the Rhine, Main and Danube takes you past castles, vineyards and imperial capitals. Highlights include:

Rhine Gorge — fairy-tale castles and dramatic cliffs.
Würzburg — Baroque palaces and Franconian wine.
Nuremberg — medieval history meets modern vibrancy.
Regensburg — a beautifully preserved UNESCO old town.
Vienna, Austria — music, palaces and coffee-house culture.

15 Nights from £5599 solo occupancy.

Why Choose a Solo River Cruise with Riviera?

Travel with like-minded People. Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash

Travel with like-minded explorers who understand the joys of going it alone.
Join excursions when you wish, or spend time at your own pace.
Enjoy a boutique hotel ambience onboard, with luxury touches throughout.
Make connections without the pressure of traditional group travel.

To find out more and to book visit www.rivieratravel.co.uk