VIVA Cruises has set its sights on the luxury traveller with the launch of VIVA Boutique, a brand new product line aimed at delivering a premium experience.

The line’s debut will be commemorated with the May 2026 launch of the company’s first boutique river ship, VIVA BEYOND, on the Seine River. Part of the Scylla shipping company’s fleet, VIVA BEYOND will undergo a comprehensive renovation in early 2026 to align with the new premium brand. It will accommodate 116 passengers with more suites than any other ship in the VIVA fleet, including 12 suites, four junior suites and, for the first time, 10 master suites.

Maiden voyage & all-inclusive features 

VIVA BEYOND will set off on its maiden voyage in May 2026 with an eight-day cruise from Paris via Normandy to the Atlantic coast, and back to the French capital. For all guests on the maiden voyage, two shore excursions with the theme of ‘Impressionism’ will be included in the price.

VIVA BEYOND will feature a comprehensive all-inclusive product, meaning everything will be included on board. Guests can enjoy three first-class restaurants that will serve French delicacies like crêpes, macarons and croissants, as well as a ‘VIVA Signature’ experience during one of their shore excursions. 

Those staying in a master suite will enjoy additional benefits, including breakfast in their cabins, seasonal delicacies and a personal aperitif with the captain and hotel manager, accompanied by champagne and canapés. They will also receive the best choice of table in the restaurants and an exclusive shore excursion, included in the tour price.

Cultural immersion 

VIVA BEYOND guests will have the chance to immerse themselves in the local art, culture and cuisine of France, whether through curated signature excursions or simply enjoying life on board the ship. 

As part of 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 delve into the history of Impressionism by following in the footsteps of great masters like van Gogh and Monet. Culture enthusiasts will enjoy exploring castles, palaces and cities along the Seine, while foodies will be able to sample regional delicacies and wine, plus enjoy a drink with renowned top chefs.

New excursions

Three new signature excursions will make their debut with VIVA Boutique, all of which were handpicked to reflect France’s art, culture and cuisine. 

To represent ‘Culinary,’ guests will visit the castle ruins of Château Gaillard, built by Richard the Lionheart, before enjoying local delicacies on a traditional apple farm

For ‘Culture & Lifestyle,’ guests will explore the Renaissance castle of La Roche-Guyon, a former fortress with an impressive variety of architectural styles.

The third new excursion on ‘Impressionism’ visits Auvers-sur-Oise, a village where Impressionist artists such as Cézanne, Pissarro and Henri Rousseau spent significant time in. This excursion also includes a visit to Paris’ famed Musée d’Orsay museum and the Gardens of Étretat featuring views of the Alabaster Coast and the Atlantic Ocean.

For more information call 1-833-YES-VIVA or go to viva-cruises.com/en-us/.

Source: Travelweek