VIVA Cruises makes it easy to ‘enjoy the moment’ onboard its eighth river cruise ship

By Annie Cicvaric

ONBOARD VIVA TWO — A relative newcomer to the river cruise scene, VIVA Cruises recently debuted its newest shining star and flagship of the fleet, the Viva Two.

Travelweek was onboard Viva Two last month, to explore the brand new river ship and experience VIVA’s unique offerings first-hand on a scenic seven-night Danube sailing.

Based in Dusseldorf, the luxury brand is a stand-alone under the parent shipping company, Scylla, which has provided river cruise ships for brands like Tauck and Riviera River Cruises for many years.

Reaching a milestone with its second new build, Viva Two increases VIVA’s fleet to eight. And with the appetite for river cruising on the rise, the line is keen and well-poised to make waves in the industry.

So, what’s the appeal?

Guests prefer to unpack once and effortlessly step off into the heart of Europe’s magical historical cities, less the crowds and worries.

Moreover, cruisers like VIVA Cruises’ fresh take on river cruising, with a luxurious yet relaxed style.

Making a wow statement is Viva Two’s innovative open-plan lounge split between two decks which connects to a spiral staircase.

The unconventional open level design create a sense of spaciousness and light.

In addition, a subtle colour palette and natural materials throughout the ship’s interior create a distinct contemporary ambiance.

The ship hosts 190 guests with 95 staterooms, including eight well-appointed luxurious suites with French balconies.

All staterooms include a walk-in shower with premium beauty products, plenty of wardrobe space, large flat-screen TV, a minibar, and a Nespresso machine.

For guests seeking the sun, loungers beckon on the top deck alongside a whirlpool and putting green.

While on the main deck, you can find a fitness room and wellness area with a steam bath and an infrared sauna.

Active-minded guests seeking to explore Viva Two’s ports of call independently can reserve a bicycle, complimentary.

As Viva Two cruises Europe’s rivers, local sourcing is integral to menu planning, reflecting regional specialties and local wines for the ships’ restaurants.

The Viva Two is the first in the fleet to debut a new and third eatery venue, Moments, with an open kitchen and where wine pairings are a highlight.

Guests can enjoy a different dining experience in the Bistro, Riverside and Moments restaurants serving up delicious modern interpretations of classic favourites.

All dining options are part of the Viva all-Inclusive product.

While charting a course to sustainability is a top priority for cruise lines today, VIVA Cruises might have this area cornered.

Respecting the environment and being mindful of its footprint is central to the brand’s mission, and it begins with economic route planning and continues onboard.

In addition to biodegradable fuel, a catalytic converter, a particle filter for the exhaust system, and 76 solar panels add to the ship’s eco-friendly credentials.

All guests receive a reusable water bottle with refilling available at several water dispensers and there are no single-use plastics aboard.

Like all VIVA’s vessels, Viva Two uses shore power during in-port moorings.

Equally focused on protecting the environment, Viva Two has been awarded the gold certificate by the independent Green Award Foundation.

Although VIVA Cruises is a German-based cruise company, Andrea Kruse, COO of VIVA Cruises, quickly points out that they are an international river company with guests currently sailing from key markets of Europe, Scandinavia, the UK and Israel.

“We are still young, turning five this year - and we have a pretty brilliant product. So enjoy the moment,” added Kruse.

What’s next on the horizon? VIVA intends to expand its reach into North America this year and grow its market share by 10%.

John Dennis, VP of Sales & Marketing, North America, made clear their commitment to working with the travel agent community. Travel advisors will be paramount in the line’s expansion success, he said.

“The travel agent community is significant to us, and we see them as the primary source of passenger booking for VIVA,” said Dennis.

“The goal is to grow with the advisor and the agent network as best we can; although we’re a very small brand, we feel there is a place for us.”

For 2023 the trade can expect a multi-tier approach through trade marketing, training and roadshow events in Canada and the U.S. over the next few months.

A call centre is open and ready for bookings, with commissions starting at 15%.

Viva Two will mainly sail the Danube, a longtime favourite for river cruisers, with five-day or seven-night cruises from Passau or Vienna. The program will also include a 16-day voyage in the summer.

Currently, the line is the only river cruise offering to sail year-round.

Prices include an entire board, gratuities, a refreshed minibar and a selection of alcoholic/non-alcoholic drinks throughout the day, free WiFi, tips and gratuities.

And for the North American product offering, VIVA Cruises features one exciting shore excursion in each port of call -all at the initial cruise cost.

VIVA Cruises’ rapid growth illustrates that river cruising and this young, vibrant brand are on the up.

It’s a winning formula for guests, particularly foodies, who love the dining options, light, spacious ships, and relaxed vibe where one can simply ‘enjoy the moment’ on a VIVA Cruise sailing.

For more information on VIVA Cruises, visit www.vivacruises.com or call 1-833-YES-VIVA (937-8182).

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