Secure Your Dream European River Cruise With a Low Deposit
Book your 2026 European river cruise during the Festive Season and pay just half the usual deposit. Lock in your preferred itinerary and stateroom now — without paying the full amount upfront.
Whether you’re planning a Danube classic, a Rhine castle-hopping voyage, or the sunshine of the Douro Valley, a small deposit today brings your European adventure that much closer.
Even more savings included when you book your river cruise now
When you reserve your spot by January 31, 2026, you’ll also enjoy:
- Up to 50% off per person
- $500 air credit per person
- Free 1-night hotel stay — before or after your cruise
More included on every Riviera sailing
Every river cruise comes with:
- All-inclusive drinks package
- Vacation Happiness Guarantee — if you’re not happy by day two, we’ll refund your vacation and arrange your return
Book with confidence — from the moment you step aboard.
European River Cruises With Low Deposits
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Book a European Cruise with Confidence
Vacation Happiness Guarantee
If you're not happy by the end of the second day, we'll arrange and cover your return trip and refund the full cost of your vacation.
Your Money is Safe and Secure
No matter what, your money is safe and secure and fully protected.
24/7 Access to Support Team
We're on hand before and during your vacation. If anything were to go awry during your travels, you can call our emergency number at any point.
Unbeatable Value for Money
40 years' experience and historic supplier relationships, together with the scale of our operation, ensures your vacation will always be unbeatable value for money.
Terms & Conditions
For new bookings made between December 5, 2025 and January 31, 2026, guests can enjoy a 50% reduction in the deposit amount required. Applies to 2026 sail dates only. Offer must be redeemed via our reservations team at 754-296-5335 as web bookings will not qualify. The remainder of the full booking balance will be collected 60 days from the initial booking date. Example: A $600pp deposit would be reduced to $300pp with the remaining full balance on the booking due 60 days from this date. The Promotion does not apply to bookings with a date of departure within 163 days of the date of acceptance of the booking or where the full deposit due date falls. All guests will be notified of the exact date the final deposit and balance is due prior to confirming their booking. Cancellations made in this time will be at our normal terms & conditions. Riviera Travel reserves the right to withdraw or amend this promotion at any time, but any withdrawal or amendment shall not affect any bookings taken prior to the this. Excludes charters.
Your Solo River Cruise, Perfectly Arranged
Sail Europe's most beautiful rivers in the company of like-minded travelers — with your own spacious cabin and no single supplement on selected cruises.
Group River Cruises Made Effortless
Book as a group of 8 or more and get 1 in 8 places free on European river cruises — tailored experiences and full support from start to finish.
Popular FAQs
A Riviera Travel European river cruise is a premium, all-inclusive vacation aboard a luxurious river ship sailing through Europe’s inland waterways. You’ll unpack once and enjoy a seamless journey combining cultural discovery, fine dining, and first-class service from beginning to end.
The most popular months for European river cruising are from May through September, when temperatures are pleasant and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Riviera Travel offers departures throughout the season, including cruises over the festive period, so you can choose the perfect time to fit your travel plans.
Every Riviera Travel river cruise includes outstanding value and transparency — no hidden extras. Your fare covers:
- Luxury accommodation in a river-view cabin or suite, mostly featuring French balconies, with selected cabins offering full balconies.
- All meals onboard, prepared by expert chefs and inspired by regional cuisine.
- All-inclusive drinks, plus unlimited tea and coffee throughout the day.
- Daily guided excursions led by English-speaking local experts.
- Professional Cruise Director and Cruise Concierge throughout your journey.
- Free Wi-Fi, onboard entertainment, and port taxes all included.
Most Riviera Travel itineraries last variously between 4 and 16 days — an ideal length for an immersive European getaway.
Riviera’s ships are elegant and intimate, typically accommodating 160–180 guests. Their smaller size allows docking directly in city centers and picturesque villages — meaning more time exploring and less time transferring. You’ll also enjoy a relaxed, personal onboard experience with exceptional attention to detail.
The atmosphere is refined yet informal. During the day, casual clothing is perfect for sightseeing and excursions. Evenings are "smart casual", ideal for dining or socializing in the lounge. There's no requirement for formal wear, though many guests like to dress up for special dinners or the Captain’s Reception.
Yes — Riviera Travel welcomes solo travelers and offers dedicated single cabins or reduced single supplements on select sailings. It’s a wonderful way to see Europe in comfort and meet other like-minded travelers.
Each Riviera cruise includes expertly guided tours in every port, exploring cultural landmarks, architecture, and local life. Onboard, you can enjoy talks, local performances, relaxed entertainment, and time to unwind in the lounge, restaurant, or on deck with panoramic views.
Yes. Riviera Travel caters to most dietary requirements — including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and low-sugar options — with advance notice.
Ships are designed for comfort and convenience, and while most excursions are leisurely, some may involve walking over uneven surfaces. Guests should have a good level of mobility, as boarding may involve walking on gangplanks and crossing between double-moored ships.
Absolutely. Riviera Travel welcomes group bookings and offers generous benefits — when you book as a group of eight or more passengers, one travels free. It’s a fantastic way for families, clubs, or friends to experience a European river cruise together while enjoying added value. Dedicated group support is available to make organizing your trip simple and seamless.
Discover Your Dream European Cruise
With so many European river, solo, yacht and grand tour vacations to choose from, it can be hard to pick just one. Get inspired and start planning your next getaway with our latest brochure.