Riviera Travel is set to enhance its Mekong River fleet with the introduction of the 70-passenger Victoria Mekong from 2026. The vessel, launched in 2019, boasts 33 staterooms and two suites, each with a private balcony, and a range of amenities including a restaurant, bar, infinity pool, gym, library, movie room, and spa.
This expansion aims to offer an enriched travel experience through Vietnam and Cambodia with novel itineraries that include 15-night and 14-night voyages. The company plans to offer six departures in 2026, showcasing its commitment to innovation in river cruising.
Introducing the Victoria Mekong
The Victoria Mekong, a ship launched in 2019, is designed to bring a modern and luxurious experience to the Mekong River. It accommodates 70 passengers and features 33 staterooms along with two exclusive suites. Each room provides a private balcony ensuring guests can enjoy the panoramic views of the river landscapes.
Riviera Travel’s adoption of this vessel highlights its strategy to offer deluxe river cruising with comprehensive onboard amenities such as an infinity pool, gym, a well-stocked library, and even a dedicated movie room. These facilities are expected to elevate the guests’ travel experience significantly.
New and Enriching Itineraries
Starting 2026, Riviera Travel will operate unique itineraries that traverse through Vietnam, Cambodia, and the hidden gems along the Mekong River. The 15-night journey from Saigon to Siem Reap offers a distinctive travel opportunity upstream while a 14-night trip provides a fascinating downstream adventure.
These meticulously planned itineraries will include visits to significant Vietnamese locations like Can Tho, Long Xuyen, Tiger Island, and Tan Chau. In Cambodia, passengers will explore Phnom Penh, Silk Island, and the remarkable Angkor Ban, amongst others.
Cultural Exploration and Onboard Experience
The cruises are structured to offer an immersive cultural exploration with stops at iconic and less-known locales.
Travelers will be accommodated at prestigious hotels such as the Hotel Grand Saigon in Vietnam and Sokha Angkor Resort in Siem Reap, Cambodia, enhancing their stay with luxury both onshore and onboard the vessel.
Riviera Travel ensures a seamless journey by including flights, transfers, comprehensive tours, and among others, ensuring that guests focus solely on enjoying the cultural wealth of the regions.
Pricing and Inclusions
The pricing for a journey aboard the Victoria Mekong begins at £4,599 per person. This includes flights, transfers, detailed tours, and hotel accommodations, making it a competitive yet value-driven offer in luxury river cruising.
Guests are treated to two or three nights at leading hotels, ensuring comfort and sophistication. Additionally, a week-long stay onboard guarantees a memorable cruise experience with complimentary soft drinks and select alcoholic beverages provided during lunch and dinner.
Industry Perspectives
Will Sarson, Riviera’s product director, emphasized the significance of introducing the Victoria Mekong to their fleet, describing it as a ‘fantastic addition’. He highlighted the aim to provide a ‘modern onboard experience’ that allows guests to fully appreciate the Mekong’s wonders.
According to Sarson, the newly crafted Vietnam, Cambodia and Hidden Treasures itinerary is intended to showcase some of the lesser-known, yet fascinating, aspects of these countries, offering guests insightful and fresh perspectives.
Future Departures
Riviera Travel has planned six departures for the Victoria Mekong between January and November of 2026. This schedule aligns with their broader vision of expanding within the river cruising market with innovative offerings.
The limited departures also create exclusivity, catering to travellers seeking unique and premium travel experiences.
Conclusion and Outlook
The introduction of the Victoria Mekong signifies Riviera Travel’s dedication to enriching its cruise offerings and providing unparalleled travel experiences across Vietnam and Cambodia.
As the demand for luxurious and culturally immersive travel grows, Riviera Travel’s strategic expansion with the Victoria Mekong places it in a favourable position within the competitive river cruising market.
Riviera Travel’s expansion with the Victoria Mekong marks a strategic step in enhancing its river cruise offerings. With thoughtfully curated itineraries and premium onboard experiences, the company is set to attract discerning travellers seeking cultural richness and luxurious comfort. This addition signifies Riviera’s commitment to setting high standards in the river cruising sector.
Overall, the Victoria Mekong not only adds capacity but also injects new dimensions to Riviera’s cruise offerings. As more travellers seek meaningful and high-quality experiences, this strategic move will likely bolster Riviera Travel’s position as a leading provider in the travel industry.
