There are many riverboats plying the Rhone and Saone Rivers from Lyon to Avignon in France. There is only one Riverside vessel, Ravel, gracing these waters. There are many distinctive features which set this ship and line apart and make it stand out as a clear choice, if sheer luxury is your number one criterion.Family owned, this boutique cruise line, Riverside Luxury Cruises, has three luxury vessels. These ships were designed and built to purposefully provide luxurious, above water, large suite accommodation to every guest.With the purposefully limited guest capacity of 110 passengers, and one of the largest comparable sized guest accommodations of any ship on the European waterways, you are truly sailing first class. You can choose cruises from 3-21 nights for maximum flexibility, and, if suites are available, you can extend your stay even after your journey has begun.
The state-of-the-art engineering of these vessels ensures a smooth and quiet journey, as you sail along in contemplative repose and enjoy a sense of calm composure that is, at once, engaging and mesmerizing.
Transfers can be arranged as part of your package to start your trip in the lap of luxury. Upon arrival, the captain and crew will greet you and your luggage will be immediately transferred to your suite.
Your butler and suite attendant will be at the ready to unpack and provide any additional assistance you might require. The suites are elegantly appointed and outfitted with the finest materials and toiletries. They are so spacious and well-designed that you will soon forget you are on a riverboat as your accommodation will feel like a floating luxury hotel room.
One of the most unique features of Riverside Luxury Cruises is the outstanding culinary program. In all of the dining outlets, the choices, presentation and quality of ingredients is notable. The executive chef and his staff regularly purchase locally sourced ingredients to treat guests to the best of regional specialties. Many guests specifically choose this line for its culinary reputation.
The cuisine is often compared to Michelin-starred venues for its unflinching dedication to quality products, expert preparation and stunning presentation.
The numerous fine wine selections and specialty cocktails were an added feature that distinguished this line.The staff-to-guest ratio is also one of the highest of all other river cruise companies with one staff member to every suite so every request and personal preference is quickly and graciously addressed.
A variety of curated excursions are included, and they are far from ordinary. We experienced in-depth historical and cultural tours with carefully selected local guides. We selected a private Valrhona chocolate and wine pairing.
We also chose an outing to a truffle farm including a demonstration of how the truffles are located by trained dogs.
We were also hosted to a wine and cheese evening at an esteemed winery in Chateauneuf Du Pape. On board activities included mixology classes and wine and cheese pairings.
A BBQ dinner was organized on the open deck as we cruised along watching charming small French villages and vineyards go by. A special evening soiree at a Chateau topped off our memorable cruise.
Fitness is not forgotten on Riverside Ravel. The gym is well equipped and the indoor, heated pool was a welcome addition to our daily wellness routine.Excursions including hikes, kayaking and bicycles rounded out the offerings for those interested in keeping active.
The elegant Palm Court salon, bar and lounge was the hub of daily gatherings for briefings, cocktail hour, evening piano music and special local entertainment.
If a relaxing, pampering, enriching and thoroughly luxurious riverboat experience is on your bucket list, Riverside Luxury Cruises fits the bill.
