VIVA Cruises has officially christened its new river cruise ship VIVA BEYOND in Paris, a ship that not only represents a new addition to the German company's fleet, but also the launch of a new premium collection under the "VIVA Boutique" brand, designed for a segment of travelers seeking more intimate, sophisticated experiences deeply connected to the destination.
The ceremony took place last weekend on the Seine River and brought together travel agents, specialized media, and international representatives from the tourism industry. The ship's godmother was Cecilie Kopperud, owner of Escape Travel Norway, who presided over the traditional christening ceremony in front of guests from various European markets.
Measuring 110 meters in length and with a capacity for only 112 passengers, the VIVA BEYOND deliberately departs from the traditional concept of a large-capacity river cruise ship, opting instead for a much more personalized experience. More than half of its accommodations are suites, some up to 30 square meters in size, and the interior design is inspired by the ambiance of Parisian boutique hotels.
Design is precisely one of the most distinctive elements of the new VIVA Boutique concept. The company is committed to contemporary interiors dominated by pale pink, warm beige, and soft finishes, creating an elegant atmosphere quite different from the classic river cruise aesthetic. The concept aims to align more with the lifestyle hotel experience than with a conventional river cruise.
Gastronomy also plays a central role in this new premium line. The ship features three restaurants, including MOMENTS, developed in collaboration with Michelin-starred German chef David Görne. The culinary offerings revolve around French and Norman cuisine, using regional products and offering gastronomic experiences integrated within the cruise line's all-inclusive concept.
The VIVA BEYOND will operate on the Seine with eight-day itineraries departing from Paris and a program specially designed around themed experiences. These include routes focused on French Impressionism, gastronomic tours of Normandy, and cultural programs linked to France's historical and artistic heritage.
The itineraries include destinations such as Rouen, Vernon, Le Havre, and Giverny, with excursions related to Claude Monet and other Impressionist artists, as well as local culinary experiences and cultural activities on board. Some sailings also feature live French music and settings inspired by classic Paris.
During the official presentation, VIVA Cruises also confirmed that the VIVA Boutique collection will continue with a second ship, the VIVA UNIQUE, currently under development and slated to be based in Venice. With this, the company aims to extend this new boutique concept to other European destinations of significant cultural and experiential value.
VIVA Cruises has also highlighted its openness to all international markets, and its desire to no longer be perceived as a cruise line only for Germans
With the launch of the VIVA BEYOND, VIVA Cruises fully enters one of the fastest growing segments within European river tourism, that of small capacity boutique ships, where design, gastronomy and cultural immersion become an essential part of the travel experience.
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