Viva Cruises Launching New Premium Brand, Viva Boutique

Viva Cruises is launching a new premium brand on European rivers called Viva Boutique.

The European river cruise company plans to launch the first ship under the new brand on the Seine River in May 2026. The new luxury vessel, called Viva Beyond, will feature 26 suites that can accommodate up to 116 passengers, plus an extended all-inclusive package, in-room breakfast, onboard entertainment and curated itineraries. Travelers will be able to follow in the footsteps of artists like Van Gogh and Monet, explore castles along the Seine, and enjoy regional wines and cuisine in Normandy.

“Viva Boutique marks another important milestone in the success story of our young company,” says Andrea Kruse, chief executive officer of Viva Cruises. “The development of our own boutique brand was a project close to our hearts, which we will offer to those guests who want to experience the extraordinary.

Viva Beyond is part of the Scylla shipping company’s fleet. In early 2026, it will undergo an extensive refurbishment to become a premium product. The vessel will boast a spacious sun deck, a variety of suites, three restaurants, state-of-the-art fitness equipment and a spa treatment area. 

“The new ship combines the best of both worlds: the comfort of a boutique hotel with the diversity of a river cruise,” says Kruse. 

The ship’s maiden voyage will be an 8-day cruise from Paris to the Atlantic coast and back, giving guests an opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of Normandy—from the castle ruins of Château Gaillard to the Renaissance castle of La Roche-Guyon. Shore excursions will be centered around three main themes: Impressionism, Culture & Lifestyle and Culinary.

From 2026 onward, Viva Cruises will exclusively use hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) fuel. This fossil fuel-free alternative is made from renewable resources, including vegetable oils and used cooking oils. Also starting in 2026, Viva Cruises’ fares will include all taxes, fees and surcharges.

The company also plans to expand its selection of European river cruise departures in the first quarter of 2026. Six ships will sail during the quieter months of January and February: Viva One, Viva Two, Viva Enjoy, Viva Moments, Viva Gloria and Swiss Ruby. 

For the first time ever, the company will be offering winter sailings on the Seine River. Viva Cruises will also be expanding the number of seven-night departures it offers on the Danube and the number of departures on the Douro River in Portugal.

VIVA is also known for its winter holiday cruise options – VIVA sails the Rhine, Danube, Main, Seine, Elbe and Vltava rivers in Europe, offering travelers a chance to admire twinkling lights, beautifully decorated trees and charming Christmas markets.

On the Rhine River, travelers can choose between four different itineraries that are either three, four or six nights long. Guests will be able to explore destinations like Düsseldorf, Koblenz, Bonn, Cologne, Frankfurt, Strasbourg, Mannheim, Speyer and Mainz.

This article originally appeared in TravelPulse and was supplement with further content here.

Contact My Journey Begins Travel to book your VIVA river cruise.