World’s First River Cruise Ship For Only Solo Travellers To Sail From 2027

September 17th, 2025

Image Credits: Riviera Travel

Riviera Travel has said that MS George Eliot will become the first river cruise ship in the world to operate exclusively for solo passengers from 2027.

Though several cruise lines offer private cabins or private areas and dedicated sailings for passengers wanting to travel alone, MS George Eliot will sail a full season of solo-exclusive departures.

Riviera Travel said that there has been a 66% year-on-year increase in solo river cruise bookings, and solo guests make 13% of all bookings, most of them being repeat guests.

The cruise ship will offer 4 eight-day itineraries sailing between June and November 2027.

These would comprise a ‘Blue Danube for Solo Travellers’ sailing that will visit Vienna, Budapest and Salzburg.

There is also a 15-day sailing from Budapest to the Black Sea.

The 140-passenger cruise ship will offer opportunities for guests to mingle during cocktail hours. They can also sit together for meals or on their own.

Riviera Travel is also offering a free upgrade from middle to upper deck on European river cruises departing from 2027.

All cruises of Riviera Travel include flights and transfers from London and regional airports, along with full-board dining with a free-drinks package, excursions and onboard wifi.

Riviera Travel will continue to offer solo sailings for independent travellers on their other ships as well.

The river cruise line also said that its new cruise ship, Riviera Alba, would be the first to sail on the Mekong River in Asia.

The 50-passenger all-suite cruise ship would be the company’s first vessel to sail outside of Europe.

Itineraries include a 16-day Vietnam, Cambodia and Mekong River Cruise with stops in Saigon and Hanoi.

Phil Hullah, chief executive of Riviera Travel, said that this was a major landmark not only for Riviera but also for the entire cruise industry.

He added that the launch of MS George Eliot, the first river cruise ship only for solo guests, allows the company to cater to independent travellers and gives them a choice no other operator provides.

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