Finally: A River Cruise Ship Just for Solo Travellers (No Single Supplement Sticker Shock!)

If you’ve ever dreamed of gliding past medieval castles on the Danube or watching sunrise over the Mekong River, but baulked at paying nearly double for the privilege of travelling solo, I have news that might just change your travel plans for 2027.

Riviera Travel has just announced the world’s first river cruise ship operating exclusively for solo travellers. An entire ship where you won’t be the only one dining alone, and where the dreaded single supplement won’t break the bank.

The George Eliot: What Makes It Different

The ship launches its solo-only programme in June 2027. While it can accommodate 140 passengers normally, during solo sailings it carries just 70 guests. Each solo traveller gets their own cabin, with no roommate assignments.

Here’s the game-changer: the single supplement will typically be around £150 for a week’s cruise. Not per night. For the entire week. When you compare that to usual cruise penalties, this is genuinely ground-breaking.

Where can you go?

Three eight-day cruise options start from £2,449 per person on the Danube, Rhine, or Moselle. For those wanting more time, three 15-day itineraries start from £5,599.

Beyond Europe: The Mekong

For those ready to venture further afield, Riviera is launching the Riviera Alba on the Mekong River. This boutique ship accommodates just 50 guests in 25 suites, each with its own balcony.

The flagship 16-day Vietnam, Cambodia, and Mekong River cruise starts from £4,799, with regional departure options available.

Why This Matters

Here’s what caught our attention: 13% of Riviera’s business already comes from solo travellers, and demand keeps growing. When a major operator dedicates an entire ship to solo travellers with reasonable supplements, it signals a real shift in how the industry views independent travellers.

Beyond the financial advantages, there’s the social dynamic. On a ship full of independent travellers, you’re surrounded by people who chose adventure over comfort, who understand that traveling solo doesn’t mean you want to be lonely. You might find yourself making dinner plans with a group, or reading on your balcony in peace. The choice is yours.

Is This Right for You?

A river cruise offers structured itineraries and organised excursions rather than complete freedom to explore off the beaten path. But if logistics feel overwhelming, or you want the security of organised travel while maintaining independence, this could be exactly what you’ve been waiting for.

For too long, solo travellers have been charged premium prices for making an independent choice. Riviera’s decision to dedicate an entire ship to solo guests feels like the recognition we’ve deserved all along.

If you’re interested in a solo cruise, let us know! With work with 300+ suppliers and can book your perfect trip, just give us a call on 0204 599 0478 or send us a message.