Travelbiz E-Zine
14
July
2025

Riviera Travel Agents on the New Riviera Radiance Exclusive Fam Trip on the Blue Danube

#Traveltradetogether

Riviera Travel Agents on the New Riviera Radiance Exclusive Fam Trip on the Blue Danube

10 lucky travel agents experience seven nights aboard the new MS Riviera Radiance following her maiden voyage in June.

Radiance Fact Sheet

Riviera Travel proudly hosted its first group of travel agents on the brand-new Riviera Radiance, embarking on a spectacular seven-night familiarisation (fam) trip along the iconic Blue Danube route. Setting sail on 30th June, this exclusive event marked the first agent cruise since Riviera Radiance’s maiden sailing in June, offering ten travel professionals from across the UK an immersive experience of the ship’s exceptional service, style, and itinerary.

Christopher McCloskey, Riviera Travel’s representative onboard, shared his enthusiasm:

“I was joined by 10 wonderful travel agent partners from across the UK, sailing our top-selling Blue Danube itinerary. As the newest addition to the fleet, she’s already turning heads – agents and guests alike are blown away by the experience. Everyone onboard is seeing for themselves what makes a Riviera Travel river cruise so special and why so many of our guests return year after year. The fact that all specialty dining is included in the price has been a real eye-opener for the agents this week. Stunning ship, standout service, and a crew that delivers every time – it’s a winning formula.”

The agents returned with glowing feedback:

Suzy Woodmansey, Travel Counsellors:

“Totally blown away by Riviera Radiance! Stunning décor, flawless service, and everything top-notch. The ship just oozes elegance and I honestly couldn’t recommend it more!”

Lyn Bacon, Southampton Cruise Centre:

“Beautiful ship, good food. Definitely got the wow factor, very impressed. I’ve been on a couple of fam trips with other lines and have to say this outshines them all. I will definitely recommend it to my customers. A great bunch of agents has made my trip extra special. Chris, our host, has been fantastic.”

Laura Elliot, Barrhead Travel:

“What a stunning ship – I’m having a fantastic experience. The food and choice of menu in each restaurant has been great with excellent service from the waiters. I would highly recommend Riviera Radiance to my customers. The cabins are beautiful and have all the amenities you would want. Perfect.”

Amy Sudell, Garstang Travel:

“The excursions have all been incredibly well organised and the tour guides have all been fabulous. The cabins are stunning and have everything you could need.”

Michelle Riley, Althams Travel:

“First time on a river cruise and it will be hard to find a ship as incredible as this one. Totally blown away with the cabins, décor, food, crew, and total experience.”

Rebecca Mann, Crui.se:

“The Riviera Radiance strikes the ideal balance between contemporary sophistication and comfort. The cabins are stunningly appointed and thoughtfully equipped, ensuring a luxurious stay. Dining onboard is exquisite, complemented by excellent included bar service. What truly sets this ship apart is its exceptional crew – their attentiveness and dedication elevate every moment. Excursions are impeccably coordinated, with local guides who bring each destination to life through their deep expertise. I feel genuinely honoured to have been invited on such a remarkable journey.”

Joanne Reece, Fred Olsen Travel:

I consider myself so lucky to have been on this beautiful new ship, I had a look around some wonderful river cruise ships at CLIA and this is definitely up there with the best. The service is amazing, the food delicious and there are great excursions. Also, I never realised how relaxing a river cruise could be and I can’t wait to get back and tell all my clients about it – and get them bookings in.

Alyson McIlroy, Oasis Travel:

“Riviera Radiance has been amazing. Beautiful cabins, restaurants, and public areas. Every detail has been superb. I will have no hesitation in recommending this stunning new ship. Thank you, Riviera and Chris, for the opportunity to experience the Danube in such comfort and style.”

Vicky Billing, Director of Trade and Partnerships, says: “The successful launch of Riviera Radiance and this first fam trip for our trade partners demonstrates our commitment to delivering outstanding river cruise experiences. We’re delighted to showcase the ship’s exceptional features and the immersive itineraries that make Riviera Travel a preferred choice for both agents and guests. The feedback from our agents affirms that Riviera Radiance sets a new standard in river cruising, and we look forward to welcoming many more onboard in the months ahead.”

Subscribe to our E-Zine

    More

    from latest edition

    Tourism Ireland comments on overseas tourism for January-March 2026 and the year ahead
    30th April 2026

    Tourism Ireland comments on overseas tourism for January-March 2026 and the year ahead

    CSO figures released today confirm that Ireland welcomed over 1.3 million overseas visitors for the period January to March 2026, up +24% on the same three-month period in 2025. They are reporte...

    Read more
    daa delivers strong operational Performance in 2025 Amid Cost Pressures and an evolving regulatory and planning environment
    30th April 2026

    daa delivers strong operational Performance in 2025 Amid Cost Pressures and an evolving regulatory and planning environment

    daa, the global airport and travel retail group and operator of Dublin and Cork airports, has reported a strong operational performance for the year ended December 31, 2025.

    Read more
    A true taste of Spain in Dublin
    30th April 2026

    A true taste of Spain in Dublin

    Master Chef Finalist, Ita Hendrick (Travelbiz Trade Partner Executive), attended a fantastic Gastro Spain: Murcia Region Gastronomy Workshop, hosted by the Spanish Tourist Office in Dublin in pa...

    Read more
    Visit USA Roadshow 2026 lands in Dublin
    30th April 2026

    Visit USA Roadshow 2026 lands in Dublin

    Don Shearer (MD Travelbiz & Travelfinders) joined a fantastic turnout of trade & media partners at The Leinster Hotel, as the Visit USA Committee Ireland Roadshow wrapped up in Dublin following ...

    Read more
    Three brand new Aer Lingus routes take to the skies
    30th April 2026

    Three brand new Aer Lingus routes take to the skies

    Aer Lingus will expand its summer schedule this weekend by introducing three new short-haul routes. A new service from Cork to Nice will commence on Saturday, while two new routes from Dublin to...

    Read more
    60% of Irish Holidaymakers yet to book their 2026 holiday
    29th April 2026

    60% of Irish Holidaymakers yet to book their 2026 holiday

    The latest Travel Sentiment Survey from Click&Go Holidays reveals Irish holidaymakers remain eager to travel but are taking a more cautious approach to booking, with rising costs and geopolitica...

    Read more