emily bronte river cruise ship

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MS Emily Brontë

Available river cruises.

After years of painstaking research to create the most perfect vessels afloat, a new era in river cruising dawns as we introduce our state of the art, ‘all suite’ ships. Swiss operated and truly world-class, we are absolutely delighted to present the five-star MS Emily Brontë.

It is extremely difficult to convey just how extraordinary this outstanding ship really is and exactly what distinguishes it from similar vessels. It would be very easy to just say ‘luxurious’ but it’s much more than that; we have deliberately avoided the current trend for a minimalist style where you could be anywhere in the world, creating instead a unique yet exquisite blend of understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level.

Immediately striking is just how exceptionally spacious this vessel is as you enter a gleaming, richly colored marble-floored lobby flooded with natural light from a stunning atrium above. Moving inside, exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a superbly balanced masterpiece of onboard style, utilising sustainable rich hardwoods, gleaming brass and polished copper, sparkling glass and intricate wrought iron.

The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout – including the exterior and imaginatively furnished with harmonious color schemes, all designed to create the serene atmosphere reflective of the golden age of cruising which time after time you tell us you adore.

The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments taking fine dining to another level complemented by delicate European porcelain, gleaming glassware and the intuitive service in which the Swiss excel. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 169 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels.

Furthermore your suite will easily exceed your expectations for not only will you enjoy the most discerning décor, so too the ship’s dimensions afford the ultimate in space and comfort - a minimum size of 16 square meters (172 square feet), with upgrades available to ‘Superior’ and ‘Deluxe’ accommodation.

• Diamond Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites
• Diamond Deck Superior Suites
• Diamond Deck Suites
• Ruby Deck Superior Suites
• Ruby Deck Suites
• Emerald Deck Suites

Deluxe Balcony Suites

If you’re looking to really spoil yourself, at a staggering 25 square metres (269 square feet), the world-class Diamond (upper) Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites are for you. Larger than standard suites, they allow for an even more generous living area for the ultimate in space and comfort. In addition you will enjoy a private exterior balcony complete with table and chairs - perfect for an ‘al fresco’ breakfast should you wish or just a quiet morning coffee or a pre-dinner ‘sundowner’ whilst watching the world drift by. With the same fittings as standard suites, exquisitely and lavishly appointed to the very highest standard, plus complimentary soft cotton bathrobes and slippers adding the final little touch, this really is the epitome of river cruise luxury!

Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.

Superior Suites

Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite available on the Ruby (middle) and Diamond (upper) decks. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 square feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors.

A gleaming wood door opens revealing your exceptionally appointed suite. At 17 square metres (183 square feet), its generous dimensions are amongst the largest you will find on a cruiser gracing any European river. Imaginatively designed and appointed to the highest specification, with all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel, your comfort definitely won’t be compromised on any level!

The gleaming marble bathroom features a powerful fully glazed shower with a large ‘rainshower’ head, superbly refreshing after a hard day’s sightseeing. Clever design allows for ample space, and contemporary lighting, complimentary cosmetics by ‘Crabtree and Evelyn’ and fluffy towels, makes preparing for the day ahead an absolute pleasure.

The chic styling of a talented designer’s eye extends to the entire suite with generous use of hand-crafted tropical hardwoods blended with premium fittings, discreet thoughtful lighting and a colour scheme of calming neutral tones, creating an ambience to put you in the most relaxed frame of mind from the very first minute! A full size bed assures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen of the finest quality - a turndown service each evening adds the finishing touch. Please note all suites have two twin beds with individual bedding which can be moved together or separated accordingly.

You will enjoy a particularly generous seating area with two chairs and a table, enabling you to unwind in comfort in the privacy of your own suite whilst a bow camera conveys live images of the ship’s progress to your flat screen TV, ensuring you won’t miss a thing. Careful consideration has been given to the tiniest details with individually controlled air-conditioning so you set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience.

Suites on the Diamond (upper) and Ruby (middle) Decks have ‘French Balconies’ – panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors bringing riverside life just that little closer! 

Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite available on the Ruby (middle) and Diamond (upper) decks. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors.

A gleaming wood door opens revealing your exceptionally appointed suite. At 17 square metres (183 square feet), its generous dimensions are amongst the largest you will find on a cruiser gracing any European river. Imaginatively designed and appointed to the highest specification, with all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel, your comfort definitely won’t be compromised on any level! The gleaming marble bathroom features a powerful fully glazed shower with a large ‘rainshower’ head, superbly refreshing after a hard day’s sightseeing. Clever design allows for ample space, and contemporary lighting, complimentary cosmetics by ‘Crabtree and Evelyn’ and fluffy towels, makes preparing for the day ahead an absolute pleasure. The chic styling of a talented designer’s eye extends to the entire suite with generous use of hand-crafted tropical hardwoods blended with premium fittings, discreet thoughtful lighting and a colour scheme of calming neutral tones, creating an ambience to put you in the most relaxed frame of mind from the very first minute! A full size bed assures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen of the finest quality - a turndown service each evening adds the finishing touch. Please note all suites have two twin beds with individual bedding which can be moved together or separated accordingly. You will enjoy a particularly generous seating area with two chairs and a table, enabling you to unwind in comfort in the privacy of your own suite whilst a bow camera conveys live images of the ship’s progress to your flat screen TV, ensuring you won’t miss a thing. Careful consideration has been given to the tiniest details with individually controlled air-conditioning so you set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience. Suites on the Diamond (upper) and Ruby (middle) Decks have ‘French Balconies’ – panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors bringing riverside life just that little closer! 

Suites on the Emerald Deck are slightly smaller, measuring approximately 16 square metres (172 square feet) and have smaller fixed windows. Some are available for sole occupancy with no supplement and are subject to availability. Single supplements apply for other suites and decks, all subject to availability.

• Thoroughly air conditioned public areas and individual heating controls in the cabins
• Stunning restaurant on the Main Deck serving buffet breakfast, buffet lunch and four-course dinner
• Lounge and bar to enjoy cocktails and the early risers' breakfast
• Elevator between Emerald, Ruby and Diamond decks
• Laundry Service
• Spa and wellness area featuring Nail Salon and Hairdressing Service
• Boutique gift shop for your holiday souvenirs
• Reception area open 24hrs
• Small splash pool and putting green on the Sun Deck
• 24hr self service station for complimentary tea & coffee

As you are welcomed aboard the five-star pedigree is striking, with a remarkable feeling of spaciousness and harmonious design at every glance. The three fully air-conditioned accommodation decks including notably the lower deck – are all accessed by an attractive glass elevator for your convenience or the wide elegant wrought-iron staircase.

Above these is the magnificent Sun Deck - uniquely and illustrating yet again our considered depth of design, a second staircase amidships affords convenient Sun Deck access. Head on up to this truly spectacular deck and what could be better than watching life ashore slip by from the comfort of a sun lounger, perhaps under shade if the weather gets too hot! There’s always the refreshing splash pool too or why not try your hand on the putting green. Then take a refreshingly long drink and that book you’ve been meaning to read for ages on to the lovely terrace area at the fore of the ship, located right in front of the wheelhouse where you can view the Captain and his team skilfully navigating the twisting river and enjoy truly ‘driving seat’ views. Take a deep breath and relax into the pace of river cruise life – now you’re really on vacation!

The Diamond Deck is where you will find the very heart of the ship - the superb panoramic observation lounge and bar; a lounge in every sense of the word, complete with plenty of comfortable leather armchairs and sumptuous couches where you can sink into warmly colorful cushions in beautiful quality fabrics with a freshly made cup of tea. A thick wool carpet feels lovely underfoot and the tasteful contemporary lighting above creates a welcoming and refined ambience, further complemented by the discreet and intuitive service resplendent of the finest five-star hotels. So just sit back with your favorite cocktail and take in the truly mesmerising view. After a superb dinner in the restaurant perhaps it’s time for a digestif accompanied by the soothing tones of the ship’s pianist. To the aft is the peaceful Bistro with its open kitchen and terrace – another perfect spot to appreciate the ever-changing scenery gliding by whilst chatting with new found friends. Here in the evenings the chef presents his personal signature dishes to a small number of diners with menus varying according to the seasons; this intimate dining experience can be reserved on board at no extra charge. When the weather allows the panoramic windows may be fully opened on to the terrace to allow a delightful al fresco dining experience.

The ship’s restaurant is located on the Ruby (middle) Deck and here you will experience not only exceptional first class cuisine, but also the most attentive yet discreet service from the ship’s highly professional crew. So just sit back with a well-deserved glass of wine from the carefully selected wine list and delight in the wonderful elegance of your surroundings; beautifully laid tables of just 4 or 6 guests, crisp linen, deep wool carpets and warm wood panelling abound to offer a delectable dining experience of the highest order.

On the Emerald (lower) Deck is the fitness centre, perfect for working off all those delicious meals or for something less strenuous treat yourself to a relaxing massage. So you will always look your best there is a hairdresser’s too which also offers manicure and pedicure treatments. Simply put, these world-class ships, elegant and refined in the truest sense, take the idea of river cruising to another level – it really doesn’t get better than this!

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MS Emily Bronte

After years of painstaking research to create the most perfect vessels afloat, we are delighted to present the five-star MS Emily Brontë. Immediately striking as you enter a gleaming, marble-floored lobby is just how spacious this vessel is. Moving inside, exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a superbly balanced masterpiece of onboard style, utilising sustainable rich hardwoods, gleaming brass and polished copper, sparkling glass and intricate wrought iron. The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments, taking fine dining to another level. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 169 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels.

• Detailed Information
• Dining Info

Preparing to Cruise on Riviera River Cruises, the Magnificent MS Emily Brontë

When I was a young girl, one of my favorite books was “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë.

I just could envision the brooding Heathcliff wandering the moors. I was quite pleased when I learned that we would be studying the classic 1847 novel in my high school English class.

Now, I can hardly believe that I will be cruising aboard the magnificent Riviera River Cruises’ MS Emily Brontë . The seven-night cruise will go from Cologne in Germany to Basel in Switzerland with stops in Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Speyer, Strasbourg, the Black Forest, Lucerne and more.

Photographs I have seen show a magnificent ship that is spacious and elegant. Ship décor is traditional with gold and silver accents and paintings adorning the walls. From its gleaming marble-floored gallery and stunning atrium to its wrought-iron staircase and lovely lounges, the MS Emily Brontë was designed with the comfort of passengers in mind.

When I embark, I plan to head up to the top deck and watch the shore slowly slip away. The Diamond Deck is said to be the heart of the ship with its observation lounge and bar. I can envision easing into a comfortable leather armchair or sofa to savor a glass of local wine. At the aft is the Bistro with its open kitchen and terrace.

The ship’s Ruby Deck in the middle is home to the main dining room. It’s always fun to peruse a ship menu and decide what scrumptious choices I will make. From the reviews I have read, the MS Emily Brontë serves some mighty delicious cuisine.

On the lower Emerald Deck is the fitness center to work out or to treat yourself to a relaxing massage. There’s also a hair dresser, plus manicure and pedicure treatments. After all, this is a cruise to pamper yourself and I’m looking forward to that.

Notice those names? First there is the ship herself – the MS Emily Brontë . She continues the Riviera River Cruises’ tradition of naming ships after famous authors. There’s also the Thomas Hardy, Oscar Wilde, Geoffrey Chaucer, George Eliot, Jane Austen, Lord Byron, William Shakespeare and William Wordsworth.

Then there are the deck names – Diamond, Ruby and Emerald – they definitely are jewels. From the brochure I have seen, all the decks are glorious gems. They seem easy to access either by the wide wrought-iron staircase or the attractive glass elevator.

The MS Emily Brontë was built in 2017 and carries up to 169 passengers plus 44 crew members. The vessel offers three cabin types – Suites, Superior Suites and Deluxe Balcony Suites. The balcony cabins are a first for Riviera River Cruises. All the suites are spacious.

The marble finished suite bathrooms feature large rain showers plus Crabtree & Evelyn toiletries. Standing under a lush rain shower is definitely going to be a pleasure almost as soon as I arrive to wash away travel fatigue.

All suites have a table, two chairs, flat-screen TV, hair dryer, safe, mini-bar, telephone and tea and coffee making equipment. Suites on the Diamond and Ruby decks feature French balconies with floor-to-ceiling sliding-glass doors. Suites on the Emerald deck have small windows.

For dining, MS Emily Brontë offers two dining options – the Bistro and the Restaurant. The Restaurant is the main dining room, serving a buffet breakfast and lunch, plus a four-or-five-course dinner.

For entertainment, the Panorama Lounge offers live music every night and enrichment talks about the itinerary. For exercise, MS Emily Brontë has a putting green and small pool along with that workout center and eight bikes with helmets that can be used ashore free of charge. The ship also has a gift shop, boutique and laundry service.

Aboard the ship, we’ll cruise past famous castles on the Rhine – considered one of the most beautiful stretches of waterway in Europe. Traveling on the Moselle River, passengers will enjoy the dramatic Rhine Gorge where the sheer valley walls tower overhead.

One of the pleasures of cruising is the shore excursions when a ship stops and we go ashore. The MS Emily Brontë has a wealth of great stops. For example, our cruise will depart from Cologne. If possible, I always advise people to arrive a day or two ahead of a cruise. That means you are there when it is time to board the ship, plus you get a chance to rest up from traveling and see a bit of the embarkation city.

Oldest Perfumery in the World

A Cologne tidbit I learned is that the world’s oldest perfumery is located in the city. It was here that Johann Maria Farina created the product that he named after his hometown – Eau de Cologne. The shop also has an interesting Farina Fragrance Museum that explains the history of Eau de Cologne and displays some wonderful memorabilia, including exquisite silver goblets from which Ludwig II of Bavaria drank as a guest at the perfumery. In the 18 th century, making a purchase at the Farina House was an art form.

History notes that Napoleon Bonaparte loved Eau de Cologne so much that he ordered 50 bottles a month. The famous emperor used the fragrant water extravagantly and supposedly had special boots designed where he could stash an emergency bottle of cologne.

I’ve also been told that spraying a teeny bit of Eau de Cologne on a pillow can bring sweet dreams. Whether that happens or not, I’m going to see if I can buy some of Farina’s special perfume with its trademark red tulip on the label before the MS Emily Brontë departs on our cruise.

Cathedral de Notre Dame in Strasbourg

In Strasbourg, the Cathedral de Notre Dame deserves its reputation as one of the most beautiful gothic cathedrals in Europe. The cathedral stands on the exact site of a Roman temple. Master builder Erwin von Steinbach started construction on the beautiful pink sandstone facade in 1277.

Along with magnificent stained glass windows and lovely icons, the cathedral also has a commemorative plaque honoring all the American soldiers who gave their lives to help free Alsace during World War II.

Located in the front of the church, the famous Astronomical Clock was originally built in the 14 th century and was renovated several times, most recently in the 19 th century. It includes a perpetual calendar, a display of the actual positions of the sun and the moon, plus solar and lunar eclipses.

Considered a mathematical marvel, the clock has a mechanism that shows the official time, the solar time, the day of the week, the month, the year, the sign of the zodiac, phase of the moon and position of several planets. Then there are all the animated characters that launch into movement at various times.

When the clock strikes half past noon, the apostles parade past Jesus while a cock crows and flaps its wings. On another part of the huge Astronomical Clock, the different stages of life are shown as a child, a teenager, an adult and an old man who pass before a scary death figure.

Music Museum in Rüdesheim

In Rüdesheim, I’ve heard about the wonderful Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum. Today, people can walk around with music in their ears whenever they want. They can plug in and tune out.

But back a couple hundred years ago, people didn’t have that luxury. Only the rich could afford musical devices. And those pieces of equipment were huge.

Hard to believe but the more than 350 musical cabinets in the museum are the collection of one man. The story goes that Siegfried Wendel visited Los Angeles on his honeymoon and came across a collection of player pianos and mechanical instruments. Many of the instruments were in poor condition, some destined for the scrap heap.

A craftsman, Wendel was fascinated by the self-playing devices and began collecting them. Wendel restored the musical works of art and then wanted to share the music with others.

That’s why in 1969 he opened his collection to the public in his hometown of Rüdesheim. Today, the museum is located in a 15 th century manor. Some of the complex music boxes are so tiny – such as the bird on the ornate snuff box – that they can fit in the palm of your hand. Others are so huge that they fill up most of a room.

                                                   Cruising Pleasures

I’m still researching other places where the MS Emily Brontë will stop and possible shore excursions on this wonderful journey. For the Black Forest site, of course I hope we get to sample some of that legendary Black Forest cake. Granted, I could visit any of these destinations by car but then I would have to look for a hotel every night and restaurants to eat every day.

The MS Emily Brontë makes those driving worries unnecessary. Board the ship in Cologne, unpack once and know where I will be eating every day and sleeping every night. Plus, I will have excellent group tour leaders who know their cities well and will be touring with like-minded travelers.

The ship provides headsets for passengers to use during excursions. That is a big help because it makes the guide easier to hear while on a walking tour.

I’m sure my notebook will be filled with interesting information about what I’ve seen and heard. And my camera will be loaded with photos of the ship and the places we stop.

Also I’m taking a special book to read during quiet times aboard the MS Emily Brontë . Seems somehow appropriate to re-read “Wuthering Heights” as the author’s namesake cruises on some of the world’s most beautiful waterways.

Photos courtesy of Riviera River Cruises

See cruises here  MS Emily Bronte Cruises (cruisecompete.com),   Riviera River Cruises (cruisecompete.com)

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MS Emily Bronte

Tour on this Ship

Staterooms / Suites

Ship overview.

The MS Emily Bronte features three contemporary air-conditioned decks accessed by a glass elevator with a heated plunge pool on the top floor sun deck. On board is a full-service restaurant with exceptional cuisine and a panorama lounge and bar for taking in the view as you sail. All ship suites are spacious with en-suite bathrooms and include coffee maker, refillable water bottle and complimentary Wi-Fi. Most suites feature a French balcony and all have stunning river views. 

• 24-hour Front Desk
• Fitness Centre
• Swimming Pool
• Wifi in Public Areas (Complimentary)
• Diamond/Ruby Superior Suite
• Diamond/Ruby Suite
• Emerald Suite

• Ensuite Bathroom
• Air-conditioning
• Large windows
• In-room phone
• In-room safe
• Luxury bed linen
• Reading lamp
• Writing desk
• Maid service
• Amazing view
• Coffee maker
• Power Outlets

The riverboat features an elegant Lobby (entrance hall on Diamond / Upper Deck) with Reception Desk (24-hour assistance, information, purser services), Travel Desk (tours and excursions information, onboard cruise booking) and Boutique Shop. From the entrance hall, passengers walk into a stylish Bar Lounge with bow location, floor-ceiling windows, comfortable seating, and full-service Bar.

Aft on Diamond Deck is the Bistro - Lido Restaurant, an alternative to the Dining Room Restaurant. The Bistro is served by its own Bar and also doubles as Library. It has an outdoor terrace and open kitchen. Here are served early Breakfast, light Lunch and Dinner. In good weather, the floor-ceiling window doors are fully opened onto the terrace for al fresco dining. Bistro's dining is complimentary, but dinners require reservations due to the restaurant's small capacity  (10 tables with 2 or 4 seats). Ship's Dining Room Restaurant (on Ruby / Middle Deck) provides single-seating capacity buffet Breakfast and waiter-served Lunch and Dinner.

On Emerald / Lower Deck is the ship's Wellness Centre consisting of Beauty Salon (hairdresser and barber services, nail studio), Fitness (Gym Room) and Spa (treatment room for massages). All cabin decks are fully air-conditioned and accessed via lift (passenger elevator) and wrought-iron staircase.

Sun Deck provides Giant Chess Set, Mini Golf (Putting Green), Retractable Awnings (shaded seating area), aft Pool Deck (Splash Pool, Jacuzzi, sunbathing area with loungers and deckchairs), full bar service. The fore-located Navigation Bridge (called "Wheelhouse" on riverboats) is passenger accessible and telescopic (can be lowered for passing under low bridges).

MS Emily Bronte Tour

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• Things to do
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Emily Bronte Deck Plans & Reviews

Emily Bronte

Activities & entertainment.

• Enrichment Lectures
• Evening Recaps
• Fitness Center
• Hairdresser *
• Nightly Music
• Putting Green
• Splash Pool
• Wellness Spa *
• Panorama Lounge
• Restaurant - International
• Bistro - Casual
• Panorama Bar - Panoramic Bar *

Reviews We perform checks on reviews. Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines , the review is not published. When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site. Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines . Learn more about our review moderation.

• Excellent 9
• Very Good 1
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• English ( 11 )

MS EMILY BRONTE

The MS EMILY BRONTE has an elegant foyer with reception and on-board boutique on the (upper) diamond deck. From there you can reach the stylish lounge with panorama bar, where you can enjoy the fantastic view with a drink in the evening. At the rear of the Diamond Deck you will find the Bistro Bar with open kitchen and terrace. Breakfast for early risers, a light lunch and dinner are served here. When it is warm enough outside, the panoramic windows can be fully opened onto the terrace for a relaxed al fresco culinary experience. The main restaurant is located on the (middle) ruby deck and offers a breakfast and lunch buffet as well as dinner.

On the (lower) Emerald Deck, there is a hair salon, nail salon, massage parlour and gym - everything you need to relax, pamper yourself or keep fit.

The three fully air-conditioned cabin decks are accessible by lift or via the elegant wrought-iron staircase.

The sun deck offers comfortable chairs and sun beds from which you can watch the hustle and bustle of the riverbank. When the temperatures rise, you can find a shady spot or cool off in the whirlpool. Golf lovers can improve their accuracy at the hole on a putting green.

Highlights of the MS EMILY BRONTE include:

• Comfortable lounge with bar
• Bistro - can be used for exclusive meetings
• Fitness centre with treadmill, bike and weights
• Sun deck pool and putting green
• Elevator across all decks (except sun deck)

The ship is fully air conditioned.

The MS EMILY BRONTE has a total of 88 cabins and can accommodate 176 guests. The suites on the (upper) Diamond Deck and the (middle) Ruby Deck are equipped with so-called French balconies - these floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors offer a beautiful panoramic view of the riverbank and nature. All cabins are equipped with a 40-inch flat-screen TV, minibar, safe, hairdryer, air conditioning, telephone, (rain) shower and toilet, tea and coffee maker, a small seating area with table and a desk.

There are 78 double cabins, six superior suites and four deluxe balcony suites.

Book the MS EMILY BRONTE as a location.

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Welcome aboard!

MS Emily Brontë

Onboard facilities.

The MS Emily Brontë belongs to the Scylla fleet since 2016. She has a length of 135m is 11.45m wide and has a draft of 1.96m. This makes her have enough space for 176 guests in 4 suites, 6 junior suites and 78 double cabins. The upper and middle decks have French balconies, the cabins 303, 304, 305 and 306 have regular balconies and all cabins are faced outwards.

On board the MS Emily Brontë the guests have access to one restaurant, as well as a fitness room, a wellness area with the latest equipment and a hair salon. Furthermore the MS Emily Brontë sports a lounge with a bar and enough room to dance, a cosy bistro with a terrace and a live cocking station can be found in the back of the ship. The other features of the ship are a board shop, a spacious sun deck with a pool and sun beds as well as a putting green. There is an elevator connecting all decks (with the exemption of the sun deck). The vessel is fully air conditioned.

Characteristics

Year of construction, switzerland.

Do you have general questions concerning river cruises? Get in contact with our Inside Sales Management team for a non-committal information about our fleet and area of operation.

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Choose a river, riviera travel emily brontë.

• Ship Overview
• River Cruises

Emily Brontë is one of Riviera Travel’s new ‘all suite’ ships.  Launched in 2017 she offers excellent standards of accommodation consistent with Scylla’s (the ship operator) other 5 star ships. Standard Suites are large at 183 ft² with floor to ceiling windows opening to a rail on the middle and upper decks. Suites on the lower deck are slightly smaller at 172 ft² and feature high level windows. 6 Superior Suites and 4 Deluxe Balcony Suites are available on each ship at 247 ft² and 269 ft² respectively. Deluxe Balcony Suites, located on the upper deck, also feature a small private balcony. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 176 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with first class service levels. An outstanding ship it would be very easy to just say ‘luxurious’ but it’s much more than that, a unique yet exquisite blend of understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level. A spacious new vessel as you enter a gleaming, richly coloured marble-floored lobby flooded with natural light from a stunning atrium above. The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout, including the exterior and imaginatively furnished with harmonious colour schemes, all designed to create the serene atmosphere reflective of the golden age of cruising.

Onboard Features & Facilities

• 88 comfortable outside suites, most with French balconies, some with private balcony
• For and aft sundecks with sun-shades, deck chairs & loungers
• ‘Whirlpool’ splash pool
• Stylish restaurant with open seating with tables of 4 and 6
• Main lounge with bar & piano
• Bistro bar & restaurant
• Complimentary coffee and tea throughout the day with speciality patisseries in the afternoon
• Elevator to Diamond, Ruby and Emerald decks
• Wellness area, massage, nail salon and hairdresser
• Onboard souvenir shop*
• Laundry service*

* Payable locally.

Accommodation & Amenities

88 spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms and suites range in size from 172 – 269 ft² or indulge even more in one of the 6 Superior suites or 4 Deluxe Balcony Suites. Most accommodations featuring floor to ceiling glass sliding doors opening to a French Balcony, so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish.      

Deluxe Balcony Suite

269 ft² – diamond (upper) deck.

• Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to a private balcony with table and chairs and additionl fllor to ceiling windows
• Enhanced sitting area
• Larger private marble bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with  Crabtree and Evelyn  bath products, Bathrobes and slippers
• Hotel style beds, the best mattresses and fine cotton bed linen
• A bed turn down service operates during dinner
• Seating area with 2 chairs and a table
• In room safe, mini-bar, hair dryer, full-length mirror, plenty of storage space & telephone
• Tea & Coffee making facilities
• Flat-screen televisions with satellite TV channels, GPS and for & aft camera views.
• Individually controlled air-conditioning

Superior & Superior Stern Suite

247 ft² – diamond & ruby (upper & middle) deck.

• Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to French balcony
• Marble bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with  Crabtree and Evelyn  bath products

Diamond Deck & Ruby Deck Suite

183 ft² – diamond & ruby (upper & middle) deck.

• Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to a French balcony
• Private marble bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with  Crabtree and Evelyn  bath products

Emerald Deck Suite

172 ft² –  emerald (lower) deck.

• Smaller Fixed Window

River Cruises on Riviera Travel Emily Brontë

Rhine Cruise to Switzerland with Glacier Express Extension

From £2,948 pp

Journey into the very heart of this spectacular Alpine landscape on the legendary Glacier Express, enjoy iconically Swiss Zermatt in the shadow of the mighty Matterhorn and the Mediterranean ambience of historic Chur.

The Blue Danube

From £1,599 pp

Soak up all that Europe’s most cultured river has to offer, with its wealth of grand baroque architecture, medieval cities, picture perfect towns and the sights that inspired Strauss and Mozart.

Rhine, Strasbourg & Heidelberg

From £1,514 pp

A spectacularly scenic cruise of wonderful contrasts, from refined and historic Heidelberg to delightfully quaint Boppard and the old world charm of medieval Strasbourg.

Rhine Cruise to Switzerland

From £2,149 pp

On our journey through the Rhine valley, we visit historic Koblenz where we have time to explore the old town at the confluence of both the Rhine and Moselle rivers

Rhine & Moselle

Explore the historic cities of the mighty Rhine and the quintessential half-timbered wine villages of the serene Moselle.

Budapest to the Black Sea

From £2,999 pp

On this incredible journey through the Balkans, we start by exploring the stunning sights of Kalocsa, Pecs and Belgrade with its magnificent Kalemegdan Fortress.

Enchanting Rhine & Yuletide Markets

From £1109 pp

Discover the magical ambience of Germany’s traditional Christmas markets with their host of unique, inspired gift ideas.

The Blue Danube with Budapest Extension

From £2,268 pp

Explore this magnificent imperial city, before venturing out into the desolate beauty of Hungary’s Great Plain and 7 nights cruising along the Danube river.

Amsterdam, Kinderdijk & the Dutch Bulbfields

From £1,449 pp

Experience historic maritime cities, where innovation meets the traditions of the past, plus the authenticity of iconic windmills and the floral masterpiece of the colourful Dutch bulb fields.

Bruges, Medieval Flanders, Amsterdam & The Dutch Bulbfields

From £2,099 pp

As you sail through picturesque waterways, discover the artisanal traditions of what was once the world’s greatest naval power, the remarkable art of the Flemish masters and the old Zuiderzee.

Cruise the Heart of Europe

This fifteen-day river cruise takes you on an amazing journey from Cologne in the heart of the Rhine valley to Vienna and finally Budapest on the banks of the Danube.

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The Blue Danube River Cruise - MS Emily Brontë 7 nights, call for pricing

Ms emily brontë.

10 Oct - 17 Oct 2022

Or call 01202 544876

We strive not to be beaten on price!

Soak up all that Europe’s most cultured river has to offer, with its wealth of grand baroque architecture, medieval cities, picture perfect towns and the sights that inspired Strauss and Mozart. Stepping aboard you will appreciate the superb surroundings of your floating luxury hotel for the next seven nights with spacious and well-appointed cabins or suites, private bathrooms and meticulously prepared fine cuisine.From Budapest, we slip our moorings and head on our journey north to Esztergom spending the morning exploring its historic centre, which once was Hungary’s capital, before continuing westwards to the beautiful old town of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Navigating through Lower Austria we then reach the romantic town of Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned, having been shipwrecked on his return from the crusades. After we visit the remarkable monastery in Melk, with its 200m long Emperor’s Gallery, lined with portraits of Austrian emperors.Soon we arrive in Linz where you have the opportunity to discover its baroque old town on a guided tour. Alternatively, take the short drive to Salzburg and enjoy a guided tour of the old town, seeing the imposing Hohensalzburg fortress, towering over the city and the birthplace and residence of Mozart, Salzburg’s most famous citizen. On our way back eastwards we will reach classical Vienna, home of Strauss and many great composers. This city offers up so much wonderful architecture as well as a host of other things to see including the Spanish riding school.Finally, cruising into Hungary, we arrive back in imperial Budapest, straddling the picturesque Danube. After a guided tour of this palatial city we spend the evening on board, where the Captain hosts another spectacular dinner, an excellent finale to this most exceptional and relaxing cruise.

Book this cruise

After selecting your cabin, you'll be assigned a Riviera Travel specialist as your personal cruise concierge. They will ensure that you get the most out of this cruise at the best possible price.

After years of painstaking research to create the most perfect vessels afloat, a new era in river cruising dawns as Riviera Travel introduce their brand new, state of the art, ‘all suite’ ships. Swiss operated and truly world-class, they are absolutely delighted to present the five-star MS Emily Brontë.

It is extremely difficult to convey just how extraordinary this outstanding ship really is and exactly what distinguishes it from similar vessels. It would be very easy to just say ‘luxurious’ but it’s much more than that; they have deliberately avoided the current trend for a minimalist style where you could be anywhere in the world, creating instead a unique yet exquisite blend of understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level. Immediately striking is just how exceptionally spacious this new vessel is as you enter a gleaming, richly coloured marble-floored lobby flooded with natural light from a stunning atrium above. Moving inside, exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a superbly balanced masterpiece of onboard style, utilising sustainable rich hardwoods, gleaming brass and polished copper, sparkling glass and intricate wrought iron. The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout – including the exterior and imaginatively furnished with harmonious colour schemes, all designed to create the serene atmosphere reflective of the golden age of cruising which time after time you tell us you adore.

Riviera Travel

At Riviera Travel, we're as passionate about travel as you are. That,s why we've spent 33 years discovering the destinations you'll love, and putting holidays you thought you could only dream of within reach.

Every itinerary has been meticulously crafted by our team of travel experts and provides fascinating perspectives on the culture, history, gastronomy, art and architecture of the places we visit. And much like a well-told story, every detail is carefully considered, from the stops we make to the routes we take. We ensure there's ample free time and unguided visits, so you can continue exploring at your own pace.

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MS Emily Bronte

After years of painstaking research to create the most perfect vessels afloat, we are delighted to present the five-star MS Emily Brontë. Immediately striking as you enter a gleaming, marble-floored lobby is just how spacious this vessel is. Moving inside, exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a superbly balanced masterpiece of onboard style, utilising sustainable rich hardwoods, gleaming brass and polished copper, sparkling glass and intricate wrought iron. The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments, taking fine dining to another level. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 169 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels.

• Detailed Information
• Dining Info

MS Emily Bronte

After years of painstaking research to create the most perfect vessels afloat, we are delighted to present the five-star MS Emily Brontë. Immediately striking as you enter a gleaming, marble-floored lobby is just how spacious this vessel is. Moving inside, exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a superbly balanced masterpiece of onboard style, utilising sustainable rich hardwoods, gleaming brass and polished copper, sparkling glass and intricate wrought iron. The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments, taking fine dining to another level. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 169 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels.

• Detailed Information
• Dining Info

• CruiseMapper

MS Emily Bronte cabins and suites

Ms emily bronte staterooms review, floor plans, photos.

MS Emily Bronte cabins and suites review at CruiseMapper provides detailed information on cruise accommodations , including floor plans, photos, room types and categories, cabin sizes, furniture details and included by Riviera Travel UK (Scylla Cruises) en-suite amenities and services.

The MS Emily Bronte cruise ship cabins page is conveniently interlinked with its deck plans showing deck layouts combined with a legend and review of all onboard venues.

Deluxe Balcony Suite

Layout (floor plan).

French Balcony Superior Suite

French Balcony Cabin

Window Single Cabin

MS Emily Bronte cabins review

All Emily Bronte cruise ship staterooms as standard amenities offer:

• hotel style twin beds (convertible to double / Queen-size), bedside cabinets, deluxe bedding (pillows, fine linens)
• en-suite bathroom (WC, shower, single-sink vanity, plush towels, premium bath toiletries, under sink storage, large mirror)
• 40-inch flat HDTV (satellite reception, infotainment system with Internet and movies-on-demand, bow camera real-time views)
• mini-bar, tea-coffee making facility
• glass-top round table with 2 armchairs
• mirrored dressing table with pouf chair
• wardrobe (hangers and drawers, electronic safe box), hairdryer, phone
• individually controlled air-conditioning
• evening turndown service
• Cabin furniture is made of hand-crafted hardwoods.
• Most cabins are with wall-to-wall and floor-ceiling glass doors opening to a railing (French Balcony). Only exceptions are Lower / Emerald Deck cabins, which are with one fixed (non-opening window, quarter-height) located close to the ceiling.
• All cabin bathrooms are with marble tops, glass showers (large rain shower heads) and brand bath cosmetics (by Crabtree and Evelyn).
• Some staterooms are available for single occupancy booking (without a single supplement, subject to availability). These are cabin categories DDSO (Diamond Deck 3), RDSO (Ruby Deck 2) and EDSO (Emerald Deck 1).
• Deluxe Balcony Suites (on Diamond Deck 3) additionally offer (as bonus amenities) larger interior space, step-out balcony (furnished with table and 2 chairs, can be used for al fresco dining), premium cotton bathrobes and slippers.

The riverboat Emily Bronte has 88 cabins for 169 passengers (max capacity 176). Riviera Travel river cruise deals are inclusive of all onboard meals, stateroom, 24-hour Coffee Station (with light snacks), onboard entertainment and enrichment programming, return train travel (optional flights), luxury bus transfers, walking tours, shipboard Wi-Fi (throughout/in cabins and all public spaces).

MS Emily Bronte cabin and suite plans are property of Riviera Travel UK (Scylla Cruises) . All floor plans are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

MS Emily Bronte

After years of painstaking research to create the most perfect vessels afloat, we are delighted to present the five-star MS Emily Brontë. Immediately striking as you enter a gleaming, marble-floored lobby is just how spacious this vessel is. Moving inside, exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a superbly balanced masterpiece of onboard style, utilising sustainable rich hardwoods, gleaming brass and polished copper, sparkling glass and intricate wrought iron. The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments, taking fine dining to another level. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 169 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels.

• Detailed Information
• Dining Info

• River cruise lines , Riviera Travel

Riviera Travel MS Emily Brontë Review

by Emma Smith - 29/10/2018

Step on-board Riviera Travel’s very own MS Emily Brontë for a short visit while she sailed through Cologne, Germany. Join Scott Perry, our very own Packaging Support Executive, as he explores the ship’s facilities, food and fun for himself.

Read on to see what he thought of the ship and Cologne’s surroundings.

Initial impressions

As I only visited the ship for an afternoon, I didn’t experience a full cruise. However, getting on-board the ship was straightforward and smooth. I arrived via coach transfer from the airport, which dropped me about 50 yards from the ship, then I simply walked on-board with no need for passports of any documentation. Upon arrival, I was greeted with canapés and a free drink of my choice from the bar.

My first impressions of the ship is that she is in pristine condition, especially as she is only a year old. The decor is very British, as Riviera Travel mainly tailors their ships to British guests, and she had the feel of a 5* boutique hotel.

Throughout the ship the decor was traditional, with silver and gold accents and paintings hung on the walls.

Life on-board

Accommodation

During my stay I saw all three grades of accommodation: Suites, Superior Suites and Deluxe Balcony Suites.

The rooms are incredibly spacious, especially the Deluxe Balcony Suites. The smallest suites were 189 square foot, with more than enough room even if the beds were converted from Queen to Double. All cabins include sitting space with a table and two chairs.

Of the cabins I saw, the rooms were clean and the bathrooms were big with more than enough facilities for guests. Some nice touches included little headsets in the cabins for guests to use during cruise line excursions which allows them to listen to tours in their language of choice.

Other facilities include tea and coffee making facilities; mini bar; and complimentary bath robes and slippers. The drinks within the mini bar are not included.

The windows throughout the cabins are all a great size, offering guests a great view. Suites on the two top decks also have French balconies with panoramic floor-to-ceiling sliding-glass doors. These balconies include a table and two chairs which sit on a large, laminated floor space.

My favourite feature was the marble bathroom in the Ruby Deck Suites, which were very impressive and give that extra feel of luxury.

Entertainment

The Panorama Lounge is the only entertainment venue on-board, which is of a low-key, traditional style. The entertainment on-board is mainly catered to older guests, with a musician performing every night.

I didn’t get to experience the entertainment for myself, due to the length of my stay, however the Riviera Travel staff advised that they’re generally the same guests on-board including pianists or those offering enrichment talks on each port.

Dining and drinks

There are two dining options on-board MS Emily Bronte: The Bistro and The Restaurant. The Bistro serves a speciality lunch each day and an excellent five-course-dinner in the evenings, though these are by reservation only. The Restaurant is the main dining room, which serves buffet breakfast and a four- or five-course-dinner in the evening.

I ate in the The Bistro during my time on-board, which was quite informal and relaxed. The standard of the food was excellent! I enjoyed an initial starter of mariage de la terre et de la mer (‘marriage of land and sea’), which included buffalo mozzarella, baby shrimps, tomatoes and greens. This was followed with a cream of plum tomato soup which was impressive and rich.

For my main, I enjoyed lamb medallions on galette potatoes which was cooked to perfection! My dessert was the New York cheesecake with blueberry sauce, accompanied with a selection of cheese.

Throughout my meal the waiting staff were faultless, they always topped up my water; were happy to give advice and recommendations on the wine and asked questions to ensure the selection would suit my tastes. The food arrived quickly and the chefs presented themselves before I’d even sat down which was a nice touch.

The Bistro offers more choice than The Restaurant, however there is a supplement for dining in this venue. My only issue was the layout of the tables, as it felt that you were a little too close to your neighbouring diners.

Overall, my impression of the ship is that she is up to a 5* standard and offers a colourful, attractive and contemporary atmosphere. Personally I wouldn’t pay to go on MS Emily Brontë, but this is due to the ship’s demographic. However, I can see why people pay to enjoy a river cruise with Riviera Travel as it carries all the characteristics of a premium cruise line, and only charge a small amount for drinks.

I’d say the ship is perfect for retired couples who wish to experience a new and unique way of cruising and visiting destinations which your standard cruise cannot take you to.

From the minute I stepped on-board, the staff were amazing. They instantly came over with canapés and the standard of service remained impeccable from then onwards. The Hotel Manager gave a tour of the ship and was very welcoming – happy to answer any questions. It was also a nice touch for the Captain to introduce himself and offer others a tour of the vessel.

What’s included?

Riviera Travel did previously offers a drinks package at a fee, however this has now ceased. Prices for drinks are quite cheap and water, tea and coffee are all complimentary. Examples of drink costs include:

• Glass of wine – €2.75
• Bottle of beer – €2
• Cocktail – €8

Gratuities are not charged at a set percentage or included in the fare, though Riviera Travel do recommend €10 to €15 per person, per day.

Final verdict

I enjoyed my visit on the ship, with the atmosphere and staff very welcoming and relaxing. I personally would not spend longer than two nights on-board as I would feel bored, though the ship is not tailored to my demographic.

I was surprised at how low-key, calm and relaxed the ambience on-board was, with a pleasant feel of space in most areas of the ship. Though I didn’t use many of the facilities, the spa, pools and fitness centre all looked clean and of high quality. The top deck also has a small golf putting green and the pool is around the size of a Jacuzzi.

The quality of the dining in The Bistro is what I will remember the most from my visit, it was one of the best on any cruise ship I have been on!

If you’re keen to enjoy a river cruise on-board Riviera Travel, see our best sailings and look out for cruises on-board MS Emily Brontë.

Call our Cruise Concierge team on 0800 197 0854 for expert advice and award-winning customer service with your booking and any questions you may have.

About Emma Smith

Emma has more than seven years' experience as a writer and has been in the travel industry for nearly five years. She loves learning about new places and cruise ships coming to market, as well as discovering fun and exciting activities to do while you sail. She has cruised with Princess Cruises, Cunard, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Avalon Waterways and Royal Caribbean and is looking to get something in her diary for 2024! Her favourite things to see on a ship include excellent entertainment, a delicious cocktail menu and extraordinary dining venues.

•  Solo river cruising in Europe
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Request brochure - the blue danube - ms emily brontë, the blue danube river cruise - ms emily brontë, 8 days - river cruises, holiday highlights.

• Happy by day two or we'll bring you home with a full refund
• Tour the most historic towns and cities along the Danube, including guided tours of Vienna, Dürnstein, Budapest and Bratislava.
• Visit Esztergom Basilica and Melk Abbey.
• Explore Salzburg or Linz with an expert guide on a tour of the town's most interesting sights.
• Immerse yourself in the local culture with a Hungarian folklore show on board.
• Enjoy a classical Live music performance on board with stunning views of Vienna.
• Click here to see our departures exclusively for solo travellers

What's Included

• Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of sole occupancy cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement. The price includes:
• All meals on board (except one lunch if choosing the Salzburg excursion) - from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day - including welcome cocktails and the Captain's dinner.
• Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
• All visits and excursions as mentioned
• Airport transfers
• Coach travel as mentioned
• Travel to and from port of embarkation
• The services of a Riviera Travel cruise director and concierge

You fly to Budapest, where a coach takes you to your cruise ship. The dedicated crew are there to welcome you on board, ensuring you settle in and familiarise yourself with this first-class floating hotel. There’s always a sense of expectancy and excitement on the eve of a cruise and, after an excellent dinner in the stylish restaurant, conversation is sure to revolve around the delights ahead.

Overnight we have cruised upstream to Esztergom, one of Hungary’s oldest towns, a royal capital during medieval times and today the seat of the country’s archbishop. We have a guided tour of the famous neoclassical basilica, standing sentinel over the Danube on the border with Slovakia, and boasting one of the world’s largest altarpieces and a wealth of priceless religious artefacts. The castle is also worth exploring; it was the seat of government until the Ottomans invaded in the 16th century. Nestling below are myriad atmospheric churches resonating with the enchanting sounds of choir; this is the best of provincial Hungary and is little changed since Habsburg times. As you enjoy your first lunch on board we gently leave Esztergom in our wake, affording a fascinating opportunity to compare the different landscapes, towns and villages of Hungary on one river bank and of Slovakia on the other.

This morning we explore Slovakia’s fast-emerging capital city, Bratislava, on a guided tour. Until recently swathed in the drab uniformity of Communism, the city has rekindled the splendour of its imperial past in its beautifully restored Old Town. Equally impressive is the imposing 17th-century castle commanding expansive views across the Danube. This afternoon we cruise into Lower Austria, a peaceful, bucolic region and home to some of the country’s best wines. By now the stresses of everyday life seem distant as you absorb the ever-changing scenes we pass: children playing on the river banks, young couples strolling arm in arm like generations before them, vignerons carefully pruning their vines, and cobbled quaysides lined by half-timbered buildings. You’ll marvel as the Captain skilfully navigates the ship along the serene river and through locks whose mechanisms never cease to fascinate, as we cruise towards Dürnstein during dinner.

Durnstein is known principally for the ice-blue tower of its abbey, which dominates the view, and the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192 after being shipwrecked on his return from the crusades. This morning we take a guided walking tour to explore this memorable city further. Set on a rocky outcrop high above the river, the castle is now ruined, but it’s easy to imagine England’s legendary monarch seething with frustration far from home, while waiting for his family to raise funds to pay his ransom. After lunch you visit the remarkable Melk Abbey. Nothing quite prepares you for your first sight of this enormous honey-coloured building, standing resplendent above the surrounding countryside. Originally a castle, it was gifted to the Benedictine Order in the 11th-century and, although reconstructed in Baroque style during the 18th century, it has remained a monastic school and monastery ever since. The Abbey is renowned for its 214-yard-long Emperor’s Gallery lined with portraits, many fine rooms and an ornate library. After we re-join the ship, dinner is served during the final part of our cruise upstream through the pretty Nibelungengau, immortalised in the music of Wagner. 

Reaching Linz, you will have the choice to stay in the city and take a guided walking tour, exploring its charming baroque old town. At its heart you’ll see one of the finest squares in Austria, lined by grand pastel-coloured facades with an impressive central Trinity Column of white marble, crowned by a gilded sunburst. There’s also the fortress-like castle, built high above the city by Emperor Friedrich III, now a museum housing a fine collection of nineteenth and twentieth-century artworks. Alternatively, we drive to Salzburg, once an independent state whose archbishops turned it into one of the most sophisticated cities north of the Alps. Dominating the skyline is one of Europe’s largest stone fortresses, the Hohensalzburg, while beneath its walls church domes and spires rise from the delightful Altstadt, or Old Town. Then there’s the wonderful Hellbrunn Palace and the splendid formal gardens of the Mirabell Palace – a must for horticulture fans. This morning, discover some of the city’s main sights in the company of an expert local guide, then you’re free to explore as you wish. Everywhere there are sights associated with the city’s most famous resident, Mozart, who played the harpsichord aged three, composed rudimentary music at five and wrote his first opera when he was 11! Please note lunch is not included on this full day excursion to Salzburg; however, the ship will offer a packed lunch. We return to the ship for another splendid dinner.

For many, today’s visit to Vienna will be one of the highlights of the cruise. The city’s very name provokes images of elegance, fine music, wide boulevards, Baroque architecture and a rich tapestry of peoples who were drawn here from all corners of Europe. For 200 years until the First World War, Vienna was the cultural centre of Europe and many of the showpiece buildings, galleries, aristocratic palaces and magnificent churches you see today were built to reflect its imperial status. The city’s most iconic monument is the breathtaking Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, whose striking multi-coloured roof and huge Gothic South Tower dominate the skyline. There’s also the colossal Hofburg, the former royal court that is now home to a collection of museums, the Crown Jewels and the Spanish Riding School, and where the Vienna Boys’ Choir performs. Then there are the lavish Imperial Apartments and an outstanding collection of relics of the Holy Roman Empire, including, allegedly, the sabre of Charlemagne himself. The Kunsthistorisches Museum, which contains the world’s fourth largest collection of paintings, is just across the road. This morning we have a tour with a local guide offering insights into why Vienna is one of Europe’s great capitals – the seat of the Habsburg emperors and home to some of the world’s finest classical composers, including Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart and, of course, a whole family of Strausses. During the afternoon you’re free to explore as you wish. Take a stroll in the Prater, notable for the huge Ferris wheel that features in several Cold War spy thrillers. Or, for something quite different, visit the Schönbrunn Palace, a former royal residence now housing a range of world-class museums and galleries. Perhaps, though, just take a stroll through Vienna’s atmospheric side streets, or enjoy a coffee and a slice of delicious Sachertorte in one of the lovely coffee houses. This evening we’ve arranged truly the ‘icing on the cake’: You have the wonderful Captains Dinner and no visit to Vienna is complete without a live musical experience, so after dinner we have a classical recital on board. To hear this exquisite music played in the city of its creation makes a wonderful finale to the day.

Enjoy a leisurely morning as we cruise majestically through Hungary’s peaceful pastoral landscape towards Budapest. After lunch we enjoy a sightseeing tour of this captivating city, which truly lives up to its reputation as the ‘Pearl of the Danube’. The twin cities of Buda, built around the hilltop fortress, and Pest, with its wide boulevards, were fought over through the centuries. The Ottomans ruled here for 150 years before being ousted in the late 17th century, but their legacy lives on in the many thermal baths fed by hot springs, giving rise to Budapest’s other sobriquet – the ‘City of Spas’. After the end of Ottoman rule, Budapest became an imperial city of the Habsburg Empire, attracting great cultural and commercial wealth. Castle Hill is Budapest in microcosm: two churches, seven museums and a theatre among streets and squares with their own special atmosphere and a dramatic view across the river to the awe-inspiring neo-Gothic Parliament Building. Budapest’s endless galleries, museums, outstanding Art Nouveau architecture and excellent shopping offer a fittingly elegant end to your Danube cruise. This evening’s Gala Dinner closes with a Hungarian folklore show, giving you time to bid farewell to your travelling companions and reflect on all the inspirational places, sights and sounds you have experienced on a truly ‘imperial’ cruise.

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.

Click here to take a virtual tour of the MS Emily Brontë

It is extremely difficult to convey just how extraordinary this outstanding ship really is and exactly what distinguishes it from similar vessels. It would be very easy to just say ‘luxurious’ but it’s much more than that; we have deliberately avoided the current trend for a minimalist style where you could be anywhere in the world, creating instead a unique yet exquisite blend of understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level. Immediately striking is just how exceptionally spacious this new vessel is as you enter a gleaming, richly coloured marble-floored lobby flooded with natural light from a stunning atrium above. Moving inside, exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a superbly balanced masterpiece of onboard style, utilising sustainable rich hardwoods, gleaming brass and polished copper, sparkling glass and intricate wrought iron. The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout – including the exterior and imaginatively furnished with harmonious colour schemes, all designed to create the serene atmosphere reflective of the golden age of cruising which time after time you tell us you adore.

The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments taking fine dining to another level complemented by delicate European porcelain, gleaming glassware and the intuitive service in which the Swiss excel. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 169 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels.

Furthermore your suite will easily exceed your expectations for not only will you enjoy the most discerning décor, so too the ship’s dimensions afford the ultimate in space and comfort - a minimum 16 square metres (172 square feet), with upgrades available to ‘Superior’ and ‘Deluxe’ accommodation.

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MS Emily Brontë

Why cruise on this ship.

It is extremely difficult to convey just how extraordinary this outstanding ship really is and exactly what distinguishes it from similar vessels. It would be very easy to just say ‘luxurious’ but it’s much more than that; we have deliberately avoided the current trend for a minimalist style where you could be anywhere in the world, creating instead a unique yet exquisite blend of understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level. Immediately striking is just how exceptionally spacious this new vessel is as you enter a gleaming, richly coloured marble-floored lobby flooded with natural light from a stunning atrium above. Moving inside, exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a superbly balanced masterpiece of onboard style, utilising sustainable rich hardwoods, gleaming brass and polished copper, sparkling glass and intricate wrought iron. The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout – including the exterior and imaginatively furnished with harmonious colour schemes, all designed to create the serene atmosphere reflective of the golden age of cruising which time after time you tell us you adore.

Value for Money

Delivers unparalleled experiences without compromising on affordability

Understand why that Value For Money

Riviera Travel is one of the oldest and most reliable river cruise operators in the world, with 36 years of experience running guided and escorted tours, a land and water all around the world, including river cruises.

Riviera Travel operates a unique cruising experience, partnering with local guides and experts to create a programme of guided tours and river cruises, bringing like-minded travellers together and offering a selection of authentic and bespoke travel experiences.

The operator runs river cruises on European waterways like the Danube, Rhine and Douro, but also the Nile, Mekong and Yangtze. Championing escorted tours and guided holidays, Riviera Travel line also specialises in solo travel, providing a safe, friendly and social environment for travellers going it alone.

MS Emily Brontë, Seine

It was really an enjoyable rest. It's a pity I have been on all their cruises to date. I can toughly recommend for a River cruise holiday

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See inside a new ultra-luxury river cruise line that's charging up to $59,520 per person

• Newcomer Riverside Luxury Cruises wants to break into the growing river cruise market.
• The ultra-luxury cruise line  operates former Crystal ships in popular European rivers like the Danube.
• Riverside's 2024 cruises start at $1,055 per person for four days.

A new ultra-luxury cruise line wants to be the swankiest travel-by-river vacation option.

To do so, it's enticing cruisers with truffle-infused butter, $320-per-person dinners, and butlers that can be beckoned with a simple WhatsApp message.

Affluent travelers , meet Riverside Luxury Cruises.

The budding company first set sail in March 2023. With a year of service under its belt, its three ships are now sailing some of Europe's most popular rivers — starting at more than $260 per person per day.

Riverside is operated by Seaside Collection, a European hotelier.

The firm had its sights set on a river cruise venture since 2018, Jen Halboth, CEO of Riverside Luxury Cruises, told Business Insider.

Ironically, COVID-19 was the reason it got into the business.

Crystal Cruises declared bankruptcy in early 2022 amid the pandemic. Shortly after, Seaside purchased and updated five of the then-defunct cruise line's ships.

Three of these vessels now make up Riverside's fleet. The other two are being leased to competitor Uniworld River Cruises.

River cruising has become increasingly popular as wealthy travelers gravitate to ultra-luxury small-ship vacations.

River cruise ships are much smaller than their behemoth ocean-based counterparts, allowing Riverside to sail in waterways like Europe's Rhine, Rhone, Danube, Main, Moselle, and Saône rivers.

Along the way, guests can explore destinations many giant ships can't easily access — like Budapest, Hungary; Frankfurt, Germany; and Amsterdam — sometimes visiting more than one port in a day.

One of Riverside's shortest and cheapest 2024 voyages starts at $1,055 per person for a four-day Danube River cruise from Passau, Germany, to Vienna.

Alcohol and excursion packages can tack on an extra $75 to $175 per person per night.

Looking to ball out? The most expensive and longest itinerary is $59,521 per person for a three-river, 22-day cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest, Hungary, in the most expensive suite with the most inclusive package.

To compare, the cheapest 2024 voyage with all-inclusive luxury competitor Uniworld River Cruises starts at $2,000 per person for an eight-day Danube River sailing.

River cruisers tend to be over the age of 55.

But the new company is targeting guests 45 years old and older, specifically those who frequent luxury vacations but have yet to try a river cruise.

"New luxury travelers want to be pampered, get off and have an adventure, and come back and be taken care of," the cruise line's CEO said.

"Pampering” they will get.

Of Riverside's three ships, the 394-foot-long, 74-foot-wide Mozart can accommodate the most guests — up to 162, not including the 82 crew.

Yes, it's larger than Uniworld's ships, which range from 32 to 159 guests. But it's also significantly smaller than Royal Caribbean's new 9,950-person Icon of the Seas ocean vessel.

Like most cruise liners, Riverside's three ships have spas, buffets, and plush lounges and bars.

During the day, travelers can enjoy lunch at the open-air grill and relax to live music courtesy of Steinway and Bösendorfer pianos, no less.

At night, they can dine on a seven-course meal at the 295 euros ($320) per-person Vintage Room.

Riverside’s ships have up to 5 restaurants. Vintage Room is the only specialty option.

The cost to dine includes a wine pairing and plates like veal with truffle and chanterelle mushrooms and "surf and turf" with beef sirloin and scallops.

But don't expect a lackluster, rushed meal at the other complimentary options: "This is not a churn-and-burn," the company's CEO said of the ships' Waterside restaurants. "You come in for fine dining."

Infused, whipped butter is apparently one of Riverside's hottest commodities.

Sometimes, it has chiles. Other times, it's infused with citrus. If you're lucky, you'll get one with truffles.

"People were raving about our butter," Halboth said. "Everyone's waiting to see what butter they'll get at dinner each night."

Need to sleep off all that dairy? You're in luck. Every cabin has a king bed.

Riverside's suites range from 194 to 883 square-feet. These high-end cabins include butler service, stocked mini-bars, and espresso machines.

Some suites also have double-sink vanities and walk-in closets, a hallmark of an ultra-luxury cruise vessel .

Does Riverside’s more than $260 per person, per day fare seem reasonable now?

If yes, book soon. It'll only get more expensive from here.

These fares don't offset the amount Riverside is spending on amenities like the upscale food, according to Halboth. To make up for these expenditures, the cruise line plans to raise its prices gradually over the next two years.

The company's CEO said bookings have been 'a little lighter' since the start of 2024.

But the back half of the year is "filling up" thanks to Americans: About 70 to 80% of its guests are from North America, the company said.

Riverside will operate its Mozart, Ravel, and Debussy ships for three years as it 'hones the brand,' Halboth said.

The cruise line's two additional vessels would join its fleet in the next few years.

Given the growing popularity of river cruises , it's a good time for companies like Riverside to start expanding.

However, it could face plenty of incoming competition.

Jamie Loizou, the UK managing director of luxury river cruise line AmaWaterways, is forecasting 2024 as a "pivotal" year for the river cruise industry, noting that 15 new river-based vessels are expected to launch this year, Cruise Critic reported .

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