Skip to content
©VIVA BEYOND

VIVA Cruises Launches Its First Floating Boutique Hotel on the Seine

Hotel News
Paris
Travel
News

The new VIVA Boutique concept combines river cruising with the atmosphere of a luxury boutique hotel.

VIVA Cruises has officially christened its newest ship, VIVA BEYOND, in Paris — marking the launch of the company’s new premium concept, VIVA Boutique. Designed to feel more like an elegant floating boutique hotel than a traditional river cruise ship, the vessel will sail year-round along the Seine through Normandy and Paris.

Boutique-Style River Cruising

With space for just 112 guests across 56 cabins — half of them suites — VIVA BEYOND places a strong focus on design, comfort, and gastronomy. On board, guests can dine at three restaurants, including the fine dining concept MOMENTS curated by Michelin-starred chef David Görne, alongside a French-inspired brasserie serving regional classics in a more relaxed setting.

The ship’s itineraries are built around culture, cuisine, and art, with routes such as In the Footsteps of Impressionism, Normandy’s Culinary Delights, and Culture Along the Seine. Experiences range from visits to Monet’s gardens in Giverny to culinary excursions through Normandy.

Growing Nordic Interest

The christening ceremony in Paris also highlighted VIVA Cruises’ growing focus on the Nordic market. Norwegian travel industry profile Cecilie Kopperud was named godmother of the ship — believed to be the first time a river cruise vessel has been christened by a Norwegian.

According to VIVA Cruises, Nordic travellers now represent up to 15 percent of guests, driven by growing demand for all-inclusive travel, flexible itineraries, and smaller luxury ships offering a more personal travel experience.

A New Generation of River Cruises

With VIVA Boutique, the company aims to redefine river cruising for a younger and design-conscious audience. The concept combines the intimacy of boutique hospitality with immersive cultural travel — all set against the changing scenery of Europe’s rivers.

The Editors
Find out more
1 / 12