ABOUT Riverside Luxury Cruises
Formed in 2022, Riverside Luxury Cruises is a well-regarded name in the world of river cruising. Their journey into the river cruise market was a carefully considered endeavor, guided by a commitment to excellence. What sets Riverside Luxury Cruises apart is their dedication to providing vessels that seamlessly align with the Seaside Collection Philosophy. These ships are designed to set new industry standards and offer guests experiences that rival their renowned hotels.
Riverside's fleet is a testament to their commitment to luxurious river cruising. These vessels offer expansive space for guests to move freely, relax, and enjoy the comfort of their surroundings. The inclusion of a team of dedicated butlers further elevates the guest experience by personalizing every aspect of the journey.
A Riverside luxury cruise is an immersion in both relaxation and enjoyment. Guests can savor the scenic beauty that unfolds outside their windows, indulge in exquisite onboard cuisine, and immerse themselves in the rich cultures and histories of the charming towns and cities they visit along the way.
My 4 days on the Ravel, sailing on the Rhone in France.
My adventure began on the upper deck, where I found myself enveloped in an atmosphere of serenity. The unspoiled, picturesque landscapes passing by were a sight to behold, and I knew these were moments I would carry with me always. Our adventure began with a warm and inviting welcome barbecue, but this was no ordinary barbecue; it was a culinary delight that transported my taste buds to the heart of France.
As I savored every bite, I couldn't help but be enamored by the exquisite French touch that adorned our plates. The prawns, each as substantial as a small lobster, were succulent and bursting with flavor. The beef was nothing short of perfection, so tender it practically melted in my mouth, and the grilled vegetables added a delightful crunch and earthy richness to each bite.
Yet, it was the selection of divine French cheeses that truly stole the show for me. The cheeseboard was a work of art, featuring several varieties that showcased the very essence of French cheese-making expertise. And then there was the leg of ham, carved with the utmost precision by a skilled server. Each slice was a testament to the care and craftsmanship that goes into creating such culinary masterpieces. The taste was not just sweet; it was a symphony of flavors, a sensory journey that left an indelible mark on my palate and my heart. It was a French culinary experience I will cherish forever.
As we sailed through France, on the Rhone River, I was captivated by the engineering marvels of the canal locks. These incredible feats of human ingenuity lifted our vessel, providing a unique perspective on Europe's intricate waterway systems. But it wasn't just about the locks; it was about experiencing the cultures of Europe's most beautiful cities. Each port of call felt like a voyage into history, allowing me to immerse myself in local traditions and artistry.
Culinary Delights Along the Way
One of the highlights of my journey was the culinary experience. Riverside Luxury Cruises takes dining to another level. French cuisine, renowned for its high-quality products and ingredients, was a staple on our menu. From Tarte Tatin to Boeuf Bourguignon and Crêpe Suzette, the flavors were nothing short of exceptional.
Pairing these delectable dishes with vintage wines from the south of the Rhône valley was a culinary revelation. The fruitiness of Grenache, the spiciness of Syrah, and the robustness of Mourvèdre danced on my palate, creating a symphony of tastes that celebrated the regions we traversed.
Every meal was a celebration of the local specialties of the regions we sailed through. The ship's chefs meticulously crafted dishes that captured the essence of each area. The best part? Everything was made by hand on board, from the jam to the bread and bread rolls. Convenience was a taboo word in the galleys of Riverside Luxury Cruises.
The Comforts of Home on the Water
Throughout my journey, I was cocooned in the lap of luxury. Riverside Luxury Cruises' suites are a testament to opulence. Spacious, private, and incredibly comfortable, they offer an escape from the ordinary. These sanctuaries are adorned with luxurious materials—fine fabrics, velvet, and leather—creating an ambiance of sheer indulgence.
Elegant bathrooms and King-size beds added to the comfort, while the soft colors and panoramic windows brought the beauty of nature indoors. Whether I chose a suite with subtle nuances or larger dimensions, it felt just right.
The Bar Experience
One of the highlights of this unforgettable journey was a night spent at the opulent onboard bar. This experience was nothing short of magical, a luxurious escape into a world of indulgence and beauty.
The setting was nothing short of extraordinary. The bar, elegantly designed and adorned with rich, warm tones and plush furnishings, offered sweeping views of the river as it meandered through picturesque landscapes. The soft, ambient lighting cast a warm glow over the room, creating an inviting and intimate atmosphere. As I entered, I felt a sense of awe at the seamless integration of comfort and sophistication.
The bar staff, true artisans of their craft, greeted me with warmth and professionalism. Their knowledge of cocktails and spirits was exemplary, and their ability to tailor recommendations to my preferences was impressive. Whether it was a classic martini, a creative signature cocktail, or a glass of fine wine, each choice was a testament to the bar's dedication to excellence.
One of the most memorable aspects of this experience was the selection of drinks and the attention to detail in their preparation. I decided to start with a glass of champagne, and it was presented with an artistic flourish. The delicate bubbles danced in the crystal flute, and each sip was a celebration of elegance.
Gazing out through the large windows of the bar, I watched the scenery change as the river carried us through breathtaking landscapes. It was a surreal feeling to be surrounded by such natural beauty while indulging in the lap of luxury.
This luxury bar experience on the river cruise was a highlight of my journey, an evening that exceeded my expectations in every way. It was a celebration of elegance, artistry, and the pure joy of savoring life's finest pleasures in the most extraordinary of settings. The memories of this exceptional night on the luxury river cruise bar will remain etched in my heart for a lifetime.
My Spa Experience
"Immersing myself in relaxation, I indulged in a soothing massage that melted away the day's tension. The skilled hands of the masseuse worked their magic, leaving me feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Following the massage, I headed to the pool to continue my journey of tranquility. As I dipped into the refreshing waters, a sense of weightlessness washed over me. The gentle laps of the pool against my skin provided a serene backdrop to my thoughts, allowing me to unwind and escape into a world of aquatic bliss."
Overall Impression
My experience with Riverside Luxury Cruises was nothing short of a game-changer in the realm of luxury river cruising. From the moment I stepped on board, I was enveloped in a world of pampering and indulgence.
Every aspect, from the delectable cuisine to the warm and attentive staff and the carefully curated excursions, left an indelible impression of what luxury river cruising should truly embody.
It felt like sailing on a 5-star floating hotel, yet the intimate setting of a small river ship with just 100 passengers was the epitome of exclusivity. The presence of a dedicated butler and the consistently outstanding service never felt pretentious; instead, it created an atmosphere of genuine relaxation and comfort.
The amenities provided by Riverside Luxury Cruises were nothing short of exquisite, elevating the entire journey to a level of opulence that exceeded my highest expectations. This experience has set a new standard for me, redefining the essence of luxury river cruising.