Between an outstanding culinary programme, a visit to a magnificent 17th-century château and a cocktail-making masterclass on board, Rachel came away with a clear sense of what makes this product so unique.
Recognition & Awards
Earlier this month, Lusso was delighted to host a group of our valued agent partners aboard Riverside Ravel for a wonderful cruise along the Saône River, sailing from Lyon and back again. The trip was hosted by Charlie Hewitt-Davies, Managing Director UK, Ireland, Australia & New Zealand for Riverside Luxury Cruises, alongside Lusso's Head of Business Development, Rachel Healey.
Between an outstanding culinary programme, a visit to a magnificent 17th-century château and a cocktail-making masterclass on board, Rachel came away with a clear sense of what makes this product so unique.
With just 55 beautifully appointed suites, Riverside Ravel feels far more like a luxury boutique hotel than a river cruise ship. The interiors are elegant and contemporary, creating an atmosphere of understated sophistication throughout.
The gym is well-equipped for a river cruise ship, while the indoor pool features a swim jet, allowing guests to enjoy a proper workout in the water. Up on the sun deck, there is an abundance of space, complete with some of the most comfortable loungers I've ever had the pleasure of relaxing on. The covered bar area proved to be the perfect place to while away an afternoon as we cruised through the picturesque countryside of the Burgundy region.
As a group, we all agreed it was some of the finest food we have experienced whilst travelling. Breakfast is an absolute feast for the senses, with an impressive buffet beautifully presented alongside an à la carte menu offering freshly prepared favourites. Lunch continues with an exceptional buffet, while dinner ranges from elegant two-course meals to indulgent five-course experiences showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients from the region.
The Waterside Restaurant is the ship's main dining venue, while the more relaxed Atelier serves light meals throughout the day. In the evening, however, Atelier is transformed into something truly special, offering exquisite French cuisine served family style. Sharing multiple beautifully prepared dishes made for a wonderfully sociable dining experience and was, without question, the culinary highlight of the trip. For true food enthusiasts, there is also an intimate private dining room, the Vintage Room, accommodating up to ten guests, where bespoke six- or seven-course tasting menus can be enjoyed.
We visited the magnificent Château de Cormatin, a beautifully preserved 17th-century château filled with remarkable original features and artwork. Afterwards, our group split, with some enjoying a fascinating food tour while others set off on electric bikes for a scenic ride through the vineyards, finishing with a delicious local wine tasting.
Back on board, we took part in a cocktail-making masterclass, a thoroughly enjoyable way to spend a leisurely afternoon and another example of the thoughtful experiences Riverside offers its guests.
Every member of the team delivers service with warmth, professionalism and an effortless can-do attitude. Nothing is ever too much trouble. From remembering your favourite drink and exactly how you take your coffee to anticipating needs before you've even realised them yourself, the attention to detail is everything you would expect from a truly luxurious experience, and yet it still manages to exceed expectations.
Suggest Riverside Ravel to clients who want a boutique-hotel feel on the water. With only 55 suites, it never feels crowded.
Encourage holidaymakers to book the Vintage Room in advance. Only ten seats are available so this experience sells out quickly on board.
For active travellers, the e-bike vineyard route is a lovely way to see the Burgundy countryside beyond the château visits.
Evening dining at Atelier is worth flagging to those who enjoy a sociable, sharing-style meal, as a highlight distinct from the main restaurant experience.
Our sincere thanks go to everyone at Riverside Luxury Cruises, and especially to Charlie Hewitt-Davies, for being such wonderful hosts. It was a privilege to experience this exceptional product and to be so thoroughly looked after from beginning to end.
Discover Riverside Luxury Cruises with our Burgundy Bliss and Snapshot of the Rhône with Châteauneuf-du-Pape itineraries, or Get in touch with Lusso to find out how to plan a Riverside Luxury Cruises voyage.