Following the launch of Viva One and Viva Two, the Viva Cruises brand is changing course — its third boat has been named Viva Enjoy, and is set to debut in 2024.
Viva Cruises, new to the North American market in 2022, is an in-house operation from parent company Scylla, which charters to other known brands like Riviera River Cruises and Tauck. Scylla has been a river and expedition cruise operator since 1973.
“We have grown very quickly in the last five years, as has our customer base and the demand for cruises on the Danube,” said Andrea Kruse, COO of Viva Cruises. “Our third newbuild ship will give us a wider range of options, with more departures from Vienna to accommodate for our international audiences.”
Viva One and Viva Two were introduced in 2022 and 2023, respectively, so Viva Enjoy will mark one new riverboat for each year through 2024. Viva Enjoy will first set sail on a 12-night inaugural cruise on September 22, 2024, leaving from Frankfurt, Germany and heading to Vienna, Austria.
We have grown very quickly in the last five years, as has our customer base and the demand for cruises on the Danube.
The 190-passenger Viva Enjoy will predominantly sail on the Danube River, and its itineraries will encompass four-, five- and seven-night routes, including the weeklong “Charming Danube” trip from Vienna to Budapest; the four-night “Cityhopping Danube” itinerary, which visits Budapest and Bratislava; and the five-night “Advent and Christmas” voyage, which covers the Christmas markets of Bavaria and Austria.
Travel writer John Roberts, who recently sailed onboard Viva, is fond of the third vessel’s slightly more creative name.
“The new naming convention makes a lot more sense to me,” he said. “It’s nice that it leans right into the brand's slogan 'Enjoy the Moment.’”
A stateroom onboard Viva Enjoy
Credit: 2023 Viva CruisesWhat to Expect Onboard Viva Enjoy
Viva Enjoy will be virtually identical to its preceding newbuilds, including 95 cabins and three decks. Guests can expect three dining rooms, an open and airy lounge, an expansive sun deck and a fitness and wellness area.
“The ship will also share Viva Cruises’ laid-back and feel-good atmosphere,” the brand shared.
Roberts considers the third vessel an ambitious move, and one that speaks to the company’s confidence in the North American market as a top source of cruisers.
“It seems a little close on the heels of its launch of Viva Two,” he said, which may equal “a long lead time until they can consistently sell out so many new berths."
I do think that if cruisers get on these ships, they will be hooked. The key is finding a way to raise brand awareness.
Booking Viva Enjoy
Advisors can already book Viva Enjoy sailings scheduled from September to December 2024. Included in the fare will be snacks, full board, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, the minibar, beauty products from luxury cosmetic brand Rituals, and Wi-Fi internet access, plus tips and gratuities.
“I do think that if cruisers get on these ships, they will be hooked,” said Roberts. “The key is finding a way to raise brand awareness. The food, service, ship design and inclusive nature of Viva Cruises offers both outstanding value and a wonderful river cruise experience.”
Travel advisors will be happy to note that Viva voyages are commissionable, and begin at 15%, based on reservations.
