Viva Cruises has appointed Michelle Daniels as country manager for the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand.
From today, she will be responsible for leading expansion and development of the European river specialist into these four markets.
Daniels has more than 20 years’ experience in the cruise sector, including as the UK and Europe commercial director for Light Blue Travel, global head of sales at Tripsmiths and the GSA for Nicko Cruises and American Queen Voyages.
She was most recently UK and Ireland sales director at A-Rosa River Cruises between April and July last year, but her role was made redundant following a restructure.
Her appointment to Viva Cruises comes after the line expanded its international sales team last year by bringing in Daryl Kornelsen to the newly created role of head of global sales to focus on the UK and Nordic markets.
Andrea Kruse, Viva Cruises chief executive officer, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Michelle to the Viva Cruises family.
“Her appointment underscores our commitment to the UK market and our international strategy. Michelle’s expertise and passion for the travel industry will be invaluable as we continue to grow and innovate as a premium international brand.
“We are confident that her leadership will help us achieve our ambitious goals and further enhance our reputation as Europe’s leading river cruise specialist.”
Daniels added: “I am delighted to join the Viva Cruises team and take on the role of country manager.
“I am truly excited to contribute to the river cruise specialist’s continued international success and growth.
“I look forward to working with our partners and customers to deliver unforgettable river cruise experiences and to further expand our presence in these key markets, including the UK.”
At the Clia RiverView conference, the line hosted agents on board Viva Two and told them 50% of its customers are from Europe and 50% from other markets.
Viva Cruises will operate 325 river cruises throughout 2026, including six ships sailing year-round for the first time, in addition to the launch of its new “boutique line“.