From an open design restaurant and lounge to a high-tech exhaust system, Kelly Ranson takes a look at Viva Cruises’ newest vessel
Overview: Viva Cruises launched its latest ship, Viva Two, in March in Dusseldorf. While the line launched sister ship Viva One in 2022, it’s touting the new 190-passenger river ship Viva Two as its new flagship – with more cabins and an additional speciality restaurant as part of its all-inclusive offering.
Cabins: Each of Viva Two’s 95 cabins are decorated with light wood furnishings and in neutral tones. Added benefits of all cabins are free-of-charge mini bars, Nespresso coffee machines and Rituals bath products. The most spacious rooms are the eight 258sq ft suites with beds facing out to the French balcony, a dressing table and separate seating area.
This is followed by the 172sq ft cabins, which make up the majority, with French balconies. Cabins in the lowest category, on the bottom deck, are the same size as the higher deck, but have one small window.
Food and drink: Viva Two’s third speciality restaurant, Moments, is located on the lower deck. The new restaurant has an open kitchen where guests can see the chef prepare a five-course Mediterranean meal. Wine pairings are a highlight, while the restaurant is also also open for breakfast and dinner.
There are two other dining options: Riverside and Bistro. Riverside is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and serves both international cuisine and local dishes. Seafood-focused Bistro sits at the aft of the ship and is a smaller venue, seating just 30. Guests must make a reservation for evening meals at Bistro.
The ship’s bar area has an open staircase down to the Riverside restaurant, and as such, offers a spacious, airy spot for pre and post-dinner drinks. Coffee and water stations are positioned around the ship, too. All food and drink is included in the cost of the cruise.
Facilities: On the lower deck there is a small fitness centre, complete with treadmill, bike and weights. There is also a wellness area with a steam room and infrared sauna. The top deck is laden with loungers and chairs for warmer weather, and there is a small whirlpool.
USP: The open design of the lounge and restaurant is a real highlight, and something that’s not seen on many river ships. The most significant technical innovation on Viva Two is the exhaust system, which has a catalytic converter and a particle filter, enabling the ship to meet emissions standards in both European and domestic inland shipping.
Additionally Viva Two, like all of Viva Cruises’ ships, is equipped with technology that allows it to connect to a power source while it is moored.
Book it: Viva Cruises is offering a seven-night round-trip Danube cruise on board Viva Two from Passau on October 24, with prices from £1,250 on an all-inclusive basis. Flights and transfers are not included.
viva-cruises.com
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