Riviera Travel takes 'bold step' as it unveils 'game-changing' digital assistant

Riviera Travel is launching a “transformational” AI-powered digital assistant which it claims will “shake up the travel trade”.

 

The river cruise and tour operator said Riva AI, which has been “built by travel agents for travel agents”, will provide instant access to a range of tools that will help the trade “sell smarter, market faster and support clients with confidence”.

 

Riviera said the technology, which will be embedded within its e-learning platform Riviera Explorer, will assist with itinerary details and destination insights, objection-handling tips, social media content, client emails and sales tools.

 

The “always-on 24/7 Riviera expert” will be rolled out for UK agents from November 12, before it launches in Ireland ahead of peaks.

 

Vicky Billing, director of trade and partnerships for the UK and Ireland, said Riva AI is a “clear reflection of Riviera’s commitment to leading the way in trade innovation”.

 

“Riva AI marks a bold step forward in how we support our trade partners, and represents an industry first,” she added.

 

“We understand that agents are constantly juggling multiple priorities, and Riva AI is designed to make selling simpler, smarter, and more efficient.

 

“It combines the power of Riviera’s dedicated trade team with intuitive technology, giving agents the tools and support they need for success.

 

“Built from direct feedback from our agent committee, Riva delivers instant, intelligent assistance that empowers agents to sell with confidence.”

 

Head of UK Trade Amanda Docherty described Riva AI “a major leap forward in how we support our trade partners” as she teased further developments next year.

 

“Imagine you are struggling for inspiration for your next Facebook post – just ask Riva AI! And this is just version one; we’ve got big plans for 2026,” she said.

 

Zoe Edwards, commercial manager at Advantage Travel Partnership, who was among those given a sneak peek of the platform, hailed it as a “real game-changer” and a “brilliant tool that will provide fantastic support for our members”.

 

Sharon Ingle, retail marketing manager at Fred Olsen Travel, said Riva AI will provide “fantastic support for travel agents” following her trial run.