Riverside Luxury Cruises has celebrated the christening of its third ship, Riverside Debussy, in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

“We are dedicated to delivering Europe’s most luxurious experience with the best ships and best dining on Europe’s most captivating rivers,” said Gregor Gerlach, co-owner of Seaside Collection, the parent company of Riverside Luxury Cruises.

“Our exceptional staff and crew look forward to welcoming travellers for the most seamless and luxurious European river cruise experience.”

Inaugural voyage starts in Belgium

Riverside Debussy’s inaugural season, starting March 23, features three- to seven-night itineraries on the Rhine, Danube, Main and Moselle rivers.

Firstly, Riverside Debussy begins her inaugural voyage with a five-night sail from Brussels, Belgium, to Amsterdam. In addition, the ship will then offer a series of seven-night, Rhine–Meuse–Scheldt delta voyages, sailing roundtrip from Amsterdam and visiting cities such as Antwerp and Gent, in Belgium; and Middelburg, Veere, Willemstad, Dordrecht, Rotterdam, Nijmegen in The Netherlands.

Futhermore, in late May, Riverside Debussy charts eastward on the Main River and transits the Main-Danube Canal to offer seven-night cruises on the Danube. After that, on the June 5 and September 25 departures, the ship takes a special roundtrip itinerary from Budapest to Belgrade, Serbia, with stops in Mohacs, Hungary; Vukovar, Croatia; and Novi Sad, Serbia.

“With the debut of Riverside Debussy, Riverside Luxury Cruises now offers travel advisors a third option for their clients to enjoy an all-inclusive, luxury European river cruise,” added Jen Halboth, CEO of Riverside Luxury Cruises.”

US TV host Alle Pierce godmother to Debussy

Godmother Alle Pierce, an Emmy-award-winning US TV host and travel expert, christened the ship on the first day of the 2024 American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) River Cruise Expo in the Dutch capital. 

a bottle of champagne smashes against the side of Riverside Debussy after being christended by ship godmother Elle Peirce, a ravel advisor for single women.
Ship godmother Elle Pierce, christens Riverside Debussy with the traditional bottle of champagne. Picture: American Society of Travel Advisors

Pierce curates bespoke trips for intimate groups of independent women with the aim to empower them with expert travel insights, show them dazzling global destinations and inspire them to live life on their own terms. 

Being Godmother of Riverside Debussy was a profound honour, Pierce said. 

“Growing up with a mother who is a distinguished luxury travel advisor, river cruising has been an integral part of our shared travel story,” she said. 

“It’s a mode of travel where my inherited adventurous spirit, inquisitive nature, and fervour for cultural exploration find their truest expression. The allure of river cruising lies in its ability to seamlessly blend adventure, curiosity, and a deep passion for diverse cultures. 

“I am confident that Riverside Debussy will offer travellers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the enchanting tapestry of Northwest Europe, a region that holds a special place in my heart.”

A plush lounge and bar onboard Riverside Debussy.
Certainly an attraction: A plush lounge and bar onboard Riverside Debussy.

Award winning offering, too

The new Riverside Debussy joins the brand’s other all-suite vessels Riverside Mozart and Riverside Ravel. Indeed all offer spacious accommodation, luxury furnishings and onboard amenities.

Adidtionally, guests enjoy Riverside’s signature intuitive and personalised service from every staff and crew member too. What’s more, that includes butler service, premium wines and spirits, StarLink Wi-Fi, gourmet cuisine plus a welcome bottle of champagne. In addition, there are also unlimited shore excursions.

Finally, Forbes’ named Riverside Luxury Cruises Best European River Cruise For Foodies. It was also Cruise Critic’s 2023 Editors’ Pick Award Winner for Best Dining in the River Category.