Behind the Scenes on the MS Riviera Radiance

For the first time ever we attended 'Conference on the River' in Budapest and what a way to learn about River Cruising Holidays! No stuffy rooms. No fluorescent lights. But on the river—where luxury, fresh air and creativity meet.

This wasn’t just another work trip. It felt like stepping into a floating boutique hotel, gliding along the Danube, with the city lights flickering across the water and a gentle hum of excitement rippling through the ship. And yes… we were technically working, but when you’re on one of Europe’s newest and most elegant luxury river cruises, “work” takes on a whole new meaning.

Walking onto MS Riviera Radiance for the first time, we even needed a moment to take it all in. Everything is designed to feel airy, bright and beautifully open thanks to the ship’s clever split-level lounge, floor-to-ceiling windows and French balconies in over 80% of cabins and suites.

We all took turns sneaking a peek at the Grand Suites on the Diamond Deck- 32 square metres of serene, stylish calm, complete with a full balcony and separate living space. Even the Emerald, Ruby, and Diamond Deck Double Cabins had us mentally planning future holidays.

During the conference breaks, we kept finding excuses to “pass through” the main restaurant, mostly because it feels like a fine-dining venue you’d find tucked down a fashionable European side street. We watched as chefs prepared dishes with precision and flair, served on delicate European porcelain and paired with the kind of attentive, warm service the Swiss are known for.

The speciality restaurants became our unofficial breakout-session spots. More intimate, more atmospheric, and serving menus that spotlighted local flavours. Think dishes inspired directly by the cultures along the riverbanks.