River Cruises, I stayed onboard MS Geoffrey Chaucer....and this is what stood out

This March, I travel to Amsterdam for a three-day river cruise conference, during which time we get to visit many ships lined up on the riverbank, including ships from the river cruise operators AMA, Riverside, Viva, Avalon, Emerald, Amadeus, TUI and Riviera.

Picking a river cruise isn’t as easy as it first appears; there are so many things to consider

Where do you want to go?

What time of year?

Relaxing or busy?

Do you want to have an excursion included,d or do you like to do your own thing?

That’s where getting in contact with a travel professional comes in; there is so much choice,ce and we can help you find the right cruise for you.

There are some amazing destinations to choose from, Europe always is the one that first springs to mind, such as the Rhine or the Danube, but have you considered exploring the Amazon, the Mekong or India from the Ganges? It is a great way to enjoy the sights in serenity. Often, new people who want to cruise think they will be seasick, but the good thing is that with a river cruise, that doesn’t happen!

During the conference, I stayed on two ships: the Viva Enjoy and the Riviera MS Geoffrey Chaucer.

Here is my review of one of the ships. The MS Geoffrey Chaucer :

It’s described as a boutique-style river ship, and that’s exactly how it is. From the moment you step on board, you feel like you’re a guest in a small hotel. This is a ship that delivers far more than people expect for the price point. When I compared it to prices of some of the other river cruises, it offers exceptional value for money

The ship carries 169 guests with around 44 crew. It has four decks and 88 suites on three decks plus a sun deck on top. I immediately felt at home on this ship, even if I was travelling alone, I would have a great time, it has a really friendly feel, and I immediately felt at home.

Onboard facilities include a panoramic observation lounge and bar, a main restaurant, and the Riverview Kitchen for more informal dining, a sun deck with loungers, a small splash pool and a four-hole putting green for the avid golfer. You’ll also find a small fitness centre, a spa and wellness area with a nail salon and hairdresser, a gift shop, a lift, laundry service, and free Wi-Fi throughout the ship. There is a 24-hour self-service tea and coffee station, which is always appreciated!

All cabins on the top two decks have a view of the river, which is a big advantage. On the lower deck, the windows are higher, so you don’t get the same view, but you still have natural light.

Cabins are spacious for a river ship and well thought out. They include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a safe, a minibar, tea and coffee facilities, a hairdryer, and both UK and continental plug sockets. And I must say the beds were very comfortable, 10 out of 10 for a good night‘s sleep.

There’s a proper seating area in the room too, with two chairs and a table where you can sit and watch the world go... Most rooms feature a French balcony where you can open the floor-to-ceiling windows. Bathrooms are a good size too, with a strong power shower, and there’s enough room to get ready without feeling cramped. You also have bathrobes, slippers, and an umbrella. full-length mirrors and plenty of storage space in the cabin

Larger suites are available with more space, walk-in wardrobes and a balcony.

I found the standard of food to be excellent. The main restaurant operates with white tablecloth, table service, and free-flowing wine is served throughout dinner. The Riverview Kitchen bistro offers a more relaxed alternative, which is included and useful for lighter meals.

Riviera Travel offer some great river itineraries and one of the best value lines in my opinion

Typically, your holiday includes:

Full-board dining

Daily excursions and sightseeing

Flights from up to 17 UK airports with transfers

Wi-Fi

Cruise director onboard

There is also an all-inclusive drinks package which is free for 2026, and 202,7 usually served from 10 am to midnight, including wine, beer, spirits, cocktails, soft drinks, tea and coffee.

Entertainment onboard is generally low-key. This includes quizzes and local acts,s depending on the destination, to keep you entertained. There’s no pressure to take part, and the overall focus is on the destinations rather than onboard activities.

One of the biggest advantages of river cruising is that you unpack once and travel through multiple cities and countries, often docking right in the centre of a city or town.n

Riviera Travel offers some great promotions

Book early with confidence — if the price drops, clients receive a future travel voucher for the difference, plus an additional 25%

Happiness Guarantee — if clients are not satisfied by day two, they can return home with a full refund

Group bookings (8+ guests on 7 nights or more) receive either a free place or cashback after travel

Dedicated cruise director

fuel-efficient ships, reduced single-use plastics, and working with local suppliers and guides in destinations.

My overall opinion of the ship.

I wasn’t expecting to like this ship as much as I did. The decoration was traditional and homey,y and it delivers exceptional value. The cabins were much nicer than expected, the food is excellent, and the overall experience is well organised and comfortable. I would happily take a holiday here myself.

If you are thinking of trying a river cruise, look no further than Rivier. Soon to come is a new ship dedicated to Solo Travellers, so if you travel alone,e it could be for you.

The ships all offer genuine value without compromising on quality; the MS Geoffrey Chaucer is a very easy recommendation.