VIVA Boutique: The New Floating Luxury Hotel VIVA BEYOND Conquers the Seine

Bild: Viva Cruises
VIVA Cruises has opened a new chapter in Paris: On May 8, 2026, the VIVA BEYOND, the first ship of the new premium product line "VIVA Boutique," was officially christened on the Seine. With a direct view of the Eiffel Tower, the floating boutique hotel started its fully booked maiden voyage through Normandy to Le Havre shortly thereafter. The concept seamlessly combines the scenic relaxation of a river cruise with the exclusive service and aesthetic of a land-based luxury hotel, tailored specifically for a highly affluent international audience.

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Instead of a new build, the cruise line is relying on intelligent maritime upcycling: The 110-meter-long and 11.40-meter-wide VIVA BEYOND was created from the former Swiss Emerald (built in 2006) and was completely revitalized over one and a half years. Thanks to its compact design, passengers always enjoy the best views of the French river landscapes from both starboard and portside. To create
the modern, airy interior design, VIVA Cruises collaborated with the Hochschule Fresenius. Additionally, the passenger capacity was deliberately reduced to a maximum of 112 guests to guarantee an intimate atmosphere across the 56 cabins. Well over half of these are luxurious suites, including the expansive 30-square-meter Master Suites.

In terms of culinary excellence, the VIVA BEYOND sets completely new standards through a strategic alliance with the Michelin-starred German chef David Görne. In addition to the main restaurant "Riverside" and "VIVA's Brasserie," the fine-dining specialty restaurant "MOMENTS" delights guests with French haute cuisine. The best part for connoisseurs: Thanks to the enhanced "VIVA All-Inclusive" concept, the fine-dining experience and premium beverages are entirely included in the travel price. A modern wellness area and the exclusive nightly cabaret show "Paris Pétille" in the panoramic lounge perfectly round off life on board.

The boutique character continues seamlessly on land: Tailor-made "Signature Excursions" offer deep insights into Impressionism or the culinary delights of Normandy in small, exclusive groups. VIVA Cruises also sent a remarkable signal at the christening ceremony by focusing on "Female Leadership" around CEO Andrea Kruse and godmother Cecilie Kopperud. The future strategy is just as innovative: During winter, the ship will remain in Paris as a stationary luxury hotel, and in 2027, the lucrative expansion into the Italian lagoon of Venice will follow with its sister ship, VIVA UNIQUE.