Ship review: VIVA Enjoy

We take a closer look at VIVA Cruises’ third newbuild river ship, VIVA Enjoy, during a two-night sailing to Frankfurt following the vessel’s naming ceremony in Dusseldorf earlier this year [January 2025].

The vessel boasts three decks and has capacity for 190 passengers supported by 52 crew members. Three restaurants, a gym, yoga studio and bar area make the intimate vessel as stocked as an ocean ship. A two-deck atrium and wide corridors, however, make the vessel feel spacious. Its sleek décor, stylish restaurants and all-inclusive dining and drinks make it a great option for couples and solos who want to treat themselves.

Style & character: 5/5

Having made its debut in 2024, VIVA Enjoy has a stylish and contemporary look. Think light wooden panelling, navy and cream carpets and minimalist artwork.

The atrium deserves a special mention with its modern chandelier and floral finishings making it the beating heart of the ship. The main corridor, which is in-keeping with the style of the ship, extends to the Bistro restaurant on deck three.

It’s the perfect spot for some light reading as you watch the wake form at the stern of the ship. Hushed tones and dim lighting make it feel as though you’ve stepped into a French eatery off the cobbled streets of Lyon.

Cabins: 5/5

Inside my double French balcony cabin (329), I find a large double bed, ample storage, a desk, an ensuite with a walk-in shower and enough amenities – like a packed minifridge and luxury toiletries – to last my entire stay, and then some.

The desk is spacious enough for me to spread out my work things and the bed is comfortable enough to sleep in for days. The wardrobes are large and could easily store enough clothing to last a few weeks.

The bathroom is well-appointed and spacious – a rare find on most river cruises.

Food & drink: 5/5

VIVA Enjoy boasts three restaurants, which, for a river ship, is very impressive. The main option, Riverside, is where you’ll have most of your meals. Dishes include hearty oxtail terrine, minty herb-infused veal tenderloin and zesty cinnamon infused orange tart. Once a cruise, the restaurant hosts a seven-course gala dinner.

In the Bistro, you can enjoy lunch and dinner as well as snacks throughout the day. On the dinner menu you’ll find dishes such as smoked salmon tartare blinis, beef rib-eye steak and banana foster with vanilla ice-cream.

Moments – my favourite spot – takes design inspiration from Italy, with terracotta tiles and vine leaves suspended from wooden planters greeting you at the door. A large stone pizza oven can be seen from the dining area and dishes include the doughy Italian classic, pasta and fresh caprese salad.

All three options are included in the cruise price. We recommend booking Moments and the Bistro ahead to secure a table.

Service & facilities: 3.5/5

Crew are attentive, fun and helpful. The gym is well-stocked and clean, with a treadmill, rowing machine, bike and dumbbell rack. The massage room and yoga studio are nice touches and help elevate the wellness experience.

Unfortunately, the treadmill in the gym is positioned facing a wall. This wouldn’t usually be a problem, but there’s a room-length, river-level window to the right of the machine that would make for the perfect viewing while running or walking.

Also, having to take your devices to reception so a crew member can individually connect them is a slight pain. Luckily there wasn’t a queue when I connected mine, but this system could prove problematic if multiple people go at once.

Entertainment & excursions: 4/5

Entertainment options range from quizzes to onboard singers and performers. The line also offers wine tasting evenings in the Bistro, where sommeliers come onboard to pair local tipples with bite-sized snacks, and sushi demonstrations in the Panorama Lounge.

Despite not taking part in any excursions due to the length of my itinerary, VIVA offers a range of guided and self-guided options in each port it visits. These are categorised by difficulty level and different trips are recommended based on the seasons. 

Value for money: 5/5

All VIVA itineraries are all-inclusive, offering full-board dining, snacks and flexible mealtimes. All day hot and cold non-alcoholic beverages are also included, as well as a selection of alcoholic beverages. Once per trip the line hosts a High Tea, and each cabin benefits from a freshly stocked mini bar and welcome champagne. Gratuities, toiletries and Wi-Fi are included. 

Facilities

• Gym
• Yoga studio
• Massage room
• Three restaurants
• Two deck bar and seating area
• Boutique shop
• Pool area with sun loungers
• Coffee station and water dispenser

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