VIVA Cruises officially christened its new ship VIVA BEYOND, the first vessel in its VIVA Boutique line, in a ceremony in Paris on May 8.
The ship was officially named by its godmother, Norwegian travel industry leader Cecilie Kopperud, with the maritime tradition of cutting a ribbon and triggering the breaking of a champagne bottle over the ship’s bow. The event was hosted by Danish journalist Annamette Fuhrmann and attended by more than 160 key travel partners and top executives from VIVA Cruises, including CEO and Co-founder Andrea Kruse.
“We are so excited to launch the next step in our company’s growth with the christening of VIVA BEYOND,” said Kruse in a press release statement. “In keeping with its name, this ship is beyond anything we have offered before and, as the first ship in our exciting new VIVA Boutique line, marks another important milestone in the success of our young company. Cecilie Kopperud is a wonderful godmother choice as we celebrate our progressive leadership in the industry. Cecilie epitomizes the passion we share for excellence in river cruising.”
The debut of VIVA BEYOND makes it the ninth ship in Viva Cruises’ fleet and the first of its new Boutique line, which aims to reimagine the river cruise experience as a floating boutique hotel. The 360 foot vessel boasts space for 112 guests in a total of 56 cabins, half of which are suites measuring up to 323 sf and featuring floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, Nespresso machines and Typology amenities.
The new ship offers three restaurants, including fine-dining experience MOMENTS that features a menu created by Michelin-starred Chef David Görne, and entertainment aboard includes the Paris Pétille cabaret show, live jazz in the Panorama Lounge and classical concerts.
VIVA BEYOND offers three curated itineraries built around art, gastronomy and culture, each designed to immerse guests in the culture of northern France.
The In the Footsteps of Impressionism itinerary explores the landscapes that inspired Monet and Renoir. As well as a visit to Giverny and its iconic gardens, optional excursions also include visits to Monet’s famous garden, as well as museums and historic sites showcasing Impressionist masterpieces and the creative spirit of the era.
The Culinary Delights of Normandy itinerary will explore one of France’s richest gastronomic regions, visiting local producers as well as historic châteaux and coastal towns, and combining authentic food experiences with a deeper understanding of the region’s culinary traditions.
While the Pure Culture Along the Seine itinerary offers a slower, more atmospheric voyage that combines visits to Parisian landmarks with everyday French life—from gallery visits to café terraces and riverside moments.
For more information, visit viva-cruises.com.
