VIVA Cruises Will Launch 2028 Boutique Itineraries
The cruise line will expand its French and Italian offerings for 2028 with a new focus on wine and regional gastronomy.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Cruises
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VIVA Cruises has unveiled its 2028 itinerary program for the VIVA Boutique line, featuring specialized sailings across France and Italy. Sommelier Romana Echensperger will curate wine selections and host tastings as part of the expanded seasonal programming.
Why it matters
The program reflects a growing demand for immersive, niche travel experiences that pair luxury cruising with expert-led regional culinary education. By centering its 2028 season on wine-focused itineraries, VIVA aims to deepen the connection between onboard dining and the cultural landscapes of Europe.
The VIVA Boutique line operates for 11 months of the year, offering voyage durations ranging from three to seven nights. Passengers booking select sailings in Italy may opt for a two-night hotel extension in Verona.
The players
VIVA Cruises
This travel company operates boutique river cruises throughout Europe with a focus on curated shore excursions and onboard experiences.
Romana Echensperger
She is a professional sommelier responsible for curating the wine selections and hosting tastings for the 2028 cruise season.
The details
Guests aboard the Viva Beyond and the upcoming Viva Unique will participate in excursions to sites such as Monet's garden and the Champagne region. The 2028 season includes thematic journeys like the In the Light of the Impressionists and Italy for All the Senses sailings.
Timeline
The Viva Beyond launched on the Seine in May 2026.
The Viva Unique is scheduled to launch in 2027.
Italy for All the Senses sailings begin in March 2028.
In the Light of the Impressionists sailings begin in April 2028.
La Grande Cucina cruise sails Venice to Cremona from October 1 to 8, 2028.
Travel Outlook
This program follows the industry trend toward experiential luxury travel where cruise lines prioritize education and regional immersion. By anchoring itineraries in specific cultural themes, VIVA Cruises aims to attract travelers seeking depth beyond standard sightseeing during the shoulder and peak seasons.
Travelers should identify their preferred region early, as the 2028 season will feature distinct itineraries tailored to either the French Seine or Italian ports. Guests interested in the Verona extension should coordinate their cruise bookings with the two-night package availability during the planning phase.
The takeaway
Travelers looking to enhance their cruise experience should prioritize booking itineraries that align with specific cultural interests like wine or art. Early planning remains essential for securing spots on themed voyages that feature specialized guest hosts.
Further reading
Discover more about the latest developments in the industry on our Cruises page.
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