Riviera Travel to cover test costs for returning cruisers

Riviera Travel will cover the costs of all testing required under the UK government’s traffic light system for guests booking European river cruises and yacht sailings this summer.

The offer applies to new bookings made from now until June 30, for departures in July and August 2021.

Riviera is currently only planning to operate holidays to green list countries and expects more destinations to be added to the list in the coming weeks.

The tours and cruise company has also announced a £200 price reduction on five of its river cruises that will sail a Douro, Porto and Salamanca itinerary this summer.

Prices now start at £1,939 for its sailings on July 11, 18, 25 and August 1 and 8.

Riviera will also cover the costs of the PCR test needed to enter Portugal for river cruises in July and August.

Jim Forward (pictured), Riviera’s chief commercial officer, said: “We recognise the current government tests add to the requirements of booking a holiday, so we’re very happy to cover the associated costs.

“We’ve partnered with The Travel Visa Company who will provide a quick and easy way for our guests to book their required tests and will be on hand to support throughout the process.

“We’re doing everything we can to get people travelling again and can’t wait to welcome guests on their holidays as soon as it is safe to do so.”

Guests will be contacted four to six weeks ahead of travel to confirm if their departure is going ahead.