Riviera Travel has announced a “bold new chapter” in Ireland. Since launching in the Irish market, the brand says it has grown rapidly, building on the success of its first departure, a 3-night city break to Paris.
Today, Riviera Travel offers much more than its name suggests, with a diverse portfolio that includes European tours, solo travel, and river cruises, all designed to deliver exceptional experiences at outstanding value.
Despite its strong roots in the UK, Riviera Travel sees Ireland not just as a sister market but as a strategic launchpad for global growth.
Vicky Billing, Director of Trade and Partnerships, said:
“Ireland has always been an important market for Riviera. The Irish market is dynamic, loyal, and incredibly agent-driven – trade has been the crux of our success here.
“Our travel agent partners are not only trusted advisers to their customers but also trusted advisers to us. Their local expertise, deep customer relationships, and ability to unlock new segments are absolutely central to our expansion plans. What’s next? We’re just getting started.”
A Stronghold for Trade
Trade remains a cornerstone of Riviera’s success. In Ireland, between 1 December 2024 and the present, Riviera is up +64% year-on-year on passengers and +74% on revenue.
Solos, Ships, and Strategic Expansion
Solos are leading the charge in Ireland, now Riviera’s fastest-growing segment. This means more guests can experience a Riviera Cruise or River Cruise for the first time.
Riviera’s fleet is expanding, having recently launched Riviera Rose sailing the Douro and Radiance sailing the Danube. Riviera Resplendence joins in early 2026 to sail on the Rhine, with whispers of even more new additions on the horizon!
Riviera Travel now offers ten top-selling European tours tailored for the Irish market, including:
- Lake Maggiore, Orta & the Matterhorn
- Hidden Italy: Padua, Vicenza & Mantua
- Puglia & Basilicata: Lecce, Alberobello & Matera
What’s Next: Local Focus
Riviera Travel is reviewing timelines to launch regional air partnerships, aiming to expand departure point options and replicate a strategy that has proven successful in the UK.
New Country Manager, Carrie Day, said: “We are making significant changes to directly support agency growth, including my appointment as a dedicated Country Manager. I will be working closely with Vicky to lead local strategy and deepen trade relationships.”
Billing added: “We will significantly increase the number of fam trips to help Irish agents better understand our product. We’ll also expand trade support through Riviera Explorer, our online training platform, and have an exciting incentive this September.
“Our objective is to provide agents with powerful tools and rewards to help drive sales, enabling us to achieve our rapid growth plans in this region.
“Everything we’re doing is designed with agents in mind. From streamlined training and resources to immersive fams and fast-turnaround support, our goal is to make it as easy as possible for agents to sell Riviera confidently and profitably. Ireland will remain at the heart of our international growth story.”
Riviera Travel will be back on TV in July and August with an increased media spend to drive consumer awareness and conversion, with agents as the call to action to support front-line agents.
Phil Hullah, CEO of Riviera Travel, said: “Ireland represents the perfect blend of opportunity and partnership for Riviera Travel. With strong agent relationships, a growing and engaged customer base, and clear appetite for our evolving product range, this market is not just thriving, it’s leading.
“What we’ve achieved so far is just the beginning. We’re investing for the long term, and Ireland will be central to our global growth journey.
Agents can get in touch with the Riviera Travel team via agents@rivieratravel.co.uk, join the dedicated Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/rivieratravelagents and access the Riviera Explorer via www.rivexplorer.com.
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