VIVA Boutique – part of VIVA Cruises – has unveiled the shore excursion programme for its 2027 Italy programme.
*All details correct at time of publication (18 August 2026)
The operator will begin sailing on the Venetian Lagoon and the Po River in May on new ship VIVA UNIQUE, the second vessel in the VIVA Boutique brand. The 104-guest ship will operate three seven-night themed itineraries, focusing on cuisine, culture and art, from May to October:
- ‘The Flavours of Italy’, roundtrip from Venice and calling at Mazzorbo; Taglio di Po; Polesella; and Chioggia.
- ‘Timeless Journey Through the Lagoon’, roundtrip from Venice and calling at Mazzorbo and Chioggia.
- ‘Discovering the Legacy of Italian Masters’, departing from Venice and calling at Mazzorbo; Taglio di Po; Polesella; Revere; Boretto; and Cremona. A ‘Discovering the Legacy of Italian Masters II’ option will sail the same itinerary in reverse.
Shore excursions for these itineraries, and shorter cruises during the winter from November to March, will range from short options to half and full-day experiences, with a mix of activity levels.
Highlights include:
Chioggia: Bike tour to Sotto Marina – 2.5 hours. Travelling via bike to Piazza Vigo, Fondamenta San Francesco and Lusenzo Lagoon.
Polesella: Gastronomic Bologna – full-day tour. Included transfer to Bologna for a guided walking tour, lunch at a traditional restaurant and a fresh pasta demonstration.
Taglio di Po: Padua’s Highlights – half-day tour. Included transfer to Padua for a guided walking tour, visiting the Garden of Padua and free time.
Venice: On the Trail of Venice’s Power and Prestige – three hours. Starting at Piazza San Marco and visiting the Marciana Library, the Loggetta, and Doge’s Palace.
Michelle Daniels, Director of Sales, UK & Ireland and Australia & New Zealand at VIVA Cruises, said:
“Every destination along the Po has its own story to tell, and our new shore excursion programme allows guests to discover each one in an authentic and engaging way. From historic cities and hidden gems to regional food and active adventures, these excursions take in the wider region and its culture.
“From exploring Verona and Bologna to visiting oyster farms and the islands of the lagoon, they offer an opportunity to experience the flavours, history and landscapes of the Po. Together with the opportunity to sail on VIVA UNIQUE, it’s an immersive and memorable way to experience Italian river cruising.”
VIVA Boutique ships feature more than 50% suite accommodation and guests benefit from extras such as an included signature shore excursion, three onboard restaurants and Michelin-star inspired options in MOMENTS.
Guests staying in suite accommodation also have additional benefits including airport transfers, priority boarding, in-suite breakfast and a personal concierge.
More widely, the all-inclusive experience includes all meals, flexible dining across up to three restaurants, and a selection of premium drinks including wine, spirits and cocktails.
Guests also enjoy complimentary High Tea once per voyage, a daily replenished minibar and Nespresso coffee machine in their cabin, a welcome bottle of prosecco, Typology toiletries, plus Wi-Fi and gratuities.
For more information, visit www.viva-cruises.com, call 0330 818 7271 or contact your local travel agent.
