Emilie's wonderful evening on board Riviera's MS William Wordsworth
I was lucky enough to attend this year’s CLIA River Cruise Conference. I took this opportunity, having never seen a river cruise ship, to explore and understand our different river cruise partners and what they have to offer that's unique to each other.
I stayed on board the MS William Wordsworth and my first impressions as I stepped on board the 5-star ship was WOW! It felt like I had stepped into luxury. The atrium has understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level, designed with warm woods and brass handrails. It felt spacious thanks to the stunning marble-floored lobby and natural light. The staff were so welcoming, and they checked me in and shown me to my room in a matter of minutes.
MS William Wordsworth is an all-suite ship. I stayed in a spacious Standard Suite (seventeen square meters) on the middle “Ruby” deck. With this cabin grade, you have the benefit of the floor to ceiling windows with a French style balcony, where I was able to look in awe at the glistening waters of the Danube. I felt at home in my cabin as I had the pleasure of having tea and coffee making facilities, including a Nespresso machine. I was happy to see that they had UK plug sockets & two USB charging points, meaning you don't need to stress over bringing any plug adaptors. The bathroom consisted of a walk in shower and luxury toiletries.
MS William Wordsworth has even more luxurious cabins on the upper “Diamond” deck above including a superior suite, and best of all, a deluxe balcony suite. The deluxe balcony suites (twenty-five square meters) are fifty percent larger than standard suites. These suites give you more of a living area for ultimate space and comfort, including floor to ceiling windows with your own private outside balcony - why not enjoy an ‘al fresco’ breakfast or a pre-dinner drink whilst watching the world drift by?
After freshening up for the evening and relaxing in my bathrobe and slippers, we headed for some pre-dinner drinks in the Panorama Lounge. The Panorama Lounge has lovely large panoramic windows which made me feel immersed in the destination as I took in the fantastic views.
Dinner took place in the main restaurant where we had a 3-course meal. The tables were beautifully laid with crisp linen and the service throughout dinner was second to none and very discreet. Thanks to the 2:1 guest ratio, the highly professional crew were always making sure we had everything we needed to enjoy our meal and always topping up our glasses with carefully selected wines.
After dinner, we retired back to the Panorama Lounge where we continued to have a glass of wine and enjoy the entertainment for the evening. Depending on your itinerary, you can look forward to performances by classical quartets or local folk dancers.
The following morning, I headed down for breakfast in the main restaurant where there was a great choice for everyone: cooked breakfast, cold meats and cheese, pastries, jams, cereals, fresh fruit and juices. You can also order "cooked to order" breakfasts such as a lovely fresh omelette.
For the rest of the morning, we explored parts of the ship we hadn't seen yet. On the Diamond Deck, you'll find the "Riverview Kitchen" restaurant which also has the lovely large panoramic windows. These can be fully opened on to the terrace to allow for a delightful al fresco dining experience. At the Riverview Kitchen, you get to enjoy a more intimate dining experience. In the evenings the chef presents in the open kitchen a selection of locally inspired dishes which you can enjoy. This experience is no extra charge but does require reservation.
On Emerald Deck, it's all about you. Here you can take some time to relax in the wellness centre and treat yourself to a massage (treatments starting from only 35.00 Euros) or if you're feeling more energetic, they have a fitness centre. If you're looking to spoil yourself even more, you can get your hair done in the hair salon and get a manicure and pedicure in the nail salon.
Lastly, I headed up to the sun deck. I could sit and relax and watch the world go on the sun loungers. There are many seating areas available - some in the sun and some in the shade. You'll also find a putting green for the golf lovers. My personal favourite facility was the plunge pool on the sun deck.
Overall, I was very impressed by the MS William Wordsworth. The decor and facilities are fantastic and it's a perfect boutique floating hotel.
River cruising is a perfect holiday for those who like to visit multiple different cities and towns in one trip and unpack once. It gives you a chance to see many beautiful destinations and you're always docked in the heart of a city/town, allowing you to spend more time exploring. River cruising is so inclusive, as generally most companies will include your flights, transfers, a choice of excursions, meals, drinks and amazing service.
If river cruising interests you, pop in and see me at MMT’s Wells branch. The kettle is always on!
