A Complete Riverside Debussy Review – Cruising Europe’s Rhine River in Total Luxury

From spacious cabins to glorious food and attentive service, my cruise with Riverside Luxury Cruises was very memorable. In this Riverside Debussy review I share all the details about my recent Rhine River cruise.

Riverside Debussy review

Last Updated on 01/05/25 by Rose Palmer

Outside my cabin’s panoramic window, a castle that looked like it came straight out of a fairy tale sat on the crest of a hilltop. Inside my cabin, a steaming cup of tea and a full breakfast had just been delivered by my suite’s butler. That’s right, my cabin on the Riverside Debussy came with my very own butler!

This was my first introduction to river cruises in Europe, and I was getting totally spoiled by the experience.

Enjoying my room service breakfast on the Riverside Debussy
Enjoying my room service breakfast on the Riverside Debussy

Riverside Luxury Cruises may be a new player in the European River Cruise market, but their objective is to provide the highest quality river cruise experience possible. After spending a week on a Christmas Market cruise on the Riverside Debussy, I have to say that they definitely set a very high bar.

Embracing the musical heritage of the destinations where they cruise, all the Riverside ships are named after famous European composers. Riverside Luxury Cruises started with the debut sailing of the Riverside Mozart on the Danube in April 2023. In August 2023, the Riverside Ravel started cruising along the Rhone River in France. My ship, the Riverside Debussy, had its inaugural cruise on the Rhine in March 2024.

Riverside Debussy on the Rhine River
Riverside Debussy on the Rhine River – photo courtesy of Riverside Luxury Cruises

My Riverside Debussy review

The overriding feeling on the Riverside Debussy was an abundance of light and space. I was cruising in early December when the skies were grey and the days short, but the ship always felt bright and airy. Contributing to the experience was a crew that was welcoming and provided the most outstanding service.

The size of the locks determines the dimensions of a river cruise ship, so in general, all the Rhine River ships are about the same size. But, the biggest difference is that a Riverside ship hosts half as many guests compared to the mainstream European river cruise lines. With a maximum of only 110 passengers, there was plenty of room to spread out in both my cabin and the public spaces.

Enjoying a Viennese coffee in the glass enclosed lounge
Enjoying a Viennese coffee with a view in the glass enclosed lounge

My Cabin on the Riverside Debussy

The Riverside Debussy had 55 all suite cabins laid out on decks 2 and 3. My husband and I enjoyed one of the Seahorse suites on deck 2, which at 237 square feet was very roomy for two people.

It was a pleasure to have a true king sized bed with Egyptian cotton linens and a Scandinavian style duvet. The feather pillows were just like the ones I was used to at home, but they also offered a pillow menu if I wanted something different.

The room’s highlight was the floor to ceiling, wall to wall, panoramic window which made it such a treat to take in the scenery while I was enjoying an early cup of coffee in bed. The in room Nespresso maker made it super easy to have that first (or second) cup of coffee before heading to breakfast.

Besides the Nespresso machine, the large desk area was a multifunction space that had a stocked mini fridge with sodas, beer, and water as well as drawers with cups, glasses and plates. A full sized set of binoculars was also provided for our use.

Enjoying a cup of coffee with views of the Rhine River
Enjoying a cup of coffee with views of the Rhine River
Desk space with mini fridge and Nespresso maker
Desk space with mini fridge and Nespresso maker

Between the desk and the bedside nightstands, there were also plenty of outlets and USB ports for charging all my electronics. I also liked that each bedside had a lamp and a separate reading light.

The spacious walk in closet was a pleasant surprise. There was definitely more than enough room to easily store all our stuff without feeling cramped. There were also robes and slippers in the closet for our use, along with a safe.

Walk in closet in my Riverside Debussy suite
Walk in closet in my Riverside Debussy suite

The other big surprise was the roomy, marble lined bathroom that I would have loved to have back home. The glass enclosed walk in shower had both an overhead and a wand showerhead. A double vanity with all the storage drawers underneath gave us plenty of space for all our toiletries. The underfloor heating and the heated towel racks were a real treat. And rounding out the spa like feel were the high end bath products by Spanish brand Natura Bissé.

My bathroom on the Riverside Debussy
My bathroom on the Riverside Debussy

Public spaces on the Riverside Debussy

With only 4 decks, the Riverside Debussy was easy to navigate. Cabins were located on decks 2 and 3, and all four decks had many public spaces to enjoy.

Deck 1

Fitness Center – I was pleasantly surprised to see the variety of workout equipment available for those guests that wanted to maintain a workout regime while travelling.

Fitness center on the Riverside Debussy
Fitness center on the Riverside Debussy

Spa guests I spoke to that had massages in the spa spoke very highly of their experience.

Guest laundry while I don’t normally like to do laundry when I am on vacation, having access to a laundry room with high en Miele appliances was a nice feature, just in case.

Deck 2

Midship

Entrance and Reception – my first impression as I embarked on this beautiful ship was this grand, welcoming space. The circular stairs and the glass elevator provided access to decks 1,2 and 3. Since the reception desk was manned 24/7 I came here if I needed help or had a question.

The Pantry – across from the reception area, the Pantry offered coffee, tea, and snacks any time of the day or night.

Forward

Waterside dining room – despite its large size, the dining room provided an intimate setting for all three meals. There were plenty of tables with seating for two, four, or larger groups as needed. I could easily choose to have a quiet meal just with my husband or join new found friends at a larger table.

Aft

Staterooms – this deck had 21 Seahorse suite staterooms (237-258 square feet) and 8 slightly smaller Melody suites (194 square feet).  I had Seahorse stateroom 221 which I’ve already described in a lot of detail.

Hallway leading to the staterooms on deck 2
Hallway leading to the staterooms on deck 2

I had the chance to also see one of the Melody staterooms. The Melody staterooms were just a bit smaller but offered the same room amenities and comforts. The biggest difference was that the king sized bed did not face the panoramic window. While the closet was not walk in, there was still quite a lot of storage space.

The bathroom in the Melody suite had a glass enclosed walk in shower and a single sink with storage drawers.

The Melody suite bathroom has a walk in shower and a single vanity
The Melody suite bathroom has a walk in shower and a single vanity

Deck 3

Midship

Entrance, stairs, and elevator – the ship was also accessible from entrances on this deck, depending on the configuration of the dock.

Elevator and stairs on deck 3 of the Riverside Debussy
Elevator and stairs on deck 3 of the Riverside Debuss

Forward

Bistro – when the dining room wasn’t serving meals, the Bistro offered food, snacks, specialty coffees, and drinks the rest of the time. It seemed like there was something available to eat practically all day.

The Bistro also offered additional seating with more windows looking out toward the scenery.

The bright Bistro area of the Riverside Debussy
The bright Bistro area of the Riverside Debussy

The food laid out in the Bistro changed throughout the day depending on whether it was breakfast, lunch, or afternoon snacks.

The Vintage Room – next to the Bistro, small group dinners could be booked in this elegant dining room. Our group was treated to a Chef’s Table dinner here and it was the tastiest and most imaginative meal I have ever eaten.

Palm Court lounge and stage the heart of the ship, this was the spot where we all gathered to relax, sip cocktails, or chat with new friends. The floor to ceiling windows and the coffered glass ceiling let in an abundance of light which made it easy to take in the views. In the evenings, we listened to the on board piano player or watched the special performers that were brought on to the ship.

Aft

Cabins – this deck had 16 Riverside suites, 8 Symphony suites, one Owner’s suite, and one Debussy suite. 

Hallway to the staterooms on deck 3 of the Riverside Debussy
Hallway to the staterooms on deck 3 of the Riverside Debussy

The 258 square foot Riverside suites were laid out the same as the Seahorse suites on deck 2 and the Symphony suites (194 square feet) were similar to the Melody suites.

Riverside suite on the Riverside Debussy
Riverside suite on the Riverside Debussy
Inside the Riverside suite
Inside the Riverside suite

The Owner’s suite was 764 square feet with two bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and was ideal for 2 to 4 guests traveling together. The living area came with a sofa, 2 chairs, and an electric fireplace, along with a dining table that seats four.

The Debussy suites was 506 square feet with one bedroom and a seperate living area. The living space included two armchairs and a sofa which could become a pullout bed, as well a fireplace.

Swimming pool – all the way aft on deck 3, an enclosed, heated swimming pool gave me a lovely, relaxing spot to unwind.

Drinks available in the pool area
Drinks available in the pool area
Deck 4

Sundeck with Vista Bar – the whole top deck on the Riverside Debussy was open and was the perfect spot to enjoy the scenery as we cruised down the Rhine. I was sailing in December when temperatures were rather cool, but the crew made sure that we were warm and cozy. The seats all had cushions and blankets, and the bar staff were always ready with a warming drink.

Vista deck on the Riverside Debussy
Vista deck on the Riverside Debussy
Vista deck on the Riverside Debussy
Vista deck on the Riverside Debussy
Vista deck on the Riverside Debussy
Vista deck on the Riverside Debussy
Vista deck on the Riverside Debussy
Vista deck on the Riverside Debussy

Food on the Riverside Debussy

I can honestly say that all the food on the Riverside Debussy was fantastic!

I am usually not a fan of buffets, but I did not mind he buffets at breakfast and lunch on the Riverside Debussy. Even though there were always lots of choices, it was clear that all the food at the buffet was freshly made. In addition, the chef also prepared made-to-order dishes at each meal. At breakfast I could get waffles, omelets, pancakes, or eggs benedict. At lunch, the chef offered one or two freshly grilled meats or sea food every day as well.

Loved the honeycomb and jam station
Loved the honeycomb and jam station
Hot cereal an yogurt station at breakfast
Hot cereal and yogurt station at breakfast
Lots of salad options
Lots of salad options at lunch
Hot food station at lunch
Hot food station at lunch
There was always cheese available at the buffet
There was always cheese available at the buffet
It was always a difficult choice at the dessert portion of the buffet
It was always a difficult choice at the dessert portion of the buffet

As I mentioned, the Bistro was another all day food option along with a menu of delicious specialty coffees. Lighter breakfast fare was available for late risers, followed by a selection of sandwiches and small desserts for lunch and all through the afternoon. There was also a station with German pretzels and local cheeses – my favorite.

Light breakfast available at the Bistro every morning
Light breakfast available at the Bistro every morning
Small bites were available all day at the Bistro
Small bites were available all day at the Bistro
Beautiful cakes available every day at the Bistro
Beautiful cakes available every day at the Bistro
Cheese and pretzel station at the Bistro
Cheese and pretzel station at the Bistro

Besides the delicious specialty coffees prepared at the Bistro,  I also tried the bubble waffle, a crispy sweet treat perfect for an afternoon break.

Loved this viennese coffee
Loved this Viennese coffee
The specialty bubble waffle
The specialty bubble waffle

Dinners were where chef Gareth Gradwell and his staff truly excelled. We quickly learned that this was a time to relax and to savor each course with a glass of wine just as I would in a high end restaurant.

These evening meals were not mass produced food pre-made for a crowd. Starters were creatively prepared and presented. Each entree was cooked to order and was as tasty as it was beautifully plated. Desserts never disappointed either. I had many favorites, like the deconstructed Waldorf salad starter, and the German flan.

Deconstructed Waldorf salad
Deconstructed Waldorf salad
German flan made with walnut moss, creme chantilly, cinnamon tuile, and marshmallow
German flan made with walnut moss, creme chantilly, cinnamon tuile, and marshmallow

For the Captain’s farewell dinner, the chef went all out with an outstanding five course menu. The star definitely was the “melt-in-my-mouth” beef tenderloin, but it was all delicious.

Captain’s farewell dinner starter: “Pope Benedict’s Silken gown”, a creamy, silky egg with asparagus, truffle Hollandaise, and salsa verde.

Captain's farewell dinner starter
Captain’s farewell dinner starter

Captain’s farewell dinner main entré: “Riverside Rossini”, meltingly tender beef tenderloin, foie gras, chard chicory, Rissale potato, port wine demi glace.

The beef tenderloin was a popular choice at the captain's farewell Dinner on the Riverside Debussy
The beef tenderloin was a popular choice at the captain’s farewell Dinner on the Riverside Debussy

Captain’s farewell dinner dessert: “Another day in Paradise”, chocolate, pineapple, and anise ice cream.

Captain's farewell dinner dessert
Captain’s farewell dinner dessert

The chef and the crew also put on a fun lunchtime bar-b-q on the top deck while we cruised through the scenic Rhine River Gorge with its many photogenic castles. The chef grilled up German sausages and Leberkäse while the bar staff served up hot glühwein (mulled wine), a welcome hot toddy on a chilly day.

Chef Gareth preparing our top deck BBQ
Chef Gareth preparing our top deck BBQ

One additional food option on the Debussy was room service. I am not a big breakfast eater, and I preferred to have a light continental breakfast delivered to my cabin by the butler. Room service was available all day or night.

My room service breakfast on the Riverside Debussy
My room service breakfast on the Riverside Debussy

A Vintage Room soiree fit for royalty

I’ve had many delicious Chef’s Table expereinces on different ships, but the special dinner we had in the Vintage Room was by far the most impressive and creative meal I had ever tasted. During the 3 hour, seven course feast, Chef Gareth’s menu displayed his extensive culinary talents along with his British wit. Accompanying each dish was a perfectly paired wine chosen by the ship’s sommelier Christina.

Starter: “Destined Partnership”.

A mini heirloom tomato stuffed with burrata, served with aged balsamic and basil, and a cheese crisp.

Starter: "Destined Partnership"
Starter: “Destined Partnership”

Soup: “Waiting a Sweet Kiss From Royalty”.

Corn soup poured over Alaskan king crab, corn kernels and coriander.

"Waiting a Sweet Kiss From Royalty".
“Waiting a Sweet Kiss From Royalty”.

Seafood course: “An Unlikely Friendship”.

Scallops paired with Bellota ham, apple and chips.

"An Unlikely Friendship"
“An Unlikely Friendship”

Palate cleanser: “Sharing A Glass Together”.

Mango, lime and ginger sorbet served with cilantro and Bacardi rum.

Palate cleanser: Sharing A Glass Together"
Palate cleanser: Sharing A Glass Together”

Main entré: “The Concealed Truth”

Beef tenderloin roulade served with tri-color potato, Burgundy truffle, and thyme jus.

Chef introduced this dish by saying that not everything was as it seemed. Indeed, the mushroom was actually potato, and the pea pod was broccoli puree.

Cheese course: “Four Reasons Why”

A delicious layering of mousses made from Roquefort cheese, Old Amsterdam cheese, Pesto Verde, and served with a parmesan crisp and fresh fig.

Cheese course: "Four Reasons Why"
Cheese course: “Four Reasons Why”

Dessert: “A Christmas Bittersweet Goodbye”

A sublime combination of mandarin, gingerbread spice, white chocolate, cookies, and rum sauce.

I didn’t think the meal could get any better, but the dessert was a true showstopper. We were presented with an authentic looking golden Christmas ornament made from chocolate. The wait staff then poured a warm chocolate sauce on top, breaking up the ornament and revealing the spicy treats inside. Divine!

Exceptional service all week

With a ratio of 1 staff for every 2 guests (when the ship was full), I expected good service. From the moment we boarded the Riverside Debussy and were greeted with glasses of chilled champagne, the service on board was indeed warmly attentive and very personal.

We were greeted with welcome aboard champagne and chocolate
We were greeted with welcome aboard champagne and chocolate

Besides our room’s butler, we also had a steward that attended to our room twice each day and kept the room spotless. In fact, the whole ship was spotless – one afternoon we saw the staff washing the walls in the hallway where the cabins were located.

What impressed me most was how congenial all the staff were all the time. From the lovely ladies at the front desk, to the effervescent shore excursion manager Karolina, to the dining room wait staff who seemed to anticipate our every need, the service and the personal interactions were always delivered with a genuine smile.

Our suite's butler
Indra, our suite’s butler

As a European based cruise line, Riverside caters to an international audience. Not surprising, the staff was very international as well, hailing from all over the world. And while English may not have been their native language, the staff I interacted with were fluently multilingual and spoke English very well.

It was also clear that the staff enjoyed working on the ship. I think Remus, our excursion guide, expressed it best when he said “we have two families, one at home and one on the ship with our guests”. They did indeed make us all feel like family.

Excursions and activities

My Rhine River Christmas Market cruise started in Amsterdam and had stops in Nijmegen in the Netherlands and then in Duisburg, Dusseldorf, Rüdesheim, Manheim, and Mainz, Germany. While the German Christmas Markets were the focus of this cruise, I really appreciated that we also had a choice of excursions that also highlighted the culture and history of the region.

The Christmas pyramid in Rudesheim
The Christmas pyramid in Rudesheim

At every stop we had a dedicated Riverside bus and driver that drove us back and forth from the ship. Along with our Debussy excursion staff, in every city we also had a local expert that provided the color commentary on a walking tour and brought the history to life .

Our Riverside excursion bus
Our Riverside excursion bus

My favorite excursions were the beer and food tours in Dusseldorf and the in depth presentation of how the original Gutenberg  press worked in Mainz. My husband also really enjoyed the winery tour in Rudesheim (I chose a different tour).

Enjoying potato pancakes at the Christmas market in Dusseldorf
Enjoying potato pancakes at the Christmas market in Dusseldorf
Demonstrating the Gutenberg press in Mainz
Our local guide demonstrating the Gutenberg press in Mainz

The crew also set up activities on board. During an afternoon of cruising, the ship’s sommelier talked us through  a nice wine tasting for all those that were interested. Every evening, the on board musician entertained us in the Palm Court Lounge. On a few evenings, we also had guest musicians performing for us.

Wine tasting on the Riverside Debussy
Wine tasting on the Riverside Debussy
Listening to Christmas carol played by our talented guest violinist
Listening to Christmas carols played by our talented guest violinist

Final thoughts about Riverside Luxury Cruises

I truly got very spoiled on my first ever European river cruise. I would put this experience in my top three most luxurious trips (along with taking the Orient Express from Venice to Rome and barge cruising on the Burgundy Canal in France).

Seaside Collection, the German owned parent company of Riverside, purchased and took over these cruise ships from Crystal Cruises when they went bankrupt during the pandemic. Crystal already had a reputation for providing a high quality luxury river cruising experience and Riverside is continuing to build on that base. As the Debussy hotel manager told me “we want to be the best river cruise company in Europe”.  I certainly think they are.

 

Please note that I was hosted by Riverside Luxury Cruises. All content and opinions are my own.

 

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Sailing the Greek isles in luxury: Release Your Inner Jackie On a Luxury Sailing HOliday in Greece

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Thanks for visiting

Rose

 

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