Travelmarvel has introduced Rigel, its fourth European river ship built specifically for the Australian market. The vessel will commence service on 30 June 2026 with a 14-night Amsterdam-to-Budapest itinerary along the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers.
Ship Specifications and Design
Rigel accommodates 178 guests across 89 cabins, with a crew of 44. The ship shares its design with sister vessels Polaris, Capella, and Vega, maintaining consistent standards across the fleet. Onboard amenities include an open-air Sun Deck with jacuzzi, a fitness room, and three dining options: Constellations Restaurant for main meals, True North Lounge for casual gatherings, and McGeary's Bar, a pub-style space for evening drinks.
Accommodation choices include French-style Balcony Suites with electronic slide-down windows and Owner's Suites, offering guests private outdoor space and views of the passing scenery.
Itinerary and Market Positioning
The maiden voyage follows the European Gems itinerary, calling at towns such as Miltenberg and cities including Budapest. Travelmarvel positions Rigel as an accessible option for Australian travellers seeking inclusive river cruising without premium pricing. The ship targets both first-time river cruisers and experienced passengers looking for a relaxed, refined experience on classic Central European routes through Germany, Austria, and Hungary.
Inaugural celebrations will include a Sun Deck sailaway party and a ceremonial bell-ringing, setting the tone for the voyage. The itinerary combines scenic river travel with curated onshore excursions, such as visits to Budapest's Chain Bridge.
For travel professionals, Rigel represents a competitive addition to the European river cruise market, particularly for clients seeking value-oriented yet contemporary options. The ship's design and pricing align with Travelmarvel's strategy of offering inclusive, well-priced river travel with modern amenities.
Travelmarvel's expansion comes amid broader growth in the river cruise sector. For context, AmaWaterways recently revealed AmaRudi, set to become Europe's largest river cruise ship in 2027, indicating continued investment in the region's waterways.
Bookings and further itinerary details are available through Travelmarvel's website.
