MS VIVA RUBY: The Smallest and Most Intimate Ship in the Fleet

VIVA describes VIVA RUBY simply as "the smallest ship in our fleet." Commissioned in 2002 and extensively renovated in 2025, it carries a maximum of 80 passengers in 40 cabins across two decks — not three, as on every other VIVA vessel. At 85 metres by 10 metres it is a different kind of ship from the 135-metre flagships, and VIVA is candid about what that means: "personally and informal atmosphere" is how they characterise the experience.

The renovation in 2025 updated the ship throughout. It is worth noting that the VIVA RUBY page does not mention RITUALS beauty products or a Nespresso machine — standard on most other fleet ships — and lists the cabin amenities as TV, radio, minibar, safe, hairdryer, air conditioning, shower and WC.

The Cabins

VIVA RUBY has 40 double cabins. Eight suites are on the top deck. Thirty-two standard double cabins are spread across two decks. The Diamond Deck cabins have French balconies. The page does not state cabin sizes in square metres for any category.

All cabins include TV, radio, minibar, safe, hairdryer, air conditioning, shower and WC.

On Board

RIVERSIDE is the main restaurant with flexible meal times and free choice of seating. The ship has a stylish lounge with a panorama bar and dance floor — a feature not found on the larger VIVA ships. A library with a selection of books and games is on board. A small boutique is located on the Smaragd Deck.

The page does not mention a wellness area, sauna, steam bath, fitness centre, pool, whirlpool, putting green or free bicycles for VIVA RUBY.

What Makes It Different

VIVA RUBY is for passengers who want something different from the standard river cruise experience. At 80 passengers the ship is close to a private charter in scale. The 2025 renovation has brought it up to a consistent standard, but the facilities list is shorter than the larger ships and the cabin amenity package is simpler. The library, the dance floor in the lounge, and the informal atmosphere are what VIVA RUBY offers instead — and for the right passenger, on the right itinerary, that is the better deal.

To check availability and current fares, call 020 8183 0518.