Riviera Travel has revealed travel agents have accounted for nearly a quarter of all solo holidays bookings to date in 2026 as the operator looks to push deeper into the solos market. Solo bookings made through the trade have increased by 45% year-on-year, which the river cruise and escorted touring specialist described as “impressive”.
Top-Performing Solo River Cruise for 2027
Demand for 2027 solo river cruise departures continues to build, with The Blue Danube for Solo Travellers leading as the top-performing solo river cruise through the trade in 2027. Its most popular sailings take place on the George Eliot, the company’s world-first river cruise ship dedicated exclusively to solo travellers. The vessel offers guests a double cabin to themselves with no single supplement on dedicated solo holidays, creating what Riviera calls an exclusive solo river cruise experience that sets the programme apart.
Riviera said the George Eliot offers “an ideal introduction to solo travel for customers considering their first holiday alone”. The ship represents a significant investment in capturing a growing segment of travelers who prefer exploring on their own terms without paying premium solo charges.
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Escorted Tour Demand and New Itineraries
Riviera’s escorted touring programme is also showing strong early potential for 2027. Sri Lanka for Solo Travellers is currently leading 2027 escorted tour demand through the trade, followed by New Zealand for Solo Travellers: Land of The Long White Cloud and Ecuador & Galapagos for Solo Travellers. The company recently expanded its 2027 solo touring range with newly launched itineraries including Highlights of China for Solo Travellers, Victoria Falls, Botswana Safari & Cape Town for Solo Travellers and The Silk Road for Solo Travellers. These additions give agents options to promote to customers planning further ahead.
The expansion reflects broader trends in the travel industry where operators are increasingly tailoring offerings to solo travelers who represent a growing demographic with distinct preferences and booking patterns. Travel agents have proven particularly effective at matching these travelers with suitable products.
Head of Trade Amanda Docherty said Riviera Travel remains committed to giving agents all the support they need to up their sales. “With solo customers booking 8.5 months out on average, starting conversations now is key for securing bookings for 2027,” she said. “We remain committed to giving agents the support, tools and opportunities they need to make the most of every solo travel enquiry as this market continues to grow.”