The 140-guest William Shakespeare and her sister, the ms Charles Dickens, are two of Riviera River Cruises most unique vessels. Sporting an entirely different design from their fleetmates, these cozy vessels have a lot going for them, from spacious staterooms and suites to tastefully decorated public rooms that rarely feel crowded.

Built in 2014, the William Shakespeare is served by a crew of 35 and operates five of Riviera River Cruises’ itineraries on the Rhine, Moselle and Danube rivers. In a nod to the Bard, her decks are named after classic Shakespeare characters, including Hamlet, Othello and Romeo.

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE Staterooms

• Standard Cabins – Romeo Deck are the entry-level staterooms aboard the William Shakespeare. These measure 151 square feet and have beds that can be configured as either two twins or a single queen. A small chair, vanity area, closets and bathroom are provided, and solo guests can book these cabins without a single supplement, subject to availability.  All Standard Cabins on Romeo Deck have small fixed windows.
• Standard Cabins – Othello and Hamlet Decks are larger than their Standard counterparts on Romeo Deck, coming in at 161 square feet. Each cabin has a floor-to-ceiling French Balcony, beds that can convert to two twins or one queen, and a small sitting area next to the balcony. A soft color palette of blues, teals and earth tones has been selected for these rooms, which makes them feel bright and welcoming. In-ceiling accent lighting adds a final touch.
• Deluxe Suites are the largest type of accommodations onboard the William Shakespeare. With 245 square feet of space, these four rooms on Hamlet Deck have increased living space, a dedicated seating area with a full table and two chairs, a marble-clad bathroom, and a full step-out balcony (the only such balconies on the entire ship).

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE Public Areas

Public rooms aboard William Shakespeare are bright, modern and airy. The color palette onboard is predominantly shades of red, gold and earth tones, lending public rooms a warm, cozy feel.

Full buffet breakfast and lunch are served in the main restaurant, which also hosts multi-course dinners in its elegant setting. Casual, lighter fare can be had in the Midsummer Bar located all the way aft on Hamlet Deck.

The ship’s main lounge is an attractive, inviting space done in shades of gold, brown and red. With its sculpted ceilings and centrally-located bar, it serves as the social hub of the ship. Seating options include chairs, couches, and ample seating at the bar itself.

Forward of the Lounge is an excellent outdoor seating area that can be used when weather permits, and offers great views over the bow of the ship.

Adjacent, the ship’s Main Lobby is home to both Reception and Tour desks, along with a small boutique and gift shop.

Up top, a hot tub, giant chess set and putting green complement the outdoor seating on the Sun Deck, with both shaded and uncovered options available.

The William Shakespeare also offers a small steam and sauna room for guests to use – a rarity among river cruise ships.

River Cruisers Should Know!

• Although the ship has a lift, it does not travel to the uppermost Sun Deck.
• The William Shakespeare has no in-cabin mini-bars.