Riviera River Cruises<\/strong><\/a> 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.<\/p>\nBuilt in 2014, the William Shakespeare is served by a crew of 35 and operates five of Riviera River Cruises\u2019 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 <\/strong>and Romeo<\/strong>.<\/p>\nWILLIAM SHAKESPEARE Staterooms<\/strong><\/h2>\nStandard cabins aboard the William Shakespeare feature either fixed windows or, shown here, French balconies. Photo courtesy Riviera River Cruises.<\/p><\/div>\n
\n- Standard Cabins \u2013 Romeo Deck<\/strong> 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.\u00a0 All Standard Cabins on Romeo Deck have small fixed windows.<\/li>\n
- Standard Cabins \u2013 Othello and Hamlet Decks<\/strong> 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.<\/li>\n
- Deluxe Suites<\/strong> 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).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE Public Areas<\/strong><\/h2>\nThe main lounge aboard the ms William Shakespeare. Photo courtesy Riviera River Cruises.<\/p><\/div>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The ship\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
Inset within the Lounge itself: a cozy library. Photo courtesy Riviera River Cruises.<\/p><\/div>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Adjacent, the ship\u2019s Main Lobby is home to both Reception and Tour desks, along with a small boutique and gift shop.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The William Shakespeare also offers a small steam and sauna room for guests to use \u2013 a rarity among river cruise ships.<\/p>\n
Up on deck, a soothing hot tub. Photo courtesy Riviera River Cruises.<\/p><\/div>\n
River Cruisers Should Know!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Although the ship has a lift, it does not travel to the uppermost Sun Deck.<\/li>\n
- The William Shakespeare has no in-cabin mini-bars.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n