Published on
August 27, 2025
Amsterdam will serve as the venue for the prestigious Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) RiverView conference, scheduled for March 8-10, 2026. This 14th edition of the RiverView event will focus on river cruising and is set to attract travel agents, cruise line professionals, and enthusiasts from around the world. The conference offers a unique blend of business sessions, networking opportunities, and hands-on experiences with some of the most luxurious river cruise ships.
Key Details of RiverView 2026 Conference
- Dates: March 8-10, 2026
- Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Focus: River cruise industry, networking, ship tours, business masterclasses
- Operators Present: Nine river cruise operators, including Ama Waterways, Amadeus Cruises, Avalon Waterways, and more.
- Networking Opportunities: Hosted lunches, dinners, trade fair, and overnight stays on board.
The RiverView 2026 conference will bring together leading players in the river cruise sector, offering a comprehensive platform for learning and networking. Professionals in the travel and tourism industry will be able to enhance their knowledge, explore new cruise products, and forge valuable connections with other industry leaders.
What to Expect at RiverView 2026 in Amsterdam
The event will be held at key venues across Amsterdam, known for its rich maritime heritage and vibrant tourism scene. RiverView 2026 will feature a diverse program designed to cater to both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the river cruise industry.
- Business Sessions and Masterclasses:
- Expert-Led Business Sessions: RiverView 2026 promises engaging business sessions focused on the river cruise market’s growth. These sessions will provide agents with the tools they need to succeed in this competitive sector.
- Masterclasses: Special half-day workshops are planned, designed to help agents entering the sector or looking to enhance their skills. These masterclasses will address topics like marketing, booking systems, and customer service.
- Networking Trade Fair:
- The trade fair will feature a broad range of suppliers, giving delegates the opportunity to meet with representatives from across the river cruise industry. This is an essential event for agents looking to expand their network and learn about new cruise offerings.
- Ship Visits:
- Nine river cruise operators will have their vessels moored in Amsterdam, providing an exclusive chance for agents to tour some of the world’s most luxurious river cruise ships. The line-up includes top names like Ama Waterways, Amadeus Cruises, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld, and others. This will be a key opportunity for professionals to get acquainted with the latest trends in river cruise design, onboard amenities, and unique itineraries.
- Hosted Dinners and Overnight Stays:
- Delegates will enjoy hosted dinners and the unique experience of staying overnight on a river cruise vessel, which will provide them with a firsthand look at the comfort, luxury, and service that river cruises offer.
Nine Cruise Operators Showcase Their Vessels
The following operators will showcase their ships at the RiverView 2026 conference:
- Ama Waterways
- Amadeus Cruises
- Avalon Waterways
- Emerald Cruises
- Riverside Luxury Cruises
- Riviera Travel
- TUI River Cruises
- VIVA Cruises
- Uniworld
This will provide agents with ample opportunities to explore the range of ships available in the river cruise sector, allowing them to get a deeper understanding of each operator’s unique offerings.
Familiarisation Sailings Post-Conference
As an added benefit, three short familiarisation sailings will be arranged for delegates at the close of the conference. These trips will allow agents to experience the river cruise product in action, offering a glimpse into the guest experience and the operational aspects of a river cruise.
The Impact on Business and Tourism Travel
For those in the tourism and travel industry, attending RiverView 2026 will be an invaluable experience. Agents and operators will have the opportunity to gain insights into the latest trends and innovations in the river cruise sector, positioning themselves to offer better services to their clients. The event also offers a significant boost to Amsterdam’s tourism sector, with an influx of travel professionals and tourists visiting the city for the conference and associated events.
Tips for Tourists and Visitors to Amsterdam
While in Amsterdam for the RiverView conference, visitors will have the chance to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, canals, and museums. Here are some travel tips to make the most of your trip:
- Explore Amsterdam’s Canals: Amsterdam is famous for its beautiful canals, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. A canal cruise is a must-do for tourists.
- Visit the Anne Frank House: One of Amsterdam’s most poignant landmarks, the Anne Frank House offers a deep insight into history.
- Museums Galore: Don’t miss the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum. These world-class museums showcase the best of Dutch art and culture.
- Local Cuisine: Sample some Dutch delicacies such as poffertjes (mini pancakes), herring, and bitterballen.
- Use Public Transport: Amsterdam’s trams and bikes are an efficient way to navigate the city. Consider getting a travel pass for easy access to the city’s transport network.
Looking Ahead: RiverView 2026’s Lasting Impact
As the river cruise industry continues to grow, the RiverView conference remains one of the most significant events for travel agents looking to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving market. RiverView 2026 in Amsterdam promises to be an exciting and insightful event, offering participants valuable tools to succeed and connect with like-minded professionals. Whether you’re a veteran agent or a newcomer, this conference will provide everything you need to thrive in the river cruise sector.
With its strong focus on education, networking, and first-hand ship experiences, RiverView 2026 is not just an event—it’s a gateway to success in the river cruise industry.
