VIVA Cruises appoints Michelle Daniels as new country manager for UK Ireland
European river cruise specialist, VIVA Cruises, has appointed Michelle Daniels as the new country manager for the UK & Ireland, Australia and New Zealand, effective from today, 1st April 2025.
In her new role, Michelle will be responsible for driving the growth and development of VIVA Cruises in these key markets, overseeing sales, marketing and customer engagement strategies. Michelle will work closely with travel agents, tour operators and other industry partners to strengthen VIVA Cruises’ position as a truly premium international brand.
Michelle is a seasoned travel professional with more than 20 years’ experience in the cruise industry. Her impressive track record includes roles such as sales director for UK & Ireland; commercial director for UK & Europe; and global head of sales – always achieving very positive results.
Andrea Kruse, CEO of VIVA Cruises, expressed her excitement about Michelle’s appointment: “We are thrilled to welcome Michelle to the VIVA Cruises family. Her appointment underscores our commitment to the UK market and our international strategy. Michelle’s expertise and passion for the travel industry will be invaluable as we continue to grow and innovate as a premium international brand. We are confident that her leadership will help us achieve our ambitious goals and further enhance our reputation as Europe’s leading river cruise specialist.”
Michelle Daniels said: “I am delighted to join the VIVA Cruises team and take on the role of country manager. I am truly excited to contribute to the river cruise
specialist’s continued international success and growth. I look forward to working with our partners and customers to deliver unforgettable river cruise experiences and to further expand our presence in these key markets, including the UK.”
VIVA Cruises was founded in 2018 as the in-house tour operator of Swiss shipping company, Scylla AG. Since then, it has grown rapidly and now boasts a nine-ship fleet sailing on major European rivers, including VIVA ONE, VIVA TWO and the recently launched, VIVA ENJOY, which is VIVA TWO’s sister ship. VIVA Cruises is also launching new Douro itineraries on board new built ship, PORTO MIRANTE, from April 2025; and its very first boutique river ship, VIVA BEYOND, in May 2026 – with half of its 58 cabins being suites. VIVA BEYOND is part of VIVA Cruises’ brand-new VIVA Boutique product, aimed at offering an elevated premium experience to guests.