Speaking to TTG ahead of the launch of Riva AI on 12 November, Vicky Billing, Riviera Travel's director of trade partnerships, UK and Ireland, said around 3,600 agents were currently signed up to the escorted touring and river cruise line's learning platform – Riviera Explorer - where Riva AI will be housed.
She outlined how she wants more agents to sign up to watch training modules, earn rewards and become a Riviera expert through the platform after being drawn in by Riva AI once it has launched.
On Riva AI, which has been in development since January 2025, Riviera says: "From itinerary details and destination insights to objection-handling tips, social media content, emails for clients and sales tools, Riva AI is your always on Riviera expert."
Billing said: "Riva AI marks a bold step forward in how we support our trade partners. We understand that agents are constantly juggling multiple priorities and Riva AI is designed to make selling simpler, smarter, and more efficient.
"It combines the power of Riviera’s dedicated trade team with intuitive technology, giving agents the tools and support they need for success."
She added Riva AI is "99.9% accurate" as it only contains Riviera brand information and called it "a massive enabler".
"Around 3,600 travel agents have signed up to Riviera Explorer. I'm hoping that Riva will drive more sign-ups," Billing continued.
"It will not do a name change but it will direct you to where you want to go. You will be left behind if you don't embrace the AI technology that is out there."
Billing ruled out making the tool bookable for agents but she admitted she would like Riviera to develop a Riva AI app.
Amanda Docherty, head of UK trade, added: “Riva AI is a major leap forward in how we support our trade partners. It’s built by agents, made for agents, giving them instant access to Riviera’s knowledge and creativity, whether they’re crafting a social post, replying to a customer email, or handling a tricky objection.
"Imagine you are struggling for inspiration for your next Facebook post, just ask Riva AI. And this is just version one, we’ve got big plans for 2026.”
