The second ship in the fleet of four planned by new river cruise operator Riverside Luxury Cruises has been christened.

The ceremony for Riverside Ravel took place on the Rhone river in Viviers, France.

A separate maiden voyage event and sailing for UK trade and media is planned for Sunday (August 20).

German parent hotel company Seaside Collection entered the luxury river cruise market last year by creating the Riverside brand following the acquisition of the former Crystal Cruises river fleet.

Riverside Ravel, with 55 suites, four restaurants and a fitness centre including swimming pool, gym and spa, will operate on the Rhone between Lyon and Arles, while first ship Riverside Mozart sails on the Danube.

They are to be joined by Riverside Debussy and Riverside Bach on the Rhine.

Riverside Luxury Cruises co-founder Anouchka Gerlach, who christened the second ship in the fleet, said:“We are delighted that we can now offer our guests the French way of life with the Ravel. The cuisine is, of course, tailored to the region and our crew has prepared very special experiences on land.”

A three-night Rhone sailing on September 24-27 leads in at £2,327 per person all-inclusive including excursions.