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Danube River Cruises

Travel through the modern city of Amsterdam in Western Europe on the Danube that slowly descends into Eastern Europe passing historic landmarks, such as Salzburg (the city of music), and trendy hipster-style destinations such as Budapest. Take a Danube river cruise adventure if you enjoy history, exquisite food and unforgettable experiences. This collection of European river cruises  (and European river cruise lines ) will sweep you away into a dreamlike space filled with new experiences, sights, sounds, smells and gastronomic encounters. You’ll also find cruise deals like no other.

250+ Danube river cruises with 485 reviews

• River Cruise

Danube Serenade: Romantic Journey from Vienna to Bucharest (Turnu Magurele) , MS Fidelio

Danube Dreams (Westbound) 2024

Danube Dreams with 2 Nights in Prague (Eastbound) 2024

The beautiful blue Danube (port-to-port cruise)

The tour was very good, the crew were excellent, very helpful, approachable and informative and always available. The tours were great and the Danube is wonderful to cruise on. The food was of excellent quality but the fact that there was no choice on the menu was poor and we feel there should have been an earlier sitting for dinner, and lunch could have been a buffet. The accommodation was adequate but the shower was totally inadequate. We enjoyed the cruise

Danube Classics Vienna 2024 (8 destinations)

Al-Rosa did an excellent job. Food was good and lots of it, the cabin was clean and comfortable. The staff were always friendly and helpful and Sabrina did a great job of looking after everyone and made sure that we were always at the right place at the right time. The tours were great and we enjoyed our evenings in the lounge with music and quizzes by Erich. We had a great holiday!

• Christmas & New Year

Melodies of the Danube 2024

• In-depth Cultural

8 days - Imperial Danube (Vienna - Budapest - Vienna, MS Crucestar 4*)

I wanted to write this review because there wasn’t a lot of information / reviews available when I booked this cruise. I’m hoping to give future cruisers some insight. We booked this cruise based on itinerary and a fantastic price during a sale. Shore excursions: We pre-booked excursions at the time of booking, but unfortunately the excursions couldn’t go ahead. They needed a minimum of 15 English speakers to be able to run the tours. With only 17 English speakers onboard, everyone needed to have signed up, which was never going to happen. The operator refunded our pre-payment (after sending them a prompt). Most of the passengers were Spanish or Mexican and had the numbers to go on tours. Starting location in Vienna: We weren’t told until a couple of days before the start of the cruise where the starting point would be. The Crucemundo Crucestar was docked at location quite a distance from the city centre, but very easy to get to. It was roughly a 45 minute tram ride and then a 10-15 minute walk along the Danube. Checking in: The check-in process was super easy. As we approached the ship, a crew member took our bags to the lobby. We gave our names and passports to the front desk. We were given key cards. The health questionnaire we were told to complete pre-boarding wasn’t collected. Next step, we pointed out our bags to another crew member who then grabbed them and escorted us to our cabin. Cabin: we liked our cabin on the middle deck. It was very compact, but perfectly functional. The windows weren’t the floor-to-ceiling ones you get on the more expensive cruiselines, but were still quite large, were openable and gave us a great view. There wasn’t much storage space available, so we ended up not unpacking and leaving our open suitcases under the bed, pulling them out like drawers when needed. The bathroom is tiny; the shower is triangular-shaped, but the shower curtain never stuck to us when showering and the water pressure / temperature was good. Also, the bathroom never flooded. Noise from adjacent cabins was never an issue. Our room attendant was lovely. Welcome reception: drinks and nibbles were available on the first evening. We were introduced to the crew. This is when we found out that the entire crew is Ukrainian and mostly women. There were 60 Spanish-speaking passengers and they were provided with someone to translate everything said in English. Doing the math, our ship was only half full, which meant the ship never felt crowded. Meals: all meals were held in the dining room at set times. We were assigned a table and were told to stick to the same table for every meal (luckily we had great table-mates). The reason for this is because at dinner each evening, you are given the menu for the next day’s lunch and dinner and you’re asked to make your choices then, so the kitchen staff knows how many of each dish to make and whether or not any dietary requirements need to be catered for. They did a decent job with accommodating dietary requirements. Sometimes it meant eating fruit salad as the gluten-free option, while everyone else was eating cake, but there was always something. Gluten-free bread was available; I never had to ask for it after the first night; it would always just appear. The food was always good, but not local to the places we were visiting. We asked why that was and were told that they received too many complaints. Evening entertainment: there was a resident DJ on board and one night there was a staff performance night. One of the ladies was a truly awesome singer/entertainer. Cruise director: the value of a great cruise director is evident when things go wrong. Unfortunately, we had things go wrong on this cruise. River cruise ships often tie up to each other when docked. Such was the case in Vienna. There was a ship tied to ours; when that ship was leaving, their mooring line got tangled up in our thrusters, meaning neither ship was going anywhere. This was Day 2 of our cruise. We ended up spending an extra day in Vienna while they tried to disentangle the ships. Not a problem, since there’s lots to see in Vienna. On Day 4, there were still issues, so we were bussed to see Melk and Durnstein. Unfortunately, this meant missing cruising through the Wachau Valley (my main reason to book this cruise) and seeing Linz, but a free tour of Melk Abbey for us English speakers! They even provided us with a substantial brown bag lunch for the day. On the evening of Day 4, we found out that our ship was fixed and we were back on schedule. As an added bonus for our inconvenience, our ship did a night cruise in Budapest to see the lights. It was a fantastic night accompanied by free shots of a local liquor. Thank you to our cruise director Yaro for making sure we had a great cruise. Excursions: when our shore excursions were cancelled, I booked us on “free” walking tours (tip-based tours) in Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest. We especially liked the one in Bratislava by Discover Bratislava (no bookings required – just show up at the start time). Except for Vienna, all other moorings were close to the city centres. Closing thoughts: The staff were wonderful. Although they must’ve been worried about what was happening at home, they were always professional. If you’re a non-Spanish speaker, be prepared to do your own thing – not a problem for us. Yes, I would definitely cruise with Crucemundo again (if they have another too-good-to-resist sale).

Romantic Danube 2024

Danube Classics Vienna 2024 (10 destinations)

Enchanting Danube (2024) (Budapest to Passau, 2024)

Enchanting Danube (2024) (Passau to Budapest, 2024)

This was our first river cruise and everything went beyond our expectation. Services: the staff were accommodating and helpful. Tours: various excursions to choose from for different age group and they were well-organized. Ship: beautiful boutique-design ship. The only cons is a slow Wifi connection but it ain't a big deal. There were so many onboard activity that kept us entertaining. I noticed that the cruise operates in eco-friendly manner, i.e. they eliminates sing-use plastic. That's a big plus!!!!

Splendours of Europe (Start Amsterdam, End Budapest)

The program in the Emerald ship was magnificently planned and discussed. The local music during the cruise was so informative. Long live the music from the Netherlands and Germany through Austria and Slovakya to Hungary! Just for the music, dances and songs I will do the cruise again!

Splendours of Europe (Start Budapest, End Amsterdam)

Capital Cities Along the Danube (port-to-port cruise)

EXCELLENT experience! outstanding professionalism. exceptional team on MS "vivaldi". BRAVISSIMI!... :-) <3 :-) p.s. re: capital tours: 1. vienna - PERFECT!... xavier was impeccable - it was an honour and absolut pleasure interacting with him, both humanly and professionally. A++!... :-) 2. BUDAPEST - sadly, BAD!... mrs. ildiko was totally overwhelmed, both physically and intelectually. it was an unfortunatye setback for the whole cruise experience, reason for which i decide to switch bus for the afternoon trip. :-( 3. BRATISLAVA - jana, very good, 100% professional behaviour, worth being kept in the team. p.p.s. @ tourradar team - again, well done, folks!,,, A+ to you, too!... ;-)

Classical Danube Cruise (Budapest - Passau)

We love Amadeus! There is something special, warm and welcoming about this cruise line. We've sailed on multiple other lines and Amadeus is our favorite! Immaculate ships, exceptional crew and delicious food and wines. The chef is very accommodating and tries to cater to every passengers wishes. I can't say anything but positive things about Amadeus! We are about to sail them again in September, 2023 and in April, 2024! Can't wait!

Reviews of Danube Cruises

This tour was wonderful. Hit all the highlights. Definitely recommend.

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Quick-Reference Guide to Cruising on the Danube River (With Prices + Map)

The Danube River is one of the most famous rivers in the world and the second longest in Europe, and cruising on the Danube River is most enjoyable.

Our quick-reference guide to Danube River cruises in Europe will provide an introduction and overview of cruise options, where they go, and reasons to sail this popular European river.

Disclosure: This page has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We truly only recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

What is the history and importance of the Danube River?

The Danube River, also known as the “Blue Danube,” has served as an important natural resource for thousands of years. It begins in Germany's Black Forest area (partially flowing from the Brigach stream, fed by resources in the Black Forest). The river goes on for 1,770 miles through 10 countries. Its mouth flows out to the Black Sea between Romania and Ukraine, right by Moldova.

The ten countries it flows through are Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine. It gets its name from the Celtic word “danu,” which means “to flow.”

Highlights while sailing on the river include the Wachau Valley, which is a UNESCO Cultural Landscape (pictured below), and the Iron Gate in the Balkans, between Serbia and Romania.

Is a Danube River cruise worth it?

100%, yes!!! We love river cruising. Though it may not be for everyone, it's a real winner for us. There are several great things about river cruises in general, and we do a great job of spreading the word about what to expect on a river cruise if it's your first time .

But in terms of the Danube River, in particular, it's a beautiful river that offers fantastic ports and charming scenery as you sail. It's also one of the most popular European river cruise itineraries. You may stop at some classic big cities, depending on your itinerary, like Budapest and Vienna. You'll certainly stop in incredibly charming smaller cities you may not otherwise have visited along the way, no matter your Danube River itinerary.

Why choose a Danube River cruise?

If you love Europe's charm and are drawn to castles and small European cities, this is the cruise for you. It also has some seriously impressive scenery along the way. Not all rivers provide great scenery between cities, but the Danube River does in this regard in several key areas.

Truth be told, not every mile of the Danube River cruise is photo-worthy. For instance, some stretches are simply through the water with grass on the bank and a few trees here and there.

Absent are castles, churches, or fortresses towering above the town. It goes through several locks that are cool and worth taking photos of but are not magazine-worthy if you know what we mean. But you'll experience locks and some scenery better than others on most European river cruises.

The Danube is special for the countries it goes through, the moments and areas that do have phenomenal scenery along the way, the destinations along the river, and its history.

Can other rivers claim a waltz named after it, like “The Blue Danube,” by famed Austrian composer Johann Strauss II in the 19th century? You also can't beat the Christmas Markets in the cities along the Danube River during Christmas time.

Where does a Danube River cruise start and end?

Your cruise's embarkation and debarkation points depend on the precise Danube River cruise you book.

However, some of the most popular cruise lines and itineraries start in Budapest, Hungary, and end in Nuremberg, Germany. Or they do the opposite cruise, from Nuremberg to Budapest.

Yet the Danube River is a sizeable length, as we mentioned at over 1,700 feet! And there are many more itineraries to consider that have different starting and ending points.

These include:

• Bucarest (Romania) to Budapest (Hungary)
• Amsterdam to Budapest
• Munich to Budapest
• Budapest to Regensberg (Germany)
• Passau (Germany) to Budapest
• Budapest to Vilshofen (Germany)
• Vienna to Nuremberg
• Vienna to Prague (transfer from Nuremberg because Prague isn't on the river)

A journey between points like Amsterdam and Budapest will typically be a longer cruise than eight days (even 12-15 days). It also starts in The Netherlands, where the Danube River doesn't exist yet, so you partially sail on other waterways.

Where does a Danube River cruise go?

To charming towns and wonderful cities in Europe! For more specific port information, we've listed the ports where cruise lines stop. There's a lot of overlap for more popular cities, like Vienna, Nuremberg, Melk, and Budapest, for example. And not a lot of cruise lines go to lesser known cities , like Roth, Emmersdorf, Weissenkirchen, and Kalocsa.

Pending your specific itinerary, we've also included cities that Danube River cruises may reach via bus from the port yet aren't directly off the Danube River.

An example of that is Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria. It's approximately an 80-minute ride from the Danube River on the Yantra River. And while it's not on the Danube itself, it is a town that Viking River Cruises transports its guests to on some itineraries because it's an interesting place to visit and not that far from the Danube.

• Engelhartszell

Austria (cont'd)

• Wachau Valley
• Weissenkirchen
• Veliko Tarnovo

River cruises on the Danube River that begin in Amsterdam also sail the Rhine River and Main River. We have not listed the cities it stops at before it reaches the Danube River in the bulleted list above.

River cruises that sail into Serbia, Croatia, and Romania may also travel on the Drava River.

Danube River Cruise Map of Ports

Danube River Cruise Highlights

You may visit these must-see places when you're Danube River cruising:

• Melk's Benedictine Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Budapest's Parliament building
• St. Stephan's Cathedral in Passau
• Palace of Parliament in Bucharest

When is the best time to cruise the Danube River?

Now that you have a better idea of what cruising the Danube is like, you're probably wondering when to go. There's no wrong answer because any time a cruise line has an available cruise means they have already considered the time of year.

But the answer could depend on what kind of season you want to experience:

• Spring : Mother Nature is in her splendor during spring and colors dot the European towns. Choose April or May for a spring cruise when you'll also experience cooler temperatures, with flower bulbs popping up and leaves beginning to show on the trees.
• Summer : If you want to enjoy the pool on a river cruise ship (not all have a pool, but some do), then choose summer. It's also great for packing a little lighter since you won't need sweaters, long sleeves, or fall or winter coats.
• Fall : Consider fall if you envision wearing a lightweight coat as you walk around charming European towns (and maybe even a scarf during late fall). Temperatures are slightly lower (between 45 to 65 degrees), but the fall colors are awesome if you're lucky enough to see them.
• Winter : The dazzling lights at the Christmas Markets will warm your heart along with warm mulled wine! If you want to experience Chirstmas in Europe with one-of-a-kind holiday markets, then going during December is a must. You'll definitely need to wear a winter coat and pack a scarf, gloves and a hat because it will be cold. But it will be magical!

How much does a Danube River cruise cost?

In general, river cruises are inclusive of many things, like wine and beer with lunch and dinner and walking tours in each city. We've written extensively about the cost of river cruises , overall, and what to expect in that regard.

Depending on the cruise line, Danube River cruises can cost anywhere from $1,200 per person based on double occupancy of an onboard cabin, to upwards of $7,000 per person for double occupancy.

Sometimes you'll find them at lower starting prices, depending on the season (like if they're running holiday sales) and depending on the cruise line. The level of “luxury” of the cruise line and the length of the cruise could also be determining factors for the Danube River cruise cost.

What is the best Danube River cruise line?

That's up for debate, of course. It depends on your travel style (including your preferences when you vacation) and your budget.

Here are a few well-known cruise lines that market to United States consumers. They all have Danube river cruise boats that sail the famous river:

• Emerald Cruises
• AmaWaterways
• Adventures by Disney
• Avalon Waterways

Ready to Book Your Cruise or INquire?

Use our preferred travel advisors, bolds travel, because….

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For more on river cruising check out:

• 24 Helpful Things to Know Your First Time on a River Cruise
• Why are River Cruises So Expensive? Or are They the Best Cruise Value Out There?
• 12 Reasons Why Cruises are the Safest Way to Travel Right Now (Pandemic and Beyond)

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Viking River Cruises’ Romantic Danube: How To Make The Most Of Every Stop

River cruising is a popular way to get the ease and convenience of a cruise while enjoying a more intimate experience.

Viking River Cruises is one of the most recognized names in the industry, and we had the chance to take their eight-day Romantic Danube cruise in the wintertime. The cruise stops vary from year to year and season to season, but each version has stops in Germany, Austria, and Hungary.

During our trip, we wanted to indulge in one of our favorite travel hobbies: visiting different European Christmas markets . Not only did we immerse ourselves in many memorable Christmas markets, but we also explored some charming, beautiful, and historically important towns.

Viking River Cruises’ Romantic Danube offers so many different ways to optimize your time. Our experience was absolutely magical, and we wanted to share some suggestions for how to make the most of every stop on this unforgettable itinerary.

We were guests of Viking River Cruises on their Romantic Danube itinerary. All opinions expressed are our own and are based on our experiences.

Nuremberg, Germany

The Romantic Danube itinerary varies, sometimes beginning in Hungary and other times in Germany. The stops may vary slightly as well. But wherever your specific journey takes you along this beautiful river route, you’ll find a lot to explore.

Our itinerary began in the German city of Nuremberg . Steeped in World War II history, it witnessed the rise and fall of the Third Reich. History buffs can visit the Nazi Party Rally Grounds , the Nazi Documentation Center , and other historical sites.

But as the second-largest city in Bavaria (after Munich ), Nuremberg also has lots more to offer. The Old Town features beautiful half-timbered houses along with the medieval Imperial Castle . Art lovers can visit the home of German Renaissance artist Albrecht Durer , explore the Germanisches Nationalmuseum , and enjoy numerous art galleries around town.

The food is incredible in Nuremberg, so we recommend having at least one meal or hearty snack ashore. Don’t miss the city’s skinny German sausages served three to a roll or on a plate with sauerkraut or potato salad. Paired with a frosty local beer, it’s a perfect meal.

Stop by the open-air Hauptmarket in the city center for a colorful look at local produce, flowers, handmade gifts, and delicious food specialties. If you happen to be there during the holiday season , you’ll see the transformation of the Old Town into a winter wonderland where over 180 vendors make up the Christkindlesmarkt . Stalls display art, local products, handcrafted goods, and treats of the season. Glittering lights and fresh greenery enhance the festive atmosphere.

Regensburg, Germany

A well-preserved medieval city on the northern portion of the Danube River, Regensburg boasts some of the most interesting historic buildings in Bavaria.

The Altes Rathaus is a bright yellow building dating to the 1200s. The Thurn und Taxis Palace is the impressive residence of an aristocratic family that had amassed a fortune from postal operations in the early 1800s. During the holiday season, a Christmas market springs up on the castle grounds. The Porta Praetoria comprises the ruins of a gateway made of rough stone blocks dating to the 13th century. Neupfarrplatz, a Roman fortress built during the reign of Marcus Aurelius, was later home to one of the first Jewish communities in Germany. The ornate German Gothic Saint Peter’s Cathedral is worth seeing, too. Walk across the Old Stone Bridge, a pedestrian walkway over the Danube, and then turn to see the colorful clock tower.

A UNESCO World Heritage site , Regensburg also has great food. The Historische Wurstkuchl , or Historic Sausage Kitchen, is 1,000 years old and the oldest sausage kitchen in Europe, maybe even in the world. If you have time, sit a while at the Weltenburger am Dom , a restaurant and brewery right next to the cathedral. Try the amazing schnitzel with a beer from Weltenburg Abbey, the oldest monastery brewery in the world.

Passau, Germany

Right on the Germany-Austria border, Passau is a picturesque city. It’s known as the City of Three Rivers, since it’s where the Danube, Ilz, and Inn Rivers come together. Something you won’t find in many other places is a wasserstand , a chart depicting high water marks from floods in the city center. It’s drawn on a wall of the old town hall as a reminder that while being at the confluence of three rivers may be beautiful, it is not without risks.

Art is important to Passau, with the city’s modern art museum and a unique glass museum containing more than 30,000 European pieces of art glass. Check out the fun Artists’ Alley, where cobblestones painted in bright colors line the streets and darling boutiques hold plenty of unique souvenirs.

Passau is home to one of the largest pipe organs in the world, with almost 18,000 pipes. It resides in the gorgeous baroque Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. If the timing is right, you could catch a concert for an unforgettable experience.

Modern pleasures in Passau include the Klostergarten, a contemporary park that is home to farmers markets and gardens. It lights up at night with dramatic lighting, water features, and choreographed fountain displays, perfect for enjoying on an evening stroll.

Melk, Austria

As the Romantic Danube cruise moves into Austria, you’ll spot the Melk Abbey standing grandly atop a hill overlooking the Danube. More than just an abbey, it’s a complex comprising seven courtyards, a beautiful church, and a library with over 90,000 volumes and rare manuscripts.

Melk is located in the Wachau Valley , where small towns and monasteries flourished during the Renaissance. The scenery is stunning. Several castles — including Schloss Schallaburg , Schloss Artstetten , and Schloss Schonbuhel — beg to be explored, and the ruins of other castles dot the landscape.

If you’re interested in local food and beverages like we are, the Wachau Valley is renowned for its apricots and wine. In addition to excellent wines made from grapes such as riesling and gruner veltliner, apricot wine, apricot dumplings, apricot cake, and some unique items made with saffron are also local specialties.

Krems is the town at the other end of the valley and is sometimes part of the Romantic Danube itinerary.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are so many things to see, do, and eat that you will not want to waste a moment of your time there.

We have to put the Viennese culinary culture at the top of our list. Famous desserts like sacher torte and apple strudel, gorgeous coffeehouses, incredible farmers markets, delicious street food, and a wide range of restaurants provide many opportunities to sample local delights. Most people don’t know that Vienna is also home to its own wine regions, making the local wine a great option to try.

Music is another highlight of Viennese culture. The City of Music has many venues from which to choose. The Musikverein , Vienna State Opera , Wiener Konzerthaus , and Schonbrunn Palace offer concerts featuring everything from the classical music of Mozart and Strauss to jazz, pop, and rock. There are also cafés, bars, and nightclubs offering food, drinks, and music in a more intimate setting.

World-renowned palaces like Schonbrunn and the Hofburg as well as sacred spaces like Saint Stephen’s Cathedral and Karlskirche impress with their magnificence.

Of course, Vienna also offers gorgeous Christmas markets in stunning venues like the City Hall, Belvedere Palace, Maria Theresien Square, and Schonbrunn Palace, among others.

Animal lovers can check out the elegant Lipizzaner stallions performing at the Spanish Riding School or visit Vienna’s Tiergarten , the oldest zoo in the world.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is actually three different cities: Buda and Obuda on the west side of the Danube  River and Pest on the east side. That only adds to the intrigue of this unique destination.

The quieter Buda side has hills and a funicular, which you can ride to the top for a panoramic view of the Pest side. The City Park is a lovely place to stroll, with botanical gardens, a municipal zoo, the Budapest circus, and a museum of agriculture. There’s also a huge timer containing sand that takes a year to go from the top to the bottom. It’s started all over again every New Year.

The Great Market Hall features three floors of local produce, prepared delicacies, crafts, and souvenirs. If you like to shop, be sure to stroll along Vaci and Kiraly Streets, pedestrian roads full of touristy joints as well as fun local shops and cafés.

Budapest has several spas and thermal baths in which you can relax while also getting your history fix; many of these structures have been around since Ottoman times.

Budapest also boasts several phenomenal holiday markets, including the Advent Feast at the Basilica , considered among the best Christmas markets in Europe.

The folks at Viking River Cruises know that the spectacular Hungarian Parliament Building is a vision at night. They generally provide an opportunity to see it while you’re on the water and make a picture-perfect memory to last a lifetime.

What To Know Before You Go

Viking River Cruises offers several excursions as well as a variety of add-ons. Be sure to take time before your departure to explore what interests you and book anything extra well in advance because space is often limited. While the ship is comfy, the service delightful, and the onboard activities lots of fun, be sure to get out and explore at every stop. There is so much awaiting you on your Romantic Danube journey.

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No Princess to Moscow Excursion?!

By JordanF , March 21, 2005 in Northern Europe & Baltic Sea

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It appears that Princess is dropping the excursion to Moscow! What's up with that?

Link to comment

Share on other sites, princess di.

1. So very expensive that there are not enough takers to warrant hiring a Tour Guide. :eek:

2. 17.5-hour day is too long. :confused:

3. 5 hours travel time (1 hour to airport, 1 hour flight + fooling around at airport time = 5 hours). :o

4. There are sooooooo many beautiful places to visit right there in SPb. :cool:

Jordan: So sorry if you are disappointed. I know you really wanted to do that. I had not heard that it was cancelled; however, you are going in June, if I remember correctly. I don't go until September. You booked at Cab-Inn? Do you have your pre-cruise Docs?

I plan on doing Moscow another time. :D

• 2 weeks later...

After reading your post, I had to find out why. Turns out that the Princess web site hasn't been updated. :( The Intro to Moscow excursion lists available dates of Jan 01, 2004 - Sep 30 , 2004 ! :eek: Like you, we were planning on this one and are very disappointed. Maybe, and it's probably a BIG maybe, Princess will bring it back. I won't hold my breath though, as this would have to be arranged far in advance for a group outing.

Smooth sailing.

It is not on the selection for the July 24th Star Princess cruise. They have been available for selecting for about a week now.

[1. So very expensive that there are not enough takers to warrant hiring a Tour Guide. 2. 17.5-hour day is too long. :confused: 3. 5 hours travel time (1 hour to airport, 1 hour flight + fooling around at airport time = 5 hours). 4. There are sooooooo many beautiful places to visit right there in SPb.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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Danube River Cruises

Coursing through Germany, Austria, Hungary and seven other countries all the way to the Black Sea, the Danube is the soul of Central Europe. Join us along these culture-rich banks, whose scenic vineyards, ancient monasteries and elegant cities have inspired travelers for centuries.

Grand European Tour

• Request a Quote

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NEW! Treasures of the Danube

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Danube Christmas Delights

Highlights of danube river cruises.

A Danube River cruise unveils Europe’s rich and dramatic history. Glittering cultural capitals, lush vineyards, magnificent monasteries and endless scenic splendor line the river’s banks. Here are some sample highlights you will see with Viking:

• Enchanting Passau, set where three rivers meet
• Lush vineyards of the Wachau Valley
• The baroque splendor of Melk Abbey
• Vienna’s elegant architecture
• The splendid Benedictine Abbey of Göttweig
• Scenic beauty of the picturesque Danube Bend
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Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best gay cruises for 2024 (+ planning tips).

Dance parties, drag queen performances and fun destinations await on these LGBTQ voyages.

The Best Gay Cruises

Courtesy of The Cruise with La Demence

Embark on an all-gay or LGBTQ-friendly cruise for excellent entertainment, food and excursions.

Whether you are looking to hop aboard a Pride Week cruise with a major line or sail away with a smaller company that specializes in LGBTQ voyages, the following cruise operators promise a fun, safe and memorable vacation.

(Note: While many of these cruise lines sail to LGBTQ-friendly ports of call, travelers should research destinations to learn more about cultures, customs and safety in each location and determine what's right for them.)

Virgin Voyages

Atlantis events, brand g vacations, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, the cruise with la demence, source journeys.

Gabriel Goldberg | Courtesy of VACAYA

Founded by avid travelers Randle Roper, Patrick Gunn and John Finen, VACAYA bills itself as the first all-LGBT travel company in the full-ship charter/resort buyout sector of the travel industry to launch in more than 25 years.

"[VACAYA] was sparked by our own vacations, where we all had encountered two very different experiences," says Gunn. "The all-gay cruises were liberating, empowering and fun, but limited to a small spectrum of people. And while everyone loves a good time, there's more to a memorable vacation than just parties. Mainstream vacations offered more activities and destinations, and were accessible to a diverse set of people, but didn't always feel like a friendly, judgment-free environment."

As such, VACAYA set out to bring LGBTQ travelers from across the spectrum together in a welcoming, inclusive setting, while offering varied onboard activities and immersive itinerary options. Cruisers will enjoy traveling to ports around the world, in the Caribbean , the Galápagos, Europe , Antarctica and more. You can participate in shipwide events ranging from themed deck parties to performances by LGBTQ entertainers to rejuvenating yoga classes. Note that VACAYA's cruises are for adults only.

Previous cruisers had abundant praise for VACAYA's voyages, highlighting the company's responsiveness when booking and the kindhearted staff, as well as the genuine connections they made with other passengers on board. Many were also impressed by the events and entertainment options throughout their sailings.

In 2024, VACAYA will offer a number of voyages worldwide. The seven-night Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex in February will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, with several fun-filled days at sea in addition to stops in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Antigua. In August, VACAYA has a 12-night river cruise in Northern Europe on board Advance by Transcend Cruises; this sailing includes the Amsterdam Pride event. The 11-night Antarctica expedition on Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator in December 2024 is sold out, but you can join the waitlist.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The Virgin brand has long been known for its celebration of the LGBTQ community, and cruise line Virgin Voyages is no different. The strictly adults-only cruise operator aims to provide a unique experience, with onboard tattoo parlors, impressive live entertainment, and dining options that include more than 20 eateries and menus created by Michelin star chefs. This line gets the stamp of approval from previous LGBTQ cruisers, who praise the ships' gender-neutral bathrooms, diverse staff and onboard shows with resident drag queens.

Virgin Voyages offers gay-specific sailings through travel companies like Atlantis Events, but its more mainstream itineraries still offer a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that attracts LGBTQ cruisers year-round. Virgin hosts a number of events during Pride Month each year, including deck parties and interactive social media campaigns.

"Each June here at Virgin Voyages, we like to go big for Pride Month with larger-than-life events … all monthlong," the cruise line says in a statement on its website. "It's an important time for us – both internally within our crew and for our sailors – to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community; who for so long has had to continually fight for equality and the right to be seen, heard and included."

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of LGBTQ-friendly countries, including New Zealand, Greece and Spain. In June 2024, consider a seven-night sailing aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille and Cannes in France as well as Spain's Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

The world's largest gay and lesbian travel brand, Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 and welcomes more than 20,000 travelers annually on LGBTQ vacations. For its all-gay cruises, Atlantis charters megaships from popular lines like Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages in addition to smaller vessels with companies like Oceania Cruises so cruisers will have a fully immersive experience.

On board, travelers can enjoy all the perks these ships have to offer (think: pools, hot tubs, sports courts and plenty of dining choices), plus special events like drag performances, motivational speakers, LGBTQ movies on demand in each cabin and high-energy circuit parties across the ship.

"As an LGBTQ cruiser, you're looking for a ship with lots of entertainment, including dance parties and events," says Marcos Martinez, founder of Men Who Brunch, a Black gay lifestyle blog. "One of the best cruise [lines] for gay cruising is Atlantis, since you'll be able to meet hundreds of attractive men and party all day and night on the ship."

Atlantis hosts primarily gay men; women make up about 5% to 10% of bookings, according to the Atlantis website. Previous cruisers said the atmosphere on board was fun, friendly and welcoming, though some noted that the company's customer service could be better, especially when it comes to details about the cruise.

Due to the company's popularity, its three 2024 cruises are already sold out.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in all-gay river cruises – and now luxury ocean liners – Brand g Vacations was founded in 2011 and explores destinations all over the world. Chartered river cruises typically welcome between 40 and 200 LGBTQ passengers (and their straight allies), which allows cruisers to get to know one another in a smaller setting. Guests tend to skew more mature (think: 40 and older), and the line attracts both men and women.

Onboard entertainment differs slightly from larger ocean voyages: Expect more cabaret-style entertainment than massive all-night dance parties. Cruisers will also enjoy performances by drag queens, gay Broadway stars and more, on top of typical river cruise perks like sightseeing and lavish meals. Past guests recommend choosing Brand g if you're looking for a well-planned, relaxed and luxurious experience over a busier, more party-heavy vacation.

Brand g aims to provide a nearly all-inclusive cruise experience , with Mercedes or small van airport transfers, upscale hotel stays prior to embarkation, and unlimited alcoholic beverages as well as meals included in the fare. As such, prices tend to be on the high end. Plus, cruisers can feel good about their trip knowing that Brand g donates to causes in the U.S. and around the world that assist LGBTQ refugees, AIDS organizations, LGBTQ centers and more.

In 2024, Brand g sails through unique waterways around the world, including the Amazon, the Loire, the Danube, the Mekong, and the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line's small cruise ship charters also take guests to Iceland, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Croatia and other European destinations.

Read: The Top River Cruise Lines

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises sets the scene for an excellent vacation for gay travelers, from its extravagant annual Pride parties to its daily LGBTQ programming throughout the year. The mainstream line has received numerous awards for its inclusivity, receiving accolades from the Cruizie Awards, TTG Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards for being one of the best cruise lines for LGBTQ passengers.

LGBTQ cruisers can start their vacations off on a high note with a special welcome party on the first night of their voyage to meet other travelers on board. After night one, there are other social events for gay cruisers to party and hang out together. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises was the first cruise line to legally marry a couple at sea in 2018, and it continues to perform same-sex marriages on its ships.

Past cruisers enjoyed their voyages with Celebrity, noting that the line was welcoming, the food was delicious, and there were plenty of areas to hang out as a group with fellow LGBTQ passengers or other companions throughout the ship.

Although all itineraries are gay-friendly, consider booking a sailing during Pride Month in June for an extra special experience. Onboard entertainment during this month includes guest entertainers, a flag raising ceremony, Celebrity's signature Pride Party at Sea and more. The Italian Riviera & France cruise will depart from Barcelona on June 8, 2024, on the new Celebrity Ascent; this 10-night Mediterranean sailing stops at ports in France, Italy and Malta. Private travel companies like VACAYA also charter Celebrity ships for all-gay voyages throughout the year.

Read: Cruise Packing List: The Top Essentials for Any Cruise

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Specifically marketed toward lesbians and LGBTQ women, Olivia has hosted more than 350,000 travelers by land and sea over five decades. Cruisers can choose between river voyages or ocean sailings to destinations around the world. On the lesbian cruises, expect a mix of nostalgic decade-themed dance parties, folk singers, writing workshops, karaoke and other activities. Cruisers can also relax poolside, spend some time in the onboard spa or take it easy in one of the ships' lounges.

Travelers who are looking to connect with others who share similar backgrounds can do so in one of Olivia's specialized programs. There are group and solo traveler meetups, as well as programs like Sisters, which is for LGBTQ women of color; Gen-O, for cruisers 40 and younger; Women in Uniform gatherings, for veterans and those currently in the armed forces; and events for OWLs (which stands for "older, wiser lesbians"). Past cruisers on Olivia's voyages report feeling a true sense of community and belonging on board, resulting in a fun, carefree trip.

In June 2024, set sail with Olivia from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Dublin on Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Or, visit the islands of Tahiti on the line's Star Breeze in September. Other cruise itineraries include Alaska, the Greek Isles, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Read: The Best Girls Trip Ideas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International provides a welcoming and inclusive experience for LGBTQ travelers. The popular cruise line frequently partners with Atlantis Events to offer all-gay voyages throughout the year, but even the standard sailings earn praise.

Highlights of the sailings are the ships' entertainment options (including the Tony Award-winning musical "Mamma Mia!") and attentive staff, according to past cruisers. Itineraries typically include LGBTQ meetups at the beginning of each cruise for gay travelers to meet like-minded passengers. Outside of the sailing experience, Royal Caribbean has also publicly committed to supporting the LGBTQ community throughout the year, and it was the first cruise line to earn the title "Gay Traveler Approved" from GayTravel in 2016.

In 2024, consider a Royal Caribbean voyage that sails to gay-friendly destinations. "Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, [is] full of gay bars, clubs and gay beaches," says Martinez. Hop aboard Navigator of the Seas in May for a seven-night sailing round-trip from Los Angeles that stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, Mexico. Navigator of the Seas also hosts a seven-night itinerary throughout the year that calls on Mazatlan, Mexico, as well.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of The Cruise With La Demence

According to past cruisers, if you're looking for one of the best party scenes on the open seas, consider an all-gay cruise with La Demence. Powered by a popular gay nightclub in Brussels with the same name, La Demence – French for "the madness" – primarily caters to a European crowd. Most passengers are male, though women are also welcome.

On board, passengers should expect to dance the night away at massive deck parties that last into the wee hours of the morning. The line prides itself on its top-notch DJs, impressive light setup and electric party atmosphere. Previous cruisers had high praise for the itineraries – which exclusively visit gay-friendly locations – as well as the fruity cocktails, themed nights (costumes strongly encouraged) and glamorous entertainment. Enjoy unique events like drag bingo, high heel runs and more.

La Demence sails every summer to European destinations like Greece, Italy and Malta. The 2023 cruise was chartered on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Fares include all food and nonalcoholic beverages, plus access to all parties, shows and the onboard gym.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Source Journeys has been planning luxury vacations for LGBTQ travelers for more than 20 years. The Miami-based company, with the vision of founder and chief executive officer Craig Smith, offers small group land tours and full-charter cruises for like-minded travelers with a focus on giving back to the communities they visit. The company also supports LGBTQ organizations, such as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign.

Past guests of their tours say their fellow travelers were as fun and interesting as the destinations. They appreciated the excellent personalized planning for the trips by Smith and his life partner, Rafael Rodriguez.

The company's cruises in 2024 include a seven-night Galápagos sailing in late September on a Relais & Chateau luxury yacht: Ecoventura's new ship, Evolve. The intimate ship accommodates just 20 passengers. Source Journeys is also offering a seven-night river cruise through Burgundy and Provence, France, in June on Avalon Waterways' Avalon Poetry II, as well as a seven-night voyage from Venice along the Dalmatian Coast. This ocean cruise scheduled in August is chartered on Star Clippers' masted sailing ship, Royal Clipper.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to gay cruising, gone are the days of discreet "Friends of Dorothy" meetups. The term – a euphemism that dates back to the 1950s – was once used to indicate gay social events on daily cruise line programs, without explicitly calling out members of the community on board. It's a far cry from today's LGBTQ cruising industry, which loudly and proudly celebrates passengers from all walks of life.

According to experts, LGBTQ cruising is a market that will only continue to grow. Travelers can take their pick between cruise operators tailored specifically to queer communities and major cruise lines that offer festive Pride celebrations and inclusive onboard entertainment. As travel on the high seas continues to grow in popularity for vacationers, gay and lesbian travelers should consider setting sail on a fun-filled cruise vacation for their next trip.

When planning a cruise, vacationers should first consider what their ideal sailing looks like.

Gay-friendly vs. all-gay sailings: Cruisers should think about whether they'd like to travel aboard a gay-friendly mainstream line – such as Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages – or opt for an all-gay, full-ship charter with a third-party vacation company.

"Each and every LGBTQIAPK person has a different level of comfortability in their 'outness,' " says Patrick Gunn, co-founder and chief marketing officer of LGBTQ vacation company VACAYA. Of VACAYA's all-gay charters, he adds, "For one magical week, our community gets to be the majority and live life out loud in the blissful utopia VACAYA creates on a gay cruise. That single change from being an always-minority to a sudden majority can have a profoundly positive real-world effect on individuals."

• Travel style: Some cruise operators (think: Atlantis Events and La Demence) are known for their electrifying all-night parties, which may be perfect for gay groups of friends. Meanwhile, other companies like VACAYA and Olivia look to provide a more diverse selection of activities, ranging from tea dances (LGBTQ parties that, historically, included tea service) to philanthropic service activities to immersive onshore experiences.
• Ports of call: Some of the most LGBTQ- and gay-friendly destinations for cruises include: Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Sydney; Barcelona, Spain; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Helsinki; Quebec City; Auckland, New Zealand; Mykonos, Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; Amsterdam; Tel Aviv, Israel; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and San Francisco. Countries that gay travelers may want to avoid include the Maldives, Jamaica, Morocco, Malaysia and Haiti, as homosexuality is illegal in these destinations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Themed Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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