Imperial Danube Waters Cruise

Arriving in the European capital of music, a private driver will be waiting to transfer you straight from the airport to the Handelskai pier.

Arriving at the port, you'll be welcomed aboard MS "CruceNova," settling into your cabin — home for the days ahead. Join fellow travelers for a Welcome Cocktail, the perfect start to a journey along one of Europe's most storied rivers. The ship stays moored in Vienna overnight, so there's no rush — just relax, unwind, and let the adventure begin.

Dinner and overnight on board.

After breakfast, step into the elegance of Austria's capital on a panoramic sightseeing tour. Marvel at the grand State Opera House, admire the imposing Town Hall and Parliament building, pass by the historic Burgtheater, and step into the splendor of the Imperial Hofburg Palace — centuries of Habsburg history, all in a morning.

The afternoon is yours: wander the cobblestone lanes, grab a slice of Sachertorte, or simply soak up Vienna's unmistakable charm at your own pace. In the evening, CruceNova quietly slips away from the Austrian capital, sailing toward the romantic Wachau Valley.

Overnight on board.

Wake up in Dürnstein, a charming village tucked into the winding curves of the Wachau Valley beneath a ruined medieval castle. Step straight off the pier into the historic center, passing through ancient town gates to Pranger Square, where sweeping views open up over the castle ruins — legend has it Richard the Lionheart was once held prisoner here. Don't miss the chance to taste the region's celebrated Wachau wines, grown on terraced hillsides along the riverbank.

Later in the morning, the ship sails on toward Melk to continue the day's Wachau Valley exploration.

In the afternoon, CruceNova docks in Melk, a small town crowned by the magnificent Benedictine Abbey perched dramatically on a rock overlooking the river (optional visit — well worth it!). Later in the day, the ship sails on toward Linz.

Overnight on board.

Linz surprises many travelers — the Baroque capital of Upper Austria has been a vital Danube port since the 19th century, sitting where the river valley meets the old salt trade route. Today is a free day: wander at your own pace, browse local shops, or simply enjoy a coffee by the river. Later in the day, CruceNova sails on toward Slovakia's capital.

Overnight on board.

Arriving in Bratislava, join a guided tour through this compact, imperial old town. Discover the National Theatre, St. Martin's Cathedral, Michael's Gate, and the Old Town Hall, before looking up at Bratislava Castle standing watch on its rocky hilltop above the city. Later in the day, the ship sails on toward Budapest.

Overnight on board.

After breakfast, arrive in Budapest — split by the mighty Danube into stately "Buda" and buzzing "Pest." A guided tour takes you along grand boulevards to the show-stopping Parliament building, the Opera House, Heroes' Square, the bustling Central Market, and the historic Chain Bridge, before ending at Fisherman's Bastion with its spectacular views over the rooftops. But Budapest saves its best trick for after dark — when the city's bridges and monuments light up, it's simply magical. Explore the evening at your own pace.

Night stopover, overnight on board.

After breakfast, arrive in Esztergom, Hungary's very first capital and the place where King Stephen I was crowned in the year 1000. Towering above the town is the Basilica of Esztergom, Hungary's largest church and home to the country's biggest organ — a must-see. Later in the day, CruceNova sails back toward Vienna. This evening, celebrate the journey with a special Captain's Dinner.

Overnight on board.

Vienna – Journey's End on the Danube

One of Europe's oldest and most culturally rich cities, Vienna inspired legends like Strauss, Beethoven, and Mozart — the perfect city to bring the journey full circle.

After breakfast, disembark at the Handelskai pier, where a private driver will be waiting to whisk you off to the airport for your flight home.