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Danube Explorer

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the heart of Europe with the Danube Explorer cruise. Each day promises captivating experiences alongside a plethora of excursions and first-class amenities.

Dive into Bavarian life with a local farm visit; traverse the UNESCO-listed town of Ceský Krumlov; explore Melk Abbey and enjoy optional adventures like hiking and biking – make the Danube your oyster while you stay aboard your river hotel.

After a long day of discovering and exploring the many glories of some of Europe’s most iconic cities, return to your luxury cruise ship and relax with a meal in the restaurant, a splash in the heated pool, or a rest in your elegant cabin. Opulence and excitement await you on the Danube Explorer cruise.

4.7
Star Image
from 302 reviews
  • Cruise Line: Emerald Cruises
  • Ship: Emerald Star
  • Duration: 7 Nights
  • Departure: Oct & Apr - Jun & Oct
£1,500pp
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Danube Explorer Cruise Itinerary

Choose from our expertly-crafted itinerary filled with a spectrum of delightful experiences: sail to Bratislava for a guided city tour, accompanied by local Slovakian entertainment; discover Budapest’s mediaeval quarter; immerse yourself in local European cultures. Take to all the Danube has to offer and experience the epitome of opulence on your Danube Explorer cruise.

Day 1

Munich to Passau

Arrive in Munich and transfer to Passau. Enjoy dinner aboard your ship.

Day 2

Passau

Visit a local farm for insights into Bavarian life. Alternatively, choose a hiking excursion to Veste Oberhaus. Enjoy a Bavarian brunch or Bavaria Live.

Day 3

Linz to Ceský Krumlov

Explore Ceský Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town, on a guided tour.

Day 4

Melk to Weissenkirchen

Visit Melk Abbey. Go on an optional hike or bike tour to Weissenkirchen. Embark on an optional vineyard hike and wine tasting in Weissenkirchen.

Day 5

Vienna

Embark on a guided tour of Vienna. Or, go on a bike tour in Vienna. Enjoy a Viennese evening concert.

Day 6

Vienna to Bratislava

Go on a guided hike to Bratislava Castle or embark on a guided city tour. Enjoy local Slovakian entertainment on board your ship.

Day 7

Budapest

Explore Budapest’s mediaeval quarter. Go on a culinary tour of Budapest with a Grand Market visit. Enjoy an optional hike to Gellert Hill, a tour to Szentendre, or a Hungarian Bath Experience. Admire a traditional Hungarian folklore show on board.

Day 8

Budapest

After breakfast, disembark the ship for your transfer to the airport.

Day 1

Budapest

Be met at the airport and transferred to the surrounds of your ship, where your captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you. This evening, enjoy a traditional Hungarian folklore show.

Day 2

Budapest

Explore Budapest’s mediaeval quarter. Go on a culinary tour of Budapest with a Grand Market visit. Enjoy an optional hike to Gellert Hill, a tour to Szentendre, or a Hungarian Bath Experience. Admire a traditional Hungarian folklore show on board.

Day 3

Vienna to Bratislava

Go on a guided hike to Bratislava Castle or embark on a guided city tour. Enjoy local Slovakian entertainment on board your ship.

Day 4

Vienna

Embark on a guided tour of Vienna. Or, go on a bike tour in Vienna. Enjoy a Viennese evening concert.

Day 5

Melk to Weissenkirchen

Visit Melk Abbey. Go on an optional hike or bike tour to Weissenkirchen. Embark on an optional vineyard hike and wine tasting in Weissenkirchen.

Day 6

Linz to Ceský Krumlov

Explore Ceský Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town, on a guided tour.

Day 7

Passau

Visit a local farm for insights into Bavarian life. Alternatively, choose a hiking excursion to Veste Oberhaus. Enjoy a Bavarian brunch or Bavaria Live.

Day 8

Passau

After breakfast, disembark the ship for your transfer to the airport.

About The Emerald Star

Embark on an extraordinary journey of luxury and discovery as you sail the majestic Danube River. The Danube Explorer cruise promises an unparalleled experience, unveiling Europe’s most enchanting treasures from the comfort of your luxurious ship. With opulent accommodations, delectable cuisine, and captivating excursions, your adventure along the Danube is guaranteed to be a masterclass in elegance and exploration.

Brand Shape
  • Dining
  • Accommodation
  • Health & Fitness
  • Deck Plan

Dining

Embark on a culinary journey aboard the Emerald Star, where you'll get to savour many delectable meals masterfully crafted by our dedicated chefs. Complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks are served with lunch and dinner onboard, expertly paired to enhance your meals as you take in breathtaking views of your cruise destinations.

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Accommodation

Discover a haven of relaxation in our spacious suites and staterooms. With 92 rooms, each designed to provide stunning views of the majestic waterways, you'll enjoy the finest amenities and attention to detail. Whether you choose a queen-size or twin hotel-style bed, you'll sleep in absolute style and comfort. Our accommodations feature luxurious toiletries and are equipped with a TV and infotainment system, ensuring your comfort throughout your voyage. For an even more indulgent experience, we offer four Owner's One-Bedroom Suites, complete with a complimentary minibar, walk-in wardrobe, and an exclusive invitation to dine at the Captain's Table.

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Health & Fitness

If exercise is your game, try out our dedicated fitness area. Or, acquaint yourself with our wellness area.

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Deck Plan

Explore captivating European cities aboard the Emerald Star, whose design mirrors the timeless beauty of the Danube with its many resplendent rooms – including the iconic three-tiered atrium – and modern décor. Enjoy socialising at the Horizon Bar & Lounge or savour regional cuisine at the Reflections Restaurant. Relax in the onboard heated pool, which transforms into a cinema on select evenings. Embark on an unparalleled Danube cruise experience aboard this magnificent ship.

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Trustpilot Reviews

Danube Explorer Deals

Become an explorer of the Danube with Crui.se

7 Nights
Jun Oct

Danube Explorer

  • Bratislava
  • Budapest
  • Linz & Ceský Krumlov
  • Melk & Weissenkirchen
  • Munich
  • Passau
  • Vienna
£1,500pp Est. Price per person
  • Emerald Star

Danube Explorer Cruise Review

“My Danube Explorer cruise on the Emerald Star was an unforgettable journey through and through. From the captivating Ceský Krumlov to the beautiful sights of Vienna, each day was a new adventure. I really loved the active excursions which showed me another side of Europe I’d never even considered before. The ship itself was wonderful with spacious staterooms offering stunning views and lots of amenities. Dining was a highlight for me with every meal bursting with flavour. I also loved the onboard heated pool. Can’t wait to book another cruise with Emerald Cruises.”

Elspeth Jones, Chelmsford, Essex

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Danube Explorer FAQ

Find answers to some of the most common questions about river cruising here.

What can I expect from the onboard experience?

Our cruise offers onboard amenities, luxurious cabins, a vast array of dining options, entertainment, fitness facilities, and much more! Read about the Emerald Star and all she has to offer under the About The Emerald Star section of this page.

What types of excursions are offered during the cruise?

The Danube Explorer cruise offers a variety of excursions, including city tours, cultural experiences and active excursions.

What happens in case of high or low water levels on the river?

Your itinerary may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated in the itinerary.

Cruise With Confidence

Our mission at crui.se is to help you and your loved one’s book and experience the best cruise holiday imaginable. We’re different in that, our customers come first, not our suppliers or profit margins. Get in touch and let us help you set sail.

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