Along the Danube - Passau to Vienna
Austria, Germany Bike + Barge Tours
Bike Austria & the historic cities on the Danube Cycle Path!
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length8 days
- Prices from€798 Rates
- Book This Trip
Overview
Beginning in the German town of Passau, this European bike and boat tour quickly crosses the Austrian border, following the mighty Danube downstream. The relaxing Danube Bike Path is your route as you pedal through typical villages and lovely riverscapes.
You experience the mighty Danube as it meanders through the "Great Loop" and enjoy the gorgeous landscape of the legendary Wachau with its castles and fortresses.
Vienna, rich in architecture and history, must be experienced. Sights like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the city hall are easy to reach during a wonderful sightseeing tour by bike. A stroll through the Naschmarkt (famous food market) is a wonderful cultural and culinary adventure. You can also relax at any of the cozy coffee houses or at a typical traditional Viennese wine tavern in the suburbs.
Highlights vary by boat so be sure to read each vessel's itinerary!
Highlights
- Passau - The City of Three Rivers
- The Schloegen Danube Loop
- Wachau - World Cultural Heritage site
- Linz - Upper Austria's Capital
- Vienna - City of music and culture
Want to check out more bike & barge tours in Germany or a full list of bike tours along the Danube?
Itinerary
Each boat has a slightly different itinerary so be sure to check the day-to-day details, what is included and not included, and visit the pricing section as well.
*Important Information:
In case of flood or low tide, the shipping company reserves the right to change the route and/or bridge parts of passages with buses. Bicycle touring routes may also be affected. In extreme situations, the shipping company reserves the right to cancel the journey on short notice. No legal right shall be constituted of both situations. (Water level is force majeure). The same applies for officially ordered - previously not announced - repair work on locks or bridges or in case of unexpected breakdown of engine or power unit.
Please be aware that these ships, like all other ships on the Danube, are not just your "floating hotels" but also a machine, running engines, also during the night. Especially crossing locks and bridges - and the preparation work - may cause noise. If you are sensitive to noises, please bring your own earplugs.
This tour is offered in two directions:
Passau to Vienna
Day 1: Passau - Engelhartszell
Day 2: Engelhartszell - Schlögen - Brandstatt - Linz, 19 to 34 mi. (30 to 55 km)
Day 3: Linz - Mauthausen - Grein, 23 or 28 mi. (36 or 45 km) + 3 mi. (5 km)
Day 4: Grein - Marbach, 19 to 30 mi. (30 to 48 km)
Day 5: Marbach - Weissenkirchen, 26 mi. (42 km)
Day 6: Weissenkirchen - Tulln, 36 mi. (58 km)
Day 7: Tulln - Korneuburg - Vienna, 15 to 25 mi. (24 to 40 km)
Day 8: ViennaDay 1: Passau - Engelhartszell
Boarding time begins at 3:30 PM. At 5:00 PM, the Merlijn sets sail for Engelhartszell. As you enjoy your complimentary welcome beverage, the crew will be introduced and you will have a briefing regarding your upcoming tour, the ship, and safety protocols for the week ahead. After departing from Passau, the Merlijn sails the amazing Blue Danube, which forms the border between Germany and Austria on this stretch. Just before Engelhartszell, the boat crosses the border completely to spend the rest of the week in Austria. Dinner is served during the cruise. In the evening, there is an opportunity for a late stroll in this lovely little town, which is famous for its ‘Stift Engelszell’, a Trappist monasteryDay 2: Engelhartszell - Schlögen - Brandstatt - Linz, 19 to 34 mi. (30 to 55 km)
Breakfast is served while sailing further down the Danube. The Merlijn arrives in Schlögen, where your first cycle tour begins. A most interesting tour along the ‘Schlögener-schlinge’ awaits you, where the Danube makes several bends that have been sculpted through the mountains. Cycle skills permitting, you can first bike up to the ‘Schlogener-Blick’ viewpoint, from where you can see the sharpest bend which locals have named, "The natural wonder of Upper Austria".The Danube cycle path leads further along the Danube to Aschach, a typical Austrian town where you might want to stop for a short visit – if only to try the Austrian ‘Kaiserschmarrn’ dessert, which goes exceptionally well with coffee It takes its name from the Austrian emperor (Kaiser) Franz Joseph I, who was very fond of this fluffy shredded pancake. Afterwards, it’s just a short distance before you reach Brandstatt, where Merlijn awaits you. If you still have a few more miles left in you, cycle on to Linz where the boat stays overnight.
“It all begins in Linz”, the Austrian saying goes, which is spot on, as Linz is a city on the move, with its finger firmly on the pulse of the nation’s tech industry. Around the main square are many historical and architecturally fascinating houses, such as the old Town Hall. West of the main square, there is the old quarter with many other historic buildings, such as Renaissance houses, or older houses with a baroque facade. At night, take an after-dinner stroll through the city, or a ride with the ‘Pöstlingbergbahn’, a little tram that runs on one of the steepest tracks up the hill, from where you’ll have a magnificent view over the city.
Day 3: Linz - Mauthausen - Grein, 3 to 28 mi. (5 to 45 km)
During breakfast, the captain navigates the Merlijn towards Mauthausen, where your bike tour begins. Mauthausen is notorious for its WWII Nazi concentration camp situated just a few kilometers from the city. It’s an additional 5 km ride there and back. Choose from two different cycle routes: the shorter tour that goes along the Danube, or a longer route that leads you through the backcountry of the ‘Strudengau’ area. Either route leads to Grein, a picturesque town situated in a small bay at the entrance to ‘Strudengau’, a narrow 25km valley along the Danube. Today or tomorrow morning, a tour of ‘Schloss Greinburg’ palace with its stone theatre is offered. Dinner is served on board.Day 4: Grein - Marbach, 19 to 30 mi. (30 to 48 km)
The cycle tour begins in Grein, following the meandering Danube through the Struden bends. Don’t forget to take a picture when Merlijn, your luxurious home for the week, sails by. On the way to Persenbeug, there’s a possibility to extend today’s bike tour by making an extra loop along the stunning ‘Yspertal’: a cycle path following the Ysper rivulet through the mountains. Persenbeug is an old shipping town strategically situated next to the river, with a castle overlooking it, and certainly worth a short visit. It is also home to a shipping lock and hydroelectric power plant. This plant is the oldest power station in Austria, and almost supplied the entire nation when it was built in 1950. The day ends with an overnight stay in Marbach. Enjoy this peaceful area and the calm Danube with a drink in the spacious lounge, or on the comfy terrace. This evening, a wine-tasting session with local wines is possible.Day 5: Marbach - Weissenkirchen, 26 mi. (42 km)
The next two days are jam-packed with highlights! Today’s tour begins after another delicious breakfast on board. The route follows the peacefully flowing Danube. After cycling for approximately an hour, you arrive at ‘Stift Melk’, set high above the Danube. Enjoy an included guided tour to learn more about this blockbuster abbey fortress. Then it's a few more minutes to the stunning city of Melk, which together with the fortress, are undoubtedly the high point of any visit to the region, as well as a popular stop-off.Follow the Danube further downstream, where the calm river transforms into a narrow and wild fast-flowing swathe of water, and arrive at the ‘Wachau’. This area (German pronunciation: va-xau), is an Austrian valley with a picturesque landscape formed by the River Danube. Overladen with castles and ruins, as well as urban architecture and vineyards, it is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of Lower Austria, appealing to ‘connoisseurs and epicureans’ due to its high-quality wines. The Wachau was inscribed as ‘Wachau Cultural Landscape’ in the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites in December 2000, in recognition of its architectural and agricultural history.
Day 6: Weissenkirchen - Tulln, 36 mi. (58 km)
There is a longer ride planned for today. Leave Weissenkirchen behind you, and bike to the last pearl of the Wachau valley, Dürnstein. Cycling towards it, the unmistakable blue tower appears from behind a sharp curve. Take the small roofed stairs at the water's edge and you arrive in the heart of the town. Dürnstein is not only known for its beautiful buildings, but also for the castle above the town where Richard I of England, also known as the Lionheart, was once imprisoned.After visiting this beautiful historic town, the rest of the tour will lead mostly along the peacefully flowing Danube, which you can admire perfectly from your bicycle. Just before arriving at the Merlijn in Tulln, you can visit the ‘Garten Tulln’, an attraction for gardening enthusiasts. The city is often referred to as "city of flowers” because of this botanical garden and the abundance of parks. It’s also the hometown of the influential painter, Egon Schiele. In the evening, explore more of Austria’s culture and kitchen with dinner in town. You might want to try the traditional ‘Schweinsbraten’ (roasted pork) dish.
Day 7: Tulln - Korneuburg - Vienna, 15 to 25 mi. (24 to 40 km)
Leaving Tulln behind you, cycle your last stretch along the popular classic ‘Donau Radweg’. It will lead you through mostly rural areas which is a dream for every cyclist. Arriving at the city of Korneuburg, there are two options: board the Merlijn, or extend your bike tour to Vienna. If you choose to board the Merlijn, you will cruise into the bustling city of Vienna on your last afternoon. There might be still time for a city walk before the captain’s dinner is served on board. If you take the extended cycle route, you shouldn’t bike to Vienna without visiting the ‘Stift Klosterneuburg’ along the way. This monastery, founded in 1114, was remodeled in the baroque style in the 17th century. After your visit, cycle on to Vienna where Merlijn awaits you at the edge of the city center.Day 8: Vienna
After breakfast, it is time to say goodbye! If you choose to continue your holiday, Vienna is the most obvious option to spend a few days. Baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces set the stage for Vienna's artistic and musical masterpieces alongside its coffee house culture and vibrant epicurean and creative scene. Don’t forget to eat a traditional ‘Sacher-Torte’ before you leave.Also recommended is a day trip to the Slovakian city of Bratislava!
Vienna to Passau
Day 1: Arrival in Vienna
Day 2: Vienna - Korneuburg - Tulln, 15 to 25 mi. (24 to 40 km)
Day 3: Tulln - Weissenkirchen, 36 mi. (58 km)
Day 4: Weissnkirchen - Marbach, 26 mi. (42 km)
Day 5: Marbach - Grein, 19 to 30 mi. (30 to 48 km)
Day 6: Grein - Mauthausen - Linz, 23 to 28 mi. (36 to 45 km) + 5 km
Day 7: Linz - Brandstatt - Schlögen - Engelhartzell - Passau, 19 to 28 mi. (30 to 45 km) + 3 mi. (5 km)
Day 8: Departure from PassauDay 1: Passau
Day 2: Engelhartszell - Brandstatt, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 3: Brandstatt - Linz, 16 mi. (26 km)
Day 4: Mauthausen - Grein, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 5: Tulln - Vienna, 22 mi (35 km)
Day 6: Vienna (day of rest)
Day 7: Wachau Valley, roundtrip, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 8: PassauAll distances are approximate.
Day 1: Passau
Experience Mediterranean flair in Passau, the city of three rivers. You should definitely set aside some time on the day of your arrival for a walk through the picturesque baroque city with its narrow lanes and Passau cathedral home to the largest church organ in the world. Your cycling holiday begins after embarkation (4.00 p.m.) when you sail into the sunset as Passau’s magnificent silhouette with its church towers and domes slowly fades into the horizon behind you.Day 2: Engelhartszell - Brandstatt, 28 mi. (45 km)
Breathe in the fragrance of the dense forest and freshly mown meadows. Explore the pristine countryside of the Upper Danube valley on the former towpath as it runs past sleepy villages. Small, rustic inns at the edge of the trail invite you to linger, the aroma of fresh fish grilled according to tradition on a stick wafts through the air. The Schlögener Blick observation point offers a truly stunning view of the Schlögener Schlinge where the Danube carves its way through a gorge and doubles back on itself.Day 3: Brandstatt - Linz, 16 mi. (26 km)
Catch some fresh country air again - at lunchtime, you’ll reach the Upper Austrian capital of Linz. Discover the European Capital of Culture 2009 on a bright yellow miniature train (optional). The cathedral is the biggest church in Austria, the Pöstlingbergbahn the steepest adhesion railway in the world. Are you curious about the future? At the ARS Electronica Museum, you can try out some of the most impressive examples of modern technology for yourself. Make sure you don’t miss it!Day 4: Mauthausen - Grein, 22 mi. (35 km)
A beautiful and varied route lies ahead of you as you explore the idyllic hinterland of the Strudengau by bike: the Celtic Village of Mitterkirchen, the Baroque monastery of Baumgartenberg and the romantic ruins of Burg Clam castle. Then it’s time to enjoy the little medieval town of Grein with its Baroque facades, imposing castle and the oldest municipal theatre in Austria. After a romantic journey sailing past towns and villages full of twinkling lights, you arrive - just like Sisi did way back then - in the City of Waltz early in the morning.Day 5: Tulln - Vienna, 22 mi (35 km)
Right in front of Vienna’s entrance, nestled in breathtaking scenery, the monastery of Klosterneuburg is situated. You can already see the dome of this 900-year-old baroque building from a distance. "Kahlenbergerdorf" and its wine taverns is only a hop from the shipping pier and definitely worth a visit. After a stroll through the vineyards, you can enjoy the panoramic view over Vienna. During a city tour by bus in the afternoon, you will pass most of the famous sights and enjoy a guided walking tour through the historic center of Austria’s capital (optional, not included).Day 6: Vienna (day of rest)
On a city tour of Vienna, all the sights are within reach from the saddle of your bike or on the HOP ON HOP OFF bus (optional). The magnificent Ringstraße will remind you of times long past and inviting coffee houses will tempt you with delicious Viennese cakes and pastries, while the Naschmarkt market is a feast for all the senses. End the evening on a magical note with a concert of waltz and classical operetta music in Sisi’s summer residence (optional).Day 7: Wachau Valley, roundtrip, 22 mi. (35 km)
An unforgettable day in the picturesque Wachau. Cycle through delightful wine-growing villages surrounded by terraced vineyards and apricot trees. The charming little town of Dürnstein with its narrow lanes is an absolute highlight. In Weißenkirchen – the most important wine-growing village in the World Cultural Heritage Landscape – you can discover the first-rate famous Wachau wines.Day 8: Passau
Enjoy the first rays of the sun and the early morning tranquillity one last time from the deck of the ship before you reach Passau, your heart bursting with memories. Disembarkation: approx. 9 a.m. We recommend that you do not make any arrangements for onward trains departing before 10.30 a.m. To be on the safe side, later departure times would be even better.Language on board: German & English
Land excursions:
Offered as an option with a surcharge (not included in tour price), these excursions can be booked directly on board. You will receive more information with your final travel documents. Depending on the number of participants some excursions could be conducted in 2 languages (German/ English).Day 1: Passau, boarding time between 4 and 5 pm. Departure by ship at 7 pm to Engelhartszell.
Day 2: Engelhartszell - Brandstatt - Great Loop, 29 mi. (46 km)
Day 3: Linz - Mauthausen - Grein, 22 to 26 mi. (36 to 42 km)
Day 4: Grein - Melk - Tulln, 29 - 31 mi. (47 - 50 km)
Day 5: Tulln - Vienna - Nussdorf/ (Korneuburg may also be possible), 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 6: Vienna - Nussdorf / Korneuburg (day of rest)
Day 7: Wachau - Pöchlarn, 25 - 31 mi. (40 - 49 km)
Day 8: Passau, departureAll distances are approximate.
Day 1: Passau, boarding time between 4 and 5 pm. Departure by ship at 7 pm to Engelhartszell
The Episcopal city close to the Bavarian/Austrian border is also known as the "City of Three Rivers." Boarding time begins at 4 pm. Enjoy your first dinner on board and an evening sail to Engelhartszell.Day 2: Engelhartszell - Brandstatt - Great Loop, 29 mi. (46 km)
Downstream, the route leads to pretty villages amid a natural landscape. Need a boost? Try some of the special cordials and liqueurs in the Trappist monastery in Engelhartszell, which are said to have "special healing power." If you’d like to take a break from cycling, you can take the little ferry boat through the romantic Schlögener loop, where the river makes a very abrupt 180-degree turn (approx. € 6 per person). You then travel on board from Brandstatt to Linz. Tip: discover Linz, the capital of upper Austria while riding on the bright yellow City-Express.Day 3: Linz - Mauthausen - Grein, 22 to 26 mi. (36 to 40 km)
In the early morning, the boat takes you to Mauthausen. You have the possibility to visit the memorial place, KZ-Mauthausen. The Celtic town, Mitterkirchen, gives you a look into the past. The route continues through the fertile area of the Machland region. The destination of today's stage is the charming town of Grein. Also called “the pearl of the Strudengau” due to its idyllic location.Worth a visitin Grein: the impressive Castle of Greinburg.Day 4: Grein - Melk, 29 - 31 mi. (47 - 50 km)
Today's stage is marked by a diverse landscape. At the beginning, there is the Strudengau, a narrow point of the Danube, once feared by river captains. The valley expands from Persenbeug and the bike tour leads you further to Melk with its gorgeous baroque monastery of the Benedictine brethren. On deck, enjoy the sunset and the beautiful evening illumination of the Wachau. The ship will sail to Tulln in the night arriving by early morning. Tulln is famous for its numerous market gardens where the famous Art Nouveau artist Egon Schiele was born.Day 5: Tulln - Vienna - Nussdorf/ (Korneuburg may also be possible), 22 mi. (35 km)
Right in front of Vienna's entrance, embedded in a breathtaking landscape, the monastery of Klosterneuburg is situated. From a distance, you can see the cupola of this 900-year-old baroque building. "Kahlenbergerdorf" and its wine taverns are definitely worth a visit. After a stroll through the vineyards, you can enjoy the panoramic view over Vienna.Day 6: Vienna - Nussdorf / Korneuburg (day of rest)
In Vienna, you should be sure to see the most famous places of interest like the St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Hofburg, the gorgeous boulevard "Ringstraβe" with the Burgtheater, the State Opera House, or the town hall that takes you back to the past. Take your time in the afternoon to stroll or visit one of the famous Viennese coffee bars. Later in the evening the boat cruises to Krems.Day 7: Wachau - Pöchlarn, 25 - 31 mi. (40 - 49 km)
Your last biking day is a special highlight! Amidst small dreamy villages, apricot trees, vineyards, castles, monasteries, and ruins, this gentle hilly landscape enchants everybody. A powerful ruin looms above the small Baroque town of Dürnstein, while the blue tower of the monastery church is a landmark of Wachau. In the evening, you will celebrate your tour and new-found friends with a farewell dinner and cocktail.Day 8: Passau, departure
Every journey draws to an end. Once again you enjoy on deck the first sunbeams and the peaceful silence of the Danube Valley. Take a last look at the Schlögener Schlinge ("Great Loop") before you arrive in Passau. Arrival in Passau is at approximately 11 am and disembarkation is at 11:30 am. Please make note of these times when arranging your departure travel.Language on board: German/English
Land excursions:
Offered as an option with a surcharge (not included in the tour price), these excursions can be booked directly on board. You will receive more information with your final travel documents. Depending on the number of participants some excursions could be conducted in 2 languages (German/ English).Be sure to check out all of our featured bike & boat tours, or our full list of tours & trips!
Map
Boats & Bikes
- Merlijn
Deluxe Class Barge
"The Divine Miss M" as we lovingly call the Merlijn is a diva, for sure. What can we say? Is it the luxurious cabins with the most comfortable beds you have ever slept in? Is it the lovely dining area with the large windows and skylight that let the air, light, and sun pour in? Or perhaps it is the sun deck, where you can relax with newfound friends, sharing good wine and good conversation. We think you will find it is the entire divine package! Step on board and discover for yourself! Read More
- Swiss Crown
Deluxe Class Boat
Stylish, elegant, and timelessly beautiful, the deluxe class ship the Swiss Crown navigates the mighty Danube river on this one-of-a-kind Bike & Boat tour! Read More
- Prinzessin Katharina
Deluxe Class Boat
On board the deluxe vessel, the Prinzessin Katharina, you will enjoy a classic elegance. With a spacious well-designed light-filled interior, a partially covered sun deck, comfortable cabins, great cuisine, and accommodating crew, your time onboard will be relaxing, refreshing, and memorable! Read More
Inclusions
What’s Included
Merlijn
- Accommodations for 7 nights
- Welcome drink
- 7 breakfasts, 6 packed lunches, & 6 three-course dinners
- Coffee, tea, & water
- Toiletries, bathrobe, & slippers
- Tour guide & daily tour briefings
- 27-speed bicycle with waterproof pannier, towel, helmet, & water bottle
- Canal, ferry, bridge & harbor fees
- Ride with Pöstlingerbergbahn
- Entrance to Schloss Greinburg
- Wine tasting session with local wines
- Entrance & guided tour at Stift Melk
- Accommodation for 7 nights
- Welcome cocktail
- Full meals (breakfast, onboard light lunch for non-cyclists/bag lunch for cyclists, & dinner - choice of two or three dinner entrees each evening)
- Afternoon coffee break
- Daily cabin cleaning
- One Gala Dinner with a farewell cocktail & farewell crew show
- Daily live music
- Tour leader on board (does not cycle with the group)
- 21-speed unisex bicycle including lock, handlebar bag, pannier, repair kit with pump
- GPS tracks available for download
- Information packet with route book (one per cabin)
- Daily informational meeting
- Port fees
- If you book the Guided package, also included:
Cycling tour guide
Ferry rides
Rental helmets (adults only) - Accommodation for 7 nights
- Captain’s greeting & complimentary welcome beverage
- 7 breakfasts, 6 packed lunches for cyclists or light lunch on board for non-cyclists, 6 three-course dinners, & 1 farewell dinner with complimentary frink
- 6 afternoon coffee breaks
- Daily cabin cleaning
- Daily live music
- Tour leader on board (does not cycle with the group)
- 7-speed unisex bicycle with hand brake & pedal brake or pedal break only (based on availability). Please indicate your preference at booking & we will do our best to confirm). Equipped with pannier bag.
- Bicycle protection
- Information packet with route book (one per cabin)
- GPS tracks available for download
- Daily informational meeting
- Port fees
Swiss Crown
Prinzessin Katharina
What’s Not Included
- Beverage Packages offered from €6,50-€25 daily - please see boat page for more details - can only be booked onboard
- Helmets - adult helmets can be purchased on board - these must be reserved in advance, (Swiss Crown approx. €25 & Prinzessin Katharina approx. €45)
- Meals not mentioned
- Gratuities for staff & crew
- Bike protection (Merlijn & Swiss Crown)
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates & Pricing
Deluxe Class Boats
Merlijn
Saturday departures
Passau to Vienna: August 12 & August 26, 2023
Vienna to Passau: August 19 & September 9, 2023Twin/Double $ 2830 £ 1518 $ 2,550 € 1740 ₪ 6848 ¥ 265947 NZ$ 3117 NOK 20520 kr 20655 $ 1,908 Twin for Single-Use, On Request € 3132 Swiss Crown
Saturday departures
Passau to Vienna
Season 1: April 29, 2023
Season 2: August 19, August 26, 2023
Season 3: May 27, June 10*, June 17, June 24, July 1, July 8*, July 15, July 22, September 9 & September 23*, 2023*Guided Option Available (supplement applies)
Season 1 Season 2 Season 3 Standard (Main deck) | Double/twin
$ 1639 £ 880 $ 1,477 € 1008 ₪ 3967 ¥ 154066 NZ$ 1806 NOK 11887 kr 11966 $ 1,105 $ 1802 £ 967 $ 1,624 € 1108 ₪ 4361 ¥ 169350 NZ$ 1985 NOK 13067 kr 13153 $ 1,215 $ 1965 £ 1054 $ 1,771 € 1208 ₪ 4754 ¥ 184635 NZ$ 2164 NOK 14246 kr 14340 $ 1,324 Comfort (Middle deck) | Double/twin $ 1932 £ 1037 $ 1,741 € 1188 ₪ 4675 ¥ 181578 NZ$ 2128 NOK 14010 kr 14103 $ 1,303 $ 2095 £ 1124 $ 1,888 € 1288 ₪ 5069 ¥ 196862 NZ$ 2307 NOK 15189 kr 15290 $ 1,412 $ 2258 £ 1211 $ 2,034 € 1388 ₪ 5462 ¥ 212147 NZ$ 2487 NOK 16369 kr 16477 $ 1,522 Mini suite (Middle deck) | Double/twin $ 2095 £ 1124 $ 1,888 € 1288 ₪ 5069 ¥ 196862 NZ$ 2307 NOK 15189 kr 15290 $ 1,412 $ 2258 £ 1211 $ 2,034 € 1388 ₪ 5462 ¥ 212147 NZ$ 2487 NOK 16369 kr 16477 $ 1,522 $ 2420 £ 1298 $ 2,181 € 1488 ₪ 5856 ¥ 227431 NZ$ 2666 NOK 17548 kr 17664 $ 1,631 Superior (Upper deck) | Double/twin
$ 2258 £ 1211 $ 2,034 € 1388 ₪ 5462 ¥ 212147 NZ$ 2487 NOK 16369 kr 16477 $ 1,522 $ 2420 £ 1298 $ 2,181 € 1488 ₪ 5856 ¥ 227431 NZ$ 2666 NOK 17548 kr 17664 $ 1,631 $ 2583 £ 1386 $ 2,328 € 1588 ₪ 6250 ¥ 242715 NZ$ 2845 NOK 18727 kr 18851 $ 1,741 Standard single (Main deck) | Twin $ 2444 £ 1311 $ 2,202 € 1502 ₪ 5913 ¥ 229640 NZ$ 2692 NOK 17718 kr 17835 $ 1,647 $ 2696 £ 1446 $ 2,429 € 1657 ₪ 6523 ¥ 253330 NZ$ 2969 NOK 19546 kr 19675 $ 1,817 $ 2948 £ 1582 $ 2,657 € 1812 ₪ 7133 ¥ 277021 NZ$ 3247 NOK 21374 kr 21515 $ 1,987 Special offers (for new bookings only):
For departures: July 1, July 8, July 15, and July 29, 2023
- The second person in a 2-bed cabin pays half-price (or 25% discount per person).
- No single supplement for a single person in a cabin.Prinzessin Katharina
Saturday departures
Season A: April 22 & September 30, 2023
Season B: May 6 & September 16, 2023
Season C: May 13, May 20, May 27, June 3, June 17, July 1, July 15, July 29, August 12, August 19, August 26, September 2, & September 9, 2023Season A Season B Season C Main deck | Twin $ 1461 £ 784 $ 1,316 € 898 ₪ 3534 ¥ 137253 NZ$ 1609 NOK 10590 kr 10660 $ 985 $ 1623 £ 871 $ 1,463 € 998 ₪ 3928 ¥ 152538 NZ$ 1788 NOK 11769 kr 11847 $ 1,094 $ 1786 £ 958 $ 1,609 € 1098 ₪ 4321 ¥ 167822 NZ$ 1967 NOK 12949 kr 13034 $ 1,204 Main deck | Twin/front/rear* $ 1298 £ 696 $ 1,170 € 798 ₪ 3141 ¥ 121969 NZ$ 1430 NOK 9411 kr 9473 $ 875 $ 1461 £ 784 $ 1,316 € 898 ₪ 3534 ¥ 137253 NZ$ 1609 NOK 10590 kr 10660 $ 985 $ 1623 £ 871 $ 1,463 € 998 ₪ 3928 ¥ 152538 NZ$ 1788 NOK 11769 kr 11847 $ 1,094 Main deck | Single** $ 1949 £ 1045 $ 1,756 € 1198 ₪ 4715 ¥ 183106 NZ$ 2146 NOK 14128 kr 14221 $ 1,313 $ 2111 £ 1133 $ 1,903 € 1298 ₪ 5108 ¥ 198391 NZ$ 2325 NOK 15307 kr 15408 $ 1,423 $ 2274 £ 1220 $ 2,049 € 1398 ₪ 5502 ¥ 213675 NZ$ 2505 NOK 16487 kr 16595 $ 1,533 Upper deck | Twin $ 1786 £ 958 $ 1,609 € 1098 ₪ 4321 ¥ 167822 NZ$ 1967 NOK 12949 kr 13034 $ 1,204 $ 1949 £ 1045 $ 1,756 € 1198 ₪ 4715 ¥ 183106 NZ$ 2146 NOK 14128 kr 14221 $ 1,313 $ 2111 £ 1133 $ 1,903 € 1298 ₪ 5108 ¥ 198391 NZ$ 2325 NOK 15307 kr 15408 $ 1,423 Upper deck | Triple $ 1461 £ 784 $ 1,316 € 898 ₪ 3534 ¥ 137253 NZ$ 1609 NOK 10590 kr 10660 $ 985 $ 1623 £ 871 $ 1,463 € 998 ₪ 3928 ¥ 152538 NZ$ 1788 NOK 11769 kr 11847 $ 1,094 $ 1786 £ 958 $ 1,609 € 1098 ₪ 4321 ¥ 167822 NZ$ 1967 NOK 12949 kr 13034 $ 1,204 Upper deck | Single** $ 2274 £ 1220 $ 2,049 € 1398 ₪ 5502 ¥ 213675 NZ$ 2505 NOK 16487 kr 16595 $ 1,533 $ 2436 £ 1307 $ 2,196 € 1498 ₪ 5895 ¥ 228959 NZ$ 2684 NOK 17666 kr 17783 $ 1,642 $ 2599 £ 1394 $ 2,342 € 1598 ₪ 6289 ¥ 244244 NZ$ 2863 NOK 18845 kr 18970 $ 1,752 *Engine noise perceptible.
**Twin bed cabins for single use may be available as well for single travelers. Please ask.Deluxe Class Boats
Swiss Crown
Passau to Vienna
Saturday departures
April 27, May 25, June 8, June 15, June 22, June 29, July 6, July 13, July 20, July 27, August 17, August 24, September 7, & September 21, 2024
Guided option: June 8, July 6, September 21, 2024
April May/August June/July/September Standard (Main deck) | Double/twin
$ 1648 £ 884 $ 1,485 € 1013 ₪ 3987 ¥ 154830 NZ$ 1815 NOK 11946 kr 12025 $ 1,111 $ 1810 £ 971 $ 1,631 € 1113 ₪ 4380 ¥ 170115 NZ$ 1994 NOK 13126 kr 13212 $ 1,220 $ 1973 £ 1058 $ 1,778 € 1213 ₪ 4774 ¥ 185399 NZ$ 2173 NOK 14305 kr 14399 $ 1,330 Comfort (Middle deck) | Double/twin $ 1957 £ 1050 $ 1,763 € 1203 ₪ 4734 ¥ 183871 NZ$ 2155 NOK 14187 kr 14281 $ 1,319 $ 2119 £ 1137 $ 1,910 € 1303 ₪ 5128 ¥ 199155 NZ$ 2334 NOK 15366 kr 15468 $ 1,429 $ 2282 £ 1224 $ 2,056 € 1403 ₪ 5521 ¥ 214439 NZ$ 2513 NOK 16546 kr 16655 $ 1,538 Mini suite (Middle deck) | Double/twin $ 2136 £ 1146 $ 1,925 € 1313 ₪ 5167 ¥ 200683 NZ$ 2352 NOK 15484 kr 15586 $ 1,440 $ 2298 £ 1233 $ 2,071 € 1413 ₪ 5561 ¥ 215968 NZ$ 2531 NOK 16663 kr 16774 $ 1,549 $ 2461 £ 1320 $ 2,218 € 1513 ₪ 5954 ¥ 231252 NZ$ 2711 NOK 17843 kr 17961 $ 1,659 Superior (Upper deck) | Double/twin
$ 2298 £ 1233 $ 2,071 € 1413 ₪ 5561 ¥ 215968 NZ$ 2531 NOK 16663 kr 16774 $ 1,549 $ 2461 £ 1320 $ 2,218 € 1513 ₪ 5954 ¥ 231252 NZ$ 2711 NOK 17843 kr 17961 $ 1,659 $ 2623 £ 1407 $ 2,364 € 1613 ₪ 6348 ¥ 246536 NZ$ 2890 NOK 19022 kr 19148 $ 1,768 Standard single (Main deck) | Twin $ 2453 £ 1316 $ 2,210 € 1508 ₪ 5935 ¥ 230488 NZ$ 2702 NOK 17784 kr 17901 $ 1,653 $ 2705 £ 1451 $ 2,438 € 1663 ₪ 6545 ¥ 254179 NZ$ 2979 NOK 19612 kr 19741 $ 1,823 $ 2957 £ 1586 $ 2,665 € 1818 ₪ 7155 ¥ 277869 NZ$ 3257 NOK 21440 kr 21581 $ 1,993 Prinzessin Katharina
Saturday departures
Season A: April 20, 2024
Season B: May 4 & September 21, 2024
Season C: May 18, June 22, June 29, July 6, July 27, August 3, August 10, August 31, September 7, & September 14, 2024Season A Season B Season C Main Deck Main Deck | Twin $ 1566 £ 840 $ 1,412 € 963 ₪ 3790 ¥ 147188 NZ$ 1725 NOK 11357 kr 11432 $ 1,056 $ 1729 £ 928 $ 1,558 € 1063 ₪ 4183 ¥ 162473 NZ$ 1904 NOK 12536 kr 12619 $ 1,165 $ 1810 £ 971 $ 1,631 € 1113 ₪ 4380 ¥ 170115 NZ$ 1994 NOK 13126 kr 13212 $ 1,220 Main Deck | Twin/front-astern* $ 1322 £ 709 $ 1,192 € 813 ₪ 3200 ¥ 124262 NZ$ 1456 NOK 9588 kr 9651 $ 891 $ 1485 £ 797 $ 1,338 € 913 ₪ 3593 ¥ 139546 NZ$ 1636 NOK 10767 kr 10838 $ 1,001 $ 1648 £ 884 $ 1,485 € 1013 ₪ 3987 ¥ 154830 NZ$ 1815 NOK 11946 kr 12025 $ 1,111 Main Deck | Single $ 2054 £ 1102 $ 1,851 € 1263 ₪ 4971 ¥ 193041 NZ$ 2263 NOK 14895 kr 14993 $ 1,385 $ 2217 £ 1189 $ 1,998 € 1363 ₪ 5364 ¥ 208326 NZ$ 2442 NOK 16074 kr 16180 $ 1,494 $ 2298 £ 1233 $ 2,071 € 1413 ₪ 5561 ¥ 215968 NZ$ 2531 NOK 16663 kr 16774 $ 1,549 Main Deck | Twin/single-use $ 2257 £ 1211 $ 2,034 € 1388 ₪ 5460 ¥ 212070 NZ$ 2486 NOK 16363 kr 16471 $ 1,521 $ 2501 £ 1342 $ 2,254 € 1538 ₪ 6051 ¥ 234997 NZ$ 2754 NOK 18132 kr 18251 $ 1,686 $ 2623 £ 1407 $ 2,364 € 1613 ₪ 6346 ¥ 246460 NZ$ 2889 NOK 19016 kr 19142 $ 1,768 Upper Deck Upper Deck | Twin
$ 1892 £ 1015 $ 1,705 € 1163 ₪ 4577 ¥ 177757 NZ$ 2084 NOK 13715 kr 13806 $ 1,275 $ 2054 £ 1102 $ 1,851 € 1263 ₪ 4971 ¥ 193041 NZ$ 2263 NOK 14895 kr 14993 $ 1,385 $ 2217 £ 1189 $ 1,998 € 1363 ₪ 5364 ¥ 208326 NZ$ 2442 NOK 16074 kr 16180 $ 1,494 Upper Deck | Triple $ 1566 £ 840 $ 1,412 € 963 ₪ 3790 ¥ 147188 NZ$ 1725 NOK 11357 kr 11432 $ 1,056 $ 1729 £ 928 $ 1,558 € 1063 ₪ 4183 ¥ 162473 NZ$ 1904 NOK 12536 kr 12619 $ 1,165 $ 1892 £ 1015 $ 1,705 € 1163 ₪ 4577 ¥ 177757 NZ$ 2084 NOK 13715 kr 13806 $ 1,275 Upper Deck | Single $ 2380 £ 1277 $ 2,144 € 1463 ₪ 5758 ¥ 223610 NZ$ 2621 NOK 17253 kr 17367 $ 1,604 $ 2542 £ 1364 $ 2,291 € 1563 ₪ 6151 ¥ 238894 NZ$ 2800 NOK 18432 kr 18554 $ 1,714 $ 2705 £ 1451 $ 2,438 € 1663 ₪ 6545 ¥ 254179 NZ$ 2979 NOK 19612 kr 19741 $ 1,823 Manon
Friday departures
July 12, July 19, August 16, & August 23, 2024Main Deck | Double/twin $ 1810 £ 971 $ 1,631 € 1113 ₪ 4380 ¥ 170115 NZ$ 1994 NOK 13126 kr 13212 $ 1,220 Main Deck | Twin for single-use $ 2623 £ 1407 $ 2,364 € 1613 ₪ 6346 ¥ 246460 NZ$ 2889 NOK 19016 kr 19142 $ 1,768 Middle Deck | Double/twin $ 2136 £ 1146 $ 1,925 € 1313 ₪ 5167 ¥ 200683 NZ$ 2352 NOK 15484 kr 15586 $ 1,440 Upper Deck | Double/twin $ 2461 £ 1320 $ 2,218 € 1513 ₪ 5954 ¥ 231252 NZ$ 2711 NOK 17843 kr 17961 $ 1,659 Extra Options
Merlijn
Electric bike rental (payable onboard): $ 293 £ 157 $ 264 € 180 ₪ 708 ¥ 27512 NZ$ 322 NOK 2123 kr 2137 $ 197
Swiss Crown
Guided package: $ 340 £ 182 $ 306 € 209 ₪ 823 ¥ 31944 NZ$ 374 NOK 2465 kr 2481 $ 229 *
*Minimum number of participants to confirm: 10
*Maximum number of participants total: 18Electric bike: $ 163 £ 87 $ 147 € 100 ₪ 394 ¥ 15284 NZ$ 179 NOK 1179 kr 1187 $ 110
Helmet purchase, +/-: $ 41 £ 22 $ 37 € 25 ₪ 98 ¥ 3821 NZ$ 45 NOK 295 kr 297 $ 27
Arrival & departure airport transfer (to/from boat) City center Airport One way (1 - 8 people) $ 390 £ 209 $ 352 € 240 ₪ 945 ¥ 36682 NZ$ 430 NOK 2830 kr 2849 $ 263 $ 423 £ 227 $ 381 € 260 ₪ 1023 ¥ 39739 NZ$ 466 NOK 3066 kr 3086 $ 285 Prinzessin Katharina
Electric bike rental ( Bike protection included): $ 179 £ 96 $ 161 € 110 ₪ 433 ¥ 16813 NZ$ 197 NOK 1297 kr 1306 $ 121 Helmet purchase (limited availability - payable onboard)*: $ 41 £ 22 $ 37 € 25 ₪ 98 ¥ 3821 NZ$ 45 NOK 295 kr 297 $ 27
Please indicate at the time of booking.
Swiss Crown
Guided package: $ 340 £ 182 $ 306 € 209 ₪ 823 ¥ 31944 NZ$ 374 NOK 2465 kr 2481 $ 229 *
*Minimum number of participants to confirm: 10
*Maximum number of participants total: 18Electric bike: $ 163 £ 87 $ 147 € 100 ₪ 394 ¥ 15284 NZ$ 179 NOK 1179 kr 1187 $ 110
Helmet purchase, +/-: $ 41 £ 22 $ 37 € 25 ₪ 98 ¥ 3821 NZ$ 45 NOK 295 kr 297 $ 27
Arrival & departure airport transfer (to/from boat) City center Airport One way (1 - 8 people) $ 439 £ 236 $ 396 € 270 ₪ 1063 ¥ 41268 NZ$ 484 NOK 3184 kr 3205 $ 296 $ 520 £ 279 $ 469 € 320 ₪ 1259 ¥ 48910 NZ$ 573 NOK 3774 kr 3799 $ 351 Prinzessin Katharina & Manon
Electric bike rental ( Bike protection included): $ 179 £ 96 $ 161 € 110 ₪ 433 ¥ 16813 NZ$ 197 NOK 1297 kr 1306 $ 121
Please indicate at the time of booking.
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy
Relatively easy tour following the flow of the Danube. The route is mostly flat but there are some rolling hills especially coming out of the Danube valley. It takes place on good, asphalt bike paths very suitable for beginners and children. Daily distances can be adjusted.
Airport Info
Closest international airport to your tour start in Passau is Munich International Airport (MUC) which is well connected to the city center by either train or express bus.
Local Travel
To travel directly to Passau from the airport by public transportation, you first must take a shuttle bus to Freising train station. Cost is approximately €3. From here you take a train to Passau. Train ride is approximately 2½ hr. depending on connections and costs €30 - €45 depending on type of train. You could also utilize a transfer service such as SMS Airport Shuttle. On some boats, transfers can be booked. Please see pricing. Passau has 3 different docking locations and we will inform you of exact ship location in Passau in your final travel information.
Climate
The region has a moderate maritime climate, generally experiencing pleasantly mild winters and relatively cool summers. Please check local conditions prior to your departure and remember that your tour will cover a significant distance and will stretch along the Danube from Passau to Vienna and back.
Day of Rest
Any day can be designated a day of rest by remaining on board, relaxing on deck and enjoying the varied river scenes
Remarks
The cycling itinerary on the Merlijn is fully guided. The itineraries on the Swiss Crown and Prinzessin Katharina are generally conducted self-guided except on certain dates on the Swiss Crosn, a guided option is offered (supplement applies.) See dates
Important to know
Travel Documents
It is each traveler's responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance with the country or countries you plan to visit. This includes and is not limited to passport validity, visa requirements, and acquisition, blank passport pages required for your destination (s), etc. For US citizens, the US Department of State website is a good source of information. The Country Information tab in the International Travel section provides details about passport validity, blank passport pages required, etc.
*Important note: Please check on the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) status as once implemented, this will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visaCovid-19 Info
Country Entry Requirements
Due to the changing requirements for entry, it is imperative that you stay up to date on requirements set by the country/countries that you are visiting. Please visit our Travel Restrictions Tool page and the country/countries government webpage for this information.
Tour Requirements
Please note that each boat may have different requirements on board. Face masks might be required in the common areas. If you test positive for Covid-19 while on board, you may be asked to quarantine in your cabin, or even leave the ship.
Extra Stay
We can arrange extra nights in Passau! If you would like to reserve additional nights on your own, we advise Booking.com for researching and reserving. You can read a detailed description of the hotels offered including a listing of amenities, customer reviews, and ratings.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by SE Tours & Rad und Reisen.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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