Along the Danube - Passau to Vienna
Austria, Germany Bike + Boat Tours
Bike Austria & the historic cities on the Danube Cycle Path!
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length8 days
- Prices from€813 Rates
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.
Day 1: Passau
Day 2: Engelhartszell - Brandstatt, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 3: Brandstatt - Linz, 16 mi. (26 km)
Day 4: Tulln - Vienna, 19 mi (31 km)
Day 5: Vienna (day of rest)
Day 6: Wachau | Krems - Melk, 23 mi. (37 km)
Day 7: Grein - Mauthausen, 22 mi. (36 km)
Day 8: PassauAll distances are approximate.
Day 1: Passau
Individual arrival in Passau, the city of three rivers. Make sure to take some time to stroll through this charming city's narrow lanes, and visit the Passau cathedral and the world's largest church organ. You will begin your journey with a relaxing boat ride, watching Passau's city scape fade gently away.Day 2: Engelhartszell - Brandstatt, 28 mi. (45 km)
As you cycle throguh the lush countryside, you'll enjoy the scents of dense forests and freshly mowed meadows. You may take a break at teh Schlögener Blick observation point and see a magnificent view of the Schlögener Schlinge, where the Danube flows through a gorge and doubles back on itself.Day 3: Brandstatt - Linz, 16 mi. (26 km)
You'll have rural ride again today. At lunch, you'll reach the Upper Austrian capital of Linz—"it all begins in Linz"! This is the European Capital of Culture 2009. Explore the largest church in Austria or take the Pöstlingberhbahn, the steepest adhesion railway, to a lookout point over the city. You can also visit the ARS Electronica Museum where you can try out some of the most impressive examples of modern technology.Day 4: Tulln - Vienna, 19 mi (31 km)
Before entering Vienna, you can visit Klosterneuburg, a monastery situated in unforgettable scenery. You'll be able to see the dome of this 900-year-old baroque building as you approach. "Kahlenbergerdorf" is known for its wine taverns, and you'll have the opportunity to visit after a stroll through the vineyards and a striking view of Vienna. You'll take a city tour by bus in the afternoon where you'll pass most of the famous sights. You'll also have the option to go on a guided walking tour through the historic center of Austria's capital.
Day 5: Vienna (day of rest)
You can see all of Vienna's most famous sights on a city tour by bike or a hop-on-hop-off bus tour. The unforgettable Ringstrabße is remniscent of times long past, and Vienna's welcoming coffee houses will entice you with mouthwatering Viennese cakes and pastries. The Naschmarket market is a feast for every sense. You'll be able to end the evening with a concert of waltz and classical operetta music in Sisi's summer residence.Day 6: Wachau | Krems - Melk, 23 mi. (37 km)
You'll spend today in the enduring Wachau valley. You'll cycle through wine-growing villages, decorated with terraced vineyards and apricot trees. Dürnstein awaits you with its narrow lanes and the castle in which Richard I of England, or "Lionheart", was once imprisoned. You can find the first rate famous Wachau wines in Spitz, one of the most famous wine-growing villages according to the World Cultural Heritage Landscape.Day 7: Grein - Mauthausen, 22 mi. (36 km)
You'll cycle along a varied route, offering memorable scenery beginning in the medieval town of Grein, home to Austria's oldest theater. Next, you'll bike through the delightful hinterland of the Strudengau region, where you may even be personally guided through the romantic Clam Castle by the castle's lord! You'll then take a journey back to prehistoric Celtic Villages in Mitterkirchen. Your last stop will be at the Mauthausen Memorial, a World War II concentration memorial site 5 kilometers outside of Mauthausen sitting atop a hill.Day 8: Passau
The ship will bring you to Passau, where you will disembark at about 11:00 am. It's recommmended that you don't make any arrangements for onward travel until after 12:00 pm.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).Passau to Vienna
Day 1: Arrival in Passau
Day 2: Overnight dock outside of Passau - Linz | Bike tour: 18 to 22 mi. (30 to 35 km) | 34 to 37 mi. (55 to 60 km)
Day 3: Linz - Mauthausen - Grein | Bike tour: 3 mi. (5 km) optional + 22 to 25 mi. (35 to 40 km) or extend to 28 or 31 mi. (45 to 50 km)
Day 4: Grein - Overnight dock | Hike: 6 to 9 mi. (10 to 15 km)
Day 5: Overnight dock - Durnstein/Rossatz | Bike tour: 28 to 31 mi. (45 to 50 km)
Day 6: Durnstein/Rossatz - Tulln | Bike tour: 31 to 34 mi. (50 to 55 km)
Day 7: Tulln - Korneuburg/Vienna | Bike tour: 15 to 19 mi. (25 to 30 km) or extend to 25 to 28 mi. (40 to 45 km)
Day 8: Vienna/KorneuburgAll distances are approximate.
Day 1: Arrival in Passau
Check in on board between 3:30 pm and 4 pm. Enjoy a welcome drink during a welcome briefing and introduction to the crew. After departing from Passau at 4:30 pm, the Merlijn will sail the amazing Blue Danube, which forms the border between Germany and Austria. Dinner is served during the cruise and in the evening, there will be time for a late night stroll. The boat docks for an overnight stay.Day 2: Overnight dock outside of Passau - Linz | Bike tour: 18 to 22 mi. (30 to 35 km) | 34 to 37 mi. (55 to 60 km)
After breakfast, a bike fitting, and introduction, your first cycling tour will start. A fascinating tour along the ‘Schlögener-schlinge’ awaits you, where the Danube makes several bends that have been sculpted through the mountains over millions of years. Early birds can choose to hike up to the ‘Schlogener-Blick’ viewpoint before breakfast, from where you can view the sharpest bend in the Danube, which locals have named, “The natural wonder of upper Austria”.The Danube cycle path will lead you further along the Danube to Aschach and Brandstatt, typical Austrian towns where you might want to stop for a short visit, if only to try the infamous Austrian ‘Kaiserschmarrn’ dessert which pairs well with a delicious cup of coffee. The dessert is named after the Austrian emperor (Kaiser) Franz Joseph I, who was very fond of this kind of fluffy shredded pancake. After your visit, the Merlijn welcomes you on board again to take you to Linz. If you still have a few more miles left in you on your first day, you can cycle on to Linz. The boat docks here overnight.
“It all begins in Linz” the Austrian saying goes. Around the main square are many historical and architecturally interesting 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 baroque style houses. At night, take a guided after dinner stroll through the city.
Day 3: Linz - Mauthausen - Grein | Bike tour: 3 mi. (5 km) optional + 22 to 25 mi. (35 to 40 km) or extend to 28 or 31 mi. (45 to 50 km)
During breakfast, the captain will navigate Merlijn towards Mauthausen, where your bike tour begins. In Mauthausen is a WWII Nazi concentration camp situated just a few kilometers from the city, which can be visited if you want to add an additional 5 km to today’s ride. There are two different cycle routes possible today: the shorter tour that goes along the Danube, or a longer route that leads you a bit more through the backcountry. Both routes lead to today’s destination of Grein, a picturesque town situated in a small bay at the entrance of the narrow valley of Strudengau, along the Danube. Dinner is served on board.Day 4: Grein - Overnight dock | Hike: 6 to 9 mi. (10 to 15 km)
Today offers a break from the saddle. After breakfast is an opportunity to tour the ‘Schloss Greinburg’, one of the only castles that is still privately owned. Its impressive features include a stone theater and shipping museum. The remainder of the day gives you multiple choices. Austria is not only biker friendly but also a hiker’s paradise offering so many options to explore. Depending on the ability of the group, the guide will suggest a hiking trail and lead you on a walk through beautiful nature.You can also opt to take a day off from activities and visit Grein’s shops, city theater, or museums. Or just relax on board and enjoy the beautiful scenery from behind your book.
In the afternoon, the Merlijn sets off for a stunning cruise, along the meandering Danube through the Struden bends. You’ll pass the Persenbeug lock, which brings the boat down many meters like a stair step in the river. Persenbeug is an old shipping town strategically situated next to the river, with a castle overlooking it all. It is also home to a hydro-electric 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 a small Austrian town. Enjoy this peaceful area and the calm Danube with a drink in the spacious lounge or on the comfy terrace.
Day 5: Overnight dock - Durnstein/Rossatz | Bike tour: 28 to 31 mi. (45 to 50 km)
The next two days are packed with highlights! Today’s tour will start after another delicious breakfast on board, and begins along the peacefully flowing Danube. After cycling for approximately an hour, you arrive at ‘Stift Melk’, set high above the Danube. Here, you will enjoy a guided tour to learn more about this blockbuster abbey fortress. After the tour, you’ll walk a few meters 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.You follow the Danube further downstream until the calm and peaceful flow of the Danube evolves into a narrow and untamed rapidly moving river, until you reach the 'Wachau. This area (German pronunciation: va-xau) is an Austrian valley with a picturesque landscape formed by the River Danube. Overloaded 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. The day ends in Durnstein/Rossatz, where you stay overnight. After dinner, a wine-tasting session at a local winery is organized.
Day 6: Durnstein/Rossatz - Tulln | Bike tour: 31 to 34 mi. (50 to 55 km)
A longer route is planned today. During breakfast, the Merlijn will take you on a short cruise to Dürnstein, another pearl of the Wachau Valley. The small roofed stairs at the water's edge leads to 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, yes, the Lionheart, was once imprisoned. After visiting this beautiful historic town, the rest of the tour will lead you mostly along the peacefully flowing Danube, which you can admire from the saddle of your bike. 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.Day 7: Tulln - Korneuburg/Vienna | Bike tour: 15 to 19 mi. (25 to 30 km) or extend to 25 to 28 mi. (40 to 45 km)
This morning, you’ll leave Tulln behind and cycle the last stretch along the popular classic ‘Donau Radweg’. It will lead you through mostly rural areas: a dream for every cyclist. After a picnic lunch, there are two options: board the Merlijn, or cycle on to Vienna. In the evening, the Captain's dinner is served.Day 8: Vienna/Korneuburg
Check-out and departure after breakfast. If time allows, an afternoon exploring Vienna is highly recommended.The itinerary from Vienna to Passau simply runs in reverse. On request we can send you a full itinerary.
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
- 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
- SE-Manon
Deluxe Class Boat
On board the comfortable deluxe ship, the Se-Manon, you will find a relaxing and cozy atmosphere. The wellness area, containing a sauna and whirlpool, invites you to relax after a day of cycling. 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
Inclusions
What’s Included
Swiss Crown
- 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 drink
- 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
- Accommodations for 7 nights aboard the Merlijn
- Welcome drink
- Meals: 7 breakfasts buffets, 6 prepared picnic lunches, and 6 three-course gourmet dinners
- Beverages: Unlimited coffee, tea, and water, and assorted bottled soft drinks, wide selection of wines, and various beers during open bar
- Standard rental bike with waterproof pannier, water bottle, towel, & universal helmet
- Fully guided cycling and hiking tours
- Daily tour briefings
- Service of staff (daily cabin cleaning and manned bar)
- Supply of bedding, towels, facial tissue, hand soap, shampoo, body wash, sewing kit, vanity kit, bathrobe, and slippers
- Lock, bridge, and harbor fees
- Wifi (signal strength and speed may vary)
- Entrance to Schloss Greinburg
- Wine tasting session at local winery
- Entrance and guided tour at Stift Melk
Prinzessin Katharina / Manon
Merlijn
What’s Not Included
Swiss Crown
- Beverages
- Helmet rental (€15 must be reserved in advance)
- Gratuities for staff & crew
- Excursions not mentioned under included
- Bike Protection
- Travel Insurance
- Beverages (drink package available for purchase on board)
- Helmets (not available, please bring your own)
- Excursions not mentioned in included
- Travel Insurance
- 1 dinner
- Excursions and entrance fees
- Beverages not mentioned (such as spirits and cocktails)
- City maps and bike maps (some are available on board but can’t be guaranteed)
- Gratuities for crew and guides
- Bike Protection
- Travel Insurance
Prinzessin Katharina / Manon
Merlijn
Dates & Pricing
Dates & Pricing
Deluxe Class Boats
Swiss Crown
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, 2024Guided option: June 8, July 6, September 21, 2024
April May/July/August June/September Standard (Main deck) | Double/twin
$ 1688 £ 889 $ 1,524 € 1013 kr 155305 ₪ 4122 ¥ 172534 Mex$ 18788 NZ$ 1849 NOK 12109 zł 4444 S$ 1505 kr 12120 $ 1,110 $ 1855 £ 977 $ 1,675 € 1113 kr 170636 ₪ 4529 ¥ 189566 Mex$ 20642 NZ$ 2032 NOK 13304 zł 4883 S$ 1654 kr 13317 $ 1,220 $ 2022 £ 1064 $ 1,825 € 1213 kr 185967 ₪ 4936 ¥ 206598 Mex$ 22497 NZ$ 2215 NOK 14500 zł 5322 S$ 1802 kr 14513 $ 1,330 Comfort (Middle deck) | Double/twin $ 2005 £ 1056 $ 1,810 € 1203 kr 184434 ₪ 4895 ¥ 204895 Mex$ 22311 NZ$ 2196 NOK 14380 zł 5278 S$ 1787 kr 14393 $ 1,319 $ 2172 £ 1143 $ 1,961 € 1303 kr 199765 ₪ 5302 ¥ 221927 Mex$ 24166 NZ$ 2379 NOK 15575 zł 5716 S$ 1936 kr 15590 $ 1,428 $ 2338 £ 1231 $ 2,111 € 1403 kr 215096 ₪ 5709 ¥ 238959 Mex$ 26021 NZ$ 2561 NOK 16771 zł 6155 S$ 2085 kr 16786 $ 1,538 Mini suite (Middle deck) | Double/twin $ 2188 £ 1152 $ 1,976 € 1313 kr 201298 ₪ 5343 ¥ 223630 Mex$ 24352 NZ$ 2397 NOK 15695 zł 5760 S$ 1951 kr 15709 $ 1,439 $ 2355 £ 1240 $ 2,126 € 1413 kr 216629 ₪ 5750 ¥ 240662 Mex$ 26206 NZ$ 2580 NOK 16890 zł 6199 S$ 2100 kr 16906 $ 1,549 $ 2522 £ 1328 $ 2,277 € 1513 kr 231960 ₪ 6157 ¥ 257694 Mex$ 28061 NZ$ 2762 NOK 18086 zł 6638 S$ 2248 kr 18102 $ 1,659 Superior (Upper deck) | Double/twin
$ 2355 £ 1240 $ 2,126 € 1413 kr 216629 ₪ 5750 ¥ 240662 Mex$ 26206 NZ$ 2580 NOK 16890 zł 6199 S$ 2100 kr 16906 $ 1,549 $ 2522 £ 1328 $ 2,277 € 1513 kr 231960 ₪ 6157 ¥ 257694 Mex$ 28061 NZ$ 2762 NOK 18086 zł 6638 S$ 2248 kr 18102 $ 1,659 $ 2688 £ 1415 $ 2,427 € 1613 kr 247292 ₪ 6564 ¥ 274726 Mex$ 29915 NZ$ 2945 NOK 19281 zł 7076 S$ 2397 kr 19299 $ 1,768 Standard single (Main deck) | Twin $ 2513 £ 1323 $ 2,269 € 1508 kr 231194 ₪ 6137 ¥ 256842 Mex$ 27968 NZ$ 2753 NOK 18026 zł 6616 S$ 2241 kr 18043 $ 1,653 $ 2772 £ 1459 $ 2,503 € 1663 kr 254957 ₪ 6767 ¥ 283242 Mex$ 30843 NZ$ 3036 NOK 19879 zł 7296 S$ 2471 kr 19897 $ 1,823 $ 3030 £ 1595 $ 2,736 € 1818 kr 278720 ₪ 7398 ¥ 309642 Mex$ 33717 NZ$ 3319 NOK 21731 zł 7976 S$ 2701 kr 21752 $ 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 $ 1605 £ 845 $ 1,449 € 963 kr 147639 ₪ 3919 ¥ 164018 Mex$ 17860 NZ$ 1758 NOK 11511 zł 4225 S$ 1431 kr 11522 $ 1,056 $ 1772 £ 933 $ 1,600 € 1063 kr 162970 ₪ 4326 ¥ 181050 Mex$ 19715 NZ$ 1941 NOK 12707 zł 4664 S$ 1579 kr 12718 $ 1,165 $ 1855 £ 977 $ 1,675 € 1113 kr 170636 ₪ 4529 ¥ 189566 Mex$ 20642 NZ$ 2032 NOK 13304 zł 4883 S$ 1654 kr 13317 $ 1,220 Main Deck | Twin/front-astern* $ 1355 £ 713 $ 1,223 € 813 kr 124642 ₪ 3308 ¥ 138470 Mex$ 15078 NZ$ 1484 NOK 9718 zł 3567 S$ 1208 kr 9727 $ 891 $ 1522 £ 801 $ 1,374 € 913 kr 139973 ₪ 3715 ¥ 155502 Mex$ 16933 NZ$ 1667 NOK 10914 zł 4005 S$ 1357 kr 10924 $ 1,001 $ 1688 £ 889 $ 1,524 € 1013 kr 155305 ₪ 4122 ¥ 172534 Mex$ 18788 NZ$ 1849 NOK 12109 zł 4444 S$ 1505 kr 12120 $ 1,110 Main Deck | Single $ 2105 £ 1108 $ 1,901 € 1263 kr 193633 ₪ 5140 ¥ 215114 Mex$ 23424 NZ$ 2306 NOK 15097 zł 5541 S$ 1877 kr 15111 $ 1,384 $ 2272 £ 1196 $ 2,051 € 1363 kr 208964 ₪ 5547 ¥ 232146 Mex$ 25279 NZ$ 2488 NOK 16293 zł 5980 S$ 2025 kr 16308 $ 1,494 $ 2355 £ 1240 $ 2,126 € 1413 kr 216629 ₪ 5750 ¥ 240662 Mex$ 26206 NZ$ 2580 NOK 16890 zł 6199 S$ 2100 kr 16906 $ 1,549 Main Deck | Twin/single-use $ 2313 £ 1217 $ 2,088 € 1388 kr 212720 ₪ 5646 ¥ 236319 Mex$ 25733 NZ$ 2533 NOK 16585 zł 6087 S$ 2062 kr 16601 $ 1,521 $ 2563 £ 1349 $ 2,314 € 1538 kr 235717 ₪ 6257 ¥ 261867 Mex$ 28515 NZ$ 2807 NOK 18378 zł 6745 S$ 2285 kr 18395 $ 1,685 $ 2688 £ 1415 $ 2,427 € 1613 kr 247215 ₪ 6562 ¥ 274641 Mex$ 29906 NZ$ 2944 NOK 19275 zł 7074 S$ 2396 kr 19293 $ 1,768 Upper Deck Upper Deck | Twin
$ 1938 £ 1020 $ 1,750 € 1163 kr 178301 ₪ 4733 ¥ 198082 Mex$ 21570 NZ$ 2123 NOK 13902 zł 5102 S$ 1728 kr 13915 $ 1,275 $ 2105 £ 1108 $ 1,901 € 1263 kr 193633 ₪ 5140 ¥ 215114 Mex$ 23424 NZ$ 2306 NOK 15097 zł 5541 S$ 1877 kr 15111 $ 1,384 $ 2272 £ 1196 $ 2,051 € 1363 kr 208964 ₪ 5547 ¥ 232146 Mex$ 25279 NZ$ 2488 NOK 16293 zł 5980 S$ 2025 kr 16308 $ 1,494 Upper Deck | Triple $ 1605 £ 845 $ 1,449 € 963 kr 147639 ₪ 3919 ¥ 164018 Mex$ 17860 NZ$ 1758 NOK 11511 zł 4225 S$ 1431 kr 11522 $ 1,056 $ 1772 £ 933 $ 1,600 € 1063 kr 162970 ₪ 4326 ¥ 181050 Mex$ 19715 NZ$ 1941 NOK 12707 zł 4664 S$ 1579 kr 12718 $ 1,165 $ 1938 £ 1020 $ 1,750 € 1163 kr 178301 ₪ 4733 ¥ 198082 Mex$ 21570 NZ$ 2123 NOK 13902 zł 5102 S$ 1728 kr 13915 $ 1,275 Upper Deck | Single $ 2438 £ 1284 $ 2,202 € 1463 kr 224295 ₪ 5953 ¥ 249178 Mex$ 27133 NZ$ 2671 NOK 17488 zł 6418 S$ 2174 kr 17504 $ 1,604 $ 2605 £ 1371 $ 2,352 € 1563 kr 239626 ₪ 6360 ¥ 266210 Mex$ 28988 NZ$ 2854 NOK 18683 zł 6857 S$ 2322 kr 18701 $ 1,713 $ 2772 £ 1459 $ 2,503 € 1663 kr 254957 ₪ 6767 ¥ 283242 Mex$ 30843 NZ$ 3036 NOK 19879 zł 7296 S$ 2471 kr 19897 $ 1,823 Manon
Friday departures
July 12, July 19, August 16, & August 23, 2024Main Deck | Double/twin $ 1855 £ 977 $ 1,675 € 1113 kr 170636 ₪ 4529 ¥ 189566 Mex$ 20642 NZ$ 2032 NOK 13304 zł 4883 S$ 1654 kr 13317 $ 1,220 Main Deck | Twin for single-use $ 2688 £ 1415 $ 2,427 € 1613 kr 247215 ₪ 6562 ¥ 274641 Mex$ 29906 NZ$ 2944 NOK 19275 zł 7074 S$ 2396 kr 19293 $ 1,768 Middle Deck | Double/twin $ 2188 £ 1152 $ 1,976 € 1313 kr 201298 ₪ 5343 ¥ 223630 Mex$ 24352 NZ$ 2397 NOK 15695 zł 5760 S$ 1951 kr 15709 $ 1,439 Upper Deck | Double/twin $ 2522 £ 1328 $ 2,277 € 1513 kr 231960 ₪ 6157 ¥ 257694 Mex$ 28061 NZ$ 2762 NOK 18086 zł 6638 S$ 2248 kr 18102 $ 1,659 Deluxe Class Boats
Merlijn
Friday departures
Passau to Vienna: August 8 & August 22, 2025
Vienna to Passau: August 15 & August 29, 2025August 8 All other departures Twin/double $ 4242 £ 2233 $ 3,830 € 2545 kr 390178 ₪ 10357 ¥ 433464 Mex$ 47201 NZ$ 4646 NOK 30422 zł 11165 S$ 3782 kr 30450 $ 2,790 $ 4658 £ 2452 $ 4,206 € 2795 kr 428506 ₪ 11374 ¥ 476044 Mex$ 51837 NZ$ 5103 NOK 33410 zł 12262 S$ 4153 kr 33441 $ 3,064 Twin cabin for single use on request Swiss Crown
Saturday departures
Season 1: April 26, 2025
Season 2: May 24, May 31, July 12, July 19, July 26, August 2, August 23, 2025
Season 3: June 14, September 6 & September 20, 2025Guided option offered on May 31 & September 20, 2025 (additional dates may be possible for groups of 10 or more, on request).
Season 1 Season 2 Season 3 Standard (Main deck) | Double/twin
$ 1705 £ 898 $ 1,539 € 1023 kr 156838 ₪ 4163 ¥ 174237 Mex$ 18973 NZ$ 1868 NOK 12228 zł 4488 S$ 1520 kr 12240 $ 1,121 $ 1872 £ 985 $ 1,690 € 1123 kr 172169 ₪ 4570 ¥ 191269 Mex$ 20828 NZ$ 2050 NOK 13424 zł 4927 S$ 1669 kr 13436 $ 1,231 $ 2038 £ 1073 $ 1,840 € 1223 kr 187500 ₪ 4977 ¥ 208301 Mex$ 22682 NZ$ 2233 NOK 14619 zł 5365 S$ 1817 kr 14633 $ 1,341 Comfort (Middle deck) | Double/twin $ 2188 £ 1152 $ 1,976 € 1313 kr 201298 ₪ 5343 ¥ 223630 Mex$ 24352 NZ$ 2397 NOK 15695 zł 5760 S$ 1951 kr 15709 $ 1,439 $ 2355 £ 1240 $ 2,126 € 1413 kr 216629 ₪ 5750 ¥ 240662 Mex$ 26206 NZ$ 2580 NOK 16890 zł 6199 S$ 2100 kr 16906 $ 1,549 $ 2522 £ 1328 $ 2,277 € 1513 kr 231960 ₪ 6157 ¥ 257694 Mex$ 28061 NZ$ 2762 NOK 18086 zł 6638 S$ 2248 kr 18102 $ 1,659 Mini suite (Middle deck) | Double/twin $ 2372 £ 1249 $ 2,141 € 1423 kr 218162 ₪ 5791 ¥ 242365 Mex$ 26392 NZ$ 2598 NOK 17010 zł 6243 S$ 2114 kr 17026 $ 1,560 $ 2538 £ 1336 $ 2,292 € 1523 kr 233494 ₪ 6198 ¥ 259397 Mex$ 28246 NZ$ 2780 NOK 18205 zł 6682 S$ 2263 kr 18222 $ 1,669 $ 2705 £ 1424 $ 2,442 € 1623 kr 248825 ₪ 6605 ¥ 276429 Mex$ 30101 NZ$ 2963 NOK 19400 zł 7120 S$ 2412 kr 19418 $ 1,779 Superior (Upper deck) | Double/twin
$ 2538 £ 1336 $ 2,292 € 1523 kr 233494 ₪ 6198 ¥ 259397 Mex$ 28246 NZ$ 2780 NOK 18205 zł 6682 S$ 2263 kr 18222 $ 1,669 $ 2705 £ 1424 $ 2,442 € 1623 kr 248825 ₪ 6605 ¥ 276429 Mex$ 30101 NZ$ 2963 NOK 19400 zł 7120 S$ 2412 kr 19418 $ 1,779 $ 2872 £ 1512 $ 2,593 € 1723 kr 264156 ₪ 7012 ¥ 293461 Mex$ 31956 NZ$ 3146 NOK 20596 zł 7559 S$ 2560 kr 20615 $ 1,889 Standard single (Main deck) | Twin $ 2530 £ 1332 $ 2,284 € 1518 kr 232727 ₪ 6177 ¥ 258546 Mex$ 28154 NZ$ 2771 NOK 18145 zł 6660 S$ 2256 kr 18162 $ 1,664 $ 2788 £ 1468 $ 2,518 € 1673 kr 256490 ₪ 6808 ¥ 284945 Mex$ 31028 NZ$ 3054 NOK 19998 zł 7340 S$ 2486 kr 20017 $ 1,834 $ 3047 £ 1604 $ 2,751 € 1828 kr 280254 ₪ 7439 ¥ 311345 Mex$ 33903 NZ$ 3337 NOK 21851 zł 8020 S$ 2716 kr 21871 $ 2,004 Extra Options
Swiss Crown
Guided package: $ 348 £ 183 $ 315 € 209 kr 32042 ₪ 850 ¥ 35597 Mex$ 3876 NZ$ 382 NOK 2498 zł 917 S$ 311 kr 2501 $ 229 *
*Minimum number of participants to confirm: 10
*Maximum number of participants total: 18Electric bike: $ 167 £ 88 $ 150 € 100 kr 15331 ₪ 407 ¥ 17032 Mex$ 1855 NZ$ 183 NOK 1195 zł 439 S$ 149 kr 1196 $ 110
Helmet rental: $ 25 £ 13 $ 23 € 15 kr 2300 ₪ 61 ¥ 2555 Mex$ 278 NZ$ 27 NOK 179 zł 66 S$ 22 kr 179 $ 16
Arrival & departure airport transfer (to/from boat) City center Airport One way (1 - 8 people) $ 450 £ 237 $ 406 € 270 kr 41394 ₪ 1099 ¥ 45986 Mex$ 5008 NZ$ 493 NOK 3227 zł 1185 S$ 401 kr 3230 $ 296 $ 533 £ 281 $ 482 € 320 kr 49060 ₪ 1302 ¥ 54502 Mex$ 5935 NZ$ 584 NOK 3825 zł 1404 S$ 475 kr 3829 $ 351 Prinzessin Katharina & Manon
Electric bike rental (Bike protection included): $ 183 £ 97 $ 166 € 110 kr 16864 ₪ 448 ¥ 18735 Mex$ 2040 NZ$ 201 NOK 1315 zł 483 S$ 163 kr 1316 $ 121
Please indicate at the time of booking.
Swiss Crown
Guided package* $ 375 £ 197 $ 339 € 225 kr 34495 ₪ 916 ¥ 38322 Mex$ 4173 NZ$ 411 NOK 2690 zł 987 S$ 334 kr 2692 $ 247 Electric bike rental $ 200 £ 105 $ 181 € 120 kr 18397 ₪ 488 ¥ 20438 Mex$ 2226 NZ$ 219 NOK 1434 zł 526 S$ 178 kr 1436 $ 132 Helmet rental $ 25 £ 13 $ 23 € 15 kr 2300 ₪ 61 ¥ 2555 Mex$ 278 NZ$ 27 NOK 179 zł 66 S$ 22 kr 179 $ 16 *Minimum number of participants to confirm: 10 | Maximum number of participants total: 18
Arrival & departure airport transfer (to/from boat) City center Airport One way (1 - 8 people) $ 567 £ 298 $ 512 € 340 kr 52126 ₪ 1384 ¥ 57909 Mex$ 6306 NZ$ 621 NOK 4064 zł 1492 S$ 505 kr 4068 $ 373 $ 483 £ 254 $ 436 € 290 kr 44460 ₪ 1180 ¥ 49393 Mex$ 5378 NZ$ 529 NOK 3467 zł 1272 S$ 431 kr 3470 $ 318 Merlijn
Electric bike rental $ 300 £ 158 $ 271 € 180 kr 27596 ₪ 732 ¥ 30658 Mex$ 3338 NZ$ 329 NOK 2152 zł 790 S$ 267 kr 2154 $ 197 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 Crown, 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 visaExtra 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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