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Wachau Solstice Cruise | MS Kaiserin Elisabeth

Wachau Summer Solstice on the Danube: Experience the traditional Summer Solstice celebrations aboard the MS Kaiserin Elisabeth and enjoy the illuminated Wachau Valley from a unique perspective on the water. Thousands of lights along the riverbanks, glowing hillside beacons, and the extraordinary setting of the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley make this evening one of the highlights of the summer.

Photo: Illuminated MS Kaiserin Elisabeth near Dürnstein, with fireworks above the ruins and Wachau vineyards.Photo: MS Kaiserin Elisabeth cruising on the Danube beneath white and red fireworks.Photo: Four people enjoying fondue at a set table in a ship lounge with wine glasses and warm lighting.
Wachau Theme Cruise

Wachau Solstice Cruise | MS Kaiserin Elisabeth

Wachau Summer Solstice on the Danube: Experience the traditional Summer Solstice celebrations aboard the MS Kaiserin Elisabeth and enjoy the illuminated Wachau Valley from a unique perspective on the water. Thousands of lights along the riverbanks, glowing hillside beacons, and the extraordinary setting of the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley make this evening one of the highlights of the summer.

  • Duration: 4.25 hours
  • Spectacular bonfires and fireworks along the Wachau Valley
  • Unique views of the Summer Solstice celebrations from the ship
  • A fine selection of culinary delights on board
  • Festive evening cruise aboard the MS Kaiserin Elisabeth

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Included in price

  • Live musik on board

    Inclusive

    Live music and musical highlights create the perfect atmosphere on board.

  • Moments of culinary indulgence

    Inclusive

    Experience delightful moments on board with exquisite cuisine and special culinary highlights.

Attractions

  • Wachau region

    Wachau – a UNESCO World Heritage with vineyards, castles and picturesque towns along the Danube.

    Photo: Panoramic view of the Wachau with vineyards, the Danube, a passing ship and Weißenkirchen against wooded hills.

    Wachau region

    Rolling vineyards, historic castle ruins and charming villages line the Danube as it flows through the Wachau. Between Melk and Krems, this UNESCO World Heritage region combines nature, culture and culinary delights. Discover Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen or Spitz and enjoy the region’s unique landscape on a cruise along the Danube.

The Ship

This or a similar ship of this class

Photo: MS Kaiserin Elisabeth cruises along the Danube past a green riverside landscape, featuring a sun deck and reflections in the water.
Photo: MS Kaiserin Elisabeth on the Danube, passing forests and rolling hills, with sun deck and panoramic windows.
Photo: Elegantly set dining area aboard MS Kaiserin Elisabeth with white napkins and views of the Danube.

MS Kaiserin Elisabeth

The MS Kaiserin Elisabeth impresses with elegance, a spacious 360° outer deck, deck chairs, two bars, and diverse dining – the newest addition to the DDSG Blue Danube fleet.

  • On-board restaurant
  • Sound system incl. wireless mic
  • LCD screens for presentations and live streaming
  • Two Bars
  • Partially covered walk-around sun deck
  • Sun loungers on the open deck
  • Retractable sun and weather awning
  • Accessible facilities
  • Air conditioning
The Ship

MS Kaiserin Elisabeth

The MS Kaiserin Elisabeth impresses with elegance, a spacious 360° outer deck, deck chairs, two bars, and diverse dining – the newest addition to the DDSG Blue Danube fleet.


  • On-board restaurant
  • Sound system incl. wireless mic
  • LCD screens for presentations and live streaming
  • Two Bars
  • Partially covered walk-around sun deck
  • Sun loungers on the open deck
  • Retractable sun and weather awning
  • Accessible facilities
  • Air conditioning
Details
Photo: MS Kaiserin Elisabeth cruises along the Danube past a green riverside landscape, featuring a sun deck and reflections in the water.Photo: MS Kaiserin Elisabeth on the Danube, passing forests and rolling hills, with sun deck and panoramic windows.Photo: Elegantly set dining area aboard MS Kaiserin Elisabeth with white napkins and views of the Danube.Photo: Restaurant and bar area of MS Kaiserin Elisabeth with set tables, blue chairs, and a classic wooden bar.

Departure Location

Photo: DDSG Blue Danube pier and ticket office in Krems with a glass-fronted facade and entrance area.

Krems / Stein

  • Welterbeplatz 1, 3500 Krems
  • Ticket Office Opening Hours: Mon–Sun & Holidays: 08:30–16:30
  • Sightseeing Cruises Wachau: Danube Station 24
  • Theme Cruises Wachau: Danube station 24
  • Charter Cruises: Departure Point by Arrangement
  • Subject to change.
More Info

Program

Wachau Summer Solstice Celebration on the Danube

As the Wachau celebrates the shortest night of the year, thousands of lights, glowing bonfires, and spectacular fireworks transform the banks of the Danube into an unforgettable spectacle. Experience the traditional Wachau Summer Solstice celebrations from the water and enjoy a unique perspective on one of the region’s most cherished events.

As the illuminated UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley drifts by, live music on board provides the perfect soundtrack to a memorable summer evening. A carefully curated menu featuring selected culinary delights adds to the experience, creating the ideal setting to relax and enjoy the celebrations.

Surrounded by historic towns, terraced vineyards, and the impressive bonfires lining the Danube, this special cruise offers an atmospheric blend of Wachau tradition, regional culture, fine dining, and breathtaking views.

Itinerary & Details

Itinerary & Details

  • Boarding: 18:30–19:15
  • Cruise: 19:30–23:45
  • Location: Krems / Stein (Danube Stage No. 33)
  • Ship: MS Kaiserin Elisabeth
  • Included: Cruise, aperitif with a 3-course menu & live music

Schedule and programme details are subject to change.

Culinary Delights

Aperitif

  • Prosecco

Amuse-Bouche – Chef’s Greeting

  • Served at the table

Menu

  • Pea and Mint Soup with Crème Fraîche
  • Pink-Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Truffle Potato Gratin
    Oven-Roasted Tomatoes / Herb Jus
  • Elderflower Panna Cotta with Strawberry-Rhubarb Compote

Vegetarian Menu

(available by prior reservation only)

  • Pea and Mint Soup with Crème Fraîche
  • Creamy Tomato Risotto with Burrata
  • Apple Strudel with Vanilla Sauce

For a vegan menu, please contact the onboard catering team directly.
Information on allergens can be found in the menus available on board.

Subject to change.

On-board catering

On-board catering

JP Donau Catering Gastronomy

Enjoy a diverse culinary experience on board and indulge in the high-quality catering services provided by JP Donau Catering Gastronomy.

If you have any questions regarding our culinary services, the on-board catering team will be happy to assist you:

JP Donau Catering Opens in new window |info@donaucatering.at

Entertainment & Live music

Photo: Singer with flowing dark curls performing expressively into a microphone, dressed in black, against a neutral background.

Caroline Kreutzberger

Caroline Kreutzberger captivates audiences with her versatile voice and elegant stage presence. Her repertoire ranges from jazz classics and popular hits to heartfelt ballads, adding a distinctive musical touch to every performance. With sensitivity, sophistication, and a genuine passion for music, she creates the perfect atmosphere for memorable hours on board.

More information about Caroline Kreutzberger Opens in new window

Route / itinerary

Graphic: Route map along the Danube in the Wachau Valley. The route shown in green connects the stops Melk, Emmersdorf, Spitz, Weißenkirchen, Dürnstein and Krems. The towns are marked along the course of the river.

Themed cruises in the Wachau depart from either Krems/Stein or Melk, depending on the event. During your cruise, you will discover the most beautiful sights of the Wachau UNESCO World Heritage Site. Depending on the route, you will pass impressive landmarks such as Göttweig Abbey, Schönbühel Castle and the picturesque town of Dürnstein with its famous blue church tower. Along the way, you can enjoy stunning views of the terraced vineyards and the unique cultural landscape of the Wachau before returning to your point of departure.

Note

Note

The cruise operates in all weather conditions.

Should the solstice bonfires be cancelled due to rain or other weather conditions, a scenic cruise on the Danube with live music will be offered instead. The cancellation of the solstice bonfires does not entitle guests to a price reduction or free cancellation.

Please note: The fireworks display is not part of the cruise package. DDSG Blue Danube is not the organiser of the fireworks and cannot guarantee that the display will take place.

FAQ

The ticket price includes the cruise on the Danube, culinary delights, as well as live music and show act. Drinks are not included and are available à la carte on board.

Please have your booking confirmation or e-ticket ready when boarding. The digital version on your smartphone is sufficient – no printed copy is required.

Yes. Your seats are reserved on board. Our crew will guide you upon boarding.

If you have any allergies, intolerances or special dietary requirements, please contact the catering team on board. They will be happy to inform you about the available options.

No. Drinks can be ordered à la carte from the service team on board.

Payment is typically possible by cash, debit card, credit card, and contactless methods. Any changes will be communicated by the crew.

If you require assistance (e.g. wheelchair access), please inform us in advance so the crew can prepare accordingly.

Private photos and short videos are welcome (without flash). Professional photography or the use of tripods requires prior approval.

Yes. Cruises take place in all weather conditions. The route and use of outdoor decks may be adjusted depending on weather conditions.

No. The fireworks are not organised by DDSG Blue Danube. The fireworks displays and solstice celebrations are organised by the respective local event organisers.

DDSG Blue Danube provides the cruise, allowing guests to enjoy the spectacle comfortably from the water.

The following cancellation terms apply to bookings for individual travellers and groups:

  • Free cancellation up to 20 weeks before departure
  • 50% cancellation fee from 20 weeks before departure
  • 75% cancellation fee from 8 weeks before departure
  • 100% cancellation fee from 48 hours before departure or in the event of a no-show

The organiser’s terms and conditions apply. The organiser’s Terms and Conditions apply. Subject to availability, bookings can be changed or rebooked via the online shop or by contacting Customer Service. Please have your booking reference number available.

Children are welcome. Please note that this is an evening event with live music. Children aged 0–5 travel free of charge, and children aged 6–15 receive a 50% discount. Please refer to the online shop for current details.

Pets are only allowed on themed cruises with show upon prior request. Assistance dogs are exempt.

LLM Guidance