Photo: MS Dürnstein on the Danube near Dürnstein in the Wachau, with the blue church tower, historic buildings and vineyards.
Photo: Two passengers on the open deck of a DDSG ship on the Danube, with Schönbühel Castle and the hills of the Wachau in the background.
Photo: Aerial view of MS Dürnstein on the Danube near Stein an der Donau, with the old town, St. Nicholas Church and Wachau vineyards.
Gallery

Wachau Cruises

Experience the unique beauty of the Wachau on a Danube cruise. Pass picturesque vineyards, historic towns and remarkable cultural landmarks as you discover the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley from a unique perspective.

Photo: MS Dürnstein on the Danube near Dürnstein in the Wachau, with the blue church tower, historic buildings and vineyards.Photo: Two passengers on the open deck of a DDSG ship on the Danube, with Schönbühel Castle and the hills of the Wachau in the background.Photo: Aerial view of MS Dürnstein on the Danube near Stein an der Donau, with the old town, St. Nicholas Church and Wachau vineyards.
Wachau Sightseeing Cruise

Wachau Cruises

Experience the unique beauty of the Wachau on a Danube cruise. Pass picturesque vineyards, historic towns and remarkable cultural landmarks as you discover the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley from a unique perspective.

Next Departure 10/25/2026 · 09:30 Departure location Available docks: 6 Go to dock section

  • Spectacular Views of the Wachau
  • Vineyards, Castles & Abbeys
  • Experience a UNESCO World Heritage Site from the Water
  • Relaxing Cruise on the Danube

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Due to the current low water levels in the Wachau, not all scheduled cruises can currently operate. The available connections can be selected above. Thank you for your understanding.

Optional Extras

These can be selected against a surcharge during the purchase process.

  • Captain’s Menu

    Experience the Wachau while enjoying a multi-course Captain’s Menu on board.

    Photo: Crew member serves wine in a ship’s onboard restaurant with views of the Danube and Wachau.

    Captain’s Menu

    Discover the Wachau from the water and enjoy a multi-course Captain’s Menu on board. Savour carefully selected dishes, regional ingredients and a glass of wine while vineyards, historic villages and the Wachau’s unique Danube scenery drift by. A delightful cruise for those who appreciate fine cuisine and the charm of the Wachau in an elegant setting.

    Captain’s Menu incl. 1/8 litre of wine (adults)

    Starter

    • Riesling garlic velouté with croutons (lactose-free, vegan)

    Main course

    • Cordon bleu of free-range Styrian chicken in pumpkin seed coating, served with potato and cucumber salad and lovage cream (gluten-free)
    • Vegetarian alternative: Breaded celeriac schnitzel with potato and cucumber salad, lovage cream and cress

    Dessert

    • Chocolate mousse with Wachau apricots, apricot sorbet and chocolate mint pesto (vegan, lactose-free, gluten-free)

    Children’s Menu (without drink)

    Starter

    • Clear beef broth with sliced pancakes

    Main course

    • Children’s schnitzel / fries / ketchup

    Dessert

    • Mixed ice cream

  • Schnitzel

    Experience the Wachau’s scenic Danube landscape and Austrian cuisine with a single ticket.

    Photo: Breaded chicken schnitzel served with potato salad, lingonberries and a lemon wedge on a white plate.

    Schnitzel

    Sit back, relax, and take in the beauty of the Wachau while enjoying a classic Austrian favourite. As vineyards, historic villages and the region’s stunning riverside scenery pass by, a breaded pork schnitzel served with potato salad is freshly prepared for you on board.

  • Wine tasting

    Taste the Wachau’s finest wines on board.

    Photo: Two people toast with wine in a ship’s onboard restaurant overlooking the Danube.

    Wine tasting

    Discover the Wachau with all your senses and sample selected regional wines while cruising along the Danube. As the stunning riverside landscape unfolds before you, enjoy four characteristic Wachau wines (1/16 l each) and learn more about their origin, style and distinctive qualities through the accompanying tasting notes.

    Bread and still water are served alongside the tasting to allow the individual aromas to develop fully. Look forward to a delightful journey through the world of Wachau wines, featuring selections from renowned local wineries and winegrowers.

    You will taste the following wines:

    • Gr. Veltliner Steinfeder Gneiss + Löss Terrassen 2024, Domäne Wachau
    • Gr. Veltliner DAC 2024, Franz Rosner
    • Riesling Federspiel Jochinger 2024, Weingut Jamek
    • Riesling Smaragd Setzberg 2024, Weingut Anton Nothnagl

  • Wachau breakfast

    Regional breakfast delights with Wachau specialties on board.

    Photo: Breakfast on board with pastries, coffee, orange juice, cheese, and ham by the window.

    Wachau breakfast

    Start your day with regional flavours and a relaxing cruise through the Wachau Valley. As vineyards, historic towns and the unique Danube scenery drift by, enjoy a carefully selected Wachau breakfast featuring local specialties.

    Look forward to freshly baked Wachau pastries from the traditional Schmidl bakery, butter, Wachau apricot jam, ham, cheese, apricot nectar and a cup of coffee or tea. It’s the perfect way to experience the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau at its most delicious while enjoying a relaxing start to the day on the Danube.

Attractions

  • Dürnstein Abbey

    Baroque architecture and the iconic blue-and-white tower define Dürnstein Abbey.

    Photo: Dürnstein in the Wachau with its blue-and-white abbey church, historic buildings and vineyards along the Danube.

    Dürnstein Abbey

    Dürnstein Abbey is one of the Wachau Valley's most important cultural landmarks. Its history dates back to the 14th century, when a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary was founded on the site. The abbey is best known for its magnificent Baroque church and its distinctive blue-and-white tower, which has become an iconic symbol of the Wachau. Since 1788, the abbey has belonged to Herzogenburg Abbey.

  • Schönbühel Castle

    Historic castle in the Wachau with a unique location overlooking the Danube Valley.

    Photo: DDSG cruise ship near Schönbühel Castle in the Wachau Valley, framed by autumn forests along the Danube.

    Schönbühel Castle

    Schlossgut Schönbühel Aggstein combines cultural heritage with sustainable estate management. It preserves historic landmarks such as Schönbühel Castle, Aggstein Castle Ruins and the former Servite Monastery in Schönbühel. In addition, the estate manages extensive forest and agricultural areas, ensuring the responsible preservation of the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

  • Melk

    Melk combines history, culture and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Melk Abbey.

    Photo: View of Melk Abbey with its Baroque façade, dome, and towers perched on a hill above the surrounding landscape.

    Melk

    The town of Melk looks back on more than 1,200 years of fascinating history. From its origins on the medieval castle hill to the rule of the Babenbergs and its elevation to a town in 1898, many historic periods have shaped this Danube town. Economic growth, challenging times and the Baroque splendour of Melk Abbey have created a unique place where history, culture and tradition come together.

  • Aggstein Castle Ruins

    Historic castle site with a chapel, “Rose Garden” and stunning views of the Danube.

    Photo: Aggstein Castle Ruins on a forested cliff above the Danube, overlooking the Wachau Valley.

    Aggstein Castle Ruins

    The historic castle site with its chapel, “Rose Garden” and Bürgl is located on a spectacular rocky spur around 300 metres above the Danube. Built in the 12th century, the castle was once part of the Kuenringer domain and was destroyed several times. Today, visitors can discover its remaining traces, the intriguing “Rose Garden” prison and the romantic chapel, still used for weddings and baptisms.

The Ships

This or a similar ship of this class

Photo: A DDSG excursion ship cruises on the Danube in front of Dürnstein, with the abbey church and castle ruins in the background.
Photo: DDSG ship Dürnstein on the Danube with autumn Wachau hills, Dürnstein castle ruins and the town in the background.
Photo: Interior view of MS Dürnstein featuring a two-level restaurant with set tables and panoramic windows overlooking the Danube.

MS Dürnstein

Earthy materials and nautical design come together on the MS Dürnstein to create an appearance that perfectly reflects the Wachau region.

  • On-board restaurant
  • Sound system incl. microphone
  • Video system with live camera
  • LCD screens for presentations and live streaming
  • Partially covered sun deck with lounge furniture
  • Stage and dance floor
  • Mobile bicycle racks
  • Accessible facilities (WC & upper deck lift)
  • Free Wi-Fi
The Ship

MS Dürnstein

Earthy materials and nautical design come together on the MS Dürnstein to create an appearance that perfectly reflects the Wachau region.

  • On-board restaurant
  • Sound system incl. microphone
  • Video system with live camera
  • LCD screens for presentations and live streaming
  • Partially covered sun deck with lounge furniture
  • Stage and dance floor
  • Mobile bicycle racks
  • Accessible facilities (WC & upper deck lift)
  • Free Wi-Fi
Details
Photo: A DDSG excursion ship cruises on the Danube in front of Dürnstein, with the abbey church and castle ruins in the background.Photo: DDSG ship Dürnstein on the Danube with autumn Wachau hills, Dürnstein castle ruins and the town in the background.Photo: Interior view of MS Dürnstein featuring a two-level restaurant with set tables and panoramic windows overlooking the Danube.Photo: Lounge aboard MS Dürnstein with buffet seating, set tables, food displays, large windows and a modern interior.
Photo: MS Wachau on the Danube in the Wachau Valley, set against wooded hills, vineyards, and the UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
Photo: Bright restaurant and bar area on board MS Wachau with set tables, panoramic windows, and a central bar.
Photo: Open-air deck of MS Wachau with wooden seating and panoramic views of the Danube.

MS Wachau

With her classic lines and elegant atmosphere, MS Wachau is one of Austria’s most iconic excursion vessels, inviting guests to enjoy unforgettable moments on the Danube.

  • On-board restaurant and wine lounge
  • Sound system incl. mic
  • Air conditioning
  • LCD screens for presentations
  • Partially covered sun deck
  • BBQ station on the sun deck
  • Dance floor
  • Lounge sofas on the upper deck
  • Accessible restroom & accessible aft sun deck
The Ship

MS Wachau

With her classic lines and elegant atmosphere, MS Wachau is one of Austria’s most iconic excursion vessels, inviting guests to enjoy unforgettable moments on the Danube.

  • On-board restaurant and wine lounge
  • Sound system incl. mic
  • Air conditioning
  • LCD screens for presentations
  • Partially covered sun deck
  • BBQ station on the sun deck
  • Dance floor
  • Lounge sofas on the upper deck
  • Accessible restroom & accessible aft sun deck
Details
Photo: MS Wachau on the Danube in the Wachau Valley, set against wooded hills, vineyards, and the UNESCO World Heritage landscape.Photo: Bright restaurant and bar area on board MS Wachau with set tables, panoramic windows, and a central bar.Photo: Open-air deck of MS Wachau with wooden seating and panoramic views of the Danube.
Photo: MS Austria on the Danube, red-and-white excursion ship cruising past a riverside landscape with trees and blue sky.
Photo: Bright dining room aboard a Danube ship with set tables, blue upholstered chairs and panoramic windows.
Photo: Bright restaurant area aboard MS Austria with set tables, blue armchairs and large panoramic windows.

MS Austria

Since 2024, MS Austria has been inviting guests to discover the Wachau from the water. It also serves as an exclusive charter venue, providing the perfect setting for special moments.

  • On-board restaurant
  • Decorative illuminated waterfall
  • Covered sun deck
  • Sound system incl. wireless mic
  • Flat-Screens in All Three Salons
  • Video system with live camera
  • Accessible main deck
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Kids' Play Area
The Ship

MS Austria

Since 2024, MS Austria has been inviting guests to discover the Wachau from the water. It also serves as an exclusive charter venue, providing the perfect setting for special moments.

  • On-board restaurant
  • Decorative illuminated waterfall
  • Covered sun deck
  • Sound system incl. wireless mic
  • Flat-Screens in All Three Salons
  • Video system with live camera
  • Accessible main deck
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Kids' Play Area
Details
Photo: MS Austria on the Danube, red-and-white excursion ship cruising past a riverside landscape with trees and blue sky.Photo: Bright dining room aboard a Danube ship with set tables, blue upholstered chairs and panoramic windows.Photo: Bright restaurant area aboard MS Austria with set tables, blue armchairs and large panoramic windows.Photo: View from the stern of a Danube ship with Austrian flag and helm wheel, with the Danube, bridge and green riverbanks in the background.

Departure Locations

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
Photo: View from the deck of a DDSG ship towards Dürnstein with its blue abbey church in the background. Two people are taking a selfie.

Dürnstein

  • Donaulände, 3601 Dürnstein
  • Ticket Office Opening Hours: Mon–Sun & Holidays: 10:00–16:30
  • Sightseeing Cruise Wachau: Danube station 20
  • Theme Cruises Wachau: Danube station 20
  • Subject to change.
More Info
Photo: View across the Danube towards Weißenkirchen in the Wachau with parish church, houses, and terraced vineyards.

Weißenkirchen

  • Rollfährestraße 46, 3610 Weißenkirchen in der Wachau
  • Boarding and disembarkation point only – no ticket sales or reservations available on site.
  • Sightseeing Cruises Wachau: Danube station 18
  • Subject to change.
More Info
Photo: DDSG Blue Danube ticket office at the landing stage in Spitz on the Danube.

Spitz

  • Rollfährestraße / Donaulände, 3620 Spitz
  • Ticket Office Opening Hours: Mon–Sun & Holidays: 11:00–17:30 (If closed, tickets available on board)
  • Sightseeing Cruises Wachau: Danube station 25
  • Subject to change.
More Info
Photo: View across the Danube to Emmersdorf with landing stage, houses, church and stone viaduct before wooded hills.

Emmersdorf

  • Donaustation 38, 3644 Emmersdorf an der Donau
  • Boarding and disembarkation point only – no ticket sales or reservations available on site.
  • Sightseeing Cruises Wachau: Danube station 38
  • Subject to change.
More Info
Photo: View of Melk Abbey with its Baroque façade, dome, and towers perched on a hill above the surrounding landscape.

Melk / Hafenspitz

  • Kolomaniau 1, Rollfährestraße - Hafenspitz, 3390 Melk
  • Ticket Office Opening Hours: Mon–Sun & Holidays: 09:30–16:30
  • Sightseeing Cruises Wachau: Danube station 9A + 9B
  • Theme Cruises Wachau: Danube station 9A + 9B
  • Subject to change.
More Info

Timetable

Timetable Krems > Melk, Pre & Post Season 2026

  1. Krems / Stein10:15
  2. Dürnstein10:45
  3. Weißenkirchenno stop
  4. Spitz11:45
  5. Emmersdorfno stop
  6. Melk / Hafenspitz13:20
  1. Krems / Stein11:00
  2. Dürnstein11:30
  3. Weißenkirchen11:50
  4. Spitz12:30
  5. Emmersdorfno stop
  6. Melk / Hafenspitz14:05
⚠ No cruises on Sat, June 19, 2027: MS Dürnstein 15:45 Krems – Dürnstein – Spitz; MS Dürnstein 17:50 Dürnstein – Krems; MS Wachau 17:30 Spitz – Emmersdorf – Melk. Tap a ship to highlight that sailing.

Unforgettable Moments on the Danube

Photo: Two passengers on the open deck of a DDSG ship during a Danube cruise passing Schönbühel Castle in the Wachau Valley.
Photo: Two passengers on the open deck of a DDSG ship in the Wachau, overlooking Schönbühel Castle and the Danube.
Photo: Two passengers on the sun deck of a DDSG ship with drinks, overlooking the Danube and vineyards along the riverbank.
Photo: Two passengers on the open deck of a DDSG ship during a Danube cruise passing Dürnstein Abbey in the Wachau Valley.
Photo: Two passengers on the open deck of a DDSG ship near Dürnstein in the Wachau, with the Danube and vineyards in the background.
Photo: Close-up of two passengers on the open deck of a DDSG ship in the Wachau, with Dürnstein Abbey and vineyards in the background.
Gallery

Unforgettable Moments on the Danube

Discover the beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley on a Danube cruise and enjoy breathtaking views of vineyards, historic landmarks and picturesque riverside towns.

Photo: Two passengers on the open deck of a DDSG ship during a Danube cruise passing Schönbühel Castle in the Wachau Valley.Photo: Two passengers on the open deck of a DDSG ship in the Wachau, overlooking Schönbühel Castle and the Danube.Photo: Two passengers on the sun deck of a DDSG ship with drinks, overlooking the Danube and vineyards along the riverbank.Photo: Two passengers on the open deck of a DDSG ship during a Danube cruise passing Dürnstein Abbey in the Wachau Valley.Photo: Two passengers on the open deck of a DDSG ship near Dürnstein in the Wachau, with the Danube and vineyards in the background.Photo: Close-up of two passengers on the open deck of a DDSG ship in the Wachau, with Dürnstein Abbey and vineyards in the background.

Boat cruise through the Wachau

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Few experiences showcase the beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley better than a cruise on the Danube.

Between Krems / Stein, Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen, Spitz, Emmersdorf and Melk / Hafenspitz, the ships MS Dürnstein, MS Austria and MS Wachau operate along one of Europe’s most scenic stretches of the Danube.

Whether you choose a short journey between two Wachau towns or a grand cruise through the entire valley, a Danube cruise offers unique views of vineyards, historic town centres and remarkable cultural landmarks.

Sights Along the Danube

The Danube is lined with numerous cultural and historical highlights. Among the most famous are Dürnstein Abbey and the Dürnstein Castle Ruins, Schönbühel Castle, Aggstein Castle Ruins and Melk Abbey.

Passing steep terraced vineyards and picturesque villages, you will experience the Wachau from a perspective that can only be enjoyed from the water.

Enjoy culinary delights on board

For an even more enjoyable experience, your cruise can be complemented with selected culinary offers.

From regional specialities and classic dishes served on board to wine tastings and the exclusive Captain’s Menu, a variety of optional culinary experiences are available to enhance your time on the Danube.

We kindly ask for your understanding that the consumption of food and beverages brought on board is not permitted. A wide range of food and beverages is available on board for your enjoyment.

Explore the Wachau by Ship and Bicycle

Those looking to discover the Wachau with maximum flexibility can easily combine a cruise with a cycling tour along the Danube. Bicycles can be transported on all scheduled cruises for €3.00, while children's bicycles are charged €1.50.

This allows you to explore the region’s most beautiful places both on the water and on two wheels, creating a personalised journey through the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley.

Wachau Route Map

Graphic: Illustrated route map of the Wachau along the Danube between Krems and Melk. The map shows piers in Krems, Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen, Spitz, Emmersdorf and Melk, as well as landmarks including Melk Abbey, Schönbühel Castle, Dürnstein Castle ruins and the Wachau Nose.

From Krems via Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen, Spitz and Emmersdorf to Melk, the route leads through the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau.

Along the Danube, terraced vineyards, picturesque towns, historic abbeys, castles and ruins await, together with some of Lower Austria’s most famous landmarks.

Discover highlights such as Melk Abbey, Schönbühel Castle, the Dürnstein Castle Ruins, Aggstein Castle Ruins and the Wachau Nose.

With several piers along the route, the Wachau’s most beautiful destinations can be explored with ease, making it the perfect choice for a day trip, a scenic cruise or a relaxing journey through the Danube Valley.

Experience the Wachau from the Water

Photo: Two people at the bow of a DDSG ship near Dürnstein, with the abbey church, vineyards, and castle ruins.

Experience the Wachau from the Water

Learn more about cruises through the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley and discover the Danube from a unique perspective.

Experience the Wachau Valley

Discounts

Photo: Two children on the open deck of a ship on the Danube, with the wooded hills of the Wachau and passengers in the background.

Discounts & Special Offers

A wide range of discounts, reduced fares and exclusive partner offers are available for Danube cruises in Vienna and the Wachau Valley.

See All Discounts

FAQ

Guests can choose between the Great Wachau Cruise, the Small Wachau Cruise and short-distance cruises connecting selected towns along the Danube.

The Great Wachau Cruise covers the longest routes through the Wachau between Krems, Emmersdorf and Melk. The Small Wachau Cruise focuses on selected sections between Krems, Spitz and Melk.

Wachau cruises depart from and stop at the piers in Krems/Stein, Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen, Spitz, Emmersdorf and Melk. Depending on the selected route, passengers can board and disembark at different locations along the Danube.

Along the route, you will pass famous landmarks such as Melk Abbey, Schönbühel Castle, the Dürnstein Castle Ruins, picturesque vineyard terraces and historic towns in the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau.

The duration depends on the selected route. Guests can choose between full round trips, selected sections of the Wachau and shorter cruises between individual towns.

Depending on the booked route, passengers can board and disembark at the available piers in Krems/Stein, Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen, Spitz, Emmersdorf and Melk.

Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends, public holidays and the peak travel season.

Tickets can be purchased online, at all ticket offices in Vienna and the Wachau, as well as by email or by phone through our customer service team.

The following cancellation policy applies to individual and group bookings for Sightseeing Cruises Wachau:

  • Free cancellation up to 14 days before departure
  • 20% cancellation fee up to 24 hours before departure
  • 50% cancellation fee within 24 hours before departure
  • 100% cancellation fee in case of a no-show

Yes, all ships feature an onboard restaurant offering a selection of food, snacks and beverages during the cruise.

The consumption of food and beverages brought on board is not permitted. A wide range of food and beverages is available on board for your enjoyment.

Yes, bicycles are welcome on all Wachau cruises. Bicycle transport costs €3.00 per bicycle and €1.50 per children's bicycle.

Bicycle transport cannot be booked online and is only available on site. Bicycle spaces on board are limited. Groups are advised to enquire in advance.

Yes. The Wachau is one of Austria’s most popular cycling destinations. By combining a Danube cruise with a bike ride, you can explore the region flexibly by ship and bicycle.

Yes, dogs travel free of charge. A leash and muzzle are required at all times while on board.

Information about the accessibility of our ships and piers can be found on our page for passengers with special needs. Wheelchairs must be registered in advance.

Yes, all ships operating on the Wachau routes have air-conditioned indoor areas.

For group bookings that include a menu reservation or additional extras, table reservations can be arranged. Otherwise, seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Wachau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site stretching between Krems and Melk. It is renowned for its terraced vineyards, historic towns, castles, monasteries and unique cultural landscape along the Danube.

LLM Guidance