Photo: Blooming apricot trees along the Danube in Spitz, Wachau, with a DDSG ship at the pier in front of the wine village.
Photo: Crew member serves wine in a ship’s onboard restaurant with views of the Danube and Wachau.
Photo: Blooming apricot orchards in the Wachau with views of Dürnstein, the abbey, castle ruins and a DDSG ship on the Danube.
Gallery

Apricot Blossom

Apricot Blossom Cruise in the Wachau Valley: Discover the sea of pink and white blossoms along the Danube from a unique perspective.

Photo: Blooming apricot trees along the Danube in Spitz, Wachau, with a DDSG ship at the pier in front of the wine village.Photo: Crew member serves wine in a ship’s onboard restaurant with views of the Danube and Wachau.Photo: Blooming apricot orchards in the Wachau with views of Dürnstein, the abbey, castle ruins and a DDSG ship on the Danube.
Wachau Sightseeing Cruise

Apricot Blossom

Apricot Blossom Cruise in the Wachau Valley: Discover the sea of pink and white blossoms along the Danube from a unique perspective.

Departure location Krems / Stein Go to dock section

  • Duration: 5.25 hours
  • Cruise through the blooming Wachau Valley
  • Unique views of blooming apricot orchards
  • 3 hours at leisure in Spitz

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The dates for the Apricot Blossom Cruises will be announced once the anticipated peak of the blossom season becomes apparent.

Optional Extras

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

  • Spring Menu

    Experience the Wachau apricot blossom complemented by an exclusive menu created by Patrick Fürst.

    Photo: Creamy white soup served in a deep bowl on a wooden table, garnished with croutons, parsley and oil, with herbs and a spoon alongside.

    Spring Menu

    Enjoy an exclusive three-course menu created by Patrick Fürst especially for the Apricot Blossom Cruise. Regional ingredients, spring flavours and the unique backdrop of the blooming Wachau Valley turn this cruise into a feast for all the senses.

    • Starter: Wineyard garlic and Riesling velouté with croutons
    • Main Course: Grilled chicken breast with curd cheese spaetzle, pointed pepper sauce, sour cream and crispy fried onions
    • Dessert: Vanilla cream with Wachau apricots and almond meringue

Attractions

  • Benedictine Abbey of Göttweig

    Baroque masterpiece above the Danube with magnificent interiors and a breathtaking Wachau panorama.

    Photo: Aerial view of Göttweig Abbey, featuring Baroque buildings, onion-domed towers, and rolling green hills.

    Benedictine Abbey of Göttweig

    High above the Wachau Valley lies Göttweig Abbey, an impressive landmark of Lower Austria. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000, the monastery captivates visitors with its baroque architecture, fascinating history, and unique panoramic views over the Danube Valley. The present-day complex was built after a devastating fire in 1718, based on the plans of the renowned architect Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt.

  • 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.

  • Krems

    Krems captivates with centuries of history and charming historic streets.

    Photo: View of Krems from the Danube, featuring St. Vitus Parish Church, historic town houses, and Wachau vineyards.

    Krems

    Krems is one of the oldest settlements along the Danube and looks back on a fascinating history. A walk through the historic old town brings the past to life, with medieval streets, impressive buildings and cultural treasures waiting to be discovered. Experience Krems as a city where history, tradition and unique charm come together.

  • St. Michael’s Fortified Church

    Historic fortified church with Gothic architecture and cultural treasures.

    Photo: St. Michael Parish Church in the Wachau with tiled roof and cemetery, surrounded by vineyards and wooded hills.

    St. Michael’s Fortified Church

    St. Michael’s Fortified Church is one of the oldest ecclesiastical sites in the Wachau and was first documented in 987. The historic fortifications from the 16th century, the Gothic charnel house and valuable works of art, including the Gothic “Man of Sorrows” and a rare organ dating back to 1650, make this church a remarkable cultural landmark.

The Ship

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.

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

Apricot Blossom – Dates & Programme

A Natural Experience Along the Danube

Every spring, the apricot blossom transforms the Wachau Valley between Krems, Dürnstein, Weißenkirchen and Spitz into a unique sea of blossoms.

Around 100,000 apricot trees bathe the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley in delicate shades of pink and white for a few short weeks, creating one of Austria’s most spectacular natural displays.

Experience the Apricot Blossom from the Water

From the ship, a truly unique perspective of the blooming landscape unfolds. Vineyards, historic villages and apricot orchards line the banks of the Danube, while the beauty of the Wachau Valley can be enjoyed on both sides of the river.

Free from traffic, parking hassles and crowds, a cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to experience the apricot blossom season.

A Natural Spectacle for a Limited Time

The exact start of the blossom season depends on the weather each year. In general, the apricot trees bloom from March through the first weeks of April.

As the different apricot varieties do not blossom at the same time, the flowering begins earlier in the lower elevations and gradually moves to the higher parts of the Wachau Valley. As a result, this remarkable natural spectacle can last anywhere from ten days to three weeks.

Itinerary & Details

The MS Dürnstein takes you from Krems to Spitz and back again. During the cruise, enjoy the Wachau apricot blossom and the awakening of spring along the Danube from a truly unique perspective.

Boarding in Krems / Stein: 09:30–10:00

Departure from Krems / Stein: 10:15

Arrival in Spitz: 11:45

Stay in Spitz: approx. 3 hours at leisure

Departure from Spitz: 14:40

Arrival in Krems / Stein: 15:30

Dates

Nature determines when the Wachau Valley is in full bloom. The dates for our apricot blossom cruises will therefore be announced at short notice.

Impressions of the Apricot Blossom

Photo: DDSG Blue Danube ship on the Danube in the Wachau, with blooming apricot blossoms and wooded cliffs along the riverbank.
Photo: Blooming apricot branches overlooking Dürnstein on the Danube, with the abbey, castle ruins and a ship in the background.
Photo: Blooming apricot trees along the Danube in Spitz, Wachau, with a DDSG ship at the pier in front of the wine village.
Photo: Blooming apricot branches overlooking a DDSG ship at the landing stage in Spitz, with historic buildings in the background.
Photo: Blooming apricot orchards in the Wachau with views of Dürnstein, the abbey, castle ruins and a DDSG ship on the Danube.
Photo: Close-up of white apricot blossoms on a branch against a green background, with yellow stamens and pink details.
Photo: Blooming apricot trees in the Wachau with white blossoms, vineyards and rolling hills in the background.
Photo: Close-up of numerous white apricot blossoms in an orchard, covering the branches densely, with more trees in the background.
Photo: Blooming apricot orchard in the Wachau with white apricot blossoms, green meadow and hills in the background.
Photo: Close-up of an apricot branch with white blossoms and yellow stamens against a soft green background.
Photo: Blooming apricot trees on stone terraces in the Wachau, with white blossoms, dry stone walls and green hills.
Photo: Blooming apricot orchard in the Wachau with white-blossoming apricot trees, green meadow, hills and blue sky in the background.
Photo: Close-up of white apricot blossoms and buds on a branch with yellow stamens against a blurred green background.
Photo: Extensive apricot orchard in the Wachau with blooming apricot trees and white blossoms creating a sea of spring flowers.
Photo: Close-up of white apricot blossoms in a Wachau orchard, with more flowering trees in the background.
Photo: Blooming apricot orchard in the Wachau with white apricot blossoms, a green path between the rows of trees and a wooden hut.
Photo: Blooming apricot branches with pink-white blossoms in front of a dry stone wall in the Wachau, with fresh green leaves.
Gallery

Impressions of the Apricot Blossom

Photo: DDSG Blue Danube ship on the Danube in the Wachau, with blooming apricot blossoms and wooded cliffs along the riverbank.Photo: Blooming apricot branches overlooking Dürnstein on the Danube, with the abbey, castle ruins and a ship in the background.Photo: Blooming apricot trees along the Danube in Spitz, Wachau, with a DDSG ship at the pier in front of the wine village.Photo: Blooming apricot branches overlooking a DDSG ship at the landing stage in Spitz, with historic buildings in the background.Photo: Blooming apricot orchards in the Wachau with views of Dürnstein, the abbey, castle ruins and a DDSG ship on the Danube.Photo: Close-up of white apricot blossoms on a branch against a green background, with yellow stamens and pink details.Photo: Blooming apricot trees in the Wachau with white blossoms, vineyards and rolling hills in the background.Photo: Close-up of numerous white apricot blossoms in an orchard, covering the branches densely, with more trees in the background.Photo: Blooming apricot orchard in the Wachau with white apricot blossoms, green meadow and hills in the background.Photo: Close-up of an apricot branch with white blossoms and yellow stamens against a soft green background.Photo: Blooming apricot trees on stone terraces in the Wachau, with white blossoms, dry stone walls and green hills.Photo: Blooming apricot orchard in the Wachau with white-blossoming apricot trees, green meadow, hills and blue sky in the background.Photo: Close-up of white apricot blossoms and buds on a branch with yellow stamens against a blurred green background.Photo: Extensive apricot orchard in the Wachau with blooming apricot trees and white blossoms creating a sea of spring flowers.Photo: Close-up of white apricot blossoms in a Wachau orchard, with more flowering trees in the background.Photo: Blooming apricot orchard in the Wachau with white apricot blossoms, a green path between the rows of trees and a wooden hut.Photo: Blooming apricot branches with pink-white blossoms in front of a dry stone wall in the Wachau, with fresh green leaves.

Spring Menu

Photo: Creamy white soup served in a deep bowl on a wooden table, garnished with croutons, parsley and oil, with herbs and a spoon alongside.

The Wachau in Three CoursesA Taste of the Wachau Valley

Would you like to experience even more of the Wachau? Our spring menu, created exclusively for the Apricot Blossom Cruise by Patrick Fürst, turns the journey into a feast for all the senses.

During the upstream cruise from Krems to Spitz, the starter and main course are served on board. Look forward to an aromatic wineyard garlic and Riesling velouté with croutons, followed by grilled chicken breast with curd cheese spaetzle, pointed pepper sauce, sour cream and crispy fried onions.

During the return cruise to Krems, a vanilla cream with Wachau apricots and almond meringue provides the perfect sweet finale.

Things to Know About the Apricot Blossom

Photo: Close-up of white apricot blossoms on a branch against a green background, with yellow stamens and pink details.

The apricot blossom transforms the Wachau into a stunning sea of blossoms every spring and is considered one of the region’s most beautiful natural spectacles.

Up-to-date information on the flowering season, travel recommendations, and helpful tips for planning your visit can be found through Donau Niederösterreich Tourismus Opens in new window.

This allows you to plan your trip to the Wachau with ease and fully enjoy the unique atmosphere of the blossom season.

Discover the Apricot Blossom

Excursion Tips for Your Apricot Blossom Visit

Hike to Hinterhaus Castle Ruins

If you would like to explore the Wachau on foot during your stay in Spitz, a hike to the Hinterhaus Castle Ruins is highly recommended. Perched high above the village, the historic ruins reward visitors with spectacular views of Spitz, the Danube, and the surrounding vineyard-covered landscape.

The hike starts and ends at DDSG Landing Stage No. 15 in Spitz. The trail leads through the picturesque Wachau cultural landscape up to the ruins and the nearby Lusthaus, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau along the way.

Please allow at least two hours for the hike, depending on your walking pace and the time spent enjoying the viewpoints. Due to the nature of the trail, this excursion is not suitable for strollers, small children, or visitors with limited mobility. We also recommend wearing sturdy footwear.

Walk Through Spitz

Make the most of your stay in Spitz with a leisurely walk through one of the Wachau’s most charming villages. Starting from DDSG Landing Stage No. 15, the route takes you through the historic centre of Spitz, past picturesque alleyways, traditional townhouses, and hidden corners full of local character.

As you explore the village, you will discover the unique atmosphere that makes Spitz one of the Wachau’s most beloved destinations. On your way back, enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Danube promenade, where beautiful views of the river and the surrounding landscape await.

Depending on your walking pace and the time you spend exploring, you should allow at least one hour for the walk.

From Blossom to Fruit

Photo: Woman in a dirndl tasting apricot dumplings by Krems' Steinertor, with fresh apricots and an apricot sign.

The Apricot Festival in Krems

Anyone who has experienced the Wachau apricot blossom in spring should not miss the “Alles Marille” Festival in summer.

Every July, Krems celebrates the region’s most famous fruit, the Wachau apricot. From traditional specialties and sweet treats to creative apricot-inspired dishes, the festival offers a true taste of the Wachau and a delightful experience for food lovers.

Join our day trip from Vienna to Krems and visit one of Lower Austria’s most popular culinary festivals, where you can discover the Wachau apricot at its most delicious.

Apricot Festival in Krems

FAQ

The exact timing of the apricot blossom depends on the weather conditions each year. In general, the blossom season extends from March through the first weeks of April.

Depending on the weather conditions and the variety of apricot trees, the blossom season can last anywhere from 10 days to 3 weeks.

Around 100,000 apricot trees transform the Wachau Valley into a sea of pink and white blossoms during the flowering season.

As the exact timing of the apricot blossom cannot be predicted with certainty, the cruise dates are only announced once the anticipated peak of the blossom season becomes apparent.

A cruise offers unobstructed views of both riverbanks and unique perspectives of the blooming apricot orchards, vineyards and historic towns of the Wachau Valley. At the same time, the region can be explored in a relaxed way, without traffic congestion or the hassle of finding parking.

The MS Dürnstein cruises from Krems / Stein to Spitz and back again. In Spitz, guests have free time to explore the picturesque Wachau village at their own pace.

The entire cruise, including the stay in Spitz, lasts approximately 5.25 hours.

As availability is limited and the Apricot Blossom Cruises are very popular, we recommend booking in advance.

Once the cruise dates have been announced, tickets can be booked conveniently online, at any of our ticket offices in Vienna and the Wachau Valley, by email, or through our customer service team by phone.

Yes, all ships feature an onboard restaurant serving meals, snacks and drinks. We especially recommend our spring menu, created exclusively for the Apricot Blossom Cruises, which adds a culinary highlight to the journey.

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.

Table reservations are possible for groups and guests who have pre-booked a menu. Otherwise, seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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

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

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

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

  • 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
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