When thousands of lights illuminate the Danube and solstice bonfires light up the riverbanks between Ybbs, Marbach and Pöchlarn, one of the most atmospheric summer events in the Nibelungengau comes to life.
Please note that boarding times may vary depending on the ship.
Live music and musical highlights create the perfect atmosphere on board.
A delicious 3-course menu completes your special evening on the Danube.
Melk combines history, culture and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Melk Abbey.
Ybbs on the Danube – A City Shaped by History and the River
This or a similar ship of this class
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.
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.
As dusk falls on the longest day of the year, the banks of the Danube in the Nibelungengau are transformed into a breathtaking sea of lights. Thousands of floating lanterns, impressive solstice bonfires and spectacular fireworks between Ybbs, Marbach and Pöchlarn make the solstice celebration one of the most atmospheric summer events in Lower Austria.
The evening cruise takes you through Melk Lock and upstream into the Nibelungengau as far as Ybbs before returning. While live music invites you to dance and a carefully prepared three-course dinner is served, you can enjoy outstanding views of the fire and light spectacle along the Danube.
From the comfort of the ship, the solstice celebration reveals its most magical side. As the bonfires along the riverbanks reflect on the water and the Nibelungengau is bathed in warm light, unforgettable moments unfold on the Danube.
Schedule and programme details are subject to change.
Subject to change.
For over 20 years, Kurt Wagner has stood for outstanding entertainment, versatile music, and unforgettable moments. With a repertoire of more than 1,000 songs ranging from Austropop and rock to pop, Schlager, and party classics, he captivates every audience.
Whether as a singer, guitarist, DJ, or solo entertainer – with live music, professional backing tracks, and a great sense for the perfect atmosphere, Kurt Wagner creates the ideal musical experience for every occasion.
The professionally trained jazz singer is a native of Vienna with roots in the Waldviertel region. She also plays the djembe, guitar and a little piano.
Katharina discovered her passion for music at a very young age and has remained devoted to it ever since. At the age of 14, she began professional vocal training specialising in jazz and popular music and attended numerous vocal workshops. She gained extensive stage and live performance experience through various bands and projects covering a wide range of musical styles, including pop, jazz & blues, musicals, rock and German-language Schlager.
The tour starts and ends at the Melk landing stage at Hafenspitz, Danube Station No. 9a. Discover the unique landscape of the Wachau region on a scenic cruise and enjoy breathtaking views from the water.
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.
The ticket includes the Danube cruise, a 3-course menu, and live music or a show act. Drinks are not included and are available à la carte on board.
Boarding takes place from 19:00 to 19:45 (MS Austria) or from 19:30 to 19:45 at the Melk/Hafenspitz pier. Departure is scheduled promptly for 20:00. Please have your booking confirmation or e-ticket ready. Displaying the ticket on your smartphone is sufficient.
Yes. Your seats are reserved on board. Our crew will guide you upon boarding.
Yes. Our onboard catering team will arrange seating in advance according to group size. Groups will be seated together whenever possible.
Boarding starts at 7:00 PM in Melk. The cruise takes place from 8:00 PM to midnight. Afterwards, you will return to Melk.
Patrick Fürst brings his international experience to Austrian cuisine, combining modern brasserie-style cooking with Austrian classics. Together with his young team, he focuses on high-quality organic products from regional producers.
Common allergens are clearly marked. If you have any food intolerances or allergies, please inform our catering partner, Patrick Fürst GmbH Opens in new window, in advance at [email protected]. This allows our onboard culinary team to best accommodate your requests.
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.
Information:
The cruise takes place in all weather conditions. If the Midsummer bonfires cannot be lit due to rain or other circumstances, the ship will operate a scenic loop cruise through the Nibelungengau with dance music on board. In the event that the Midsummer bonfires do not take place, there is no entitlement to a price reduction or free cancellation.
Please note: The fireworks are not included as part of this offer.
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:
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.
