Photo: Starnacht concert stage in the Wachau with an audience, while the DDSG ship Dürnstein cruises along the Danube in the background.
Photo: A DDSG excursion ship cruises on the Danube in front of Dürnstein, with the abbey church and castle ruins in the background.
Photo: Panoramic view of Dürnstein in the Wachau with the abbey church, historic town, vineyards and castle ruins.
Gallery

Panoramic Cruise – Starnacht in the Wachau

Panoramic Cruise to the Starnacht in the Wachau: Experience the unique atmosphere of this concert highlight on the Danube and enjoy the Wachau’s stunning vineyards, river scenery and star-studded entertainment.

Photo: Starnacht concert stage in the Wachau with an audience, while the DDSG ship Dürnstein cruises along the Danube in the background.Photo: A DDSG excursion ship cruises on the Danube in front of Dürnstein, with the abbey church and castle ruins in the background.Photo: Panoramic view of Dürnstein in the Wachau with the abbey church, historic town, vineyards and castle ruins.
Wachau Theme Cruise

Panoramic Cruise – Starnacht in the Wachau

Panoramic Cruise to the Starnacht in the Wachau: Experience the unique atmosphere of this concert highlight on the Danube and enjoy the Wachau’s stunning vineyards, river scenery and star-studded entertainment.

Departure location Krems / Stein Go to dock section

  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Experience the Starnacht live concert from the water
  • Enjoy a traditional Wachau snack in a relaxed atmosphere
  • Exclusive views of the stage and event grounds
  • Concert enjoyment with stunning views of the Wachau

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Included in price

  • Starnacht in the Wachau

    Inclusive

    Enjoy the Wachau’s concert highlight from a unique perspective on board a Danube cruise.

  • Wachau Snack on Board

    Inclusive

    Enjoy a traditional Wachau snack while taking in the views of the Danube.

Attractions

  • 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.

  • Dürnstein

    Dürnstein combines historic charm, wine culture and breathtaking views.

    Photo: Panoramic view of Dürnstein on the Danube, featuring the blue-and-white abbey church tower and the castle ruins above.

    Dürnstein

    Dürnstein is one of the Wachau Valley’s most romantic and iconic destinations. Its medieval old town, the Baroque abbey with its famous blue church tower and the castle ruins linked to the legend of Richard the Lionheart create a unique atmosphere. Surrounded by vineyards, hiking trails and excellent culinary experiences, Dürnstein perfectly combines history, culture, nature and enjoyment.

  • 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: 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

Program

Experience the Starnacht from the Water

When the Starnacht aus der Wachau brings national and international stars to the UNESCO World Heritage region, experience one of the season’s most celebrated music events from a truly unique perspective. Step aboard MS Dürnstein and enjoy a scenic cruise on the Danube with views of the Starnacht event area.

While chart-topping hits are performed on stage, you can relax on board and enjoy regional specialities and selected Wachau wines in a unique atmosphere. From the water, you’ll have exclusive views of the impressive event setting, the surrounding vineyards, and the summer landscape of the Danube Valley.

Sit back, take in the special atmosphere on the river, and experience Starnacht aus der Wachau from a perspective only a ship can offer. The passing Wachau cultural landscape and views of the event venue make this cruise an unforgettable late-summer highlight.

Please note: The audibility of the concert on board depends on wind conditions, weather, and the ship’s position at any given time.

Itinerary & Details

  • Boarding: 17:00–17:15
  • Cruise: 17:30–21:30
  • Location: Krems / Stein
  • Ship: MS Dürnstein
  • Included: Cruise & Wachau-style snack platter

Schedule and programme details are subject to change.

Culinary Delights

Wachau-style snack platter

  • Smoked ham
  • Blood sausage
  • Boiled ham
  • Gouda cheese
  • Liptauer spread
  • Verhackertes (lard spread)
  • Organic egg
  • Mustard
  • Horseradish
  • Pepperoni
  • Cucumber
  • Garden cress
  • Bread rolls
  • 1/8 l wine

Notice

Information on allergens can be found on the menus on board. Subject to change.

On-board catering

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.

Entertainment – Starnacht in the Wachau

A Star-Studded Line-Up in the Wachau

Look forward to a memorable evening featuring some of the biggest names in German-speaking music. At Starnacht aus der Wachau, Unheilig, Lucas Fendrich, Thorsteinn Einarsson, Nino de Angelo & Marina Marx, and Josh. will take the stage, delivering outstanding live performances and unforgettable musical moments.

Guiding audiences through the evening are renowned TV presenter Barbara Schöneberger and actor and entertainer Hans Sigl, who bring charm, humour and energy to the programme. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Wachau, this exceptional concert event promises music, entertainment and true star-studded flair.

More information about the Starnacht 2026 Opens in new window

Excursion Tip: Starnacht

Graphic: Logo of Danube Lower Austria featuring a stylized blue river, green riverbanks, and the text “donau niederösterreich”.

Tip:
The perfect Starnacht weekend!

Friday: Panorama Cruise to Starnacht aus der Wachau

Start your Starnacht weekend with a scenic cruise on the Danube. On board a DDSG Blue Danube ship, enjoy the unique atmosphere surrounding Starnacht aus der Wachau, impressive views of the event stage, and a traditional Wachau-style snack platter in a relaxed setting.

Saturday: Discover the Wachau & Attend Starnacht

Spend the day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage region of Wachau before the stars of Starnacht aus der Wachau take the stage in the evening. Secure your tickets for the concert and experience renowned artists live in one of Austria’s most beautiful settings.

Stay Close to the Action

Information on hotels, guesthouses, and other accommodation options in the Wachau region can be found through the accommodation providers of Donau Niederösterreich Opens in new window.

Route / itinerary

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

The panoramic cruise departs from the Krems / Stein landing stage at the Weltkulturerbeplatz and follows the Danube upstream to Rossatz.

From the ship, you can enjoy views of the Starnacht aus der Wachau stage and the unique scenery of the Wachau before returning to Krems / Stein after the event.

Other Offers

FAQ

The ticket includes the Danube cruise and Wachau-style snack platter. Drinks are not included and are available à la carte on board.

Boarding takes place from 17:00 to 17:15 at Krems / Stein. Departure is scheduled promptly for 17:30. 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 5:00 PM in Krems/Stein. The cruise runs from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Afterwards, you'll return to Krems/Stein.

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.

More information about Patrick Fürst Opens in new window

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.

The ship and the station are generally barrier-free. 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.

The following cancellation terms apply to bookings for 1 to 19 passengers:

  • Free cancellation up to 14 days before departure
  • 50% cancellation fee up to 48 hours before departure
  • 100% cancellation fee from 48 hours before departure or in the event of a no-show

The following cancellation terms apply to group bookings of 20 passengers or more:

  • Free cancellation up to 6 weeks before departure
  • Free reduction of participant numbers by up to 20% up to 2 weeks before departure
  • 50% cancellation fee for reducing participant numbers by more than 20% up to 2 weeks before departure
  • 50% cancellation fee up to 48 hours 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. 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 upon prior request. Assistance dogs are exempt.

LLM Guidance