Gastronomy of the Danube - MS Geoffrey Chaucer
Gastronomy of the Danube - MS Geoffrey Chaucer
Gastronomy of the Danube - MS Geoffrey Chaucer
8 Days Starting and ending in Budapest, Hungary
Visiting: Budapest, Esztergom, Bratislava, Dürnstein, Linz, Vienna
Tour operator:
Ship Name:
MS Geoffrey ChaucerShip Capacity:
167
Age range:
18-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Savour all the unique flavours Europe's most cultured river has to offer as we dive into the local gastronomic specialities of Hungary, Slovakia and Austria.
Delve into the intricate tapestry of this river's history and culture, all while indulging in the exquisite flavours of locally sourced produce and time-honoured, generation-spanning traditional dishes. We'll taste the wines of the world-renowned wine region of Wachau Valley and take your tastebuds on a culinary adventure in Linz with tastings of Leberkas, Linzer Torte and local Austrian beer. Sample the delicious potato dumplings of Bratislava, washed down with locally brewed beer. Meet the master bakers at Schonbrunn Palace and sample freshly made apple strudel. Sip wine in the cellars of Esztergom Basilica and explore the markets of Budapest.
This holiday celebrates the gastronomic heritage of the countries along the Danube - ideal for travellers looking for a relaxing way to explore the gastronomy of Hungary, Slovakia and Austria!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1
Location: Budapest
Accommodation Name: cruise ship
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrival in Budapest - On arrival, a coach will take you to your cruise ship. Our dedicated crew are there to welcome you on board, ensuring you settle in and familiarise yourself with this first-class floating hotel.
There’s always a sense of expectancy and excitement on the eve of a cruise and, after an excellent dinner in the stylish restaurant, conversation is sure to revolve around the delights ahead.
Day 2
Location: Esztergom
Accommodation Name: cruise ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Esztergom - Overnight, we'll have cruised upstream to Esztergom, one of Hungary’s oldest towns, a royal capital during medieval times and today the seat of the country’s archbishop. The castle was the seat of government until the Ottomans invaded in the 16th century. Nestling below are myriad atmospheric churches resonating with the enchanting sounds of choirs; this is the best of provincial Hungary and is little changed since Habsburg times.
In Esztergom, we'll enjoy a guided tour of the famous neoclassical basilica, standing sentinel over the Danube on the border with Slovakia, and boasting one of the world’s largest altarpieces and a wealth of priceless religious artefacts.
Beneath the beautiful building is a 3,000 square meters large cellar system, as old as the basilica itself. It's here we end our guided tour, with a tasting of Hungarian wines which will introduce you to an array of rustic, fuller-bodied wines from the Carpathian basin.
As you enjoy your first lunch on board, we'll gently leave Esztergom in our wake, affording a fascinating opportunity to compare the different landscapes, towns and villages of Hungary on one riverbank and of Slovakia on the other.
Day 3
Location: Bratislava
Accommodation Name: cruise ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bratislava - This morning we'll explore Slovakia's fast-emerging capital city, Bratislava, on a sightseeing guided tour aboard a land train. We’ll see the imposing 17th-century castle commanding expansive views across the Danube, along with the Presidential Palace. Then, we'll take a walking tour through the old town. Until recently swathed in the drab uniformity of Communism, the city has rekindled the splendour of its imperial past in its beautifully restored old town. We'll see Messerschmidt Café, named after the famous baroque sculptor Franz Xaver Messerschmidt. Part cafe, part museum, guests can enjoy the works of F.X. Messerschmidt, along with a great cup of coffee and a delicious bratislavské rožky (a traditional sweet pastry).
When talking about the gastronomic scene in Bratislava, it is impossible not to mention the Flagship Restaurant. So, to end our tour, we'll visit Europe's largest restaurant, nestled in the Monastery of the Brothers of Mercy on SNP Square - the square where the Gentle Revolution took place in 1989. The restaurant has a capacity of 450 seats on three floors in what was once the cinema. If you're seeking authentic Slovakian cuisine, this is a great place to start with a menu that celebrates these traditional dishes. In the baroque cellars below is Kláštorný Pivovar, the restaurant's very own brewery, and we'll taste two of their most popular brews alongside local specialities like pirohy (potato dumplings) and bryndzové halušky (Slovakia's national dish).
Returning to our ship, we'll spend the afternoon cruising into Lower Austria - a peaceful region and home to some of the country's best wines. By now, the stresses of everyday life seem distant as you absorb the ever-changing scenes: you might spot children playing on the riverbanks, young couples strolling arm in arm like generations before them, vignerons carefully pruning their vines, and cobbled quaysides lined by half-timbered buildings.
You'll marvel as the captain skilfully navigates the ship along the serene river and through locks whose mechanisms never cease to fascinate as we cruise towards Dürnstein.
Day 4
Location: Dürnstein
Accommodation Name: cruise ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Dürnstein & Melk Abbey - Wachau stands out as one of the most captivating river valleys in Europe, earning UNESCO World Heritage status back in 2000. This well-known wine-growing region is also famed for its sweet and plump apricots - the Wachauer Marille is one of the few Austrian products protected as its own brand within the EU. Along the riverbanks orchards and lush vineyards climb up the hills, while charming towns and villages punctuate the landscape. One of these towns is Dürnstein, known for the ice-blue tower of its abbey, and the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192 after being shipwrecked on his return from the Crusades.
This morning, we'll take a guided walking tour to explore this memorable town further. We'll stop en route to taste three delicious wines, grown and produced locally.
Back on board, whilst sailing through the Wachau Valley, we'll enjoy a delicious lunch celebrating Austrian specialities as we travel on to Melk Abbey. Nothing quite prepares you for your first sight of this enormous honey-coloured building, standing resplendent above the surrounding countryside. Originally a castle, it was gifted to the Benedictine Order in the 11th century and, although reconstructed in Baroque style during the 18th century, it has remained a monastic school and monastery ever since.
The abbey is renowned for its 214-yard-long Emperor’s Gallery lined with portraits, many fine rooms and an ornate library. After we re-join the ship, dinner is served during the final part of our cruise upstream through the pretty Nibelungengau region, immortalised in the music of Wagner.
Day 5
Location: Linz
Accommodation Name: cruise ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Linz or Salzburg - If you choose to stay in Linz, we'll take a guided walking tour, exploring its charming baroque old town. At its heart, you’ll see one of the finest squares in Austria, lined by grand pastel-coloured facades with an impressive central Trinity Column of white marble, crowned by a gilded sunburst. There’s also the fortress-like castle, built high above the city by Emperor Friedrich III, now a museum housing a fine collection of nineteenth and twentieth-century artworks.
As we explore, we'll make delightful pit stops to indulge in some of the local delicacies. Among them is the Leberkassemmel, comprised of quality Austrian beef and pork, expertly blended and baked to perfection until a delectable brown crust forms, all nestled within a crisp and soft Semmel bun. Our guided tour also takes us to the Imperial and Royal Court Bakery - the oldest bakery in Linz - where we'll savour a coffee paired with the renowned Linzer Torte. This baked buttery torte is crafted with chopped almonds, sugar, and spices and filled with jam or preserves, and is thought to be the oldest known cake in the world. (Its oldest recipe is listed in a 300-year-old cookbook!) Then we'll relish the flavours of local beer at an authentic Austrian beer garden. This afternoon, you'll have ample free time to explore more of Linz independently.
Alternatively, you could choose to travel to Salzburg for a guided walking tour. Salzburg, once an autonomous state, was transformed by its archbishops into a remarkably elegant city. The city's skyline is dominated by the imposing Hohensalzburg fortress, one of the largest stone fortresses in Europe. Below the fortress, the old town, or Altstadt, charms visitors with its church domes and spires peeking out from the picturesque cobblestone streets.
As we meander through the paved streets and quaint alleyways, we'll encounter the birthplace of the renowned Salzburger Mozartkugel, a delectable confection featuring a delightful blend of marzipan and pistachio encased in nougat and coated in rich dark chocolate. We'll also see Café Tomaselli, Austria's oldest coffee house, established in 1700. It is said to have been frequented by Salzburg's favourite resident, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
After our tour, there'll be free time for lunch and independent exploration. If you'd like a treat to keep you going until dinner, we recommend a Salzburger Nockerl - a culinary speciality of Salzburg. This light and fluffy, three-peaked desert consists of a soufflé baked over a tangly layer of fruit jam dessert - it's a real treat for people with a sweet tooth! (Please note lunch is not included on this full day excursion.)
We'll return to the ship for another splendid dinner.
Day 6
Location: Vienna
Accommodation Name: cruise ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Vienna - For many, today’s visit to Vienna will be one of the highlights of the cruise. The city’s very name provokes images of elegance, fine music, wide boulevards, Baroque architecture and a rich tapestry of people who were drawn here from all corners of Europe.
For 200 years until the First World War, Vienna was the cultural centre of Europe and many of the showpiece buildings, galleries, aristocratic palaces and magnificent churches you see today were built to reflect its imperial status. The city’s most iconic monument is the breathtaking Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, whose striking multi-coloured roof and huge Gothic South Tower dominate the skyline.
There’s also the colossal Hofburg, the former royal court that is now home to a collection of museums, the Crown Jewels and the Spanish Riding School, and where the Vienna Boys’ Choir performs. Then there are the lavish Imperial Apartments and an outstanding collection of relics of the Holy Roman Empire, including, allegedly, the sabre of Charlemagne himself. The Kunsthistorisches Museum, which contains the world’s fourth largest collection of paintings, is just across the road.
This morning, we have a tour with a local guide offering insights into why Vienna is one of Europe’s great capitals – the seat of the Habsburg emperors and home to some of the world’s finest classical composers, including Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart and, of course, a whole family of Strausses.
After our tour, why not enjoy a coffee in a typical Vienna café accompanied by a Sacher cake, a chocolate sponge with a thin coating of apricot jam, covered in chocolate icing and served with whipped cream. It is so loved by locals that Austrians celebrate National Sacher Torte Day on the 5th December each year.
This afternoon, we head to Gerstner confectioner in the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace. Founded in 1847, they have a long history of supplying the royal court with sweet treats and, today, we will witness the awe-inspiring expertise of master bakers for ourselves. Watch as they artfully prepare the original Viennese apple strudel. The delightful aroma of baked apples and cinnamon is sure to get your stomach rumbling and following their captivating presentation, we will have the opportunity to try these delectable creations for ourselves.
Afterwards, there's time to explore Schönbrunn Palace - one of the most popular sights in Vienna. Experience the opulence of the Habsburg dynasty and maybe choose to tour the palace with its stunning architecture and richly furnished rooms, or simply stroll the expansive garden of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
This evening, we have something special in store. Not only do we have our indulgent Chef's Dinner, but we've also organised a live musical experience on board. So, after this special dinner, sit back and enjoy an intimate classical recital. To hear this exquisite music in Vienna - where it was created - is truly the icing on the cake.
Day 7
Location: Budapest
Accommodation Name: cruise ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Budapest - Enjoy a leisurely morning as we cruise majestically through Hungary’s peaceful pastoral landscape towards Budapest. After breakfast head up onto the sun deck to enjoy some fabulous river views as we cruise along the 'Danube Bend', surrounded by historic and picturesque cities like Visegrad and Szentendre. Castle ruins, churches, pretty houses perching on the hills, and thick forests are reflected in the waters of the river. Squeeze in a spot of reading on the sun deck or simply recline, letting the gentle breezes lull you into a relaxing doze.
We'll arrive in Budapest after lunch for a guided tour of the Great Market Hall, a timeless gem nestled in the heart of the city. Established in 1897, it stands as the largest and most beautiful market in Budapest, offering a haven for fresh produce, souvenirs, and so much more. Accompanying our guide around the busy market, they’ll introduce you to the best stalls and teach you more about Hungarian “market etiquette”. Along the way, we'll sample traditional Hungarian foods.
After our market tour, we'll discover the unique and renowned Hungarian speciality called Unicum, which is a distinctive herbal liqueur. This iconic drink, considered the national drink of Hungary, is created from a blend of over 40 herbs sourced from around the globe. Its closely guarded recipe has been a secret of its creators, the Zwack family, since its inception in 1790. At the museum, we’ll delve into the intriguing story of its creation and see a captivating collection of personal family memorabilia.
Alternatively, you can explore Budapest at leisure. Castle Hill has two churches, seven museums and a theatre. Wander among streets and squares with their own special atmosphere and a dramatic view across the river to the awe-inspiring neo-Gothic Parliament Building. Budapest’s endless galleries, museums, and outstanding Art Nouveau architecture are also worth exploring and the city offers excellent shopping - a fittingly elegant end to your Danube cruise.
This evening's dinner closes with a Hungarian folklore show, giving you time to bid farewell to your travelling companions and reflect on all the inspirational places, sights, sounds and flavours you have experienced.
Day 8
Location: Budapest
Meals Included: Breakfast
Return home
Ship Details
MS Geoffrey Chaucer
Ship Overview
After years of painstaking research to create the most perfect vessels afloat, a new era in river cruising dawns as we introduce our brand new, state of the art, ‘all suite’ ships. Swiss operated and truly world-class, we are absolutely delighted to present the five-star MS Geoffrey Chaucer.
It is extremely difficult to convey just how extraordinary this outstanding ship really is and exactly what distinguishes it from similar vessels. It would be very easy to just say ‘luxurious’ but it’s much more than that; we have deliberately avoided the current trend for a minimalist style where you could be anywhere in the world, creating instead a unique yet exquisite blend of understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level. Immediately striking is just how exceptionally spacious this new vessel is as you enter a gleaming, richly coloured marble-floored lobby flooded with natural light from a stunning atrium above. Moving inside, exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a superbly balanced masterpiece of onboard style, utilising sustainable rich hardwoods, gleaming brass and polished copper, sparkling glass and intricate wrought iron. The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout – including the exterior and imaginatively furnished with harmonious colour schemes, all designed to create the serene atmosphere reflective of the golden age of cruising which time after time you tell us you adore.
The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments taking fine dining to another level complemented by delicate European porcelain, gleaming glassware and the intuitive service in which the Swiss excel. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 167 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels.
Furthermore your suite will easily exceed your expectations for not only will you enjoy the most discerning décor, so too the ship’s dimensions afford the ultimate in space and comfort - a minimum 17 square metres (183 square feet), with upgrades available to ‘Superior’ and ‘Deluxe’ accommodation.
Ship Details
Ship Name:
MS Geoffrey Chaucer
Adults Only Areas:
kids allowed
Ship Children Facilities:
none
Ship Nursery:
none
Smoking Areas:
some
Ship Size:
boutique
Ship Style:
premium
Ship Type:
river
Ship Kind:
Riverboat
Ship Currency:
EUR
Ship Language:
en
Ship Capacity:
167
Ship Crew Count:
44
Number of Decks:
4
Number of Cabins:
88
Ship Launch Year:
2019
Deck Plans
Diamond Deck (Upper Deck)
BarPanorama LoungeSouvenir ShopTravel DeskReception BistroSuperior SuiteDeluxe Balcony SuiteDiamond Deck SuiteSuperior Stern Suite
Emerald Deck (Lower Deck)
Fitness/Wellness AreaHairdresserEmerald Deck Suite
Ruby Deck (Middle Deck)
KitchenRestaurantSuperior SuiteRuby Deck Suite
Sum Deck
Sun DeckSplash PoolPutting GreenWheelhouseTerrace Area
Cabins
Your suite will easily exceed your expectations for not only will you enjoy the most discerning décor, so too the ship’s dimensions afford the ultimate in space and comfort - a minimum 17 square metres (183 square feet), with upgrades available to ‘Superior’ and ‘Deluxe’ accommodation.
Suites (Grade RS DS )
A gleaming wood door opens revealing your exceptionally appointed suite. At 17 square metres (183 square feet), its generous dimensions are amongst the largest you will find on a cruiser gracing any European river. Imaginatively designed and appointed to the highest specification, with all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel, your comfort definitely won’t be compromised on any level! The gleaming marble bathroom features a powerful fully glazed shower with a large ‘rainshower’ head, superbly refreshing after a hard day’s sightseeing. Clever design allows for ample space, and contemporary lighting, complimentary cosmetics by ‘Crabtree and Evelyn’ and fluffy towels, makes preparing for the day ahead an absolute pleasure. The chic styling of a talented designer’s eye extends to the entire suite with generous use of hand-crafted tropical hardwoods blended with premium fittings, discreet thoughtful lighting and a colour scheme of calming neutral tones, creating an ambience to put you in the most relaxed frame of mind from the very first minute! A full size bed assures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen of the finest quality - a turndown service each evening adds the finishing touch. Please note all suites have two twin beds with individual bedding which can be moved together or separated accordingly. You will enjoy a particularly generous seating area with two chairs and a table, enabling you to unwind in comfort in the privacy of your own suite whilst a bow camera conveys live images of the ship’s progress to your flat screen TV, ensuring you won’t miss a thing. Careful consideration has been given to the tiniest details with individually controlled air-conditioning so you set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience. Suites on the Diamond Decks have ‘French Balconies’ – panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors bringing riverside life just that little closer!
Superior Suites (Grade RSS DSS SSS )
Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite available on the Ruby (middle) and Diamond (upper) decks. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 sq. feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors.Indulge in the luxury of?Riviera Plus?when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.
Emerald Deck Suites (Grade ES )
Suites on the Emerald Deck are slightly smaller, measuring approximately 16 square metres (172 square feet) and have smaller fixed windows. Some are available for sole occupancy with no supplement and are subject to availability.
Suites (Ruby Deck) (Grade RS DS )
A gleaming wood door opens revealing your exceptionally appointed suite. At 17 square metres (183 square feet), its generous dimensions are amongst the largest you will find on a cruiser gracing any European river. Imaginatively designed and appointed to the highest specification, with all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel, your comfort definitely won’t be compromised on any level!The gleaming marble bathroom features a powerful fully glazed shower with a large ‘rainshower’ head, superbly refreshing after a hard day’s sightseeing. Clever design allows for ample space, and contemporary lighting, complimentary cosmetics by ‘Crabtree and Evelyn’ and fluffy towels, makes preparing for the day ahead an absolute pleasure.The chic styling of a talented designer’s eye extends to the entire suite with generous use of hand-crafted tropical hardwoods blended with premium fittings, discreet thoughtful lighting and a colour scheme of calming neutral tones, creating an ambience to put you in the most relaxed frame of mind from the very first minute! A full size bed assures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen of the finest quality - a turndown service each evening adds the finishing touch. Please note all suites have two twin beds with individual bedding which can be moved together or separated accordingly.You will enjoy a particularly generous seating area with two chairs and a table, enabling you to unwind in comfort in the privacy of your own suite whilst a bow camera conveys live images of the ship’s progress to your flat screen TV, ensuring you won’t miss a thing. Careful consideration has been given to the tiniest details with individually controlled air-conditioning so you set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience. Suites on the Diamond (upper) and Ruby (middle) Decks have ‘French Balconies’ – panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors bringing riverside life just that little closer! Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a smart handset* with maps, translator and currency converter, unlimited internet use, L’Occitane en Provence toiletries, a bottle of chilled Prosecco on arrival, a platter of fresh seasonal fruits during the cruise and an aperitif each evening, with our compliments. *Smart handsets will be available on 2022 holiday departures.
Deluxe Balcony Suites (Grade DBS )
If you’re looking to really spoil yourself, at a staggering 25 square metres (269 square feet), the world-class Diamond (upper) Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites are for you. Fifty percent larger than standard suites, they allow for an even more generous living area for the ultimate in space and comfort. In addition you will enjoy a private exterior balcony complete with table and chairs - perfect for an ‘al fresco’ breakfast should you wish or just a quiet morning coffee or a pre-dinner ‘sundowner’ whilst watching the world drift by. With the same fittings as standard suites, exquisitely and lavishly appointed to the very highest standard, plus complimentary soft cotton bathrobes and slippers adding the final little touch, this really is the epitome of river cruise luxury!Indulge in the luxury of?Riviera Plus?when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.
Suites (Emerald Deck) (Grade ES )
Suites on the Emerald Deck are slightly smaller, measuring approximately 16 square metres (172 square feet) and have smaller fixed windows. Some are available for sole occupancy with no supplement and are subject to availability.
Suites (Ruby/Diamond Deck) (Grade RS DS )
A gleaming wood door opens revealing your exceptionally appointed suite. At 17 square metres (183 square feet), its generous dimensions are amongst the largest you will find on a cruiser gracing any European river. Imaginatively designed and appointed to the highest specification, with all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel, your comfort definitely won’t be compromised on any level!The gleaming marble bathroom features a powerful fully glazed shower with a large ‘rainshower’ head, superbly refreshing after a hard day’s sightseeing. Clever design allows for ample space, and contemporary lighting, complimentary cosmetics by ‘Crabtree and Evelyn’ and fluffy towels, makes preparing for the day ahead an absolute pleasure.The chic styling of a talented designer’s eye extends to the entire suite with generous use of hand-crafted tropical hardwoods blended with premium fittings, discreet thoughtful lighting and a colour scheme of calming neutral tones, creating an ambience to put you in the most relaxed frame of mind from the very first minute! A full size bed assures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen of the finest quality - a turndown service each evening adds the finishing touch. Please note all suites have two twin beds with individual bedding which can be moved together or separated accordingly.You will enjoy a particularly generous seating area with two chairs and a table, enabling you to unwind in comfort in the privacy of your own suite whilst a bow camera conveys live images of the ship’s progress to your flat screen TV, ensuring you won’t miss a thing. Careful consideration has been given to the tiniest details with individually controlled air-conditioning so you set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience. Suites on the Diamond (upper) and Ruby (middle) Decks have ‘French Balconies’ – panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors bringing riverside life just that little closer!Indulge in the luxury of?Riviera Plus?when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.
Dining
The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments taking fine dining to another level complemented by delicate European porcelain, gleaming glassware and the intuitive service in which the Swiss excel. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 167 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels.
Bistro
At the Bistro with its open kitchen, large panoramic windows and al fresco seating, enjoy a more intimate dining experience whilst taking in the fantastic views. Here in the evenings the chef presents his personal signature dishes to a small number of diners with menus varying according to the seasons; this intimate dining experience can be reserved on board at no extra charge. When the weather allows the panoramic windows may be fully opened on to the terrace to allow a delightful al fresco dining experience. (complimentary)
Main Restaurant
The ship’s restaurant is located on the Ruby (middle) Deck and here you will experience not only exceptional first class cuisine, but also the most attentive yet discreet service from the ship’s highly professional crew. So just sit back with a well-deserved glass of wine from the carefully selected wine list and delight in the wonderful elegance of your surroundings; beautifully laid tables of just 4 or 6 guests, crisp linen, deep wool carpets and warm wood panelling abound to offer a delectable dining experience of the highest order. (complimentary)
Restaurant
Stunning restaurant on the Main Deck serving buffet breakfast, buffet lunch and four-course dinner
Entertainment
A daily programme is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening, detailing the following day’s activities.
Lounge and Bar
Lounge and bar to enjoy cocktails and the early risers' breakfast
Panoramic Lounge & Bar
The superb panoramic observation lounge and bar; a lounge in every sense of the word, complete with plenty of comfortable leather armchairs and sumptuous sofas where you can sink into warmly colourful cushions in beautiful quality fabrics with a freshly made cup of tea. A thick wool carpet feels lovely underfoot and the tasteful contemporary lighting above creates a welcoming and refined ambience, further complemented by the discreet and intuitive service resplendent of the finest five-star hotels. So just sit back with your favourite cocktail and take in the truly mesmerising view.
Kids and Teens
Please note: There are no dedicated children's facilities on board.
Health & Fitness
More information coming soon
Fitness Centre & Salon
On the Emerald (lower) Deck is the fitness centre, perfect for working off all those delicious meals or for something less strenuous treat yourself to a relaxing massage. So you will always look your best there is a hairdresser’s too which also offers manicure and pedicure treatments. Simply put, these world-class ships, elegant and refined in the truest sense, take the idea of river cruising to another level – it really doesn’t get better than this!
Spa and Wellness
Spa and wellness area featuring Nail Salon and Hairdressing Service
Sun Deck
Head on up to this truly spectacular deck and what could be better than watching life ashore slip by from the comfort of a sun lounger, perhaps under shade if the weather gets too hot! There’s always the refreshing splash pool too or why not try your hand on the putting green. Then take a refreshingly long drink and that book you’ve been meaning to read for ages on to the lovely terrace area at the fore of the ship, located right in front of the wheelhouse where you can view the Captain and his team skilfully navigating the twisting river and enjoy truly ‘driving seat’ views. Take a deep breath and relax into the pace of river cruise life – now you’re really on holiday!
Gratuities
Tips are not charged at a set percentage and are not included in the holiday cost, as we understand that giving a gratuity should be entirely at your discretion.
As a guideline we would recommend giving €8-12 per person per day should you feel that is appropriate. Usually, an envelope is left in your cabin on the final evening, for you to drop off at reception, if you choose to, the following morning.The tips are divided equally between the crew.
Should you also wish to give a gratuity directly to your Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge, this is also at your discretion.
Useful Information
Age Restrictions
The minimum age limit is 12 years old at the date of departure. We reserve the right to limit the number of children on any particular cruise. Any minor must be accompanied by and share a cabin with an adult aged 21 or over. If the adult is not the minor’s parent, a ‘Parental Consent Guardianship Form’ must be signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to sailing.
Air Conditioning
Our ships are fully air-conditioned throughout. Each cabin has individual air-conditioning and heating controls.
Dietary Requirements
In the morning a full breakfast is served which includes healthy options and your choice of eggs made to order. For lunch enjoy salads from the buffet, soup and a choice of main courses, including local dishes, plus dessert. The four course a la carte dinners include a selection of international and regional specialities. We cater for most dietary requirements, please ensure you advise our sales team when making the booking.
Disabled Facilities
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us or call us on 01283 688 518 to discuss these concerns.MooringDue to the popularity of river cruising at some mooring places, or where our ship is moored alongside another vessel, access to the ship may be via the sun deck and require the navigation of steps so passengers must be able to walk on and off the ship themselves, without the use of crutches or other aids, as gangplanks can be positioned at a steep angle.On boardOur ships are not adapted for wheelchair access; if you are intending to take a wheelchair or mobility scooter with you, it is essential that you please contact us to let us know. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be used on excursions however cannot be used on board the ships due to safety reasons and must not be left in corridors, the lounge or restaurant or any other public areas, but must be stored at reception.River cruises operate with a smaller crew than ocean cruises and do not have the crew available to personally attend to passengers with reduced mobility; therefore, a travelling companion would need to be able to help with any physical needs.Whilst most of our ships have a lift on board, it does not operate to all decks.River cruising on European rivers offers the opportunity to take in the scenery from the comfort of the ship. If you are unable to do some of the shore excursions, your river cruise can still be enjoyable and worthwhile, so please contact us with any concerns or questions you may have.Shore ExcursionsFor our river cruises which include an extension and feature a hotel stay, the hotels we use have been chosen due to their location and standard, the facilities offered can differ, it is therefore important that we make the appropriate enquiries with our suppliers on your behalf to ensure any special needs or requests can be catered for.AccommodationFor our river cruises which include an extension and feature a hotel stay, the hotels we use have been chosen due to their location and standard, the facilities offered can differ, it is therefore important that we make the appropriate enquiries with our suppliers on your behalf to ensure any special needs or requests can be catered for.Overseas Transport ArrangementsAll of our tours involve coach travel. The coaches we use have not been adapted for wheelchair access.Air TravelWe are able to arrange airport assistance, from the check-in desk to the plane, for anyone with reduced mobility. This is a free service which must be arranged with the airline prior to travel. If you would like us to arrange this assistance for you it needs to be pre-booked more than 48 hours before your flight departs.EurostarIf you have reduced mobility and are travelling by Eurostar to your cruise, please contact us. Should you need to travel in your own wheelchair, Eurostar does have specially adapted wheelchair spaces which need to be pre-booked. If you would like assistance at St. Pancras, we can provide you with information and contact details for Eurostar Assist, although we cannot reserve this service for you directly.
Dress Code
There is no requirement to bring formal dress; smart/casual is acceptable for both day and evening as there is no dress code enforced. However men are requested not to wear shorts for dinner or vest tops at any time in the dining room. Men may wish to wear a jacket and tie for dinner. The Captain’s Dinner offers the opportunity, should you wish, for more special attire.
Drinks Packages
We offer a selection of drinks packages available to purchase and the price is dependent on the length of the cruise, so please check each tour page for more details. This includes the following with lunch and dinner: draught beer; non-alcoholic beer; soft drinks; juices; red, white and rose house wines; and wine recommendations from the menu. The drinks package must be added to your booking for all passengers in a cabin prior to departure and you can do this by calling the reservations team.If you choose not to purchase a drinks package, there is a vast selection of drinks on board each ship available for individual purchase.
Laundry Service
A limited laundry service is available on board, except on the day of disembarkation. A dry cleaning service is not available.
Medical Facilities
If you have any concerns about your health whilst on tour, please see your Cruise Director or Concierge. They will be able to advise you about chemists and availability of doctors, etc. In an emergency you could always phone our emergency number as issued on your itinerary. There are no on-board medical personnel, although specific crew members will have basic first aid training. However, the ship can stop at any time to transfer any passenger requiring emergency medical attention to local medical facilities.
Smoking and E-Cigarette Policy
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted anywhere on board except for designated areas on the sun deck.More and more countries in Europe are adopting a stricter legislation on smoking in public places. Smoking is not allowed on any public transport and there may be other restrictions in hotels, bars and restaurants.
What's Included
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Full board during your cruise from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day
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Free Superior drinks package
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Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
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Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi (connection speeds may vary)
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All visits and excursions as mentioned
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Return flights
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Coach travel as mentioned
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Transfers from the airport to and from the port of embarkation
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English-speaking expert guides
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The services of a Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge
What's Not Included
Lunch is not included on full day excursions, such as the Salzburg excursion.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with return flights, coach transfers, and a scenic river cruise on the MS Geoffrey Chaucer. Enjoy the convenience of guided tours and excursions, all seamlessly integrated into your journey.
Accommodation
Enjoy your stay on the MS Geoffrey Chaucer, a first-class floating hotel offering stylish dining and comfortable cabins. The dedicated crew ensures a welcoming and relaxing experience throughout your river cruise.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of culinary experiences can I expect on this tour?
This tour offers a variety of culinary experiences, including tastings of local Hungarian and Austrian wines in Esztergom and Dürnstein, Slovakian beer and local specialities in Bratislava, and traditional Hungarian foods in Budapest's Central Market. You will also have the opportunity to taste Leberkas, Linzer Torte, and local beer in Linz, and enjoy a strudel-making demonstration and tasting at Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna.
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What kind of guided tours are included in the itinerary?
The itinerary includes guided tours of Esztergom Basilica, Bratislava, Dürnstein, Melk Abbey, Linz or Salzburg, Vienna, and Budapest's Central Market. Each tour is designed to provide cultural and historical insights, along with local culinary tastings.
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Are there any special events or shows included during the cruise?
Yes, the tour includes a live classical recital on board in Vienna and a Hungarian folklore show during the final dinner in Budapest.
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What are the accommodation arrangements on this tour?
Accommodation is provided on a first-class cruise ship, with full board from dinner on the day of arrival until breakfast on the final day. The ship offers a range of amenities, including a stylish restaurant, a sun deck, and complimentary on-board Wi-Fi.
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What options do I have for exploring Linz or Salzburg?
You can choose between a guided walking tour of Linz, which includes tastings of local specialities like Leberkas and Linzer Torte, or a full-day excursion to Salzburg, where you will enjoy a guided walking tour and have free time for independent exploration.
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What kind of activities are available during the cruise towards Budapest?
During the cruise towards Budapest, you can enjoy a leisurely morning on the sun deck, taking in the scenic views of the Danube Bend. Activities include reading, relaxing, and enjoying the picturesque landscapes of Hungary's pastoral countryside.
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What can I expect during the visit to Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna?
At Schönbrunn Palace, you will visit Gerstner confectioner to watch a strudel-making demonstration and taste the final product. You will also have time to explore the palace and its expansive gardens, experiencing the opulence of the Habsburg dynasty.
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What is the significance of the Great Market Hall in Budapest?
The Great Market Hall in Budapest, established in 1897, is the largest and most beautiful market in the city. It offers a variety of fresh produce, souvenirs, and traditional Hungarian foods. During the guided tour, you will learn about Hungarian market etiquette and sample local specialities.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For almost 40 years
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I have reduced mobility; can I still travel?
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns
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Do I require travel insurance?
It is a condition of booking that you carry suitable travel insurance.
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What is my luggage allowance?
You will receive details of your luggage allowance with your final travel documents, which are sent approximately 10 days prior to your date of departure.
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Riviera Travel requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of riviera travel charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.