Passage along the Elbe - Elbe Princesse

Join us aboard the delightful MS Elbe Princesse as we discover the natural beauty of former East Germany’s dramatic landscape whilst we cruise along the Elbe River between beautiful Prague and historic Berlin. For those contemplating a tour of Middle Europe, the usual option is a land based coach tour offering overnight stops and long road journeys. This attractive eight night itinerary offers an ideal alternative of relatively short journeys by road, whilst the major part of the journey is undertaken aboard our delightful vessel the MS Elbe Princesse which we have chartered for our sailings from our longstanding associates, Croisi Europe. Accommodating a maximum of just 75 passengers and with a shallow draught, the vessel is ideally suited for our river cruise.

Our journey will take us between the graceful Czech capital of Prague through the lovely Elbe Sandstone Mountains, where the Elbe has cut a deep valley through sandstone rocks, to culturally rich Dresden, the famous porcelain producing town of Meissen, Luther’s hometown of Wittenberg and historic Magdeburg, and in the vibrant city of Berlin. This is the perfect trip for those who enjoy seeing something different every day. Our floating hotel, the MS Elbe Princesse transports you in considerable comfort between the two great cities of Prague and Berlin. The slow speed of the vessel allows you to absorb the changing landscape of town and country and observe everyday life along the river.

Useful links & Travel Advice

Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.

Elbe Princesse

For our journey along the Elbe we have chartered the delightful MS Elbe Princesse. Built in in 2016, this modern vessel is designed to navigate the difficult conditions of the Elbe River using advanced engineering technologies. With a remarkable draft of only 90 centimetres, the vessel is able to navigate low waters and traverse areas that other vessels operating in this region are not. The vessel accommodates a maximum of 75 passengers, providing a warm and intimate atmosphere on board. With plenty of light and a large Sun Deck, there is ample opportunity to watch the world gently pass by as you relax on board your comfortable floating hotel.

View vessel details

Prague to Berlin

Day 1 London to Prague, Czech Republic.

Fly by scheduled flight and on arrival transfer to the MS Elbe Princesse. Meet your fellow guests and crew this evening at the welcome cocktail and enjoy dinner on board.

Day 2 Prague.

Our morning tour will focus on the Czech Republic’s capital in all its elegance. Our guided walking tour of this UNESCO Heritage City will include the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square and the castle. After lunch in a local restaurant, return to the vessel and enjoy a relaxing afternoon sailing to our next port of call in Germany.

Day 3 Saxon Switzerland, Germany.

Enjoy a leisurely morning aboard before we arrive into Bad Schandau this afternoon. There will be a guided tour of the famous rock tower, known as the Bastei, which was formed by water a million years ago and from where we can enjoy stunning views of the Elbe. We continue on to Castle Konigstein, an impressive fortress overlooking the Elbe where Napoleon’s forces were billeted during his German campaign. Return to the vessel and sail to Dresden for an overnight mooring.

Day 4 Dresden.

We will have the full day to explore this wonderful city known as ‘Florence of the Elbe’. Our guided morning tour will include the historic centre, the Frauenkirche and the Baroque Church of our Lady, which still shows signs of the Allied bombing during World War II. After lunch on board there will be an opportunity to explore this striking city independently.

Day 5 Meissen.

After a relaxing morning spent sailing we will arrive at the beautiful city of Meissen with its enchanting Renaissance houses. During our guided tour we will visit the Meissen factory museum where fine porcelain has been produced since the early 1700s and see first-hand how this trademarked porcelain is created by hand.

Day 6 Wittenberg.

Wittenberg was the home of Martin Luther and the centre of the Protestant Reformation. It was here at the Schlosskirche in 1517 that Luther nailed his 95 Theses in opposition to the Roman Catholic Church. On our half day excursion we will take a walk through the old town.

Day 7 Magdeburg.

Our morning guided tour will include the historically significant cathedral and the Monastery of Our Lady, the town hall, Guericke Fountain, Old Market Square and of course, the Green Citadel. Return to the vessel for lunch and continue our sailing to Potsdam.

Day 8 Potsdam.

This afternoon we will visit the Versailles of Prussia known for its palaces and parks. Here amongst the splendour of Frederick the Great’s creation we will see the park of the Palace of Sanssouci and the Tea House.

Day 9 Berlin to London.

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for our return scheduled flight to London.

Berlin to Prague

Day 1 London to Berlin, Germany.

Fly by scheduled flight and transfer to the MS Elbe Princesse. Meet your fellow guests and crew this evening at the welcome cocktail and enjoy dinner on board.

Day 2 Potsdam.

This morning we will visit the Versailles of Prussia known for its palaces and parks. Here amongst the splendour of Frederick the Great’s creation we will see the park of the Palace of Sanssouci and the Tea House. Sail this afternoon on to our next port of call, Magdeburg.

Day 3 Magdeburg.

Our morning guided tour will include the historically significant cathedral and the Monastery of Our Lady, the town hall, Guericke Fountain, Old Market Square and of course, the Green Citadel. Return to the vessel for lunch and continue our sailing to Wittenberg.

Day 4 Wittenberg.

Wittenberg was the home of Martin Luther and the centre of the Protestant Reformation. It was here at the Schlosskirche in 1517 that Luther nailed his 95 Theses in opposition to the Roman Catholic Church. On our half day excursion we will take a walk through the old town.

Day 5 Meissen.

Today’s tour will focus on the beautiful city of Meissen with its enchanting Renaissance houses. During our guided tour we will visit the Meissen factory museum where fine porcelain has been produced since the early 1700s and see first-hand how this trademarked porcelain is created by hand.

Day 6 Dresden.

We will have the full day to explore this wonderful city known as ‘Florence of the Elbe’. Our guided morning tour will include the historic centre, the Frauenkirche and the Baroque Church of our Lady, which still shows signs of the Allied bombing during World War II. After lunch on board there will be the opportunity to explore this striking city independently.

Day 7 Saxon Switzerland.

Enjoy a leisurely morning aboard before we arrive into Bad Schandau this afternoon. There will be a guided tour to the famous rock tower, known as the Bastei, which was formed by water a million years ago and from where we can enjoy stunning views of the Elbe. We continue on to Castle Konigstein, an impressive fortress overlooking the Elbe where Napoleon’s forces were billeted during his German campaign. Return to the vessel and sail on to Prague.

Day 8 Prague, Czech Republic.

Our morning tour will focus on the Czech Republic’s capital in all its elegance. Our guided walking tour of this UNESCO Heritage City will include the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square and the castle. After lunch onboard the vessel, you are free to explore the Czech Republic’s capital at your own pace.

Day 9 Prague to London.

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport with lunch on route for our return scheduled flight to London.

Dates and Prices

Berlin to Prague

Prices per person based on double occupancy

3 to 11 April 2020
Category	Price
Main Deck Twin	£2795
Upper Deck Twin	£2995
Main Deck Single	£2995
Upper Deck Single	£3195

Prague to Berlin

Prices per person based on double occupancy

29 May to 6 June 2020 • 18 to 26 September 2020
Category	Price
Main Deck Twin	£2795
Upper Deck Twin	£2995
Main Deck Single	£2995
Upper Deck Single	£3195

Tour Reference Code: RCEP

PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Eight nights accommodation aboard the MS Elbe Princesse on an all-inclusive, full board basis (excluding premium brand alcohol) • Shore excursions • Cruise Director • Tour Manager • Guest Speaker • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes • Airport taxes.

Not Included: Travel insurance.

NB. Ports subject to change, water levels and weather conditions may affect the itinerary.

Elbe Princesse

For our journey along the Elbe we have chartered the delightful MS Elbe Princesse. Built in in 2016, this modern vessel is designed to navigate the difficult conditions of the Elbe River using advanced engineering technologies. With a remarkable draft of only 90 centimetres, the vessel is able to navigate low waters and traverse areas that other vessels operating in this region are not. The vessel accommodates a maximum of 75 passengers, providing a warm and intimate atmosphere on board. With plenty of light and a large Sun Deck, there is ample opportunity to watch the world gently pass by as you relax on board your comfortable floating hotel.

MS Elbe Princesse II - Salon Bar
MS Elbe Princesse II - Restaurant
MS Elbe Princesse II - Lounge

Your Space

Your Space

Spread over three decks, the onboard facilities include a delightful restaurant which accommodates all guests in one sitting. The lounge is a pleasant space for relaxation and the large panoramic windows create a bright and airy ambience. The Lounge also features a large TV and bar area which is accessible from the reception area. On the large, spacious Sun Deck there is comfortable deck furniture where you can relax in the shade or enjoy the pleasant weather. The onboard shop sells various practical and souvenir items.
Your Dining

Your Dining

Meals are taken in the single sitting restaurant on the vessel’s Main Deck. The restaurant seats all passengers in an open seat arrangement and tables are arranged to seat groups of four, six and eight. Breakfast is served buffet style and features both hot and cold dishes, lunch is both served and buffet, and dinner is served at your table. The cuisine is a selection of regional specialties and international dishes. Alcoholic and soft drinks are included in your holiday price (excluding premium brands) as are tea and coffee which are available throughout the day on a self-serve basis and with meals.
Your Cabin / Suite

Your Cabin

The cabins are spread across the Main and Upper Decks and all are outside facing. All cabins are located above water level affording outside views from their large windows and there is plenty of natural light both within the cabins and in the public areas. All cabins are fitted with an en-suite bathroom with shower and feature ample storage space, flat screen TV, a small desk and seating area, hairdryer, air conditioning units and a safe. The twin cabins measure 14.5 square metres and the single cabins measure between 11 and 12 square metres.
Ship Directory

Ship Directory

Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.

We are delighted that you have chosen the MS Elbe Princesse for your upcoming voyage.

Built in 2016 and catering for just 75 passengers, the MS Elbe Princesse is a modern and comfortable vessel on which you can be assured of a warm and friendly atmosphere. The highly experienced onboard staff will provide you with excellent service throughout the journey.

The MS Elbe Princesse is the ideal choice of vessel for cruising the Elbe as she is newly built and, with her shallow draft, is specifically designed to navigate this river. The cruises along the Elbe are planned to be leisurely with plenty of time to relax on board and there is a large Sun Deck on which to relax and enjoy the passing scenery.

AIR CONDITIONING

All cabins have individually controlled heating and air-conditioning.

ALARM

An alarm will be sounded in the event of emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do in the event of emergency.

ALL ABOARD

Your times for embarkation and disembarkation will be provided by your Cruise Director.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

During your time on board, various announcements will be made by the ship’s crew and the Cruise Director. Please listen out for these announcements as they will be of importance or interest.

BAR/BEVERAGES

All-inclusive drinks are provided on board (excluding premium brands) between the hours of 10.00 am and 11.00 pm daily.

BEAUTY SALON

No salon is available on board.

CABIN DIMENSIONS

All twin cabins measure 14.5 square metres and single cabins measure from 11 to 12 square metres. Twin cabins can have a twin or double bed configuration.

CABIN FACILITIES

Each cabin features an ensuite bathroom with shower and toiletries, climate control, hairdryer, safe, in-cabin telephone and a flat screen television.

CRUISE DIRECTOR

A Noble Caledonia Cruise Director will accompany you on your voyage.

CURRENCY

The currency on board is the Euro. While Visa and MasterCard are accepted, personal cheques and debit cards are not. Regrettably, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service on board as this would be contravening official regulations.

DAILY PROGRAMME

Each evening the next day’s programme will be delivered to your cabin.

DRESS CODE

Comfortable and practical attire is recommended during the day for excursions and something dressier for the evening. More formal dress is required only for Welcome and Captain’s drinks/dinner (black tie is not necessary).

ELECTRICITY

Electricity on board is 220v with 2-pin power outlets. We recommend you take an adaptor with you. In the interests of safety, please note that the use of electrical irons on board is strictly prohibited.

EMBARKATION/DISEMBARKATION

Embarkation and Disembarkation times will be provided by your Cruise Director.

EMERGENCY AND SAFETY PROCEDURES

Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation. Please note there is no Doctor on board the vessel.

FIRE SAFETY

On your cabin door is a deck plan displaying your closest (and all other) emergency exits. Emergency exits are marked in green and fire extinguishers fitted in all corridors.

FIRST AID

A number of crew are fully trained and certified to provide First Aid. Further medical assistance can be sought from one of the hospitals along the river in the event of emergency.

GIFT SHOP

A small gift shop selling various practical and souvenir items is available by Reception.

HAIRDRESSER

There is no hair salon on board.

HOT TUB/SWIMMING POOL

There is none available on board.

HOUSEKEEPING

Your cabin will be cleaned once a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night.

KEYS TO CABIN

Each cabin will receive their own cabin key. Before leaving the ship we kindly ask all passengers to swap the cabin key with a shore pass which will be provided to you by the ship’s reception desk. After your return to the ship, we would please ask for you to return your shore pass back to Reception in exchange for your cabin key.

LAUNDRY

There is no laundry or dry cleaning services on board. Please ensure you pack appropriately.

LIBRARY

This is no library on board the vessel.

LIFT

There is no lift on board.

LOST PROPERTY

Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave items on board the ship we are only able to return them to you at your own cost.

MEALS

Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are served on board. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style with hot and cold items and dinners are a served set menu with a choice of either two main courses or a vegetarian option. Please note that due to galley restrictions, Croisi Europe is unable to offer a choice at each course. Certain dietary requests can be catered for (on request). Please provide any such requests in writing to Noble Caledonia at the time of your reservation and please reiterate these requests to the ship’s Hotel Manager upon your embarkation.

MOORING

Docking space is allocated by the local river authorities. On occasion other river cruise vessels may be required to dock alongside our ship. This may result in restricted cabin views and may also entail us being required to embark and disembark the ship through another vessel’s public area and/or for the other ship’s passengers to do the same.

MOSQUITOS

Please ensure you take the appropriate precautions to guard against mosquito bites.

NEWSPAPERS

Newspapers are not available on board.

OPERATIONAL CHANGES

Despite our meticulous planning efforts, there may be times when changes must be made to the daily programme due to circumstances beyond our control such as heavy river traffic or fluctuating water levels. The ship’s Captain and crew will do their utmost to find the best and safest solution. Any changes to the day’s schedule will be communicated as soon as possible.

PAYMENTS ON BOARD

Services such as gifts from the shop must be paid for at the time of purchase. While Visa and MasterCard are accepted, personal cheques and debit cards are not. Regrettably, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service on board as this would be contravening official regulations.

POST

The vessel’s gift shop sells postcards and stamps for you to purchase (subject to availability) and, items can be posted on your behalf by the ship’s crew (although as they are unable to do so each day, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself). Please note that neither the ship nor Noble Caledonia can be held responsible for items of post that are not successfully delivered on your behalf.

QUESTIONNAIRES

A questionnaire will be provided to all passengers towards the end of their sailing. We would be grateful for you to complete and return this.

QUIETVOX/AUDIO SYSTEM

Noble Caledonia has arranged for all passengers to have access to a ‘Quietvox’ audio system for shore excursions. Further details will be provided to you following your embarkation.

RECEPTION

Reception is staffed throughout the day. A member of crew can be contacted 24 hours a day.

ROOM SERVICE

Room service is not available on board.

SAFE

All cabins are fitted with a safe and we recommend you place your valuables inside the safe whenever you are away from your room. Please remember to remove all items from your safe prior to you departing the vessel at the end of the cruise.

SAFETY

Please take careful note of all safety instructions provided to you by the Master and crew of the vessel. Full safety instructions will be provided to you on board.

SMOKING

Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.

SUN DECK

The ship has a Sun Deck which is available for guests to enjoy. There may be times, for example at periods of inclement weather or low bridges (when sailing), whereby it is necessary to close the Sun Deck. Please listen carefully to the Captain and Crew for instruction. Please also note that the Sun Deck and its steps may become slippery if the weather is cool or dew forms.

TELEPHONE

A telephone is available within your cabin.

VISITORS

Visitors are not permitted aboard the vessel. The ship’s operators reserve the right to deny boarding to any persons.

WATER

Complimentary water is available during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bottled water is available within your cabin and is replenished once a day.

WI-FI

Wireless internet connection is available without charge. There may be times when internet connection is slow or not available.

PLEASE NOTE:

These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
Deck plans

Travelling with You

Simon Doughty

Simon Doughty was commissioned into The Life Guards in 1976, retiring from the Army in 2009 in the rank of colonel. During his military career he travelled widely and served in England, Northern Ireland, Cyprus, Germany and Holland. He served with his regiment in both the armoured and ceremonial (mounted) role and, as a staff officer, had tours of duty with the Ministry of Defence, HQ Land Command, and NATO.

Simon has always had an interest in history, particularly military history, including warfare through the ages and in the ancient world. He is a graduate of the Army Staff College, Camberley, and undertook a Defence Fellowship at Kings College, London, gaining an MA in War Studies. Since leaving the Army, Simon divides his time between being the Clerk of The Imperial Society of Knights Bachelor, leading the occasional bespoke battlefield tour, and editing The Guards Magazine. Simon is a contributor to the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, and has recently collaborated with the photographer James Kerr (ex-Coldstream Guards) on a photographic study of the landscape of the Western Front. The book, Silent Landscape, was published in 2016 as was his second book,

The Guards Came Through: An Illustrated History of the Guards in the Great War.

Simon Doughty will be on the following tour dates: 3 to 11 April 2020
Major General Stephen Carr-Smith

Major General Stephen Carr-Smith served throughout much of the Cold War in Europe and then with NATO. On leaving the Army, he worked for a company providing security and mine clearance services in remote and hostile countries. He was also the Senior Military Advisor to an operational analysis company owned by British Aerospace and the Chairman of a company developing opportunities to marry up Russian technology with western finance and production.

He was the Ombudsman for Estate Agents (1999-2006), dealing with redress and financial compensation for buyers and sellers of residential property throughout the UK and is now a non-executive director on the Council that runs the National Land and Property Information Service (NLIS). Stephen Carr-Smith was the Honorary Colonel of the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (FANY) from 1996-2006 – an all women, uniformed volunteer body that has supported the British Army for 100 years.

Major General Stephen Carr-Smith will be on the following tour dates: 29 May 2020 to 6 June 2020

If you would like to spend some time in Berlin before embarking the MS Elbe Princesse we are offering an optional two night extension based at a centrally located, four-star hotel.

Berlin

Prices per person based on double occupancy

1 to 3 April 2020
Category	Price
Single	£595
Twin	£450

Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation with breakfast, dinner on day 1, transfer from airport to hotel and hotel to vessel.

Not Included: Travel insurance, gratuities.

If you would like to spend some time in Berlin after disembarking the MS Elbe Princesse we are offering an optional two night extension based at a centrally located, four-star hotel.

Berlin

The Itinerary