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 74 passengers and with a shallow draught, the vessel is ideally suited for our river cruise.
This is the perfect trip for those who enjoy seeing something different every day. In addition to discovering the vibrant city of Berlin and the graceful Czech capital of Prague, we also explore the culturally rich city of Dresden, often referred to as the ‘Florence of the Elbe’. Other highlights include the famous porcelain producing town of Meissen, Luther’s hometown of Wittenberg and historic Magdeburg. When not exploring ashore, there is ample time to relax on board witnessing some beautiful scenery as we sail along the Elbe, one of Europe’s most unspoiled rivers. Especially scenic is Saxon Switzerland, one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Europe where the Elbe has cut a deep valley through sandstone rocks creating a picturesque and rugged landscape. Our floating hotel, the MS Elbe Princesse will transport you in considerable comfort and the slow speed of the vessel will allow you to absorb the changing landscape of town and country and observe everyday life along the river.
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. The vessel accommodates a maximum of 74 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.
18th April Itinerary
Day 1 London to Berlin, Germany.
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 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. Enjoy the afternoon sailing.
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.
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. Return to the ship for lunch and a leisurely afternoon sailing to Meissen.
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. Sail over lunch to Dresden where we arrive in the late afternoon and moor overnight.
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.
Arrive early this morning into Bad Schandau, our base to visit 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 spend the afternoon cruising.
Day 8 Prague, Czech Republic.
We continue cruising this morning to Litomerice from where we drive to Prague and visit the Czech Republic’s capital in all its elegance. Our guided walking tour of this UNESCO World Heritage City will include the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square and the castle. After lunch in a local restaurant enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace before returning to the ship in Melnik.
Day 9 Prague to London.
Disembark after breakfast in Melnik and transfer to Prague airport for our return scheduled flight to London.
26th April Itinerary
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 the 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 and visit the Luther House, an impressive Museum dedicated to the reformer’s life and works.
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 enjoy the afternoon sailing.
Day 8 Potsdam.
Spend a leisurely morning on board whilst we continue sailing. 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.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 18 to 26 April 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Main Deck Twin | £3495 | |
| Upper Deck Twin | £3795 | |
| Main Deck Twin for sole use | £4795 | |
| Upper Deck Single | £4995 | |
| 26 April to 4 May 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Main Deck Twin | £3495 | |
| Upper Deck Twin | £3795 | |
| Main Deck Twin for sole use | £4795 | |
| Upper Deck Single | £4995 | |
Tour Reference Code: RCEP180425/RCEP260425
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Eight nights aboard the MS Elbe Princesse on a full board basis • All inclusive drinks from 10am to 11pm (please note that premium brands and sparkling wines are not included) • Shore excursions • Noble Caledonia onboard team including 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. The vessel accommodates a maximum of 74 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.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Year built: 2016
Length: 95.4 metres
Width: 10.3 metres
Gross Tonnage: 700
Passengers: 74
Crew: 25AIR-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.
AUDIO SYSTEM
Noble Caledonia has arranged for all passengers to have access to an audio system for shore excursions. Further details shall be provided to you following your embarkation.
BAR/BEVERAGES
All drinks, other than premium brands, are included within your holiday price between the hours of 11.00am and 10.00pm daily.
CABIN DIMENSIONS
All double occupancy cabins measure 14.5 square metres with two beds measuring 80 x 190 cm each and pushed together. Exceptions are as follows:
Cabins 204, 216 & 224 are single bedded cabins and measure 12 square metres (1 x fixed bed - 140 x 190 cm). Cabin 202 is wheelchair accessible and measures 12 square metres (1 x fixed double bed 140 x 190 cm). This cabin has tiled flooring. The three single cabins and cabin 202 measure 12 square metres.
CABIN FACILITIES
Each cabin features an en-suite 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.
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 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 & 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.
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, please return your shore pass to reception in exchange for your cabin key.
LAUNDRY
There are no laundry or dry cleaning services 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 is buffet style with hot and cold items and dinners are a served set menu with a choice of main course or vegetarian option. Lunches served on board will be a combination of buffet style and table service.
Certain dietary requests can be catered for (on request), however please note that due to galley restrictions, Croisi Europe is unable to offer a choice at each course. 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.
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.
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).
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.
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. A reusable water bottle is available within your cabin and can be refilled at the water fountain.
WI-FI
Wireless internet connection is available in the ship’s public areas without charge. There may be times when internet connection is slow or not available.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: The information contained in this booklet should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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Deck Plan
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Travelling with You
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Martin Sixsmith
Martin Sixsmith is a writer, presenter and former television correspondent. He was the BBC’s Central and Eastern Europe Correspondent in the 1980s, reporting on the political upheavals that changed the shape of the continent and the world. In the 1990s, Martin was the BBC’s correspondent Moscow and Washington. Between 1997 and 2002 he worked for the British Government as Director of Communications and Press Secretary to several cabinet ministers.
He worked as a consultant on the BBC2 political sitcom The Thick of It and the 2010 movie In the Loop. In 2013, his book The Lost Child of Philomena Lee was made into the film Philomena, starring Judi Dench and Steve Coogan. It was nominated for four Oscars. His non-fiction books include Putin’s Oil; Moscow Coup; The Litvinenko File; Russia, A Thousand Year Chronicle of the Wild East; and The War of Nerves – Inside the Cold War Mind. His latest book My Sins Go With Me is a story of bravery and treachery in the Resistance to Nazi occupation in World War Two. In 2011, he presented the BBC’s 50-episode history of Russia on Radio Four. In 2014 he presented Radio Four’s 25-part history of psychology and psychiatry.
Martin Sixsmith will be on the following tour dates: 18 to 26 April 2025 -
Michael Hindley
Michael Hindley was born in Blackburn, UK and educated at London University (BA Hons in German and French), Lancaster University (MA in Comparative Cultural Studies), and the Free University of West Berlin. Michael also has a post graduate diploma in International Law. Michael was an elected council leader in Northwest England, a Lancashire County Councillor and a Member of the European Parliament for three terms (1984-99). He was the Majority Leader on the Trade Committee (1989-99). During this time Michael was part of the group which worked towards Sweden and Finland joining the EU in 1995. Michael is now a freelance political consultant and has acted as an expert adviser for the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and written a report on Fair Trade for the United Nations, International Trade Centre, Geneva. Michael is a frequent lecturer on European politics and has lectured at the Universities of Greifswald and Gottingen, Germany and worked with the University of Tallinn, Estonia. Most recently he has been a guest lecturer at Mangalore University, India. He has recently published a book on Britain’s relationship with Europe since 1945 entitled The Semi-Detached European.
Michael Hindley will be on the following tour dates: 26 April to 4 May 2025
Tour Extensions
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If you would like to spend some time in Berlin we are offering an optional two night extension based at a centrally located, four-star hotel.
Berlin’s imposing Brandenburg Gate
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Berlin.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Meet later tonight for a welcome dinner. (D)
Day 2 Berlin.
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a morning city tour including some of Berlin’s main sights. Lunch and the remainder of the day are free to explore Berlin independently. (B)
Day 3 Berlin.
After breakfast, enjoy a morning at leisure before transferring to the Elbe Princesse this afternoon. (B)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
16 to 18 April 2025 Category Price Twin £745 Single £945 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation, meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner), Tour Manager, tour as described, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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If you would like to spend some time in Berlin we are offering an optional two night extension based at a centrally located, four-star hotel.
Berlin
The Itinerary
Day 1 Berlin.
After breakfast on board, disembark the Elbe Princesse and transfer to the city centre to enjoy a morning tour including some of Berlin’s main sights. After lunch at leisure, transfer to our centrally located hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is free to explore independently before we meet for dinner. (D)
Day 2 Berlin.
Today is free for independent exploration of Berlin. (B)
Day 3 Berlin to London.
Checkout this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London. (B)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
4 to 6 May 2025 Category Price Twin £745 Single £945 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation, meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner), half day city tour on day 1, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Also of Interest
From Berlin to Prague
An eight night river cruise along the Elbe aboard the MS Elbe Princesse II
Elbe Princesse II
Itinerary at a glance
8 nights
Next Departure:
15 October 2024
Four River Odyssey
A cruise through the enchanting valleys of the Neckar, Rhine, Moselle & Saar Rivers aboard the MS Elbe Princesse II
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON
Elbe Princesse II
Itinerary at a glance
- Eberbach / Neckar River Cruising / Heidelberg / Rudesheim / Koblenz / Cochem / Bernkastel / Trier / Saarbrucken
7 nights
from
£3295
Next Departure:
27 June 2025
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000