Join us for this wonderful seven night voyage as we cruise from Berlin along the River Oder through Germany and Poland to the German Baltic Coast. This is a unique journey to a beautiful area that is still relatively unknown in the UK and for which we have chartered the 80-passenger Katharina von Bora from our longstanding associates, Nicko Cruises.
Our journey takes us to the resorts along the Baltic coast which are deservedly known as the ‘Royal’ resorts. Berlin’s high society loved the fresh summer breezes and the sandy beaches of Rugen, and Usedom which has the highest number of sunny days in the whole of Germany. The guest houses and hotels, with their typical architecture, have been restored to their original glamour and the attractive landscapes, such as the chalk cliffs on Rugen and the Jasmund National Park on the River Oder are all much admired by nature lovers. Other highlights of the voyage include our call into the Polish city of Szczecin, a lively and historic place which will also be our gateway to the Baltic Sea and the historical Hanseatic cities of Greifswald and Stralsund.
This is the perfect trip for those who enjoy seeing something different every day as each port of call has its own unique character waiting to be discovered whilst on one of our guided excursions. There will also be plenty of time to relax on board as the vessel gently cruises through some wonderful scenery; let the world slip by from the comfort of the Lounge or the Sun Deck and delight in awe-inspiring panoramic views.
Katharina von Bora
For our journey through Pomerania we have chartered the delightful 80-passenger Katharina von Bora. Built in 2000, this comfortable ship offers a tranquil atmosphere on which to relax and enjoy the picturesque views of the passing landscapes.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Berlin, Germany.
Fly by scheduled flight to Berlin. Upon arrival transfer to Potsdam and embark the Katharina von Bora where the crew will welcome us on board. Meet your fellow travellers at the welcome dinner this evening.
Day 2 Chorin Abbey & Niederfinow Boat Lift.
Spend a leisurely morning sailing towards Eberswalde. Later, join an excursion to the Cistercian Chorin Abbey. Founded in 1258 by Cistercian monks of Lehnin, it had a far-reaching influence on the Slavic population that occupied the region during Medieval times. It was completed in 1334, and for two centuries was home to more than 400 Benedictine monks. The Abbey was dissolved in 1542 following the Protestant Reformation, causing it to be abandoned and it eventually fell into disrepair. After the reunification of Germany in 1990 restoration began and continues to this day. It is generally considered to be one of the finest examples of ‘Norddeutsche Backsteigotik’ (North German Brick-Gothic), typical of North German architecture in towns of the Hanse. The church is designed like a basilica with three naves and a seven-sided apse. Staircase turrets flank the western façade, which features three windows surrounded by a rose window. All that remain of the conventual buildings are the abbot’s residence, brewery and the remains of an old mill. Rejoin the ship at Hohensaaten. Alternatively, remain on board the ship and experience the Niederfinow Boat Lift where the vessel will be lowered 36 metres. This marvel of 20th century engineering opened in 1934 and is the oldest working boat lift in Germany.
Day 3 Szczecin, Poland.
This morning relax on board as we cruise along the Oder River to Szczecin. Originally the German town of Stettin, it was effectively the ‘port of Berlin’ and so suffered heavy Allied bombing during World War II. It has since been rebuilt to recapture some of its original style and appeal, with tree-lined avenues and parks, based partly on Haussmann’s 19th century rebuilding of Paris. Today it is a lively city with a patchwork of architecture inherited from different ages. This afternoon we will explore the city on a panoramic drive and see the embankment boulevard of Waly Chrobrego, Grunwald Square, the rose garden, the Cathedral Basilica of St James, the old Town Hall and the Gothic Pomeranian Ducal Castle. Return to the ship for dinner while sailing towards Swinoujscie.
Day 4 Usedom Island.
After breakfast we will visit the island of Usedom which combines the traditional architecture of spa resorts with beautiful nature. It became a popular holiday destination in the late 19th century and played host to many monarchs and artists. There will be stops at the charming spa towns of Ahlbeck with its characteristic pier built in 1898, and Heringsdorf which has the longest pier on the Baltic Sea coast. Both towns offer picturesque historic buildings, long promenades and white sand beaches. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy the afternoon sailing towards Wolgast.
Day 5 Peenemunde & Rugen, Germany.
During breakfast we sail from Wolgast to Peenemunde. On arrival we visit the Peenemunde Historical Technical Museum. From 1936 to 1945, the research stations in Peenemünde formed the largest armaments centre in Europe. Up to 12,000 people worked simultaneously on guided weapons, most famously the world’s first cruise missiles and the first ever functioning large-scale rockets. We continue with a visit to the Maritime Museum, the largest submarine museum in the world. Return to the ship for lunch and sail to Lauterbach. This afternoon we arrive at Germany's largest island, Rugen. Here we visit the extraordinary site of Prora, one of the largest buildings in the world built on Hitler's orders to house wounded soldiers while they recuperated. Although more than half has been destroyed it still holds the nickname of “Colossus of Rügen”. We continue on to the town of Binz for a walking tour before returning back to the ship for dinner.
Day 6 Rugen & Greifswald.
This morning we will continue our exploration of Rugen island. We head north to the Jasmund National Park, the smallest in Germany but certainly no less dramatic for it. See the white chalk cliffs which tower up to 161 metres above the Baltic Sea. This afternoon we will join a guided walking tour of Greifswald. This former Hanseatic city escaped the ravages of World War II and its skyline is defined by three churches, the Lanker Nikolas (‘Long Nicholas’), Dicke Mary (‘Fat Mary’) and Kleine Jakob (‘Small Jacob’) which were perfectly captured by painter Casper David Friedrich. Return to the ship and cruise to Stralsund.
Day 7 Stralsund.
After breakfast we will take a walking tour through the heart of the old city of Stralsund. Stralsund was a major trading centre of the Hanseatic League in the 14th and 15th centuries. In the 17th and 18th centuries it became part of the Swedish crown, then in 1815 became part of the Kingdom of Prussia and was thus an important base for the Prussian Navy. The UNESCO Heritage Site boasts attractively restored buildings including the grandiose Town Hall, and the 13th century St Nicholas’ Church, with its ornate Gothic and Baroque altars and the world’s oldest astronomical clock, which dates from 1394. Return to the ship for lunch. This afternoon join a visit to the Ozeaneum (Baltic Sea Museum). Witness the various aquaria display marine habitats of the Baltic Sea, the North Sea and the North Atlantic. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner on board.
Day 8 Stralsund to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Hamburg Airport for the return scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 7 to 14 June 2025 • 13 to 20 September 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| C Main Deck Twin/Double Cabin | £3495 | £3295 |
| B Main Deck Deluxe Double Cabin | £3695 | £3495 |
| A Upper Deck Twin/Double Cabin with French Balcony | £3995 | £3795 |
| C Main Deck Twin/Double Cabin for sole use | £4495 | £4295 |
Tour Reference Code: RCKV140924/RCKVB070625/RCKVB130925
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Seven nights aboard the Katharina von Bora on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Shore excursions • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Katharina von Bora
For our journey through Pomerania we have chartered the delightful 80-passenger Katharina von Bora. Built in 2000, this comfortable ship offers a tranquil atmosphere on which to relax and enjoy the picturesque views of the passing landscapes.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the ship or click on the adjacent Directory to download.
SHIP TECHNICAL DETAILS
Passengers: 80
Crew/Staff: 23
Length: 83 metres
Width: 9.50 metres
Year built: 2000
Passenger cabins: 38AIR-CONDITIONING
All cabins have individually controlled heating and air-conditioning.
ALARM
An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do should an emergency occur.
CABINS
All cabins are tastefully furnished and feature individually controlled airconditioning, private bathroom with shower, television, minibar, hairdryer, safe and wardrobe. The cabins measure 12 square metres with the exception of the Category B Deluxe cabins which measure 13 square metres. Cabins on the Main Deck feature windows that cannot be opened whereas cabins on the Upper Deck boast sliding floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto a French balcony. Beds are configured as either a fixed twin or a double with two mattresses as indicated.
CURRENCY
The currency on board is the Euro. All passengers will have their own ship account, which allows you to sign for all purchases and services throughout your cruise. You may then settle the bill by Visa, Mastercard or cash (Euros only) at the end of the cruise.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A daily programme, detailing the following days arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities, is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening.
DRESS CODE
Comfortable and practical attire is recommended during the day and something dressier in the evening. You may like to wear smart casual clothing for the welcome and farewell dinners (black tie is not necessary).
DRINKS
Complimentary house wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner on board. Water is provided during breakfast, lunch and dinner and bottled water is available in your cabin and replenished daily.
ELECTRICITY
Electricity on board is 220v with 2 pin power outlets. We recommend you take an adaptor with you.
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 are fitted in all the 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 an emergency.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
GIFT SHOP
There is a small gift shop selling souvenir items.
HOUSEKEEPING
Your cabin will be cleaned once a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night.
LAUNDRY
There are no laundry facilities on board.
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 your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave any items on board the ship, please contact Noble Caledonia. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.
MEALS
Breakfast is buffet style with hot and cold items, lunch and dinner are a served set menu with a choice of three main courses including a vegetarian option. House wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner on board. If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require, we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board please speak to the Chef or Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your needs.
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.
POST
Postcards and stamps are available at Reception. Items can be posted on your behalf by the ship’s crew (although as they are unable to do so at every port of call, this could take longer than if you were to post them yourself).
QUESTIONNAIRES
We are always looking for ways to improve our holidays and the services provided and in order to do this we welcome feedback from our guests. Your comments are important to us therefore we request that you complete the questionnaire that will be provided to you on board.
QUIETVOX/AUDIO SYSTEM
Noble Caledonia has arranged for all passengers to have access to a ‘Quietvox’ audio system for shore excursions. Further details shall be provided to you following your embarkation.
RECEPTION
Reception is staffed throughout the day. A member of the crew can be contacted 24 hours a day.
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.
SMOKING
Smoking in your cabin or in any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Smoking is only permitted on the open Sun Deck in designated areas.
SUN DECK
The ship has a Sun Deck which is available for guests to enjoy. There may be times when it is necessary to close the Sun Deck. Please listen carefully to the Captain and Crew for instructions. 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 in your cabin for internal calls only. Mobile phone reception is generally only possible close to shore.
WI-FI
There is Wi-Fi available on board at a charge. Information will be available at reception. There may also be times when the internet connection is slow or not available.
Please note: These details 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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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: 7 to 14 June 2025 -
Professor Martyn Rady
Martyn Rady is Masaryk Professor Emeritus of Central European History at the School of Slavonic and East European Studies, a part of University College London. He has written books on German, Hungarian and Romanian history, and has edited and translated some of the leading texts for the history of Hungary – most recently the earliest Hungarian chronicle, written in Latin about the year 1200, and an eye-witness account of the Mongol invasion of Hungary in 1241. He has broadcast extensively on television and radio, discussing subjects ranging from contemporary politics in Central Europe to vampirism and the history of the Habsburg Monarchy.
Professor Martyn Rady will be on the following tour dates: 13 to 20 September 2025
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000