Join us as we discover the natural beauty of former East Germany’s dramatic landscape whilst we cruise along the Elbe River from historic Berlin to beautiful Prague. 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 II 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.
Our journey will take us from the vibrant city of Berlin to historic Magdeburg, Luther’s hometown of Wittenberg, the famous porcelain town of Meissen, culturally rich Dresden and through the lovely Elbe Sandstone Mountains, where the river has cut a deep valley through sandstone rocks, ending in the graceful Czech capital of Prague. This is the perfect trip for those who enjoy seeing something different every day. Our floating hotel, the MS Elbe Princesse II transports you in considerable comfort between the two great cities of Berlin and Prague. The slow speed of the vessel allows you to absorb the changing landscape of town and country and observe everyday life along the river.
Elbe Princesse II
For our journey we have chartered the delightful MS Elbe Princesse II. Launched in 2018, 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.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Berlin, Germany.
Fly by scheduled flight and on arrival transfer to the MS Elbe Princesse II. 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 this afternoon 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.
Dates and Prices
15 to 23 October 2024 | ||
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Category | Price | |
Main Deck Twin | Fully Booked | |
Upper Deck Twin | Fully Booked | |
Main Deck Twin for sole use | Fully Booked |
Tour Reference Code: SCEPELBE24
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Eight nights accommodation aboard the MS Elbe Princesse II on an all-inclusive, full board basis (excluding premium brand alcohol) • 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 II
For our journey we have chartered the delightful MS Elbe Princesse II. Launched in 2018, 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.
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.
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 II this afternoon. (B)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
13 to 15 October 2024 Category Price Twin £695 Single £895 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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Also of Interest
Passage along the Elbe
An eight night river cruise between Prague and Berlin aboard the MS Elbe Princesse
Elbe Princesse
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Golden Eagle Danube Express
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000