Riverside: The Autumn Cruise with Gerhard Kracher
From November 5 to 11, 2025, the Danube becomes the stage for an exclusive experience by Riverside Luxury Cruises: a one-of-a-kind journey that celebrates the beauty of slow travel, outstanding winemaking, and the charm of Central Europe in autumn.
On board the elegant Riverside Mozart—a symbol of refined hospitality and impeccable service—guests will enjoy a unique itinerary from Vienna to Budapest, calling at some of the Danube’s most fascinating historic towns and taking part in traditional new wine festivities.
Riverside_Mozart_DanubeKnee_Hungary
Riverside_Itinerary
This extraordinary voyage begins in magnificent Vienna, the imperial capital and city of music, where Baroque architecture, historic carriages, and literary cafés set the scene for a warm and sophisticated welcome. The cruise continues to Melk, with its iconic abbey perched high above the river—an architectural Baroque masterpiece—and then to Krems, a wine lover’s gem in the Wachau Valley, where the Martiniloben, the blessing of the new wine, is celebrated each November in an atmosphere that is as authentic as it is joyful. Bratislava greets travelers with its discreet charm and hidden surprises, from its medieval castle and lively old town to curious details that whisper the city’s rich past. The journey then enters the heart of Hungary with Esztergom, the former royal capital where Hungary’s first king was crowned, and Visegrád, known for its medieval fortress overlooking the Danube and for traditional cuisine paired with excellent local wines. The cruise concludes in stunning Budapest, perhaps the most scenic of all European capitals, where majestic architecture reflects in the river and thermal baths, cafés, and monuments tell stories of centuries of Central European culture and history.
What makes this cruise truly unrepeatable is the exclusive presence on board of Gerhard Kracher, regarded as one of Europe’s finest sweet wine producers. His globally renowned wines—three of which have received the rare 100-point Parker score—will be the stars of an exceptional evening: a private gourmet dinner where each course is thoughtfully paired with his most prestigious labels. Guests will have the rare opportunity to meet Kracher in person, hear his stories, explore his creative process, and discover what lies behind every bottle that bears his name. A priceless experience for every wine lover and connoisseur.
Vienna_Riverside
Bratislava
Budapest_Riverside
10. Visegrad
This entire journey is designed for a refined audience that values quality and seeks authentic moments. Riverside Mozart offers a setting of rare elegance, spacious suites, world-class cuisine, and personalized service that elevates every moment of the voyage. Autumn along the Danube, with its warm colors and unhurried pace, provides the perfect backdrop for a cruise that is more than just a holiday—it is an invitation to savor, to experience, and to be inspired.
The Danube New Wine Celebration is already available for booking and is part of a calendar filled with exclusive offerings by Riverside. A journey that celebrates life, wine, and the beauty of Europe in a way few other experiences can. On board Riverside Mozart, every detail is curated, every moment is memorable, and every toast is a tribute to the joy of travel.
Stay tuned for news, updates, and reviews of Riverside Luxury Cruises on Cruising Journal, with photos, videos, and special cruise offers.
