When I received an invitation to join a river cruise with APT, I was both honoured and a little hesitant. Truth be told, river cruising wasn't something I would normally choose for a holiday. But how wrong I was — and how grateful I am for the opportunity to have my mind changed!
Setting Sail: Manchester to Passau
My adventure began with a flight from Manchester to Munich, followed by a scenic two-hour transfer to Passau — the "City of Three Rivers," where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz meet. Here, I boarded the stunning Travelmarvel Capella, a beautiful 4-star premium ship. From the very first glance, the ship's elegance was undeniable and continued seamlessly throughout every corner, including my spacious and stylish cabin.
That evening, we gathered for the Captain’s Welcome Drinks, an opportunity to meet the crew and fellow passengers, before completing the essential safety drill. The excitement in the air was palpable as we prepared for the days ahead.
Exploring Passau: The City on Three Rivers
After a restful night, the morning began with a walking tour of Passau. This charming city, steeped in history and beauty, immediately captured my heart. Its cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and breathtaking river views made it a photographer’s dream.
Returning to the ship, I indulged in an exquisite five-course evening meal, accompanied by perfectly paired wines and lively conversation. As night fell, the Capella gracefully set sail towards Linz, marking the start of our river journey.
A Fairytale Town: Český Krumlov
The following morning, we enjoyed breakfast before setting off early for an excursion to Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic — passports at the ready! After a scenic two-hour drive, we arrived in this spellbinding town, often compared to a real-life fairy tale. Wandering its narrow lanes, discovering the Sleeping Beauty-style castle, and soaking in the medieval charm was pure magic. Every corner revealed another "pinch me" moment.
In the late afternoon, we returned to the ship for a Bavarian Evening — a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and tradition. We danced the night away, embracing the Bavarian spirit as the Capella gently sailed onward to Melk.
Majestic Melk Abbey and a Casual Bite
Another highlight was a guided tour of the Melk Abbey, a working Benedictine monastery perched high above the Danube. The abbey’s grand architecture, priceless artefacts, and stunning library left me in awe. It was a true cultural treasure.
Back on board, we enjoyed a more casual lunch at McGeary’s, a relaxed spot offering comfort food like pizzas and burgers — a nice, low-key break from the fine dining experience.
Dürnstein to Vienna: A Beautiful Farewell
Our final stop was the enchanting town of Dürnstein, known for its blue church tower and vineyards. A gentle walking tour allowed us to soak up its old-world charm before boarding our transfer to Vienna for our flight home.
Final Thoughts: A Newfound Love for River Cruising
This journey has truly changed my perspective on river cruising. From elegant ship life to picturesque towns and cultural gems, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery.
A heartfelt thank you to Travelmarvel and APT for opening my eyes to the joys of river cruising — I cannot wait to embark on another adventure like this soon!
