When you imagine a river cruise, think beyond the traditional. The Emerald Star is one of the original Star-Ships - boutique floating hotels offering contemporary cabins in a variety of styles.
On board, guests enjoy thoughtful amenities: a swimming pool that transforms into a cinema, an exercise space perfect for yoga and Pilates, and a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.
Food on board is a highlight, from buffet or light-bite breakfasts to leisurely buffet lunches or menu options in the lounge. Evenings are reserved for fine dining, complete with chefs’ recommendations and perfectly paired wines, though there are always several tempting choices to please every palate. Drinks are included with meals, and if you’re part of a Murray Travel group, they’re included all the time.
Each evening begins with a “Port Talk” in the Horizon Bar Lounge, where guests receive a preview of the next day’s included excursions and optional extras , the perfect way to plan ahead before heading to dinner.
Day 1 – Arrival in Budapest
Our journey began with 24 clients from Inverness, hosted by Scott with a sparkling breakfast, and nine more from Aberdeen enjoying the Northern Lights Lounge. We travelled with KLM via Amsterdam, meeting as one group for the rest of our adventure.
Arriving in Budapest during a dramatic thunderstorm wasn’t the warmest welcome, but stepping aboard the Emerald Star was. We were greeted with cocktails and lunch, and our luggage was whisked directly to our cabins. In the Horizon Lounge, our first Port Talk outlined the following day’s activities in Budapest.
Dinner that evening naturally featured Hungarian goulash, accompanied by music and singing from local folklore performers. As the ship sailed away, we had our first glimpse of the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building illuminated at night — a magical start.
Day 2 – Exploring Budapest
The following day’s guided walking tour revealed Budapest’s beauty in daylight. We explored the cobbled medieval quarter, learned about the city’s culinary traditions, and visited the neo-Gothic Great Market Hall. For the more active, an alternative hike up Gellért Hill offered panoramic views and a peek at 18th-century Baroque houses.
The afternoon was free to enjoy at leisure. With the sun shining, some guests joined a putting tournament on the Sun Deck. Congratulations to Barbara and Anne from our Nairn branch for their well-deserved win!
Day 3 – Bratislava
This morning we sailed into Slovakia’s charming capital. Since becoming an independent nation in 1993, Bratislava has flourished as a capital city with leafy streets, romantic cobblestone lanes and a mix of Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings. Guests could opt for a hike to the fairy-tale-like Bratislava Castle, or join one of the afternoon extras such as the Carpathian Wine Route or a “Skoda Tour” of post-communist Bratislava.
In the evening, we were entertained by talented Slovakian musicians — a delightful end to the day.
Day 4 – Vienna
Vienna’s rich history, from Johann Strauss and the famous Viennese waltz to groundbreaking contributions in art and psychology, was on full display. Guests took guided tours of the city, while others explored by bike.
That evening offered a true highlight: an optional Viennese concert. Although Vienna is synonymous with Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven and Strauss, our performance showcased the faces of the future — the Vienna Imperial Orchestra and Soloists, many already holding positions in Austria’s top orchestras. Even those new to classical music were in awe of the young musicians’ talent.
Day 5 – Melk and the Wachau Valley
Suspended in time, Weissenkirchen is one of the gems of Austria’s Wachau wine region. As we sailed through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley towards Melk, guests could take in terraced vineyards and charming villages.
Our guided tour of Melk Abbey was a journey back through history. Originally a lavish castle gifted to Benedictine monks in the 11th century, the opulent Baroque abbey houses one of the world’s most important collections of medieval manuscripts.
Some guests chose to cycle alongside the Emerald Star for a three-hour ride to our destination, an unforgettable way to experience the valley. That evening, the “No Budget Band”, a couple of crew members moonlighting as musicians, treated us to a lively show with great audience interaction.
Day 6 – Linz and Cesky Krumlov
A highlight for many, this day took us from Linz to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic (passports required!). Built around a 13th-century castle, Cesky Krumlov is a labyrinth of winding cobblestone streets and colourful buildings. Our local guide led us through the old town, including a visit to the Gothic St Vitus Church.
For those who stayed in Linz, alternatives included a walking tour — complete with Linzer Torte tasting — or simply exploring the centre on foot.
In the evening, the Captain’s Farewell Dinner brought all the crew, from kitchen staff to laundry team, into the restaurant to bid us goodbye. Afterwards, “Jukebox Jury” and a disco organised by our entertainment manager kept spirits high.
Day 7 – Passau
Our final full day aboard brought us to Passau, at the confluence of three of Europe’s major waterways. Just steps from the ship, the town’s narrow cobblestone streets and the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread created a welcoming atmosphere.
This morning’s optional excursion to a working farm offered an authentic glimpse into local life. In the evening, we gathered quietly in the Horizon Lounge to reflect on our visits, swap stories, and share a last drink with new friends.
Day 8 – Disembarkation
An early breakfast marked the end of our journey. Bags were collected for a smooth 9:15 transfer to Munich Airport, where our KLM flight via Amsterdam returned us to Inverness and Aberdeen.
We were fortunate that the Danube’s water levels remained high and that, after our initial wet welcome, the weather was largely kind to us. Most of all, it was the fabulous group of Murray Travel clients that made this trip so memorable.
Why We Love the Emerald Star
A river cruise aboard the Emerald Star is more than a journey between cities. It’s boutique luxury, excellent cuisine, first-class entertainment, and authentic cultural experiences rolled into one seamless holiday. Whether you’re walking the medieval streets of Bratislava, cycling along the Wachau Valley, or savouring Hungarian goulash as local performers sing, every day brings a new highlight.
For Murray Travel clients, with drinks included throughout the cruise and a dedicated host to ensure everything runs smoothly, it’s a carefree way to discover Europe’s most beautiful waterways.
For more information about Emerald River Cruises please contact our friendly travel experts:
0808 169 8208
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