Enjoy a FREE Case of Six Fine Wines when you book by 8pm 9th April 2026 T&C's Apply

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Exclusive 2026 Danube Explorer & Budapest

From £2,469pp

Budapest, Hungary
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Wine, beer & soft drinks included with lunch & dinner*

Expert-led Shore Excursions Included*

Gratuities & Wi-Fi Included*

Exclusive SAVINGS of up to 35% - Only available with ROL Cruise*


Cruise Overview

  • Duration 9 nights
  • Departs 20 Aug 2026
  • Sails from Budapest, Hungary
  • Ship Emerald Star
  • Flights and transfersYes
  • Cruise code ‍2190508
  • Voyage code ‍ECPN200826.2
  • Countries visited Hungary, Austria, Czech Republic, Germany

Your Itinerary

Fly from London

Fly from London Thu 20 Aug 2026

Fly from London
A panoramic view of Chain Bridge in Budapest

Budapest, Hungary Thu 20 Aug 2026

A panoramic view of Chain Bridge in Budapest

Upon arrival, transfer to the port and embark your Emerald Star-Ship. Once on board, you receive a warm welcome from our friendly crew. (D)

A panoramic view of Chain Bridge in Budapest

Budapest, Hungary Fri 21 Aug 2026

A panoramic view of Chain Bridge in Budapest

Your journey starts in Budapest, where a fantastic trip and exciting experiences await. Explore the city’s cobbled medieval quarter as you embark on a coach tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre. Your guide will teach you about the Hungarian capital’s culinary scene while touring the neo-Gothic Grand Market, Budapest's largest and most expansive indoor market, where you’ll have time to explore on your own. 
If you are feeling more active, you can instead choose to hike up Gellert Hill. The surrounding area has been rebuilt several times, most recently following the air raids of WWII. Some 18th-century Baroque houses still stand, best explored from the medieval paths and alleyways around Buda Castle.

This evening, join your fellow guests for a traditional Hungarian folklore show. (B,L,D)

Included Excursion | Budapest tour with Grand Market visit

EmeraldPLUS | Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board

EmeraldACTIVE | Hike to Gellert Hill

A panoramic view of Chain Bridge in Budapest

Budapest, Hungary Sat 22 Aug 2026

A panoramic view of Chain Bridge in Budapest

Today, we invite you to a special dinner and a traditional folklore show for a truly immersive local experience, presenting you with a great chance to get to know your fellow travellers and to spend the evening in town just like the locals do. (B,L,D)

EmeraldPLUS | Dinner & folklore show in Budapest

A panoramic view of Chain Bridge in Budapest

Budapest, Hungary Sun 23 Aug 2026

A panoramic view of Chain Bridge in Budapest

On our last morning in Budapest, enjoy a leisurely walk in town or use one of the on board bikes for a last ride through the Hungarian capital. In the afternoon, our ship sets sail on the magnificent Danube River onto our next destination – Slovakia. (B,L,D)

A panoramic view of Bratislava

Bratislava, Slovakia Mon 24 Aug 2026

A panoramic view of Bratislava

Early this morning we sail into the Slovakian capital. The romantic cobblestone lanes weaving through the city are yours to explore. Enjoy guided walking tours of the ancient town centre, passing a range of Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings, including the incredible Slovak National Theatre.
Alternatively, embark on a guided hike to Bratislava Castle, a fairy tale-like landmark steeped in legend. This striking building has been rebuilt several times. Most recently in the mid-20th century.
Tonight, enjoy some local Slovakian entertainment on board. (B,L,D)

Included Excursion | Walking tour of Bratislava

EmeraldPLUS | Local Slovakian entertainment on board

EmeraldACTIVE | Guided hike to Bratislava Castle

Vienna Cruises

Vienna, Austria Tue 25 Aug 2026

Vienna Cruises

Sweeping boulevards and world-famous exhibition halls welcome you to Vienna, the birthplace of revolutionary breakthroughs in the fields of music and psychology. The city perfectly encapsulates the extravagance of the Habsburg Monarchy and their ornate Baroque palaces. A walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre uncovers the classical architectural styles of the city, evidence of the melting pot of artistic influences that existed here at the turn of the 20th century.

If you are feeling more active, choose to explore on two wheels, cycling along the river to Donau insel, Danube Island. (B,L,D)

Included Excursion | Guided tour of Vienna

EmeraldACTIVE | Guided bike tour in Vienna

Weissenkirchen

Weissenkirchen - Melk, Austria Wed 26 Aug 2026

Weissenkirchen

Effortlessly suspended in time, Weissenkirchen is one of the most frequented parts of the Wachau wine region, where the delightful warm weather creates the perfect setting for viticulture.

Later, sail through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and arrive in Melk, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of Melk Abbey. Originally a lavish castle gifted to Benedictine monks during the 11th century, this opulent Baroque building is home to some of the most important collections of medieval manuscripts. (B,L,D)

Included Excursion | Tour of Melk Abbey

EmeraldACTIVE | Guided bike tour along the Danube River

EmeraldACTIVE | Guided hike in Weissenkirchen

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Linz, Austria - Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic Thu 27 Aug 2026

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

This morning, your Star-Ship will dock in Linz. Transfer by coach across the border into the Czech Republic to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed centre of Ceský Krumlov, a town built around a 13th-century castle. Join your local guide on a walk along the labyrinth of winding cobblestone streets, passing the colourful façades of buildings, as you learn how the architecture survived the test of time. The town surrounds the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ceský Krumlov Castle, and your guided tour will include the 15th-century St. Vitus Church and a number of delightful Gothic façades. (B,L,D)

EmeraldPLUS | Guided tour of Ceský Krumlov

The view over Passau

Passau, Germany Fri 28 Aug 2026

The view over Passau

Narrow cobblestone streets and the aroma of freshly baked goods welcome you to Passau, a town nestled on the confluence of three of Europe’s main waterways. This historic trading centre borders Austria and boasts a distinctive blend of cultures. 

Experience a typical Bavarian farm for some interesting insights into the life of local farmers and livestock farming, then try their homemade specialities. Alternatively, you can set off on a hike, catching sights such as the Mariahilf and St. Severin, an ancient church dating back to the Ottonian dynasty. (B,L,D)

EmeraldPLUS | Bavarian Countryside Experience

EmeraldACTIVE | Hike to Veste Oberhaus 

The view of Munich from the river

Disembark in Passau, Germany Sat 29 Aug 2026

The view of Munich from the river

After breakfast disembark and transfer to Munich, Germany. (B)

Fly to London

Transfer to the airport for your flight to London Sat 29 Aug 2026

Fly to London
Arrive in London

Arrive in London Sat 29 Aug 2026

Arrive in London

What's included *

  • Book with the top partner for Emerald Cruises
  • Exclusive SAVINGS of up to 35% - Only available with ROL Cruise
  • NINE NIGHTS full-board award-winning river cruising on board your contemporary Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, including:
  • Bavarian Countryside Experience
  • Guided tour of Vienna
  • Guided tour of Melk Abbey
  • Hike to Veste Oberhaus
  • Guided tour of Ceský Krumlov
  • Budapest tour with Grand Market visit
  • Hike to Gellert Hill
  • Dinner & folklore show in Budapest
  • Walking tour of Bratislava
  • Spacious full board accommodation on board Europe’s most innovative cruise ships
  • All meals throughout your river cruise from a healthy buffet breakfast to a five-course à la carte menu
  • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
  • FREE tea and coffee available throughout your cruise
  • Shore excursions INCLUDED
  • Gratuities are INCLUDED
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi on board
  • Extra special included excursions with EmeraldPLUS & EmeraldACTIVE
  • First-class service from English-speaking crew and knowledgeable guides
  • Complimentary bicycles for use ashore in select destinations
  • Bottled water restocked daily in your cabin
  • Overseas transfers
  • Book with ROL Cruise and earn exclusive Cruise Miles® + your EmeraldEXPLORER rewards
  • Return flights from London (regional and premium class flights may be available at a supplement) and all overseas transfers
  • We offer Interest Free Payment Plans, please contact us for more information (please note these are only available for sailings outside the balance due date)
  • Plus, book an Ocean View or above by 8pm 9th April 2026 and receive a FREE Case of Six Fine Wines

Exclusive 2026 Danube Explorer & Budapest

Book today and earn up to £58.98 off your next ROL Cruise booking

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Cabins & Prices

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Per-Person Pricing

* Prices shown are per person, based on two adults sharing a twin cabin and include all cruise offer discounts and savings.

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Emerald Stateroom

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Tucked towards the forward section of the Riviera Deck, the Emerald Stateroom (D) provides a comfortable and well-planned space that suits guests who appreciate a straightforward, easy-to-live-in cabin. With approximately 162 square feet of thoughtfully arranged space, the stateroom feels calm and practical, offering a welcoming place to relax between days spent ashore. Natural light enters through a fixed window, helping to create a bright yet private atmosphere throughout the day. The sleeping area is arranged with either a queen-size bed or twin beds, offering a restful environment at the end of the day. The en-suite bathroom features a revitalising shower and a selection of luxury toiletries, complemented by hotel-style comforts such as bathrobes, slippers and a hair dryer. Designed with everyday convenience in mind, the stateroom includes a mini-bar, with bottled water replenished daily, as well as Wi-Fi throughout the ship. A combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system keeps information and entertainment within easy reach, while individual climate control allows you to adjust the temperature to your preference. Practical additions such as a personal safe, telephone, umbrella and walking poles ensure you’re well prepared for both relaxing on board and exploring independently ashore.

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D Riviera Deck

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Emerald Stateroom

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Positioned midship on the Riviera Deck, the Emerald Stateroom (E) offers a practical yet comfortable base. With approximately 162 square feet of space, the stateroom is designed to feel calm and uncluttered, making it easy to settle in and enjoy time on board between excursions. A fixed window allows daylight to filter into the room, creating a bright, private setting throughout the day. The sleeping area features either a queen-size bed or twin beds, providing a comfortable place to unwind after sightseeing. The en-suite bathroom includes a revitalising shower and a selection of luxury toiletries, while thoughtful touches such as bathrobes, slippers and a hair dryer add a reassuring hotel-style feel. The stateroom is well equipped for everyday comfort, with a mini-bar, bottled water replenished daily, and Wi-Fi throughout the ship included as standard. A combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system keeps information and entertainment within easy reach, while individual climate control allows you to tailor the temperature to your preference. Practical additions such as a personal safe, telephone, umbrella and walking poles make this stateroom a particularly convenient choice for guests planning to explore independently ashore.

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E Riviera Deck

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Emerald Stateroom

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Designed for guests travelling independently, the Emerald Single Stateroom (ES) offers a compact yet well-considered space that feels comfortable and thoughtfully equipped. Located towards the forward section of the Riviera Deck, this stateroom provides a quiet base while remaining conveniently close to the ship’s amenities. At approximately 117 square feet, the layout makes clever use of space, creating a welcoming environment that’s easy to settle into. A fixed window allows natural light to brighten the room, while the sleeping area features a comfortable bed, offering a restful place to recharge after time ashore. The en-suite bathroom includes a revitalising shower and a selection of luxury toiletries, with familiar comforts such as bathrobes, slippers and a hair dryer adding a reassuring hotel-style touch. Despite its more compact footprint, the stateroom is well equipped for everyday ease. Guests can enjoy a mini-bar, bottled water replenished daily, and Wi-Fi throughout the ship, alongside a combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system for information and entertainment. Individual climate control ensures personalised comfort, while practical additions such as a personal safe, telephone, umbrella and walking poles make this an ideal choice for solo travellers keen to explore independently.

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ES Riviera Deck

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Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

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With its position at the aft of the Horizon Deck, the Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (A) is well suited to guests who enjoy spending time watching the river unfold. Offering approximately 180 square feet of carefully arranged space, the suite feels open and comfortable, providing a pleasant balance between indoor relaxation and scenic viewing. A standout feature is Emerald’s all-weather balcony, which includes a cleverly designed indoor decked area that can be enjoyed whatever the conditions. The electronic floor-to-ceiling window lowers smoothly, allowing fresh air and uninterrupted views to flow into the suite while keeping you sheltered and comfortable. The sleeping area is arranged with either a queen-size bed or twin beds, creating a restful environment after busy days ashore. The suite also includes a modern en-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower and a selection of luxury toiletries, complemented by familiar comforts such as bathrobes, slippers and a hair dryer. Everyday amenities include a mini-bar, with bottled water replenished daily, and Wi-Fi throughout the ship. Enjoy a combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system, individual climate control, and practical extras such as a personal safe, telephone, umbrella and walking poles.

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A Horizon Deck

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Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

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Set in a midship position on the Vista Deck, the Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (B) offers a well-balanced blend of comfort, space and scenic connection. Measuring approximately 180 square feet, the suite is thoughtfully laid out to feel bright and relaxed, making it an appealing option for guests who enjoy spending time both inside their suite and admiring the views beyond. The suite’s defining feature is Emerald’s innovative all-weather balcony, which incorporates a stylish indoor decked area designed for year-round use. An electronic floor-to-ceiling window lowers smoothly, opening the space to fresh air and uninterrupted river scenery while allowing you to remain comfortably sheltered. Inside, the sleeping area is arranged with either a queen-size bed or twin beds, offering a restful place to unwind after a day of exploration. A contemporary en-suite bathroom features a revitalising shower and a selection of luxury toiletries, complemented by hotel-style comforts such as bathrobes, slippers and a hair dryer. The suite is also well equipped for everyday living, with a mini-bar, bottled water replenished daily, and Wi-Fi throughout the ship. A combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system, individual climate control, and practical extras including a personal safe, telephone, umbrella and walking poles complete a thoughtfully designed suite that works equally well for relaxing on board and preparing for time ashore.

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B Vista Deck

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Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

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Found towards the aft of the Vista Deck, the Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite (C) offers a calm and comfortable setting with a strong connection to the passing river scenery. With approximately 180 square feet of well-planned space, the suite feels open without being oversized, making it an inviting place to spend time both day and night. At the heart of the suite is Emerald’s all-weather balcony, which features a smartly designed indoor decked area that can be enjoyed in any season. An electronic floor-to-ceiling window lowers at the touch of a button, allowing you to open the space to fresh air and uninterrupted views while remaining comfortably sheltered inside. The sleeping area is arranged with either a queen-size bed or twin beds, offering a restful place to recharge after days spent ashore. The suite also includes a contemporary en-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower and a selection of luxury toiletries, alongside familiar comforts such as bathrobes, slippers and a hair dryer. Additional amenities include a mini-bar, bottled water replenished daily, and Wi-Fi throughout the ship. A combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system, individual climate control, and practical extras such as a personal safe, telephone, umbrella and walking poles ensure the Panorama Balcony Suite (C) is well suited to both relaxing on board and preparing for independent exploration ashore.

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C Vista Deck

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Emerald Grand Balcony Suite

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Nestled midship on the Horizon Deck, the Grand Balcony Suite (S) is designed for guests who enjoy having their own outdoor space alongside a comfortably proportioned interior. At approximately 210 square feet, the suite feels light and well arranged, offering a relaxed environment that works just as well for quiet mornings as it does for unwinding in the evening. A key feature of the suite is the private outdoor balcony, complete with an open-air system that allows you to enjoy fresh air and river views whenever conditions allow. Inside, the sleeping area is arranged with either a queen-size bed or twin beds, creating a restful setting after days spent exploring ashore. The en-suite bathroom includes a revitalising shower and a selection of luxury toiletries, with bathrobes, slippers and a hair dryer adding a reassuring hotel-style touch. Everyday comforts are thoughtfully included, with a mini-bar, bottled water replenished daily, and Wi-Fi throughout the ship provided as standard. A combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system keeps information and entertainment within easy reach, while individual climate control allows you to tailor the temperature to your liking. Practical extras include a personal safe, telephone, umbrella and walking poles.

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S Horizon Deck

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Owner's One-bedroom Suite

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The Owner’s One Bedroom Suite (SA) offers the most spacious and refined accommodation available, designed for guests who appreciate generous proportions and a greater sense of privacy. Located midship on the Horizon Deck, this suite spans approximately 315 square feet, creating a relaxed, apartment-style setting that feels distinctly separate from standard cabin accommodation. A separate bedroom and living area allows the space to be enjoyed comfortably throughout the day, whether you’re taking a quiet moment indoors or entertaining with a drink. The private outdoor balcony, complete with an open-air system, provides a wonderful vantage point for watching the river scenery unfold at your own pace. The suite also features a contemporary en-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower and a selection of luxury toiletries, complemented by hotel-style comforts such as bathrobes, slippers and a hair dryer. Designed for both comfort and practicality, the suite includes a mini-bar, bottled water replenished daily, and Wi-Fi throughout the ship. A combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system keeps information and entertainment easily accessible, while individual climate control allows you to tailor the temperature to suit your preferences. Practical additions include a personal safe, telephone, umbrella and walking poles.

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SA Horizon Deck

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The Ship - Emerald Star

  • Occupancy182
  • Length443 ft (135.03 m)
  • Star RatingCrown IconCrown IconCrown IconCrown Icon

Stylish, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed, Emerald Star offers a relaxed way to experience Europe’s most enchanting rivers. Her interiors feel light and contemporary, with spaces that encourage you to settle in quickly and enjoy the journey as it unfolds. Combining Emerald Cruises’ signature comfort with a sociable onboard atmosphere, Emerald Star is well-suited to travellers who appreciate scenic cruising, modern design, and a gentle, unhurried pace.

What’s onboard: 180 guests, 91 guest suites, three complimentary restaurants, one bar and lounge, four relaxation and fitness venues, and one essential venue

Emerald Star

Experience the Difference

  • Our ABTA membership & ATOL licence protects all our packages or tailor-made holidays booked through ROL Cruise, so you can book with confidence knowing you are fully protected
  • Award-winning Cruise Miles® loyalty programme; with over 400,000 UK members
  • Winners of more than 50 Cruise Awards over the last 5 years
  • The UK's No.1 Independent Cruise Specialist; delivering impartial advice
  • Customer satisfaction at 98% and a Feefo score of 4.9/5.
  • Expert staff with over 1,000 years of combined travel expertise offering 5★ service
  • Flexible Payment Options Available
  • Celebrating 30 years as a cruise-only specialist
  • Insurance Guidance - ROL Cruise will assist you with obtaining insurance cover, including Covid-cover.
  • Key strategic partner with the major cruise lines
  • Ambassadors representing us and guiding our customers onboard and at key locations on their holidays

Emerald Cruises FAQs

Are drinks packages available with Emerald Cruises?

A selection of drinks packages are available onboard.


Can I access the internet while onboard a Emerald cruise?

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available onboard all Emerald Cruises Star-Ships in the public spaces, cabins and suites.


Can I smoke onboard a Emerald cruise ship?

Smoking is not permitted in cabins or any indoor parts onboard. There are areas on the Star-Ships’ external decks where smoking is permitted.


Can I take alcohol onboard a Emerald cruise ship?

Emerald Cruises welcomes guests purchasing alcohol for consumption in their rooms. However, they do ask that personal drinks are not consumed in the communal areas of the cruises.


Do Emerald Cruises cater to allergies, intolerances or specific diets?

Emerald Cruises endeavours to cater for all dietary requirements and requests. The cruise line asks that you inform them of any requirements or requests at the time of booking.


What currency is used onboard a Emerald ship?

The onboard currency on all European Emerald voyages is the Euro. In South East Asia, the currency onboard is primarily US Dollars.


* Terms & Conditions

View cruise line T&Cs

Terms and conditions: Booking conditions of Emerald cruise line and Reader Offers Limited Agency Terms of Business apply. Fares are per person based on two adults sharing, except single cabins and may increase or be withdrawn at any time. Offer applies to new bookings only. Ports may require a tender. Savings are based on two adults sharing and apply to the cruise element only. Drinks are served with lunch & dinner. Itineraries are subject to change and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruises may operate altered from that stated. Offers apply to new bookings only. Regional flights may incur supplementary costs and may require an additional overnight stay. Flight credit of $300 included for economy flights, flight supplement may apply if the flight prices are above the flight credit amount. Flights may not be a direct service. If the required air fare exceeds the set credit amount, additional charges will apply. Payment must be made in full to receive the advertised fares. Wi-Fi cannot be guaranteed as is subject to T&Cs. Tours are subject to change and may not be suitable for guests with mobility restrictions. Offers are strictly limited, subject to availability, until sold out or withdrawn. Meals are included as stated: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner. Cruise Miles T&Cs apply. E&OE.

Case of Six Fine Wines is one per booking, for Ocean View Staterooms & above on cruises of 7 nights & above, for Mainland UK addresses only.

View ROL Cruise Payment Methods HERE

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