Accommodations
Step on board MS Thomas Hardy and you’ll quickly see that comfort is at the heart of every cabin category. Whether you’re looking for a well-appointed base for your river cruise or something with a little extra space to unwind, each cabin has been designed with thoughtful details that make day-to-day life on board feel effortless, from morning coffees to relaxed evenings after an excursion.
The Standard Cabins offer a welcoming retreat, with floor-to-ceiling windows and either a French-style balcony or a fixed window, depending on the deck. Inside, you’ll find twin beds that can be configured as a double, along with individual climate control so you can keep the temperature just right. The en-suite bathroom features a walk-in shower, and soft towels, bathrobes, slippers, and a hairdryer are provided for added comfort. A table and chairs create a handy space for relaxing with a drink or planning your day, and practical inclusions such as a safe, mini fridge, UK plug sockets and two USB charging points make settling in simple. You’ll also have a Nespresso machine and tea-making facilities, toiletries including shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion and soap, as well as a telephone, radio and flat-screen TV, with turn-down service to ensure everything feels refreshed each evening.
For guests who enjoy a little more space and an elevated cabin experience, the Superior Suites combine a bright interior with floor-to-ceiling windows and a French-style balcony, allowing the scenery to become part of your onboard routine. Twin beds can be arranged as a double, and individual climate control keeps your suite comfortable throughout the day. You’ll also find a Nespresso machine and tea-making facilities for an easy start to the morning, along with a safe and mini fridge for everyday convenience. The ensuite bathroom features a walk-in shower and comes prepared with towels, bathrobes, slippers and a hairdryer, plus luxury toiletries including shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion and soap. A table and chairs provide a comfortable spot to relax indoors, while UK plug sockets, two USB charging points, a flat-screen TV, radio, and telephone complete the in-suite features. Turn-down service is included, giving the suite a polished feel each evening.
The Superior Stern Suites are ideal for guests who appreciate generous natural light and a well-balanced suite layout. Floor-to-ceiling windows with a French-style balcony help the space feel open and airy, while twin beds can be configured as a double for flexibility. The suite includes a Nespresso machine and tea-making facilities, making it easy to enjoy a quiet drink whenever you fancy. A table and chairs provide a comfortable area to sit back and unwind. You’ll also find UK plug sockets and two USB charging points for easy charging, alongside a safe and mini fridge for secure and practical storage. The ensuite bathroom features a walk-in shower and comes complete with towels, bathrobes, slippers, and a hairdryer, as well as luxury toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, and soap. A flat-screen TV, radio and telephone are included, and turn-down service ensures your suite is reset and ready for the evening.
For a more indulgent onboard stay, the Deluxe Suites combine a spacious cabin layout with the added luxury of an outside balcony, offering a wonderful place to enjoy the passing views in comfort. Floor-to-ceiling windows keep the suite beautifully bright, and twin beds can be configured as a double to suit your preferences. Individual climate control lets you fine-tune the temperature, while the spacious en suite bathroom features a walk-in shower, soft towels, bathrobes, slippers, and a hairdryer for an elevated everyday experience. You’ll also have a Nespresso machine and tea-making facilities, along with luxury toiletries including shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion and soap. A table and chairs provide a comfortable place to relax indoors, supported by practical features such as a safe, mini fridge, UK plug sockets and two USB charging points. The suite also includes a telephone, radio, and flat-screen TV, while turn-down service adds a final touch, keeping everything feeling refreshed and welcoming each evening.
Activities
River cruising is as much about what you discover ashore as it is the gentle pace on board, and MS Thomas Hardy supports both. From guided experiences to small, flexible ways to explore independently, the ship’s activities are designed to add depth to the places you visit.
The ship’s Enrichment programme focuses on destination-led experiences, including shore excursions and local exploration. In selected towns and cities, a small number of bicycles are available for self-guided exploring, which is ideal if you’d like to see a little more on your own terms. On some sailings, you may also find enrichment talks and media presentations linked to the itinerary, offering extra context on local culture, history and what you’re seeing along the way.
Up on the Sun Deck, the atmosphere is more playful and relaxed, with simple outdoor activities that suit the laid-back rhythm of river cruising. A golf putting green and deck games are perfect for a low-key challenge between ports, or for enjoying time outside while the scenery drifts by.
Entertainment
Evenings on MS Thomas Hardy are designed to wind down in comfort, with a welcoming main lounge that feels as much like a stylish living room as it does a bar. It’s the sort of space where you can settle in for a quiet drink, enjoy conversation with fellow guests, or simply watch the riverbanks glide past.
The Observation Lounge & Bar on the Diamond Deck is the ship’s standout social space, thanks to its panoramic views and a warm, elegant interior. Comfortable leather armchairs and generous sofas are arranged for relaxed lounging, finished with richly coloured cushions in quality fabrics. A thick wool carpet adds to the cosy feel underfoot, while contemporary lighting creates a refined ambience as day turns into evening. Whether you’re in the mood for a freshly made cup of tea or a cocktail, it’s easy to settle back and enjoy the view.
Food & Drink
Dining on MS Thomas Hardy combines classic river-cruise elegance with attentive service that keeps meals feeling relaxed and unhurried. The emphasis is on quality, comfort and a sense of occasion without formality.
The Main Restaurant on the Ruby Deck is the centrepiece of dining, offering first-class cuisine and polished, professional service. The room is styled to feel warm and refined, with beautifully laid tables for four or six guests, crisp linen, deep wool carpets and wood panelling that give the space a quietly elegant character. Settle in with a glass from the carefully selected wine list and enjoy an evening where the surroundings feel just as considered as the menu.
For a different atmosphere, the Riverview Kitchen on the Diamond Deck offers a more intimate, reservable dining experience. With large panoramic windows and an open kitchen, it has a relaxed “chef-led” feel, where you can watch dishes being prepared as you enjoy a selection of locally inspired plates. This dining option can be reserved on board at no extra charge, and when conditions allow, the windows can be opened onto the terrace for an easy-going al fresco feel.
Relaxation & Fitness
After a day of exploring, MS Thomas Hardy makes it easy to slow down and enjoy a little time purely for yourself. Whether you want to switch off completely or simply feel refreshed and ready for the next port of call, there are dedicated spaces on board to help you do exactly that.
In the Wellness area on the Emerald Deck, you can treat yourself to a massage, ideal for easing out tired legs after walking tours or simply adding a little indulgence to your cruise. Close by, the ship’s Salon offers hairdressing, as well as manicure and pedicure treatments, perfect if you fancy a touch of holiday pampering before dinner or a special evening on board.
For a more active reset, the Sun Deck pool is a refreshing place to spend time outdoors. Take a dip in the small splash pool, stretch out nearby with a drink from the deck bar, or settle in with a book while the scenery rolls by. If you’re passionate about maintaining an exercise routine, the ship also has a small fitness centre, ideal for light workouts, gentle exercise, or a quick session to start the day feeling energised.
MS Thomas Hardy destinations
MS Thomas Hardy’s itineraries showcase some of Europe’s best-loved river routes, combining iconic cities with scenic stretches of cruising. Depending on your chosen voyage, you may discover the grandeur of Budapest, sail along the Danube and the Blue Danube, explore the vineyard-lined shores of the Rhine, or soak up the warm character of the River Rhône and Provence, where culture, landscapes and local flavour come together beautifully.
