Enjoy your luxury airport lounge access before you depart for your flight to Budapest via Doha.  

Upon your arrival at Budapest airport, you will be met and transferred to your river ship for embarkation.   

Welcome to Hungary. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.  With a free day to explore before your cruise, take time to take photographs on the Royal Palace grounds in this treasure trove of historical architecture. Enjoy the warmth and glow of Christmas tradition before boarding your Suite Ship®.  

Take in the beauty of Budapest while enjoying a free afternoon exploring such famous sights as the Chain Bridge. Get to know the city’s cafés and pubs, and don’t miss the unique Christmas markets that Budapest hosts every year during the Festive season. 

This evening, enjoy live entertainment onboard.  

Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Old Town’s cobblestone streets to Town Hall. Visit the Gothic halls of St. Martin’s Cathedral—Hungary’s centuries-old coronation church.   Spend free time browsing the spruce stalls of the Christmas Markets of Bratislava. 

Take a Guided Tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings, statues, incredible library, and ornate pipe organ.  Enjoy an Austrian Cookies Tasting while sailing through the splendid Wachau Valley to Vienna. 

This evening, you may choose to attend an Optional Excursion to a Royal Waltz Concert for an unforgettable evening of music in an elegant hall.  

Explore the Habsburg empire this morning on a Guided City Tour of Vienna’s gilded landmarks. See the Imperial Palace complex—the winter residence of the Imperial Family, the iconic Vienna Opera House, and stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral.   Spend free time on your own to enjoy the Christkindlesmarkt or relax by the fire’s glow in a Viennese café this evening.   

Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.   Upon disembarking the ship, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Doha, Qatar’s thriving coastal capital on the Arabian Peninsula. 

After arriving in Doha, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. This evening, consider heading to Souq Waqif to sip local coffee, try one of the many great restaurants, and explore the market’s colourful mix of shops.  

Experience Doha’s unique heritage and culture on a city tour that takes you to Dhow Harbour, the Museum of Islamic Arts, Katara Cultural Village, The Pearl and back to Souq Waqif for a guided tour through its vibrant alleyways.  

Return to the hotel to freshen up before being transferred to embark on your Desert Days cruise.

A day at sea gives you the opportunity to explore the ship’s array of amenities, take full advantage of the onboard activities and indulge in exquisite cuisine.  

We will be docked in Dubai overnight so you will have plenty of time to explore.  Dubai blends old and new in a way few cities can. Wander traditional markets, relax on sun-soaked beaches, or take in the incredible skyline from the world’s tallest buildings. From desert adventures to great restaurants and shopping, there’s something for everyone.  

One of the eight desert islands of Al Dhafra, Sir Bani Yas offers a unique escape where you can get up and close to thousands of free-roaming animals at the Arabian Wildlife Park, including gazelles, hyenas and cheetahs.  Explore the island’s heritage sites or head to one of its pristine beaches, perfect for snorkelling.  

Abu Dhabi blends rich tradition with modern comfort, offering a calmer, more cultural take on the Emirates. Explore stunning landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, stroll along the Corniche, or explore its museums and desert experiences.  

Set in the heart of the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain offers a welcoming blend of tradition and modern living. As your ship docks at Khalifa Bin Salman Port, step into a destination where history meets contemporary charm. Explore lively souks, wander through ancient forts, and discover the country’s rich heritage at the Bahrain National Museum.  

After disembarking your cruise, you will be transferred to the airport where you will have access to the Al Maha Lounge before flying back to Australia.