Vienna & Budapest
Danube River Christmas Markets Gay Daddy Cruise 2027

6 nights from Vienna, Austria to Budapest, Hungary

November 20 – 26, 2027
Emerald Cruises Emerald Destiny

Come join our intimate and super-friendly group of Gay Daddies, Bears, admirers and friends aboard the Emerald Destiny for a special Christmas-themed cruise on the Danube River. From Vienna (overnight here) to Bratislava, Slovakia; then to Budapest (overnight here); then transfer to a hotel (included) for 2 more nights in Budapest. Sailing in late November means we get to visit the famous European Christmas Markets in every port, but still get home in time to spend the holidays with loved ones. The magic of Christmas, In the heart of Europe, On a Emerald ship that’s still affordable!

Enjoy visits to Europe’s delightful Christmas markets, onboard festivities and more-all designed to complement your itinerary’s regular highlights. Join us in exploring the lands where our most cherished holiday traditions began and treat yourself to a true European Christmas. Here is a preview of all you will enjoy during a Christmas Market cruise with Emerald.

Enjoy the splendour of the Danube at Christmas time with this mini itinerary. Experience the majesty of Budapest, uncover the eastern charm of Bratislava and wander the twinkling festive markets of Vienna. Discover grand cities along the "Blue Danube", highlighting three cities: Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest. Stroll among the stalls at Budapest’s Christmas market and immerse yourself in the cheerful atmosphere of Vienna as you shop for handmade decorations, and delight in the city’s joyful festivities.

Inclusions of the Danube River Cruise

• 4 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
• 2 nights in Budapest centrally located hotel
• Local Slovakian entertainment on board
• Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
• Dinner & folklore show in Budapest
• he services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
• Christmas traditions in Europe (on board presentation)
• Guided tour of Vienna
• Walking tour of Bratislava
• Guided coach tour of Budapest
• 13 delectable meals including 6 breakfasts (B), 3 lunches (L), 4 dinners (D)
• Including a Highlight Dinner
• Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board

Your Ship - Emerald River Cruises Emerald Destiny

We sail out of Vienna on the Emerald Destiny. CruiseCritic gives her 4.5 out of 5 stars, praising its decor (understated and minimalist). Travel Weekly says the ship feels stylish and hip. They love the “panorama balcony cabins” that feature a wall-to-wall,drop down window that instantly transforms your cabin’s interior seating area into a balcony space (very clever!). Online guest reviews are overwhelmingly positive (mostly raves!).

Because we spend so much time in port, the focus is more on the destinations, and less on the actual sailing. That’s why a shore excursion is included almost daily, and we spend the last 2 days in Budapest in a local hotel! Now, there’s no gym on board: you’ll get your exercise exploring the fabulous cities we visit. And there’s no casino (but each city we visit does have them).

There are no huge Broadway production shows, either. That said, you’ll still have plenty to appreciate on board. Service is top notch! Food is way better than your average ocean cruise. And the heated pool with a retractable roof will be there for you to enjoy during the day. At night it transforms into a cinema for featured entertainment, including local acts they bring on board just for us!

At Emerald Cruises, your enjoyment comes first. Every aspect of our superb Star-Ships is designed around you, from the contemporary accommodation and social spaces to our crew’s attentive level of service. Sail with the small cruise ship experts.

Emerald fleet of European Star-Ships are your home away from home - boutique floating hotels that provide guests with luxurious surroundings, a wealth of amenities, and unique innovations such as our indoor pool that transforms into a cinema space on selected evenings.

Emerald Star-Ships are custom-designed to navigate the rivers they sail along. This allows our fleet to dock in the heart of fascinating European cities, meaning you’ll enjoy a more in-depth cruise that takes you closer to the action.

Escape to your private sanctuary of serenity. With our range of suites and staterooms, there’s a cabin option to suit all preferences and budgets, whether you need plenty of space to stretch out, you’re longing for a cozier accommodation, or if you’re looking for a single cabin^ to sail solo.

Exclusive extras for our group only

• Special discounted rates at our host hotels in Vienna before the cruise.

• Welcome Aboard Party (with free drinks!)—come meet your fellow Daddies and friends in a warm, welcoming, and casual atmosphere. Play our fun mingling/get-to-know-you activity, and start forging friendships that will last a lifetime.

• Onboard Host/Cruise Director—We'll be there to make sure you have a great vacation. Our colleagues will resolve any issues that may arise, answer questions, and help you enjoy your cruise to the utmost. We'll coordinate and host activities and parties each day—all of which are optional (it's your vacation: pick and choose what you want to be a part of).

• Exclusive excursions just for our group (in addition to the free excursions offered by the ship).

• From our standing group dinner reservation, to our daily happy hour; from our private activities on board to our private excursions in port—you’ll always have a seat waiting for you (if you want it).

• Special Daddy group activities on board (card games, trivia contests, happy hours, parties, etc.)

• We promise your Daddy Cruise experience will far exceed what the cruise line delivers without us. If not, we'll make it up to you.