Day 1: Passau - Overnight Dock

The adventure begins in Passau where you may board the boat between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM. At 4:30 PM, the Merlijn will set sail, gently cruising downstream. Upon arrival at the evening docking spot, you’ll receive a warm welcome with a complimentary drink and an introduction to the crew. During this time, you’ll also receive essential tour and ship information, along with a safety briefing. Dinner will be served onboard followed by leisure time for a late-night stroll amidst the serene natural surroundings.

Prior to departure, consider adding extra nights to explore Passau. Take a boat ride along the three rivers and immerse yourself in the charm of the old town, or visit Veste Oberhaus, situated opposite the town. Once a penal institution from 1867, the castle now houses the town museum, featuring numerous permanent and special exhibitions. From the terrace, you'll be treated to a splendid view of Passau's old town and the majestic confluence of the three rivers.

Day 2: Overnight Dock - Linz (19-22 mi / 30-35 km; option to extend 34-37 mi / 55-60 km)

Following breakfast, you'll have a bike fitting and introduction before embarking on your first cycling tour. Prepare for an intriguing journey along the Schlögener Loop, a captivating double bend along the Danube, formed over millions of years through erosion by the river against the surrounding mountains. For early risers, a hike up to the 'Schlogener-Blick' viewpoint before breakfast offers panoramic vistas of the loop and the surrounding countryside.

Pedaling along the Danube, you'll pass through charming Austrian towns like Aschach and Brandstatt, where you may wish to pause for a visit. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the Austrian 'Kaiserschmarrn' dessert, a sweet favored by Emperor Franz Joseph I. Upon your return, the Merlijn awaits you. If you're up for more adventure, consider cycling on to Linz for your overnight stay.

In Linz, wander around the main square, adorned with historically significant buildings like the old Town Hall. Explore the old quarter west of the main square, where Renaissance and baroque facades grace the streets. After dinner, enjoy a stroll through the city, soaking in the ambiance of Linz by night.

Day 3: Linz - Mauthausen - Grein (22-25 mi / 35-40 km; option to extend 28-31 mi / 45-50 km)

During breakfast, you’ll cruise towards Mauthausen, where today’s bike tour commences. Notorious for its WWII Nazi concentration camp located just a few kilometers from the city, you may opt to cycle an additional 5 km there and back for a visit. You may then choose between two cycling routes: a shorter one along the Danube or a longer path through the countryside, both leading to the town of Grein, situated in a small bay at the entrance to the 'Strudengau'.

Day 4: Grein - Overnight Dock (6-9 mi / 10-15 km)

Take a break from the bikes today and consider a hike! Following breakfast, you'll have the opportunity to visit 'Schloss Greinburg', one of the few privately owned castles, featuring a stone theatre and shipping museum. The rest of the day offers a range of activities: embark on a guided hike through nature trails, traverse a gorge, and visit a water mill, or opt for a leisurely day exploring Grein's shops, city theatre, or museums, Alternatively, you may decide to simply unwind onboard and soak in the stunning scenery.

In the afternoon, the Merlijn will continue to cruise along the Danube. Gain insight into Austria’s industrial history as you pass through the Struden bends and the Persenbeug lock. Strategically located next to the river with a castle atop, it's home to an ancient hydroelectric power plant, the oldest of its kind in Austria, which nearly powered the entire nation upon its construction in 1950.

The day concludes with an overnight stay in a quaint Austrian town, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquil ambiance of the Danube with a drink in hand, either in the spacious lounge or on the comfortable terrace.

Day 5: Overnight dock – Dürnstein/Rossatz (28-31 mi / 45-50 km)

Today's route follows the Danube. After approximately an hour, you’ll reach 'Stift Melk', perched high above the river, where you'll enjoy a guided tour of the abbey fortress. Following the tour, a short walk brings you to the city of Melk, a highlight of the region known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Continuing downstream, you'll enter the 'Wachau' region, renowned for its castles, vineyards, and landscapes. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Wachau is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and history buffs. The day ends in Dürnstein/Rossatz, where following dinner, you can participate in a wine-tasting session at a local winery.

Day 6: Dürnstein/Rossatz - Tulln (31-34 mi / 50-55 km)

Today's itinerary features a lengthy ride, starting with a short cruise aboard the Merlijn to Dürnstein. Upon arrival, follow the charming roofed stairs to the heart of the town, renowned not only for its beautiful architecture but also for the historic castle where Richard I of England, known as the Lionheart, was once imprisoned. After exploring the town, the journey continues mostly along the Danube, offering picturesque views as you cycle. Before reaching the Merlijn in Tulln, you'll have the opportunity to visit 'Garten Tulln', a haven for gardening enthusiasts. Tulln, often dubbed the 'city of flowers' due to its botanical garden and numerous parks, is also the hometown of influential painter Egon Schiele.

Day 7: Tulln – Korneuburg/Vienna (16-19 mi / 25-30 km; option to extend 25-28 mi / 40-45 km)

This morning marks your departure from Tulln as you embark on the final leg of your journey along the 'Donau Radweg'. This scenic path winds through predominantly rural landscapes. After a picnic lunch, you'll have two options: either rejoin the Merlijn for a relaxing cruise into Vienna or extend your bike tour to the city. Those opting for the extended route will pedal on to Vienna, where the Merlijn awaits at the city's edge. In the evening, indulge in the Captain's dinner onboard.

Day 8: Vienna/Korneuburg

Following breakfast, it's time to bid farewell and either continue your European journey or head to the airport.

Consider adding a few nights in Vienna to explore its Baroque streetscapes, imperial palaces, and vibrant cultural scene. Indulge in its famed coffee house culture and don't miss the opportunity to savor a traditional 'Sacher-Torte' before departing.

Day 1: Vienna - Korneuburg

The adventure begins in Vienna where you may board the boat between 3:30 PM and 4:00 PM. At 4:30 PM, the Merlijn will set sail. Upon arrival at the evening docking spot, you’ll receive a warm welcome with a complimentary drink and an introduction to the crew. During this time, you’ll also receive essential tour and ship information, along with a safety briefing. Dinner will be served onboard followed by leisure time for a late-night stroll amidst the serene natural surroundings.

Prior to departure, consider adding a few nights in Vienna to explore its Baroque streetscapes, imperial palaces, and vibrant cultural scene. Indulge in its famed coffee house culture and don't miss the opportunity to savor a traditional 'Sacher-Torte'.

Day 2: Korneuburg - Tulln (19-22 mi / 30-35 km; option to shorten 16 mi / 25 km)

Following breakfast, you'll have a bike fitting and introduction before embarking on your first cycling tour along the renowned 'Donau Radweg'. Today's route takes you through mostly rural areas before reaching the Merlijn in Tulln. Here, you might consider a visit to 'Garten Tulln', a must-see for gardening enthusiasts. Tulln is affectionately known as the 'city of flowers' due to its botanical garden and abundance of parks. It's also the birthplace of the influential painter Egon Schiele.

Return to the Merlijn for dinner, followed by an opportunity to explore the town at your leisure.

Day 3: Tulln - Dürnstein/Rossatz (31-34 mi / 50-55 km)

Today's journey entails a lengthy ride as you bid farewell to Tulln and pedal towards the charming towns of Krems and Stein, the first gems of the Wachau Valley. Following the flow of the Danube, you'll have ample opportunity to appreciate its beauty from the saddle of your bike. Upon exploring these picturesque towns, you'll cross the bridge to reach the Merlijn in Dürnstein/Rossatz. Following dinner, you can participate in a delightful wine-tasting session at a nearby winery.

Day 4: Dürnstein/Rossatz - Overnight dock (28-31 mi / 45-50 km)

Begin the day in the town of Dürnstein. Upon arrival, follow the charming roofed stairs to the heart of the town, renowned not only for its beautiful architecture but also for the historic castle where Richard I of England, known as the Lionheart, was once imprisoned. After exploring the town, the journey continues mostly along the Danube, offering picturesque views as you cycle. You'll soon enter the 'Wachau' region, renowned for its castles, vineyards, and captivating landscapes. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Wachau is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and history buffs.

Continue cycling to reach the magnificent city of Melk. Following a brief exploration, you'll stroll to 'Stift Melk,' perched high above the Danube. Here, an included guided tour awaits, offering insights into this monumental abbey fortress. Together with the city of Melk, this site undoubtedly stands as the pinnacle of any visit to the region.

The day concludes with an overnight stay docked near a cozy Austrian town. Relax in this serene setting and admire the tranquil Danube with a refreshing beverage in the spacious lounge or on the inviting terrace.

Day 5: Overnight dock - Grein (22-25 mi / 35-40 km; option to extend 31-34 mi / 50-55 km)

Today you'll have the option to choose between a longer or shorter ride. Those opting for the longer ride will reunite with the group in Persenbeug, an ancient shipping town strategically nestled by the river. Persenbeug is also notable for its shipping lock and hydroelectric power plant, the oldest of its kind in Austria, which nearly powered the entire nation upon its construction in 1950.

Continuing your journey, you'll follow the Danube through the picturesque 'Strudengau' region, a narrow valley flanking the river. Your day's ride concludes in Grein, a charming town nestled in a quaint bay. Here, you'll have the opportunity to tour 'Schloss Greinburg', a magnificent palace boasting a stone theatre.

End the day with a delightful dinner served on board as you unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.

Day 6: Grein – Linz (22-25 mi / 35-40 km; option to extend 3 mi / 5 km)

Following breakfast, your biking adventure commences, with Mauthausen soon coming into view. Notorious for its WWII Nazi concentration camp located just a few kilometers from the city, Mauthausen offers an optional 3-mile (5 km) ride for those interested in visiting.

From here, soak in the stunning scenery as you pedal to Linz, where the Merlijn will be waiting. Linz, often heralded as the starting point of Austrian vitality, pulsates with the energy of the nation's tech industry. Around the main square, discover historically significant and architecturally intriguing buildings, including the venerable old Town Hall.

Venturing west from the main square, you'll reach the charming old quarter, with Renaissance and baroque facades adorning its historic buildings. This evening, immerse yourself further in Austrian culture amidst the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling city.

Day 7: Linz - Passau (22-25 mi / 35-40 km; option to extend 34-37 mi / 55-60 km)

Embarking on the last leg of your cycling adventure, you'll traverse through charming Austrian towns like Brandstatt and Aschach, where a stop at a local café is highly recommended. Indulge in the Austrian delicacy 'Kaiserschmarrn' dessert, named after Emperor Franz Joseph I, who adored this fluffy shredded pancake.

Prepare for an intriguing excursion along the 'Schlögener Schlinge', where the Danube meanders through the mountains, sculpting several bends over millions of years. At Schlögen, if you're up for it, consider biking or hiking to the 'Schlögener Blick' viewpoint for a breathtaking panorama of the sharpest bend.

Following this scenic marvel, you'll have a choice: continue cruising aboard the Merlijn for a leisurely afternoon or extend your biking adventure before reuniting with the vessel later. Crossing into Germany, bid farewell to Austria's picturesque landscapes. This evening, enjoy a sumptuous farewell dinner and reminisce about the unforgettable experiences shared on your journey.

Day 8: Passau

Following breakfast, it will be time to bid farewell and continue your European adventure or head to the airport for your departure.

If time permits, Passau offers an excellent opportunity to spend a few extra days. Take a boat ride along the three rivers and immerse yourself in the charm of the old town, or consider visiting Veste Oberhaus, situated opposite the town. Once a penal institution from 1867, the castle now houses the town museum, featuring numerous permanent and special exhibitions. From the terrace, you'll be treated to a splendid view of Passau's old town and the majestic confluence of the three rivers.