Castaways/Fox Travel UNIWORLD escorted Holiday Market cruise charter from Budapest to Passau/Munich

December 8-15, 2025

This is a favorite cruise itinerary to experience the magic of the holiday season in the enchanting birthplace of cherished traditions in the ancient cities of Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Salzburg and Munich and includes the famous Wachau wine valley of lower Austria.  Immerse yourself in Uniworld’s exclusive “Taste of Christmas” program in Vienna, where you can enjoy the beauty of baroque architecture, captivating concerts, and stunning scenery as you cruise along the Danube during the holiday season.

You will visit each captivating port of call, each with its thousand-year history of Christmas celebrations dating back to ancient times.  Each city offers a festive atmosphere and discoveries around each corner like no other in the world. Wander through the Christmas Markets at each spot and surprise your family with one-of-a-kind gifts you can’t get anywhere else.

Enjoy optional excursions to other parts of each city to enjoy the holiday season throughout each stop along the way.

We’ve visited each of the cities many times, escorted, charter or hosted over 6 riverboat holiday trips on the Danube and continue to be amazed at the craftsmanship handed down in many families that display their wares and creativity only once a year.

NOTE:  Come on along with us on this wonderful journey with your hosts, Donna Daniels and James Bailey.   This is a production of both Fox Travel and Castaways Travel so there will be a mix of clients from both companies.  Not clothing optional.    Sorry, no kids invited.

CHOOSE YOUR SUITE or CABIN

NON-REFUNDABLE

NOTE: This is an exclusive trip on a fully chartered private riverboat ship, the UNIWORLD Princess with 64 cabins.  Per the UNIWORLD charter contract, payment is subject to a 100% penalty for cancellation for any reason.  Each payment transaction including deposit and all total payments are NON-REFUNDABLE.   

OPTIONAL TRAVEL INSURANCE

You are strongly urged to buy optional Travel Protection Insurance.   Castaways’ parent company, Fox Travel, offers Allianz travel insurance coverage for residents of the USA for protection while ON the ship and OFF the ship including travel delays and accidents in transit.  Allianz is a world wide leader providing travel insurance coverage options.   Contact your Travel Advisor for a quote.  Rates very by: Age of insured, State of residence in the USA and choice of coverage options you select.

Itinerary

Dec 8   Day 1   Budapest – Arrival
Dec 9   Day 2   Budapest
Dec 10  Day 3   Bratislava
Dec 11  Day 4   Vienna
Dec 12  Day 5   Krems/Melk & Wachau Wine Valley
Dec 13  Day 6   Linz/Salzburg
Dec 14  Day 7   Passau
Dec 15  Day 8   Passau/Munich – Departure

Dates of Travel

December 8-15, 2025

Reservations

Please review the deck plan of the Uniworld PRINCESS and Contact Castaways Travel to Reserve  or  Choose Your Suite or Cabin from deck plan  chart below.

NON-REFUNDABLE

NOTE: This is an exclusive trip on a fully chartered private riverboat ship, the UNIWORLD Princess with 64 cabins.  Per the UNIWORLD charter contract, payment is subject to a 100% penalty for cancellation for any reason.  Each payment transaction including deposit and all total payments are NON-REFUNDABLE.

Itinerary and Ports of Call

Day 1   Budapest – Arrival

Upon landing at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, travelers will be met by a friendly Uniworld representative if they have booked a group or private arrival transfer as part of their cruise package. The representative will then escort them to the ship for a seamless start to their journey.

A unique Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner has been arranged for tonight.

Day 2   Budapest

Situated on opposite banks of the Danube River, Buda and Pest showcase their unique charm and appeal. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling capital city through a variety of tours, and explore the renowned Christmas Market in Budapest—one of the largest in Europe. The tradition of celebrating Christmas in Budapest dates back a thousand years to the era of St. Stephen, the monarch who established the Hungarian nation and promoted the spread of Christianity across his domain. However, Budapest’s origins can be traced back even further to its beginnings as a Roman military camp nearly a thousand years prior. Throughout its history, the city has been under the rule of various powers including Germans, Austrians, Ottomans, and Communists, all of whom have left their mark on its rich tapestry of culture and heritage.

Day 3   Bratislava

Slovakia was once hidden from the world behind the “Iron Curtain,” but now it is a place of mystery and intrigue. The small capital city has a colorful history that you can explore with a local expert. You can also experience the local Christmas Market, a new and delightful tradition for Slovakians. In Slovak, “Merry Christmas” is said as “Veselé Vianoce!” Bratislava, the heart and soul of Slovakia, is full of surprises. The city sits on the Danube River and has been a key player in the politics and culture of the region for many years. While Bratislava’s Christmas Market is relatively new, starting in 1993, the Slovakians have embraced the holiday traditions of their Austrian and Hungarian neighbors. You can join in on the festive fun and experience these traditions for yourself.

Day 4      Vienna

Vienna is famous for its stunning art and architecture, beautiful classical music, delicious pastries, and rich history. The elegant city is a hub of culture and history, with a wide range of renowned former residents. Explore Vienna through various guided tours and enjoy a unique experience with exclusive VIP entry to an exceptional art collection.

Day 5   Krems/Melk

Explore a variety of charming day trips that evoke a sense of holiday cheer in this picturesque ancient town and the scenic valley that surrounds it, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Make sure to grab a cozy spot in the lounge or on the Sun Deck today as your cruise ship sails through the stunning Wachau Valley. Throughout the ages, the Danube river carved out a breathtaking gorge in the foothills of the Bohemian Mountains, creating a 19-mile (30-kilometer) stretch of picturesque scenery that UNESCO has recognized as a World Heritage Landscape.   Ancient castle ruins tower over the hills, while baroque church spires line the riverbanks, highlighting the historic villages and magnificent abbeys. The rocky slopes are covered with vineyards and apricot orchards, producing some of Austria’s finest white wines from grapes grown on the dry-stone terraces that have been cultivated for over 2,000 years.

Day 6    Linz/Salzburg

Our boat arrives at Linz, a city that combines modernity with history and stretches along the glistening Danube River. Next, you will visit Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, located in a stunning alpine landscape that shines like a magical winter scene during this season. If you’re a fan of “The Sound of Music,” you might spot familiar spots from the award-winning movie in the Old Town area, where you can find the impressive cathedral and a charming Christmas Market.

Day 7   Passau

Passau is a unique intersection in multiple ways—where three rivers converge and three countries come close to meeting, creating a captivating blend of cultures. Explore the town with a guided walk, followed by a visit to the Christmas Market located in the square in front of the cathedral. With over 70 stalls, you’ll discover a variety of delights, from tiny houses to delicate blown-glass decorations and sweet spun-sugar treats.

Day 8   Passau/Munich – Departure

Disembark the ship in Passau. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer, or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Munich Airport.   There you may continue your flight home or extend your holiday in Munich’s many stores, shops and locations for sight seeing.

Theme Nights

• Holiday Cheer kick off and Farewell Dinner
• 70s Night – Usually on Wednesday

Ship Highlights

• Main Lounge
• Captain’s Lounge
• Sky Lounge
• Reception
• Library
• Serenity River Spa
• Patio Lounge
• Restaurant with river river view
• Fitness facility
• Bar
• Guest Laundry
• Coffee/Tea Station 24 hours
• Sun Deck

What’s Included

This is the featured amenity list provided by Uniworld River Cruises

• Accommodation in 64 cabins for 128 passengers – singles or double
• Meals onboard daily for up to 128 passengers. Standard ship menu
•      Breakfast
•      Lunch
•      Dinner
• Unlimited beverages onboard, including wine, beer, spirits, and soft drinks
• Choice of daily excursions
• Onboard entertainment and performances
• All gratuities to ship’s staff and crew onboard
• Onboard services of a Uniworld Cruise Manager
• Scheduled airport transfers on day that cruise services start and end, provided that the transfer is either a group transfer or that individual transfers meet standard transfer guidelines
• Sun Deck

Additional Costs

• Hotel cost
• Alcoholic beverages offered on board which are outside of standard inclusions
• Airfare and Taxes
• Gratuities to local guides and drivers
• Communication, satellite telephone charges
• Passenger laundry
• Optional shore excursions, activities, items or services of a personal nature that might be offered for purchase on board
• Port charges in the amount of US$230 per person (due at the time of final payment)
• Passengers’ travel and medical insurance
• Fees and charges for passports and any applicable visas required by UNIWORLD or the countries visited on the cruise
• Airport transfers for extended stay before or after the 7 night cruise

Documentation

All passengers are required to possess a valid passport.  It is expressly confirmed that all passengers are responsible for obtaining valid travel documents required by Uniworld and the countries to be visited.

Cabin Categories and Rates*

Suite Rhine Deck

$6,999      EBB $6,749

French Balcony Rhine Deck

$4,999      EBB $4,799

Deluxe Danube Deck

$4,299      EBB$4,099

Classic Moselle Deck

$3,699      EBB $3,549

*NOTE:  Deposit is $500/person.  Port charge, taxes, fees  – $230/person.  Cabin rates will increase as the ship sells out.  Early Booking Bonus will expire in 90 days.   This is an exclusive trip on a fully chartered private riverboat ship, the UNIWORLD Princess with 64 cabins.  Per the UNIWORLD charter contract, payment is subject to a 100% penalty for cancellation for any reason.

Each payment transaction including deposit and all total payments are NON-REFUNDABLE.  You are strongly urged to consider protecting your investment with optional travel insurance.  Allianz Travel Insurance is available through Castaways Travel and Fox Travel and is available to residents of the USA.

 

Deck Plan

What to Expect on Boarding day

• Passengers with Uniworld transfers will be met at the Budapest Airport and taken to the ship.  Transfers are supplied by Uniworld for arrivals on the first day of boarding and the day of departing the cruise.  All other transfers are the responsibility of the cruise guest.  Subject to change.
• Before you leave home, apply your bag tags to your luggage and label the tag with your identification: Name, Address, Phone, E mail.

Cruise Tips and FAQs

You will receive a Uniworld Cruise Companion which will include a comprehensive list of travel details.  Scroll to the bottom to see subjects included.  This list for illustration only.  You will receive a 2025 version later.

Temperatures will vary:  Expect 30s to 40s F which may vary.  Numerous Christmas markets are featured on this cruise so expect some walking.   Optional local tours are also included in your package.

Pre-Cruise Hotel

All passengers may choose their own accommodations in Budapest and Munich.  There are numerous high quality major hotel companies in both cities such as Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, Hilton Fisherman’s Bastion, Marriott International properties, Intercontinental, Kempinski, Corinthia and more.   There will be group hotel available but you may stay at a hotel of your choice.

Previous Cruise Newsletters List

Stay tuned here… we’ll post info. when available.

Terms & Conditions 

•         Castaways Travel, Fox Travel and Uniworld River Cruises Terms & Conditions apply.
•         Cancellation Policy/Fees – All payment transactions are NON-REFUNDABLE, since the cruise is a complete exclusive ship charter.
•         Port charge, taxes, fees  – $230/person
•         Immigration/customs, passports and visas – Are the responsibility of each passenger to present required, valid documents
•         Payment Schedule – To be announced
•         Optional Travel Protection Insurance – See below.  This coverage is highly recommended. Cruise is a NON-REFUNDABLE ship charter.

NON-REFUNDABLE VOYAGE

NOTE: This is an exclusive trip on a fully chartered private riverboat ship, the UNIWORLD Princess with 64 cabins.  Per the UNIWORLD charter contract, payment is subject to a 100% penalty for cancellation for any reason.  Each payment transaction including deposit and all total payments are NON-REFUNDABLE.

OPTIONAL TRAVEL INSURANCE

You are strongly urged to buy optional Travel Protection Insurance.   Castaways’ parent company, Fox Travel, offers Allianz travel insurance coverage for residents of the USA for protection while ON the ship and OFF the ship including travel delays and accidents in transit.  Allianz is a world wide leader providing travel insurance coverage options.    Specific Cruise Travel Insurance Plans:  Allianz Travel Insurance assist you if you get sick or hurt; if your baggage gets lost or stolen; if you must cancel your cruise last-minute; or if anything else happens to disrupt your vacation.   Leading the industry with the largest range of insurance products for both domestic and international land, air, and sea travel, Allianz makes it safer for you to explore, and simpler for you to exceed  expectations—before, during, and after the cruise.  Insurance fee varies by:  Age of the insured, state of residence in the USA and insurance coverage selected.   Residents of other countries are responsible for arranging their insurance coverage.  In addition you are responsible for assuring you possess a valid passport and supply required travel documentation including visas required by the countries visited during the riverboat cruise.

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SAMPLE outline of Cruise Booklet you will receive to plan your 2025 riverboat cruise.    The illustration is only a SAMPLE for your review.

Reservations

Please review the deck plan of the Uniworld PRINCESS and Contact Castaways Travel to Reserve