Vienna: 3-Course Evening Dinner Cruise

Traveling through Vienna’s enchanting streets is wonderful, but experiencing the city from the river offers a whole new perspective. The Vienna 3-Course Evening Dinner Cruise, operated by DDSG Blue Danube Schiffahrt GmbH, promises a romantic, scenic journey that combines stunning views, delicious food, and a touch of elegance. While it’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, it’s a lovely way to unwind after a busy day or celebrate a special occasion.

We appreciate the thoughtful touches — like a choice of menus, the welcoming atmosphere onboard, and the chance to see Vienna lit up at night. The experience’s core appeal lies in its beautiful river scenery, well-prepared cuisine, and friendly service. However, the cruise’s route through the Danube canal and limited time on the actual river might not satisfy everyone seeking extensive sightseeing.

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate evening with good food and lovely views, this cruise is likely to suit you. It’s especially good for couples, families with children, or anyone wanting a leisurely, scenic dinner that’s more about atmosphere than sightseeing.

Good To Know

• Scenic cruise along Vienna’s illuminated shores and Danube canal
• Three-course dinner with freshly prepared dishes and optional menu choices
• All-inclusive with a welcome sparkling elderflower, and a variety of delicious delicacies
• Friendly, attentive staff and cozy indoor dining environment
• Good value for a three-hour experience with food and views included
• Limited sightseeing on the Danube, with most time spent cruising through the canal and port areas

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Departure and Boarding

The cruise begins at the pier, where you’ll be greeted by a friendly crew on one of the elegant ships — either the MS Blue Danube, MS Vindobona, or MS Wien. Guests can reserve their spots easily through GetYourGuide, with flexible options to reserve now and pay later. Tickets are typically valid for a specific time slot, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before departure.

The onboard atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with the option to sit indoors in air-conditioned comfort or outside on the deck, weather permitting. Many reviews highlight that the staff is helpful and attentive, making for a smooth start to the evening.

Approaching Sunset and the First Sips

As the boat sets sail, the friendly crew offers a sparkling elderflower aperitif — a refreshing way to start the night. The boat’s interior is beautifully decorated, often with soft lighting that creates a romantic vibe. Guests appreciate the relaxing ambiance, with some noting that the interior decor adds a touch of elegance.

The Culinary Journey

The highlight for many is the three-course menu, which is always freshly prepared. The menu features a warm potato donut with cured salmon, a clear vegetable soup with spinach ravioli, and a choice of main courses.

Among the main options, you might find pork fillet tips in pepper cream sauce with pappardelle, red mullet with vegetable caponata and lemon potatoes, or vegetable medaillons in tempura batter with glass noodle salad and roasted cashews. Dessert is a light chocolate mousse with raspberries and brittle, which many reviewers say hits the perfect sweet spot after a filling meal.

While the menu is included in the ticket price, drinks beyond the welcome aperitif, such as additional beverages or extra food, are available for purchase. Many reviews note that the additional drinks are reasonably priced, making it easy to extend the evening if desired.

Scenic Highlights and Views

The boat passes the romantically lit shores of Vienna, with many guests capturing stunning photos of the city’s illuminated spires and bridges. The boat gently glides along the Danube, approaching sunset and offering perfect photo opportunities.

Some reviews mention that the cruise spends most of its time in the Danube canal, with only about 20 minutes of actual time on the Danube river. While this might disappoint those expecting extensive river sightseeing, the views of Vienna’s cityscape at night are still charming. Guests appreciate the calm, cozy environment, and many feel that the experience is more about the atmosphere than sightseeing.

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Service and Atmosphere

The crew, including servers like Maia and Nicholas, are often praised for their friendly, efficient service. Reviewers emphasize how the staff manage to balance professionalism with a welcoming attitude. The interior decor, with its elegant touches, and the soothing background music create a romantic, relaxed environment.

Some guests mention that it would be nice to have some light background music or commentary about the sights, but overall, the ambience remains peaceful and enjoyable. The boat’s indoor setting, with air conditioning, is appreciated during warmer months, making the experience comfortable despite any outside heat or noise.

Duration and Timing

The cruise lasts about three hours, with departure times varying depending on availability. Some reviewers find this length perfect for a leisurely dinner, though a few mention that it can feel a bit long, especially after dark when views diminish.

Depending on your schedule, checking the available starting times ahead of booking is advised. The cruise operates in the evening, allowing you to enjoy Vienna’s lights and a relaxing meal after a day of sightseeing.

Family and Child-Friendly Aspects

Children aged 0-9 ride free, but food must be purchased separately. For children aged 10-15, a child-friendly menu is included, which many families find convenient. A reviewer praised that their kid enjoyed the kids’ menu, making it a good option for families wanting a relaxed, scenic dinner.

At $85 per person, the cost of the cruise covers the scenic journey, three-course meal, and some drinks, making it a good value for a 3-hour experience in a beautiful setting. Many guests comment that the food quality exceeded expectations — especially considering it’s included in the price — and the service is attentive.

However, the limited time on the Danube itself and the route through the canal mean that this experience is more about romantic ambiance and scenic atmosphere rather than full sightseeing. If you’re expecting extensive river views or detailed commentary, this cruise might not meet those expectations. Still, the romantic setting, good food, and friendly service make it a memorable evening.

Several reviews mention that the boat was a bit late leaving or that it could have been more punctual, but these minor delays did not significantly impact overall enjoyment. The cruise’s length and relaxed pace fit well with those wanting a peaceful, scenic dinner without rushing.

This dinner cruise is ideal for couples seeking a romantic night out, especially those who enjoy good food with a view. Families with kids can find it suitable, thanks to the child-friendly menu and the laid-back atmosphere. If you want an elegant, relaxed way to experience Vienna’s nightlights, this cruise hits the mark.

However, if your focus is on sightseeing or detailed commentary about the city’s landmarks, you might find this cruise somewhat limited. It’s more about ambiance than extensive exploration.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the cruise, a three-course menu, and a welcome elderflower sparkling wine. Drinks beyond the welcome drink and extra food are purchased separately.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Are children allowed?
Children aged 0-9 ride free but must buy their food separately. Kids aged 10-15 get a child-friendly menu included in the ticket price.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately three hours long, starting at different times depending on availability.

Is there indoor seating?
Yes, the boat features indoor dining with air conditioning, which is especially appreciated during warm weather.

Can I sit outside?
Absolutely. Many guests enjoy sitting on the deck for better views and fresh air, weather permitting.

Is there commentary about the sights?
Most reviews suggest there is minimal or no commentary; the focus is on relaxing ambience and enjoying the scenery.

What about the route?
The cruise passes through Vienna’s illuminated shores and the Danube canal. Expect about 20 minutes of actual river time, with most time spent cruising through the canal.

How’s the food quality?
Guests frequently mention that the food exceeds expectations, with options like pork, fish, or vegetarian dishes, all freshly prepared onboard.

Would I recommend this for a special occasion?
Yes. Its romantic ambiance, elegant decor, and scenic backdrop make it a lovely choice for anniversaries, dates, or a relaxing evening after sightseeing.

This Vienna dinner cruise provides a peaceful, scenic way to enjoy the city’s lights and a delicious meal in a cozy setting. While it’s not a tour packed with sightseeing, it offers a memorable ambiance supplemented by friendly service and good food.

It’s best suited for couples, families, or groups looking for a relaxed, elegant evening without the hassle of crowded tourist spots. If you’re seeking a classic Vienna experience that combines scenic beauty with culinary comfort, this cruise is a solid choice.

Just remember — if your goal is extensive sightseeing or lively commentary, you might want to look elsewhere. But for a smooth, charming, and tasty evening afloat, this cruise usually hits the spot.

You can check if your dates are available here: