

Whoever experiences the twinkling lights of passing cities and river landscapes from the ship for the first time in the run-up to Christmas will be reluctant to leave the deck - especially when our crew hands out mulled wine and warm blankets. It is not for nothing that our Christmas river cruises are among the most popular trips in our program. Because: to be able to experience many cultural and natural treasures in one week is one thing - to enjoy them in a wintry atmosphere at the most romantic time of the year is something else.
Your journey begins in Berlin to get to Magdeburg and Wittenberg via Wusterwitz. We continue via Meissen to Dresden, where you will have about a day and a half to marvel at the Christmas market, the Semper Opera House or the Frauenkirche. On the sixth day we set course for Prague via Bad Schandau, Leitmeritz and Horín, where you can spend a whole day exploring. Afterwards, a gourmet menu awaits you in our on-board restaurant, with which you can strengthen yourself for the return journey the following day.
Berlin
Berlin is the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany. Due to its great historical and contemporary significance, the city has many sights to offer.
First of all, some well-known landmarks should probably be mentioned here: The Brandenburg Gate, the TV tower and the Victory Column. In addition, all important government buildings are also located here: for example, the Reichstag with the famous Reichstag dome is definitely worth a visit. Furthermore, there are the sites of some important historical events to see, such as "Checkpoint Charlie" or the "East Side Gallery", a remnant of the Berlin Wall. There is also no lack of shopping opportunities, so among other things the Kurfürstendamm is very well known.
Wusterwitz
Wusterwitz, an idyllic little town in Brandenburg, enchants visitors with its numerous lakes and charming historic town center. Nestled in a picturesque landscape of forests and meadows, Wusterwitz invites you to take relaxing walks and boat trips. A visit to the old village church and the romantic castle park is particularly appealing, offering a taste of times gone by. Here, nature and history merge into a harmonious experience by the water.
Magdeburg
The city of Magdeburg on the Elbe is the state capital of Saxony-Anhalt. Among the prominent sights is the Gothic Cathedral of Magdeburg in the center. Next to it is the Hundertwasser House with the Green Citadel, in whose courtyard the typical architecture and colorful columns of the artist can be admired. The millennium tower, built of wood, is the highest wooden building in the world with a height of 60 meters and can be walked and climbed by visitors. Also worth seeing is the beautifully landscaped Elbauenpark.
Wittenberg
The city of Wittenberg offers you a deep insight into the history of the Reformation. There are a lot of Luther memorials and of course the castle church, where Luther posted his theses. A visit to the Luther House is also very interesting. Walk through the Piesteritzer Werkssiedlung, the first and largest car-free housing estate in Germany, or even through the Luther Garden..
Meien
Meissen, the cradle of Saxony, lies on the northern edge of the Dresden Elbe valley and exudes a touch of southern serenity. The time-honored district town on the Elbe is a single stone window into history. German emperors founded the first settlement on Slavic territory here. The town's name is inextricably linked to its traditional porcelain manufactory founded in 1710 with the trademark "Blue Swords". Alongside the town of Bautzen, Meissen has the best-preserved town complex in Saxony. A visit to the town is all about history and porcelain.
Dresden
Dresden is the capital of Saxony and one of the largest cities in the state. After World War 2, the city on the Elbe was painstakingly rebuilt. The Dresden Frauenkirche is a symbol of the reconstruction, which lasted from the 1990s to 2005. Magnificent buildings from the 18th century adorn the city, such as the famous Semper Opera House or the Zwinger with its generously laid out garden. The Residence Palace is located directly in the old town, which invites you to stroll.
Bad Schandau
Bad Schandau, nestled in the impressive landscape of Saxon Switzerland, is a jewel for nature and culture lovers. The town, which is known for its thermal springs and charming historical flair, offers an ideal starting point for hikes through the bizarre rock formations of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains. Take a stroll along the Elbe to discover magnificent villas and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere that characterizes the spa town. A trip to the Toskana Therme spa rounds off your stay in this picturesque town perfectly.
Litomerice
Litomerice, one of the oldest towns in the Czech Republic, delights visitors with its colorful market square and impressive Gothic architecture. Surrounded by vineyards, the town is an ideal place to discover Czech wine culture and explore the historic wine cellars. The tranquil atmosphere on the banks of the Elbe invites you to take relaxing walks, while the old town with its narrow streets and charming cafés tempts you to linger. Litomerice combines history, culture and enjoyment to create an unforgettable experience.
Prague
Prague, the glamorous capital of the Czech Republic, is a real highlight on any river cruise. The city impresses with its imposing Prague Castle, the majestic Charles Bridge and the enchanting Old Town, which shines in golden hues of light. As the Vltava flows gently past, a unique panorama opens up, combining history and a modern way of life. Prague's fascinating atmosphere can be particularly enjoyed in the lively cafés and traditional restaurants on the banks of the Vltava.
Price Not Included
Experience with the SWISS RUBY a journey filled with feel-good moments and pleasure. On the premium ship you can fully relax. Enjoy the beautiful view from the sun deck while enjoying a drink on a deck chair. Let the chefs on board spoil you with gourmet meals in the main restaurant. In the panoramic lounge, you can comfortably enjoy your coffee or drink while watching the passing scenery. Come on an unforgettable journey with SWISS RUBY.
The SWISS RUBY has 44 comfortable outside double cabins with room for 88 guests. On the diamond deck there are cabins with French balconies, through which you can enjoy the beautiful scenery from your bed. Each cabin is comfortably equipped with TV, radio, mini-bar, safe, hairdryer, air conditioning and shower and toilet. The entrance hall with the reception, as well as the inviting lounge with panoramic bar and dance floor can be found on the Diamant Deck. The boutique invites you to browse and store on the Emerald Deck. Enjoyment for all the senses offers the ship's restaurant with its timeless elegant style, which invites you to linger.
Highlights of the SWISS RUBY
Away from everyday life, a world awaits you on board that you can experience with all your senses and in which you can lean back and relax: during stimulating conversations with like-minded people, a look at the excellent menu card or a dip in your mini-bar. Some say it is exclusivity at no extra cost. We call it VIVA All-Inclusive - so that you can enjoy your river trip to the full at any time at the best price-performance ratio!
In our following board ABC you will find more detailed information about our concept and much more information about your river cruise.
VIVA All-Inclusive
On all river cruises with VIVA Cruises, you can fully enjoy our VIVA All-Inclusive concept. This includes:
Air Conditioner
There is air conditioning on all VIVA ships. The air conditioning in your cabin is individually adjustable and can also be used as a heater. When the balcony door is open, the system in the cabin is automatically switched off.
Announcements
Loudspeaker announcements are bilingual in German and English, primarily before shore excursions and at important program points as well as highlights on the route.
Bathrobes
Bathrobes are available in all suites. All other passengers can receive these at reception on request.
Bicycles
For reasons of space, bicycles can only be taken on board on request and not on all ships. On some ships we have bicycles with us, which you can borrow free of charge at the reception, depending on availability. The team on board will also be happy to assist you with renting bicycles on site.
Board language
An international audience awaits you on all VIVA Cruises trips. The languages on board are German and English.
Check-In / Check-Out
Please note that embarkation is always possible from 3:00 p.m. For trips starting at 4:00 p.m. or earlier, embarkation takes place 2 hours before departure. The exact embarkation time can be found in your travel documents.
Disembarkation on the day of departure takes place after breakfast at 9:30 a.m. at the latest. Please take this into account when planning your departure. If you need a taxi, please let our reception know by the day before your departure.
Clothing
We want our guests to feel comfortable on board and live the casual lifestyle on board. This also applies to the cloakroom: the dress code is casual - comfortable during the day and on excursions and sporty and elegant in the evening. We generally recommend sturdy shoes for shore excursions.
Currency Exchange
An exchange of money in the respective national currency is possible in all ports of call outside the EU - exchange offices are usually in the immediate vicinity.
Day program
All the important information for the next day can be found in the evening in your daily program, which you can call up on the television in your cabin. VIVA Cruises takes the environment into account: The daily program is therefore only available in digital form.
Diet foods and food allergies
On all VIVA Cruises river cruises, we not only offer you an extensive breakfast buffet and multi-course gourmet menus, but also individual care for all common food allergies or intolerances. If you have not registered before the trip, please notify the reception on the day of arrival so that the kitchen on board can optimally adapt to your needs.
Doctor
A doctor is not on board, as the nearest town can be reached quickly in an emergency. First aid can be provided on all VIVA Cruises ships in an emergency.
Drinking bottles
In your cabin you find a reusable VIVA Cruise water bottle, which you can refill at water dispensers or at the bar. You can take the bottle home with you as a souvenir of your cruise with VIVA Cruises after the trip.
Excursions
The guests on board our floating premium hotels are all different. That is why we work out an equally diverse excursion program for each of our fascinating routes. Regardless of whether you are a connoisseur, nature lover or art enthusiast - our selection of experiences will open up new perspectives for you on every trip.
With your travel documents, you will receive a form with an overview of all the excursions offered to match your travel route. You can find a comprehensive description online at www.viva-cruises.com. There will also be a daily excursion information event on board, where you can get detailed advice. You can register your desired shore excursions with VIVA Cruises before you start your journey.
You can also register for the excursions on board, but we cannot guarantee that there will still be sufficient capacities. You will find the program in your cabin on the day of embarkation. Bookings made will be charged to your on-board account.
Fitness and Spa (if available on board)
Those who do not want to do without their daily sports program on board can use the fitness area. Use of the fitness room is free and possible 24 hours a day. You can make an appointment for your massage at the reception.
Hairdryer
A hairdryer is part of the basic equipment in all cabins. It‘s in the bathroom or in one of the drawers nearby of the mirror.
Internationality
VIVA Cruises is a river cruise operator with an international audience and on-board staff. For this reason, all information is made available on board in both German and English.
Internet
WiFi is included in the all-inclusive package on all VIVA ships. Please note that there may be restrictions on the use of the Internet depending on the area of travel.
Itinerary
You will receive the detailed itinerary with your travel documents. You will also find further information in your daily program. Occasionally there may be changes to the timetable at short notice due to high and low tide or maintenance work on locks.
Library and board games
There is a selection of international literature and various board games on board.
Life jackets
There are life jackets in your cabin or stored by the wheelhouse on the sun deck. You will receive information about this in the rescue exercise on the day of embarkation. Participation in this exercise is mandatory for every guest.
Means of payment
The on-board currency is the euro. Cashless payment is possible with Visa, Mastercard and Maestro cards. Services used or booked on board that are not included in the VIVA All-Inclusive (excursions, paid drinks, purchases from the on-board shop, etc.) will be billed to your on-board account at the end of the journey.
Minibar
Your cabin is equipped with a minibar that is refilled every day. There is also limited space in this for medicines that need to be cooled.
People in need and guests with reduced mobility
In general, our ships are not completely barrier-free and therefore only suitable to a limited extent for guests who are solely dependent on a wheelchair. You will find stairs and narrow doors and corridors. In addition, not all landing stages are designed to be handicapped accessible on river trips, and entry via the mostly narrow gangways is not always at ground level. Some of our ships have lifts to make the reception and restaurant easy to reach. However, it should be possible to take some steps without a wheelchair. We generally recommend booking with an accompanying person, as there is no special support staff available on board.
Phone
Each cabin is equipped with a telephone. For a wake-up call, you can always inform the reception the evening before.
Reception
During your river cruise, the reception is open around the clock for you and the staff is always happy to assist you with any concerns or requests.
Restaurant
We also keep it casual with table times: We offer you absolute flexibility and a high degree of variety for your restaurant visit. During the opening hours of the restaurant, you can go to dinner at a time of your choice, that means there are no fixed table times and you have free choice of seats.
Shop
Would you like a souvenir of your time on board or a gift for loved ones back home? In our on-board boutique you can purchase exclusive souvenirs as well as everyday items and souvenirs.
Smoking
For safety reasons, smoking is not permitted on board in the entire interior or in the cabins of our ships, but only permitted on the outside decks. Please do not throw cigarettes overboard, use the ashtrays provided. We also ask that you show consideration for non-smokers.
Sockets / power supply
The sockets on board have a voltage of 220 volts.
Tips
Our crew is always there for you and will prepare you an unforgettable cruise. At VIVA Cruises you will receive the all-round carefree package on board, i.e. the tip is already included in your travel price.
Toilets
Please only dispose of toilet paper in the toilet and use the available disposal facilities / waste bins for other garbage. Our ships are equipped with an extremely sensitive system and corresponding water tanks, so this point should be particularly pointed out.
Travel documents
You will receive your travel documents 2 weeks before the cruise. These include the form to register for the excursion.
TV program
A large number of national and international television channels are received via satellite. Please note that TV and radio reception may be restricted while the ship is in motion.
Assessment of your VIVA river cruise
In order to continuously improve our service and quality, you will receive questionnaires on the last evening of your trip, which will be placed on your cabin. We look forward to your constructive assessment, also online on Facebook or other assessment portals.
The crew and VIVA Cruises wish you a pleasant stay on board, a nice trip and relaxing holidays!
When does the check-in begin?
As a rule, embarkation/check-in begins two hours before the start of the trip and thus usually from 15:00. You will receive more information about the embarkation two weeks before departure with your travel documents.
When is the check-out?
Disembarkation on the day of departure takes place after breakfast at 09:30 at the latest. Please take this into account when planning your departure. If you need a cab, please let our reception know until the day before departure.
Is there a possibility to book an individual transfer?
You can book an individual transfer with us - no matter if you are traveling alone or in a group. With our partner SIXT ride you get your very own individual transfer and private chauffeur.
Is there any way to have my luggage picked up from home?
Through our partner TEFRA luggage service you have the possibility to have your luggage picked up individually directly from your front door and brought to your cabin. After the trip, your luggage will be brought back home from your cabin.
What payment methods are available?
You can pay by Visa, Mastercard, PayPal and bank transfer.
What means of payment are available on board?
The currency on board is Euro. You can make cashless payments on board our ships with Visa, Mastercard and Maestro card. Services used or booked on board that are not included in the VIVA All-Inclusive (these include: excursions, purchases from the on-board store or massages) will be booked to your on-board account at the end of the trip.
When do I have to pay for my trip?
After booking a deposit of 20% of the tour price is due. The balance must be paid no later than 30 days before the start of the trip.
When will I receive the travel documents?
You will receive the travel documents by post or email two weeks prior to the start of the cruise.
Where is the ship on the day of departure?
Two weeks prior to departure you will receive your travel documents with more details about the berth on embarkation day.
Is there a transfer from the train station to the ship?
A transfer from the train station to the ship can be booked with us as an additional service for a fee.
Can excursions be booked for the trips?
We offer a suitable and varied excursion program for our great trips. With your travel documents you will receive an overview of all offered excursions suitable for your itinerary. A booking is possible via the attached form.
Registration for the excursions can also be made on board. Please note here that the capacities are limited.
How do I book insurance for my trip?
On the following page you will find relevant information for booking travel insurance: Travel Insurance | VIVA Cruises. If you book your trip through our website, you have the option to add insurance to the trip during the booking process.
Please keep in mind that Corona Travel Protection is an additional insurance that can only be booked in combination with Travel Cancellation Insurance or Premium Protection.
Can I reserve a table in the restaurant?
On our ships there is a free choice of seats and flexible meal times. Due to limited capacity, it may be necessary to make a reservation in advance for some restaurants on board.
Is there a doctor on board?
There is no doctor on board, as in case of emergency the nearest town can be reached quickly. On all VIVA Cruises ships first aid can be provided in case of emergency.
Can excursions be booked to accompany the trips?
We offer a suitable and varied excursion program for our tours. With your travel documents you will receive an overview of all offered excursions suitable for your itinerary. The travel documents are accompanied by a form through which the excursions can be booked.
Registration for the excursions can also be made on board. Please note here that the capacities are limited.
How is the payment for the excursions made?
The costs of the excursions will be booked to your board account. If the registration of the excursions takes place before the start of the trip, the costs will also be booked to your board account.
Are there bathrobes on board?
Bathrobes are available on all suites. All other passengers can get them on request at the reception.
What language is spoken on board?
An international audience awaits you on all VIVA Cruises voyages. The on-board languages are German and English.
Is there diet food or can I express wishes regarding my food allergy?
On all VIVA Cruises river cruises, we not only offer you an extensive breakfast buffet and multi-course gourmet menus, but also individual care for all common food allergies or intolerances. If you have not already announced your dietary requirements before the trip, please let the reception know on the day of arrival so that the kitchen on board can optimally adjust to your needs.
Are there bicycles on the ships?
Bringing bicycles on board is possible only on request and not on all ships due to space limitations. On some ships we have bicycles with us, which you can borrow free of charge at the reception, depending on availability. The team on board will also be happy to assist you in renting bicycles on site.
Do the ships have a fitness or SPA area?
On most of our ships there is a fitness & SPA area. Those who do not want to do without their daily sports program on board with us also have the option of using the fitness area. The use of the fitness room is free of charge and possible 24 hours a day. You can make an appointment for your massage at the reception.
Is there a possibility to change money if a city has a currency other than EUR?
It is possible to exchange money into the respective national currency in all ports of call outside the EU - exchange offices are usually located in the immediate vicinity of the piers. Unfortunately, it is not possible to exchange money on board VIVA Cruises.
Is there a hair dryer in the cabin?
A hairdryer is part of the basic equipment in all cabins. It is located in the bathroom or in one of the drawers near the mirror.
Are the ships also designed for guests with reduced mobility?
In general, our ships are not completely barrier-free and therefore only conditionally suitable for guests who are exclusively dependent on a wheelchair. You will find stairs as well as narrow doors and corridors. In addition, not all docks on river cruises are handicapped accessible, and boarding via the usually narrow gangways is not always at ground level. Some of our ships have elevators so that the reception and restaurant are easily accessible. However, some steps should be able to be taken without a wheelchair. In principle, we recommend booking with an accompanying person, as there is no special support staff available on board.
Does the ship have Wi-Fi reception?
Wi-Fi is included in the all-inclusive package on all VIVA ships. Please note that there may be restrictions on the use of the internet depending on the sailing area. For Wi-Fi access, please contact the reception.
What style of dress is desired on board and for shore excursions?
We want our guests to feel comfortable and live the casual lifestyle on board. This also applies to the wardrobe: The dress code is casual - comfortable during the day and on excursions and sporty-elegant in the evening. For shore excursions, we recommend sturdy shoes as a matter of principle.
Do the cabins have air conditioning?
There are air conditioners on all VIVA ships. The air conditioning on your cabin is individually adjustable and can also be used as heating. When the balcony door is open, the system in the cabin is automatically turned off.
Is there a mini-bar in the cabins?
Your cabin is equipped with a mini-bar that is refilled daily. This also has limited space for medications that need to be refrigerated.
Is smoking allowed on board?
Smoking on board is not permitted in the entire interior area and also in the cabins of our ships, but only on the outside decks. Please do not throw cigarettes overboard, use the ashtrays provided for this purpose. We also ask you to be considerate of non-smokers.
When will I know more details about the itinerary?
You will receive the detailed itinerary with your travel documents. You will also find further information in your daily program. Occasionally, there may be changes to the schedule at short notice due to high and low water or maintenance work on locks.
Where can I see the daily program?
In the evening, you will find all the important information for the next day in your daily program, which you can access via the TVs in your cabin. VIVA Cruises takes the environment into consideration. The daily program is therefore only available in digital form.
Where are the life jackets located?
You will find life jackets in your cabin or at the wheelhouse on the sun deck. You will be informed about this during the rescue exercise on embarkation day. Participation in this exercise is mandatory for every guest.
Is there an onboard store or boutique on the ship?
Our ships have an on-board boutique. Here you can buy exclusive souvenirs as well as articles of daily use and souvenirs.
Are the cabins equipped with a telephone?
Each cabin is equipped with a telephone. For a wake-up call you are welcome to inform the reception the night before.
What do I have to pay attention to the toilets on the ship?
Please only dispose of toilet paper in the toilet and use the existing disposal facilities / waste containers for other waste. Our ships are equipped with an extremely sensitive system and corresponding water tanks, so special attention should be drawn to this point.
Is there any way to get fresh drinking water?
In your cabin you will find a reusable VIVA Cruises water bottle, which you can refill at any time at the water dispensers or at the bar. The bottle may be taken home by you as a souvenir of your cruise with VIVA Cruises after the trip.
Are the tips for the crew already included in the price?
With VIVA Cruises you get the all-round carefree package on board, i.e. even the tip is already included in your cruise price. Our on-board staff is always happy to assist you and will make sure you have an unforgettable cruise.
What programs are received via the TV?
A variety of national and international TV channels are received via satellite. Please note that during the voyage of the ship the reception of television and radio may be limited.
What special features should be considered with regard to the sundeck?
Our sundeck is available to all our guests and is equipped with comfortable lounge furniture and/or deck chairs. Depending on the ship's equipment, the pool is also located on the sundeck. Please note that on some routes and passages the sundeck has to be closed temporarily, for example due to low bridges, local regulations or high water levels. This is especially the case when cruising on the Main River, the Main-Danube Canal and the Moselle River. Access to the sundeck is via some steps. In wet conditions, there may be slippery sections on the sundeck. Please be careful, especially on the stairs, use the handrails and avoid the area of the lowerable wheelhouse.
Are animals allowed on board your vessels?
Unfortunately, you can not take pets on board our ships.
When will there be coffee & cake?
On board our ships, we invite you once per voyage to our exclusive High Tea: you can choose from sweet and savory treats such as scones, sandwiches, cupcakes, chocolates, macarons and various teas. In addition, with our VIVA All-Inclusive, you benefit from a variety of coffee specialties, among other things, which are available all day.
Is the bedding anti-allergic?
All the bedding on our VIVA ships is anti-allergic and down-free.
Do children get a discount on excursions?
Children up to and including the age of 15 receive a 30% discount on the excursion price.
To ensure that all guests feel comfortable and appropriately dressed during their stay on board, we would like to provide you with some information about the dress code:
Daytime:
During the day we recommend our guests to be dressed casually. Ladies can wear jeans, shorts, skirts and shirts according to your taste. Gentlemen can also dress comfortably. Common casual wear such as jeans, shorts and shirts or shirts are appropriate during this time.
Dinner:
For dinner we recommend a classic casual style. For the ladies, blouses, skirts or dresses are perfect, as well as jeans or cloth pants. We ask the gentlemen to wear long trousers in the restaurant. Those who like it a bit fancier are welcome to wear shirts or polo shirts to make the evening stylish. Swimwear and flip-flops are not encouraged.
You are welcome to dress more festively for the gala dinner.
We sincerely thank you for your understanding. Our dress code helps ensure that you can enjoy your trip to the fullest while expressing your own style and taste. We look forward to providing you with an unforgettable time on board and are happy to answer any questions you may have.
Do you know this feeling? When your gaze is lost in the gentle waves of the water and you feel nothing but complete peace and contentment? With VIVA Cruises, these moments of happiness are included - as are many other amenities that will make your long-awaited time away unforgettable.
Benefits Of Our River Cruises
You are close to our hearts and that's why we take care that you enjoy every minute of your vacation ashore and on board. Our attentive crew will spoil you with culinary delights, exclusive drinks or even expert tips for your next excursion and thanks to our unique VIVA All-Inclusive, none of your wishes will remain unfulfilled.
VIVA All-Inclusive: for you only the best
With VIVA Cruises, "all-inclusive" means you can sit back, relax and enjoy. Your physical well-being is taken care of with exclusive food and drinks. In addition, we offer you relaxing care products. And if you do need a good connection, use our WLAN. For other good connections - especially to our crew - the included tip provides.
Unfortunately, I have not found the right answer to my question. How can I reach you?
If you have not found the answer you are looking for you are welcome to send us an individual question using our contact form. Alternatively, you can send us an e-mail to info@viva-cruises.com or contact us by phone at +49 (0) 211 274 032 50.
I have lost something on the ship. Who can I contact?
If you happen to discover the loss of a personal item during your cruise, you can try to locate it by reaching out to Customer Service at info@viva-cruises.com.
Any clothing, soap, books, etc. found on board after the cruise will be kept for one week following the conclusion of the voyage. If claimed within this period, our office can arrange for collection. After this week, non-valuable items like clothes, soap, etc. will be disposed of.
Valuable non-clothing items will be sent to our office and held for one month following the conclusion of the voyage, awaiting claim. If unclaimed, we reserve the right to donate these items to approved charities.
Please be aware that, due to hygiene and storage constraints, we can only handle items with intrinsic value. Returning most items incurs a fee of minimum EUR 45 within Europe, contingent on their value and size.