MS Geoffrey Chaucer

The Blue Danube River Cruise

Budapest

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

Bratislava

Bratislava is the capital city of Slovakia and is located along the Danube a river on the borders of Austria and Hungary. The city is surrounded by the Little Carpathians Mountains and vineyards as well as its iconic reconstructed Bratislava Castle overlooking Old Town. The castle offers a picturesque view of the city, the neighbouring countries and is home to the Museum of History. Bratislava offers a blend of historic and modern attractions including the Old Town Hall, now home to the Bratislava City Museum, the UFO Bridge, Martin’s Cathedral, Michael’s Gate and Blue Church St Elizabeth’s. Bratislava is home to one of the oldest city parks in Central Europe and is popular with walkers, runners and cyclists as is the city forest park and foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. The city is popular for its locally brewed beers and has many micro-breweries and underground beer cellars. The local cuisine of Bratislava is an eclectic influence of European cultures including Slovak, Hungarian, Austrian and German and serves as a reminder of the history of this cosmopolitan city. However, visitors will find an array of offerings to suit all tastes with lunch being the main meal of the day and roast goose with lokse considered a signature dish of the area.

Linz

Linz is a city in northern Austria located on both banks of the Danube River and is a short distance from Salzburg and Vienna. Linz has been awarded UNESCO City of Media Arts status and prides itself on offering a broad spectrum of events, activities and cultural institutions. Enjoy popular open air concert such as Klassik am Dom and extravagant street performances, which attract large crowds and popular international artists. Art galleries and centres are in abundance around the city as well as many museums housing international collections and depictions of the history and heritage of Linz. The architecture of the city also plays an important role in Linz’s cultural heritage with Main Square, Old Town and Mariendom Cathedral being some key attractions. Families will enjoy a trip to Postlingberg, located high up in the mountains and featuring a zoo, the Grottenbahn and spectacular views of the river and city below.

If you’re looking to really spoil yourself, at a staggering 25 square metres (269 square feet), the world-class Diamond (upper) Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites are for you. Fifty percent larger than standard suites, they allow for an even more generous living area for the ultimate in space and comfort. In addition you will enjoy a private exterior balcony complete with table and chairs - perfect for an ‘al fresco’ breakfast should you wish or just a quiet morning coffee or a pre-dinner ‘sundowner’ whilst watching the world drift by. With the same fittings as standard suites, exquisitely and lavishly appointed to the very highest standard, plus complimentary soft cotton bathrobes and slippers adding the final little touch, this really is the epitome of river cruise luxury!Features <ul><li>Individual climate control</li><li>Floor to ceiling windows with outside balcony</li><li>Twin beds which can be configured as double</li><li>Nespresso machine and tea making facilities</li><li>Spacious ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower</li><li>Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap</li><li>Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer</li><li>UK plug sockets &amp; 2 USB charging points</li><li>Table and chairs</li><li>Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV</li><li>Safe &amp; mini fridge</li><li>Turn down service</li></ul>

Riviera Travel MS Geoffrey Chaucer Deluxe Balcony Suite.jpeg

Riviera Travel MS Geoffrey Chaucer Deluxe Balcony Suite 1.jpg

Deluxe Balcony Suite

Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 sq. feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors.Features<ul><li>Individual climate control</li><li>Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony</li><li>Twin beds which can be configured as double</li><li>Nespresso machine and tea making facilities</li><li>Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower</li><li>Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap</li><li>Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer</li><li>UK plug sockets &amp; 2 USB charging points</li><li>Table and chairs</li><li>Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV</li><li>Safe &amp; mini fridge</li><li>Turn down service</li></ul>The Ruby Superior Suites are located on the Middle Deck and the Diamond Superior Suites are located on the Upper Deck.

Riviera Travel MS Geoffrey Chaucer Superior and Stern Suite 1.jpg

Riviera Travel MS Geoffrey Chaucer Superior and Stern Suite 0.jpg

Superior Suite 

Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 sq. feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors. Features<ul><li>Individual climate control</li><li>Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony</li><li>Twin beds which can be configured as double</li><li>Nespresso machine and tea making facilities</li><li>Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower</li><li>Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap</li><li>Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer</li><li>UK plug sockets &amp; 2 USB charging points</li><li>Table and chairs</li><li>Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV</li><li>Safe &amp; mini fridge</li><li>Turn down service</li></ul>

Stern Superior Suite

Standard Suites are 17 square metres (183 square feet) and feature full floor-to-ceiling glass doors and a French balcony.Features<ul><li>Individual climate control</li><li>Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony</li><li>Twin beds which can be configured as double</li><li>Nespresso machine and tea making facilities</li><li>Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower</li><li>Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap</li><li>Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer</li><li>UK plug sockets &amp; 2 USB charging points</li><li>Table and chairs</li><li>Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV</li><li>Safe &amp; mini fridge</li><li>Turn down service</li></ul>The Diamond Standard Suites can be found on the Upper Deck and the Ruby Standard Suites can be found on the Middle Deck.

Riviera Travel MS Geoffrey Chaucer Ruby Diamond Emerald Suite 2.jpeg

Riviera Travel MS Geoffrey Chaucer Ruby Diamond Emerald Suite 1.jpeg

Standard Suite

Standard cabins on the Emerald Deck are slightly smaller, measuring approximately 16 square metres (172 square feet) and have smaller fixed windows. Some are available for sole occupancy (supplements may apply) and are subject to availability.Features<ul><li>Individual climate control</li><li>Fixed window</li><li>Twin beds which can be configured as double</li><li>Nespresso machine and tea making facilities</li><li>Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower</li><li>Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap</li><li>Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer</li><li>UK plug sockets &amp; 2 USB charging points</li><li>Table and chairs</li><li>Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV</li><li>Safe &amp; mini fridge</li><li>Turn down service</li></ul>

<ul><li>Sun Deck</li><li>Splash Pool</li><li>Putting Green</li><li>Wheelhouse</li><li>Terrace Area</li></ul>

Sun Deck

<ul><li>Bar</li><li>Panorama Lounge</li><li>Souvenir Shop</li><li>Travel Desk</li><li>Reception</li><li> Bistro</li><li>Superior Suite</li><li>Deluxe Balcony Suite</li><li>Diamond Deck Suite</li><li>Superior Stern Suite</li></ul>

Diamond Deck 

<ul><li>Kitchen</li><li>Restaurant</li><li>Superior Suite</li><li>Ruby Deck Suite</li></ul>

Ruby Deck

<ul><li>Fitness/Wellness Area</li><li>Hairdresser</li><li>Emerald Deck Suite</li></ul>

Emerald Deck 

The ship’s main restaurant is located on the Ruby (middle) Deck and here you will experience not only exceptional first class cuisine, but also the most attentive yet discreet service from the ship’s highly professional crew. So just sit back with a well-deserved glass of wine from the carefully selected wine list and delight in the wonderful elegance of your surroundings; beautifully laid tables for just 4 or 6 guests, crisp linen, deep wool carpets and warm wood panelling abound to offer a delectable dining experience of the highest order.

Main Restaurant

At the Riverview Kitchen with its large panoramic windows, enjoy a more intimate dining experience whilst taking in the fantastic views. Here in the evenings the chef presents in the open kitchen a selection of locally inspired dishes which you can enjoy with your fellow guests; this intimate dining experience can be reserved on board at no extra charge. When the weather allows the panoramic windows may be fully opened on to the terrace to allow a delightful al fresco dining experience.

Riverview Kitchen

The Souvenir Shop can be found on the Diamond Deck.

Souvenir Shop

The magnificent and unique Sun Deck illustrates our considered depth of design with a second staircase amidship affording convenient Sun Deck access. Head on up to this truly spectacular deck and what could be better than watching life ashore slip by from the comfort of a sun lounger, perhaps under shade if the weather gets too hot! There’s always the refreshing splash pool too or why not try your hand on the putting green. Then take a refreshingly long drink and that book you’ve been meaning to read for ages on to the lovely terrace area at the fore of the ship, located right in front of the wheelhouse where you can view the Captain and his team skilfully navigating the twisting river and enjoy truly ‘driving seat’ views. Take a deep breath and relax into the pace of river cruise life – now you’re really on holiday!Please note: The Sun Deck is only accessible by stairs.

A daily programme is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening, detailing the following day’s activities.On our river cruises we love to take you right into the heart of each town or city you visit along the way, and during your cruise local guides will offer a variety of guided walking tours, panoramic coach tours and/or visits to museums and local cultural favourites such as a wine tasting in Burgundy and a train journey through the Swiss mountains. You will have a good mix of touring and free time to learn about the history and the little quirks of each place, with plenty of time to explore at your own leisure. Please check the itinerary of the cruise for more specific details.Optional excursionsVisits to places of interest are organised for most of the days of your holiday, but it it is not compulsory that you go on all the included experiences that have been arranged.Please note: entrance fees to museums are not usually included in the price of your holiday.

Excursions and activities

The Diamond Deck is where you will find the very heart of the ship - the superb panoramic observation lounge and bar; a lounge in every sense of the word, complete with plenty of comfortable leather armchairs and sumptuous sofas where you can sink into warmly colourful cushions in beautiful quality fabrics with a freshly made cup of tea. A thick wool carpet feels lovely underfoot and the tasteful contemporary lighting above creates a welcoming and refined ambience, further complemented by the discreet and intuitive service resplendent of the finest five-star hotels. So just sit back with your favourite cocktail and take in the truly mesmerising view.

Observation Lounge & Bar

The Reception and Travel Desk can be found on the Diamond Deck.

Travel Desk and Reception

On the Emerald (lower) Deck is the fitness centre, perfect for working off all those delicious meals or for something less strenuous treat yourself to a relaxing massage. So you will always look your best there is a hairdresser’s too which also offers manicure and pedicure treatments. Simply put, these world-class ships, elegant and refined in the truest sense, take the idea of river cruising to another level – it really doesn’t get better than this!

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Wellness

There is no requirement to bring formal dress - smart/casual is acceptable for both day and evening as there is no dress code enforced. However, men are requested not to wear shorts for dinner or vest tops at any time in the dining room. You may wish to wear a jacket and tie for dinner. The Chef's Dinner offers the opportunity, should you wish, for more special attire.

Dress Code

Water levels on rivers can fluctuate on a daily basis.In serious cases it is possible that the itinerary can be affected with little or no warning.Should the ship be unable to follow the planned itinerary, we will do all we can to ensure all places are visited by alternative means, usually by coach.See our <a href="https://www.rivieratravel.co.uk/help-centre/european-river-cruise-assurance-faqs" target="_blank">River Cruise Assurance FAQs</a> for more info on what happens if your trip is significantly impacted.

Water level impact on itineraries

Do the coaches have wheelchair access?<ul><li>The coaches we use have not been adapted for wheelchair access.</li><li>Please note: all of our tours involve coach travel. </li></ul>Can I arrange airport assistance?We are able to arrange airport assistance for anyone with reduced mobility. This is a free service which must be arranged with the airline prior to travel. If you would like us to arrange this assistance for you, it needs to be pre-booked more than 48 hours before your flight departs. Eurostar accessibilityIf you have reduced mobility and are travelling on one of our Eurostar tours please contact us. Should you need to travel in your own wheelchair, Eurostar does have specially adapted wheelchair spaces which need to be pre-booked. If you would like assistance at St. Pancras we can make Eurostar Assist aware of this requirement, you would then need to make your way to the Eurostar Assist desk at St. Pancras at least 60 minutes prior to your departure. Are the hotels accessible?The hotels we use have been chosen due to their location and standard, the facilities offered can differ, it is therefore important that we make the appropriate enquiries with our suppliers on your behalf to ensure any special needs or requests can be catered for. How do I make a special request regarding my mobility? We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns or special requests you would like to make regarding your reduced mobility, we encourage you to contact us 01283 688 206 to discuss these concerns.  Will there be lots of walking required?We include guided tours, however due to the natural terrain of the locations we visit these may be a challenge for anyone with reduced mobility.Are there any accessibility challenges on the excursions?We also sometimes use different modes of transport to complete our itinerary which includes, though not limited to: boats, trains and jeeps. These may also pose a challenge for anyone with reduced mobility.Can I take my own wheelchair with me on board?Our ships are not adapted for wheelchair access. If you are intending to take a wheelchair or mobility scooter with you, it is essential that you contact us to let us know.Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be used on excursions but they cannot be used on board the ships due to safety reasons and must not be left in corridors, the lounge or restaurant or any other public areas. They must be stored in your cabin.Will I be able to get on and off the ship with ease?Due to popularity of river cruising when there is more than one ship in port, the ships could be moored alongside each other.If our ship happens to be moored away from the landing pier disembarking could involve walking across gang planks and the sun deck of other ships.Passengers must be able to walk on and off the ship themselves, without the use of crutches or other aids, as gangplanks can be positioned at a steep angle.Will there be assistance available on board?River cruises operate with a smaller crew than ocean cruises and do not have the crew available to personally attend to passengers with reduced mobility, therefore a travelling companion would need to be able to help with any physical needs.Are there any accessibility challenges on the excursions?The itinerary we include with our river cruises involves shore excursions visiting places with cobbled streets which can be on an incline making navigation of these streets difficult for anyone with reduced mobility.If you can’t do many shore excursions, river cruising in Europe can still be very enjoyable and worthwhile. Cruising down the Rhine, Danube or any of the European rivers we offer gives you the opportunity to take in the spectacular scenery and there is a lot to enjoy from the comfort of the ship. Please contact us with any concerns you may have.Are there lifts between decks?Whilst most of our ships have a lift on board, it does not operate to all decks.We include mobility information regarding lifts between decks on each ship under the deck plan section of the page. You may wish to view all of our ships before booking.

Passengers with reduced mobility

All-inclusive drinks packageAvailable on 2026 European river cruise departuresAvailable from 10am to midnight each day:<ul><li>Red, white, rosé and sparkling house wine, including non-alcoholic​</li><li>A choice of draught beer, including non-alcoholic​</li><li>A selection of soft drinks and juices​​</li><li>Our cocktail and mocktail of the day​</li><li>House spirits and mixers including vodka, gin, rum, whisky, martini, sherry, brandy, port and Baileys (excluding liqueurs)</li><li>Daily recommended wines ​</li><li>Tea and coffee from the bar</li></ul>View more about our <a href="https://www.rivieratravel.co.uk/offers/drinks-package" target="_blank">drinks packages.</a>

Drinks Packages

 We cater for most dietary requirements, please ensure you advise our sales team when making the booking. 

Dietary Requirements

<ul><li>The minimum age limit is 12 years old at the date of departure. </li><li>We reserve the right to limit the number of children on any particular cruise. </li><li>Any minor must be accompanied by and share a cabin with an adult aged 21 or over. </li><li>If the adult is not the minor’s parent, a ‘Parental Consent Guardianship Form’ must be signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to sailing.</li></ul>

Children

<ul></ul>Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted anywhere on board except for designated areas on the sun deck.More and more countries in Europe are adopting a stricter legislation on smoking in public places. Smoking is not allowed on any public transport and there may be other restrictions in hotels, bars and restaurants.

Smoking Policy

Will a daily schedule of excursions and onboard activities be provided?A daily programme outlining the day’s activities will be available on board and updated each day. What excursions are offered, and do I need to take part in all to them?Most itineraries include a selection of excursions, with additional optional experiences available to enhance your holiday at an extra cost.Included excursions form part of your holiday package, with many destinations offering a choice of experiences—from active options to full day scenic journeys. Guests may enjoy a full day of exploration or combine guided activities with independent discovery.day scenic journeys. Guests may enjoy a full day of exploration or combine guided activities with independent discoveryParticipation on excursions is entirely optional; guests are welcome to explore independently at their own pace or stay on board the ship. Details of your included excursions are available on our website and within My Account, where you can select your preferred options.We ask that you choose your preferred included excursions at least 4 weeks prior to departure. Where can I find information on additional excursions available?Alongside the included excursions, we offer a range of optional ‘Personalise Your Holiday’ (PYH) experiences to further tailor your cruise to your interests.Optional ‘Personalise Your Holiday’ experiences vary by itinerary. Full details, including availability and pricing, can be found on our website or within your My Account.We ask that you book your optional excursions at least 4 weeks prior to departure. Can I go ashore whenever I like?You are free to go ashore at your leisure when the ship is moored. The Cruise Director or Concierge will inform the group when the ship is due to leave each mooring point.Do all departure dates operate the same itinerary?Some of our itineraries operate in a reverse order, and the sailing schedule is designed to offer you the same tours and visits as detailed in the brochure itinerary. Water levels on rivers can fluctuate on a daily basis and in serious cases it is possible that the itinerary can be affected with little or no warning. Should the ship be unable to follow the planned itinerary, we will do all we can to ensure all places are visited by alternative means, usually by coach.

Excursions

A safety briefing will take place at the beginning of your cruise. All guests must attend this compulsory and important demonstration.

Health & Safety

There are no on-board medical personnel, although specific crew members will have basic first aid training. However, the ship can stop at any time to transfer any passenger requiring emergency medical attention to local medical facilities.If you have any concerns about your health whilst on tour, please see your Cruise Director or Concierge. They will be able to advise you about chemists and availability of doctors, etc.In an emergency you could always phone our emergency number as issued on your itinerary.

Medical Facilities

A limited laundry service is available on board, except on the day of disembarkation.A dry cleaning service is not available.

Navigation

MS Geoffrey Chaucer

Cruise Holiday Details

The Blue Danube River Cruise

Budapest

Budapest

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Welcome Aboard!