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12-night Budapest to the Black Sea Eastbound Cruise

Budapest/Bucharest
12-night Budapest to the Black Sea Eastbound Cruise
August 1, 2025
Tauck - Cruise Division: ms Joy for Tauck
Budapest/Bucharest
Vacation Offer ID 1543297
Reference this number when contacting our travel specialist.
Overview
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Ship Info
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Activities & Services
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Staterooms
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Deckplans

Cruise Inclusions

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Enjoy a Tauck Exclusive dinner at the Royal White Palace of the Serbian Royal Family, built in the 1930s and set within the same complex as the Royal Palace in Dedinje, home to HRH Crown Prince Alexander II of Serbia and his family

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

  • All gratuities to ship staff, drivers, local guides, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Director
  • Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $4,148
  • Choices of bicycle excursions in Budapest & Belgrade
  • Dinner at a palace in Bucharest 
  • Visit with a Croatian family in their private home in Vukovar
  • A visit to the city of Pécs in Hungary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Passage through the Iron Gate on the Danube River
  • Choice of Romanian excursions exploring the story of Vlad Tepes, 15th-century inspiration for Bram Stoker's "Dracula"
  • In Romania's capital, Bucharest, you have a choice of visits to either the National Museum of Art of Romania or the Village Museum, an open-air ethnographic museum located in King Michael I Park, showcasing traditional Romanian village life
  • Unlimited complimentary beverages aboard ship include regional wine, beer and premium spirits in addition to specialty coffee, water and soft drinks
  • Airport and trains station transfers upon arrival and departure as noted
  • 30 meals; service charges, taxes, porterage, and applicable fuel surcharge

Available Add-Ons

Optional roundtrip airfare from your city
Pre or post cruise hotel stay
  • Destination Guide
  • Suggested Shore Excursions
Destination Arrival Departure
Budapest

Budapest 08/01/2025

A transfer is included from Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport and Budapest-Keleti Station to The Ritz-Carlton Budapest in the heart of the city. Meet your fellow travelers and Tauck Directors tonight at the welcome cocktail reception and dinner.

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Half Day City Tour of Budapest, 4 hours
This privately guided tour shows you the major sights within on the Pest Side (e.g.the Opera House, St. Stephen's Basilica), as well the Buda Side (Castle Hill). One highlight of this tour is an inside visit of the Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Matthias Church.

Highlights:
  • Heroe's Square, Vajdahunyad Castle (outside)
  • State Opera (outside)
  • St. Stephen's Basilica (outside)
  • Parliament Buidling (outside)
  • Fishermen's Bastion (entry to upper terrace)
  • Matthias Church (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion and Matthias Church
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Full Day City Tour of Budapest, 8 hours
This extended privately guided full day basically covers all major sights and interesting locations within Budapest, also including inside visits of the Fishermen's Bastion, Matthias Church and the Parliament Building.

Highlights:
  • Main sights, e.g. National Museum, State Opera, Heroe's Square, Great Synagogue, Central Market Hall, Gellért Hill, Citatel, Vajdahunyad Castle etc. (outside visits)
  • Various Bridges above the Danube, e.g. Chain Bridge, Liberty Bridge, Elisabeth Bridge etc.
  • Matthias Church (inside visit)
  • Fishermen's Bastion (inside visit)
  • Parliament Building (inside visit)
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can operate: Full Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion, Matthias Church, Parliament
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Half Day Tour Budapest Castle District, 4 hours
During this privately guided tour, you visit the Castle Hill of Budapest, with the Royal and Presidential Palaces, fascinating squares and medieval cobblestone streets. Highlights are inside visits of the Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Matthias Church.

Highlights:
  • Budapest's Castle Hill
  • Royal and Presidential Palaces (outside)
  • Holy Trinity Square
  • Hess András Square
  • Fishermen's Bastion (entry to upper terrace)
  • Matthias Church of Our Lady (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion and Matthias Church
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
08/01/2025 08/01/2025
Budapest

Budapest 08/02/2025

Once independent cities located on opposite sides of the Danube, Buda and Pest joined together when they were linked by the Chain Bridge in the mid-19th century to become Hungary's cosmopolitan capital, Budapest. You have a choice of Budapest discoveries this morning. You can choose to join Tauck's local guides for sightseeing in Pest starting with a visit to St. Stephen's Basilica, Budapest's neo-Renaissance cathedral completed in 1905; continuing with Pest's impressive mix of architectural masterpieces and historic monuments, including City Park, patriotic Heroes' Square with its statues of Hungarian leaders through the ages, the Gothic-Revival Parliament building and tree-lined Andrassy Avenue; and time spent wandering through bustling Central Market Hall, a veritable showcase of Hungarian life from food to gifts and cafés. Or you can choose to spend the morning touring the Pest side of the city by bicycle with a local guide (you'll need to be comfortable riding a bicycle in a city environment). The rest of the day and evening are yours to enjoy the city as you like.

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Half Day City Tour of Budapest, 4 hours
This privately guided tour shows you the major sights within on the Pest Side (e.g.the Opera House, St. Stephen's Basilica), as well the Buda Side (Castle Hill). One highlight of this tour is an inside visit of the Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Matthias Church.

Highlights:
  • Heroe's Square, Vajdahunyad Castle (outside)
  • State Opera (outside)
  • St. Stephen's Basilica (outside)
  • Parliament Buidling (outside)
  • Fishermen's Bastion (entry to upper terrace)
  • Matthias Church (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion and Matthias Church
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Full Day City Tour of Budapest, 8 hours
This extended privately guided full day basically covers all major sights and interesting locations within Budapest, also including inside visits of the Fishermen's Bastion, Matthias Church and the Parliament Building.

Highlights:
  • Main sights, e.g. National Museum, State Opera, Heroe's Square, Great Synagogue, Central Market Hall, Gellért Hill, Citatel, Vajdahunyad Castle etc. (outside visits)
  • Various Bridges above the Danube, e.g. Chain Bridge, Liberty Bridge, Elisabeth Bridge etc.
  • Matthias Church (inside visit)
  • Fishermen's Bastion (inside visit)
  • Parliament Building (inside visit)
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can operate: Full Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion, Matthias Church, Parliament
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Half Day Tour Budapest Castle District, 4 hours
During this privately guided tour, you visit the Castle Hill of Budapest, with the Royal and Presidential Palaces, fascinating squares and medieval cobblestone streets. Highlights are inside visits of the Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Matthias Church.

Highlights:
  • Budapest's Castle Hill
  • Royal and Presidential Palaces (outside)
  • Holy Trinity Square
  • Hess András Square
  • Fishermen's Bastion (entry to upper terrace)
  • Matthias Church of Our Lady (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion and Matthias Church
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
08/02/2025 08/02/2025
Budapest

Budapest 08/03/2025

Today's exploration of Buda begins with a visit the Hungarian Parliament building, rich with history; it is nothing short of an architectural masterpiece. Next, travel to Castle Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where a guided walking tour introduces architectural landmarks such as well-known Fisherman's Bastion. Go back to the days of World War II and the Cold War at the Sziklakórház ("Hospital in the Rock"), a museum recreating underground military medical and civil defense facilities in a former secret nuclear bunker hidden beneath Buda Castle. Following lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy some time to explore more of Budapest as you please, then board your riverboat to begin your cruise. Join us tonight for a welcome toast followed by dinner onboard.

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Half Day City Tour of Budapest, 4 hours
This privately guided tour shows you the major sights within on the Pest Side (e.g.the Opera House, St. Stephen's Basilica), as well the Buda Side (Castle Hill). One highlight of this tour is an inside visit of the Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Matthias Church.

Highlights:
  • Heroe's Square, Vajdahunyad Castle (outside)
  • State Opera (outside)
  • St. Stephen's Basilica (outside)
  • Parliament Buidling (outside)
  • Fishermen's Bastion (entry to upper terrace)
  • Matthias Church (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion and Matthias Church
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Full Day City Tour of Budapest, 8 hours
This extended privately guided full day basically covers all major sights and interesting locations within Budapest, also including inside visits of the Fishermen's Bastion, Matthias Church and the Parliament Building.

Highlights:
  • Main sights, e.g. National Museum, State Opera, Heroe's Square, Great Synagogue, Central Market Hall, Gellért Hill, Citatel, Vajdahunyad Castle etc. (outside visits)
  • Various Bridges above the Danube, e.g. Chain Bridge, Liberty Bridge, Elisabeth Bridge etc.
  • Matthias Church (inside visit)
  • Fishermen's Bastion (inside visit)
  • Parliament Building (inside visit)
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can operate: Full Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion, Matthias Church, Parliament
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Half Day Tour Budapest Castle District, 4 hours
During this privately guided tour, you visit the Castle Hill of Budapest, with the Royal and Presidential Palaces, fascinating squares and medieval cobblestone streets. Highlights are inside visits of the Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Matthias Church.

Highlights:
  • Budapest's Castle Hill
  • Royal and Presidential Palaces (outside)
  • Holy Trinity Square
  • Hess András Square
  • Fishermen's Bastion (entry to upper terrace)
  • Matthias Church of Our Lady (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion and Matthias Church
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
08/03/2025 08/03/2025
Cruise Starts (Embarkation)

Cruise Starts (Embarkation) 08/03/2025

Today's exploration of Buda begins with a visit the Hungarian Parliament building, rich with history; it is nothing short of an architectural masterpiece. Next, travel to Castle Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where a guided walking tour introduces architectural landmarks such as well-known Fisherman's Bastion. Go back to the days of World War II and the Cold War at the Sziklakórház ("Hospital in the Rock"), a museum recreating underground military medical and civil defense facilities in a former secret nuclear bunker hidden beneath Buda Castle. Following lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy some time to explore more of Budapest as you please, then board your riverboat to begin your cruise. Join us tonight for a welcome toast followed by dinner onboard.
08/03/2025 08/03/2025
Budapest

Budapest 08/03/2025

Today's exploration of Buda begins with a visit the Hungarian Parliament building, rich with history; it is nothing short of an architectural masterpiece. Next, travel to Castle Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where a guided walking tour introduces architectural landmarks such as well-known Fisherman's Bastion. Go back to the days of World War II and the Cold War at the Sziklakórház ("Hospital in the Rock"), a museum recreating underground military medical and civil defense facilities in a former secret nuclear bunker hidden beneath Buda Castle. Following lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy some time to explore more of Budapest as you please, then board your riverboat to begin your cruise. Join us tonight for a welcome toast followed by dinner onboard.

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Half Day City Tour of Budapest, 4 hours
This privately guided tour shows you the major sights within on the Pest Side (e.g.the Opera House, St. Stephen's Basilica), as well the Buda Side (Castle Hill). One highlight of this tour is an inside visit of the Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Matthias Church.

Highlights:
  • Heroe's Square, Vajdahunyad Castle (outside)
  • State Opera (outside)
  • St. Stephen's Basilica (outside)
  • Parliament Buidling (outside)
  • Fishermen's Bastion (entry to upper terrace)
  • Matthias Church (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion and Matthias Church
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Full Day City Tour of Budapest, 8 hours
This extended privately guided full day basically covers all major sights and interesting locations within Budapest, also including inside visits of the Fishermen's Bastion, Matthias Church and the Parliament Building.

Highlights:
  • Main sights, e.g. National Museum, State Opera, Heroe's Square, Great Synagogue, Central Market Hall, Gellért Hill, Citatel, Vajdahunyad Castle etc. (outside visits)
  • Various Bridges above the Danube, e.g. Chain Bridge, Liberty Bridge, Elisabeth Bridge etc.
  • Matthias Church (inside visit)
  • Fishermen's Bastion (inside visit)
  • Parliament Building (inside visit)
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can operate: Full Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion, Matthias Church, Parliament
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Half Day Tour Budapest Castle District, 4 hours
During this privately guided tour, you visit the Castle Hill of Budapest, with the Royal and Presidential Palaces, fascinating squares and medieval cobblestone streets. Highlights are inside visits of the Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Matthias Church.

Highlights:
  • Budapest's Castle Hill
  • Royal and Presidential Palaces (outside)
  • Holy Trinity Square
  • Hess András Square
  • Fishermen's Bastion (entry to upper terrace)
  • Matthias Church of Our Lady (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion and Matthias Church
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
08/03/2025 08/03/2025
Mohacs

Mohacs 08/04/2025

Arrive in Mohacs this morning and travel to Pécs for a walking tour. Here you'll also explore the fascinating Christian Necropolis, a complex dating back to the 4th century that includes underground burial chambers and chapels adorned with early Christian art and frescoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the 19th century, Pécs was famous worldwide for the exquisite Zsolnay porcelain manufactured here, and your visit includes a stop at the Zsolnay Museum for a look at its stunning examples of Art Nouveau stoneware, tiles and pottery. Visit a winery in Villány for lunch (this region is renowned for its red wines) then return to Mohacs for dinner aboard ship.
08/04/2025 08/04/2025
Pecs

Pecs 08/04/2025

Arrive in Mohacs this morning and travel to Pécs for a walking tour. Here you'll also explore the fascinating Christian Necropolis, a complex dating back to the 4th century that includes underground burial chambers and chapels adorned with early Christian art and frescoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the 19th century, Pécs was famous worldwide for the exquisite Zsolnay porcelain manufactured here, and your visit includes a stop at the Zsolnay Museum for a look at its stunning examples of Art Nouveau stoneware, tiles and pottery. Visit a winery in Villány for lunch (this region is renowned for its red wines) then return to Mohacs for dinner aboard ship.
08/04/2025 08/04/2025
Vukovar

Vukovar 08/05/2025

Your riverboat exploration of the lower Danube cruises into Croatia; an onboard lecture by a local expert provides insights into the country's culture and history. Dock in the Baroque city of Vukovar, once showcasing opulent 18th-century mansions, but now poignantly symbolizing the effects of the 1990s war as it rebuilds; visit the home of a Vukovar family who have recently returned to resume their lives in the city after the conflict, who will share homemade refreshments with you. Reboard your riverboat for lunch and cruise to Novi Sad, Serbia, enhanced by commentary by your Tauck Directors. You'll have a little free time this evening to explore Novi Sad before your cruise continues to Belgrade.
08/05/2025 08/05/2025
Novi Sad

Novi Sad 08/05/2025

Your riverboat exploration of the lower Danube cruises into Croatia; an onboard lecture by a local expert provides insights into the country's culture and history. Dock in the Baroque city of Vukovar, once showcasing opulent 18th-century mansions, but now poignantly symbolizing the effects of the 1990s war as it rebuilds; visit the home of a Vukovar family who have recently returned to resume their lives in the city after the conflict, who will share homemade refreshments with you. Reboard your riverboat for lunch and cruise to Novi Sad, Serbia, enhanced by commentary by your Tauck Directors. You'll have a little free time this evening to explore Novi Sad before your cruise continues to Belgrade.
08/05/2025 08/05/2025
Belgrade

Belgrade 08/06/2025

Dock in Belgrade, Serbia's eclectic, cosmopolitan capital at the juncture of the Danube and Sava rivers. You can choose to spend the morning touring the "New Belgrade" section of the city by bicycle with a local guide (you'll need to be comfortable riding a bicycle in a city environment); or join our local guides for a city tour that includes visits to Tito's Memorial and the formidable Kalemegdan Fortress, and views of busy Slavija Square (now one of the city's major squares, but once a large pool where residents hunted wild ducks!), Parliament, Republic Square and City Hall. After lunch onboard your ship (or own your own in town), you have the afternoon free to spend as you please. Following onboard entertainment by Serbian performers during cocktail hour, you'll return to shore for this evening's sparkling Tauck Exclusive – dinner at the Royal White Palace of the Serbian Royal Family in Belgrade, built in the 1930s for members of the Yugoslavian royal family and set within the same complex as the Royal Palace of Dedinje, today home to HRH Crown Prince Alexander II of Serbia and his family.
08/06/2025 08/06/2025
Iron Gates (Cruising)

Iron Gates (Cruising) 08/07/2025

Continuing your Budapest river cruise, relax on a day's sail past the fields and vineyards of Eastern Europe. Pass into Romania and through the Kazan Narrows and the Iron Gate of the Danube, a two-mile-long series of narrow gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan mountain ranges. As you glide along the Bulgarian / Serbian border, look for the massive monument of the 2nd-century Dacian King, Decebalus, the last king of Dacia who fought to preserve the independence of his country (now known as Romania). Completed in 2004, it's Europe's tallest rock sculpture, carved into the riverbank on the Romanian side. Savor views of the Transylvanian Alps as you cruise to Bulgaria. Join us tonight for the Chef's signature dinner.
08/07/2025 08/07/2025
Ruse

Ruse 08/08/2025

Your Budapest river cruise along the Danube takes you to Bulgaria today; largely off limits during four centuries of Ottoman rule and decades behind the Iron Curtain, the country's rich natural beauty and history is yours to discover for yourself. Disembark after lunch in Ruse – often referred to as "Little Vienna" for its Art Nouveau homes, Austro-Hungarian architecture and lively cafés – for a choice of afternoon sightseeing. You may join us for a guided walking tour of the Basarabov rock church, and its easily-accessible chapel, or alternatively, embark on a vigorous hike to the celebrated rock churches in the village of Ivanovo, whose stony chambers carved into steep, cliffside caves reveal stunning medieval frescoes inside; a visit is richly rewarding. Afterwards, both groups will convene in Ruse before returning to the riverboat.
08/08/2025 08/08/2025
Ivanovo Cave Churches

Ivanovo Cave Churches 08/08/2025

Your Budapest river cruise along the Danube takes you to Bulgaria today; largely off limits during four centuries of Ottoman rule and decades behind the Iron Curtain, the country's rich natural beauty and history is yours to discover for yourself. Disembark after lunch in Ruse – often referred to as "Little Vienna" for its Art Nouveau homes, Austro-Hungarian architecture and lively cafés – for a choice of afternoon sightseeing. You may join us for a guided walking tour of the Basarabov rock church, and its easily-accessible chapel, or alternatively, embark on a vigorous hike to the celebrated rock churches in the village of Ivanovo, whose stony chambers carved into steep, cliffside caves reveal stunning medieval frescoes inside; a visit is richly rewarding. Afterwards, both groups will convene in Ruse before returning to the riverboat.
08/08/2025 08/08/2025
Constanta

Constanta 08/09/2025

Spend the morning cruising the Danube all the way to Constanta, Romania on the Black Sea coast. Upon your arrival in the early afternoon, take a guided tour of this historic port city, originally the ancient Greek colony of Tomis and home to numerous Greek and Roman antiquities; sights include an Art-Nouveau casino and a monument to the Roman poet Ovid, who was exiled here by the Emperor Augustus. Then it's on to Mamaia, the largest seaside resort on the Black Sea, for some time at leisure to enjoy the beach before returning to the riverboat, docked in Constanta, for your final night aboard your Budapest river cruise. Join us for the ship's farewell reception and dinner onboard this evening.
08/09/2025 08/09/2025
Mamaia

Mamaia 08/09/2025

Spend the morning cruising the Danube all the way to Constanta, Romania on the Black Sea coast. Upon your arrival in the early afternoon, take a guided tour of this historic port city, originally the ancient Greek colony of Tomis and home to numerous Greek and Roman antiquities; sights include an Art-Nouveau casino and a monument to the Roman poet Ovid, who was exiled here by the Emperor Augustus. Then it's on to Mamaia, the largest seaside resort on the Black Sea, for some time at leisure to enjoy the beach before returning to the riverboat, docked in Constanta, for your final night aboard your Budapest river cruise. Join us for the ship's farewell reception and dinner onboard this evening.
08/09/2025 08/09/2025
Constanta

Constanta 08/10/2025

Disembark your riverboat in Constanta and travel to Bucharest, capital of Romania and once regarded as the "Paris of the Balkans." A sightseeing tour of city landmarks includes Revolution Square and the Triumphal Arch; erected to commemorate Romania's reunification and those who fell in World War I, it is a smaller but otherwise exact copy of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Lunch in the Old Town, the city's charming historic center; a former enclave of artisans and merchants in the 16th century, it's now a trendy district of old inns, antique shops, galleries, and cafes, riddled with winding networks of vaulted cellars, cobblestone streets and passageways. Settle in for the next two nights at at your historic hotel in the heart of the city; if you wish, have dinner at the hotel tonight, or choose to enjoy a lunch or dinner at the hotel at another time during your stay.
08/10/2025 08/10/2025
Cruise Ends (Debarkation)

Cruise Ends (Debarkation) 08/10/2025

Disembark your riverboat in Constanta and travel to Bucharest, capital of Romania and once regarded as the "Paris of the Balkans." A sightseeing tour of city landmarks includes Revolution Square and the Triumphal Arch; erected to commemorate Romania's reunification and those who fell in World War I, it is a smaller but otherwise exact copy of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Lunch in the Old Town, the city's charming historic center; a former enclave of artisans and merchants in the 16th century, it's now a trendy district of old inns, antique shops, galleries, and cafes, riddled with winding networks of vaulted cellars, cobblestone streets and passageways. Settle in for the next two nights at at your historic hotel in the heart of the city; if you wish, have dinner at the hotel tonight, or choose to enjoy a lunch or dinner at the hotel at another time during your stay.
08/10/2025 08/10/2025
Bucharest

Bucharest 08/10/2025

Disembark your riverboat in Constanta and travel to Bucharest, capital of Romania and once regarded as the "Paris of the Balkans." A sightseeing tour of city landmarks includes Revolution Square and the Triumphal Arch; erected to commemorate Romania's reunification and those who fell in World War I, it is a smaller but otherwise exact copy of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Lunch in the Old Town, the city's charming historic center; a former enclave of artisans and merchants in the 16th century, it's now a trendy district of old inns, antique shops, galleries, and cafes, riddled with winding networks of vaulted cellars, cobblestone streets and passageways. Settle in for the next two nights at at your historic hotel in the heart of the city; if you wish, have dinner at the hotel tonight, or choose to enjoy a lunch or dinner at the hotel at another time during your stay.
08/10/2025 08/10/2025
Bran Castle

Bran Castle 08/11/2025

A choice of sightseeing today echoes the legacy of 15th-century Romanian prince Vlad Tepes (a.k.a. "Vlad the Impaler"), thought to be the historical model for Bram Stoker's Dracula. You may choose to take a full-day excursion to Transylvania's 14th-century Bran Castle, which Tepes once used as a fortress during his military campaigns; the excursion includes a visit to the castle and free time in Bran. Alternatively, you can travel on a full-day excursion into the Carpathian Mountains to the mountain resort town of Sinaia for a visit to a nearby castle. Or, drive to Targoviste to visit the formal royal court of Vlad the Tepes a.k.a. Dracula, and the military barracks museum where the trial and execution of Romania's Communist leader, Ceausescu, took place. Return to Bucharest for free time and dinner as you please.
08/11/2025 08/11/2025
Sinaia

Sinaia 08/11/2025

A choice of sightseeing today echoes the legacy of 15th-century Romanian prince Vlad Tepes (a.k.a. "Vlad the Impaler"), thought to be the historical model for Bram Stoker's Dracula. You may choose to take a full-day excursion to Transylvania's 14th-century Bran Castle, which Tepes once used as a fortress during his military campaigns; the excursion includes a visit to the castle and free time in Bran. Alternatively, you can travel on a full-day excursion into the Carpathian Mountains to the mountain resort town of Sinaia for a visit to a nearby castle. Or, drive to Targoviste to visit the formal royal court of Vlad the Tepes a.k.a. Dracula, and the military barracks museum where the trial and execution of Romania's Communist leader, Ceausescu, took place. Return to Bucharest for free time and dinner as you please.
08/11/2025 08/11/2025
Bucharest

Bucharest 08/12/2025

Discover more of Romania's capital on a choice of morning sightseeing, either visiting the National Art Museum or the Village Museum, before ending in Bucharest's Old Town. Following an afternoon spent pursuing what interests you most in the city, join us this evening as we travel to a Tauck Exclusive at the Bragadiru Palace (a.k.a the Palace of Culture). Named after founder Dumitru Marinescu Bragadiru, one of Romania's most important industrialists, the palace was originally used as a brewery and a performance hall before being confiscated in the 1940's (later returning to the descendants of Bragadiru in the early 2000's). Your tour concludes this evening with a special farewell reception at the palace, complete with musical entertainment.
08/12/2025 08/13/2025
Tauck - Cruise Division: ms Joy for Tauck
Maintaining Tauck’s high standards for quality and comfort, ms Joy cruises exclusively for Tauck on the Danube River as part of the Destination Fleet. With a maximum of 130 guests, the 443-foot riverboat and her sister ships continue the tradition of providing more space per guest on Europe’s inland waterways, transporting fewer passengers than most longships (135 meters). Her deck plan is innovative, with a total of 67 cabins, the most popular cabins tend to be the largest, so cruise have used the added ship length to offer twenty-two 300-square-foot Tauck Suites – the most of any river cruise ship on any European river. To increase the amount of natural sunlight on the lower deck, cruise have created 8 loft cabins that extend from the first to the second decks, providing guests with an additional view, all windows in these loft cabins open.
Ship Highlights
  • Amenities such as Fitness center, massages and putting green on Sun Deck etc
  • Onboard entertainment includes enrichment lectures, piano music nightly, in-room movies
  • Open seating in main dining room, The Compass Rose
  • Relax with your fellow passengers on Sun deck
Ship Statistics
Registry
Swiss
Built Year
2016
Ship Length
443 ft (135 m)
Passenger Capacity
130
Number of Crew
39
Internet
Service levels may vary

Dining

Main Dining Room
Open seating in main dining room, flexible dining times, vegetarian meals always available.
The Compass Rose
The main dining area, The Compass Rose, is also fitted with a buffet at one end of the dining room. Filled with a variety of regional dishes as well as some familiar faces (french fries and salad options with a large selection of dressings), it's perfect for those who want to get right into the days adventures.

Bars & Lounges

Bars & Lounges
The Panoramic lounge and bar is the sole lounge. Sporting an extensive cocktail menu, grab a drink and join fellow passengers and sit on one of the many plush chairs and couches, taking in the breathtaking views of the river as it passes by. During cocktail hour, enjoy the soft and relaxing sounds of the piano as a pianist plays live music, radiating throughout the lounge as a perfect compliment to the days events that preceded.

Onboard Activities

Lobby
Aboard ms Joy, explore all that the ship has to offer including a large variety of onboard entertainment options such as enrichment lectures, nightly piano music, in-room movies, culinary demos, local entertainment and “themed” fun.

Outdoor Activities

Putting Green & Jacuzzi
A riverboat's comfortable public spaces are ideal spots for socializing practice your putt on the on board putting green, kick back in the Jacuzzi with new friends or enjoy a cocktail as you glide past the remarkable scenery along Europe's rivers.

Wellness

Wellness
Fitness center and massages available.
Shipboard Policies
  • Wheelchair Access & Special Needs
    Tauck regrets that it cannot provide individual assistance to a guest for walking, dining, or other personal needs. Guests needing such assistance must be accompanied by an able companion who will assist them. They cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters; ask at time of booking.
Public Rooms
  • Bar(s)/Lounge(s)
Stateroom Amenities
  • Bath Amenities/Toiletries
  • Bath Robes
  • Complimentary Bottled Water (and/or Other Beverages)
  • Goose-Down Pillows
  • Hair Dryer
  • In-Stateroom Movies
  • Luxury Bedding
  • Minibar and/or Refrigerator
  • Pillow-Top Mattresses
  • Showers and/or Bath Tubs
  • Suites
  • Spacious Closet(s)
Entertainment
  • Internet Access
    Complimentary basic internet is included on riverboats and where available in hotel rooms. Service levels are not guaranteed.

  • Classes and Workshops
  • Educational/Enrichment Programs
  • Guest Lecturers
  • Live Music
  • Local Entertainment
Dining
  • Al Fresco Dining
    Weather permitting
  • Casual Dining Venue(s)
  • Dining Style: Anytime Dining
  • Dining Style: Flexible Dining Options
  • Dining Style: Open Seating
  • In-Room Breakfast Tray
  • Room Service
  • Unlimited Complimentary Beverages
    Includes regional wine, beer and premium spirits, in addition to specialty coffee, water and soft drinks.
Other Facilities
  • Beauty Salon
  • Boutique(s) (duty-free)
  • Laundry Service (nominal fee)
Sports, Health and Fitness
  • Bicycles (for use ashore)
  • Fitness Center
  • Massage Room
  • Putting Greens
  • Spa
  • Whirlpool(s)

Oceanview

Cat 1 Emerald Deck (1) $7,190
Cat 1 Emerald Deck
  • Category: 1
  • Square Feet: 150
Size: 150 sq. ft. Private Balcony: Yes. Stateroom Amenities: One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony (98 inches wide x 75 inches high) with one sliding door that opens, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily, 32” LED TV,220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone, safe and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available.
Cat 2 Ruby Deck (2) $7,590
Cat 2 Ruby Deck
  • Category: 2
  • Square Feet: 150
Size: 150 sq. ft. Private Balcony: Yes. Stateroom Amenities: One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony (98 inches wide x 75 inches high) with one sliding door that opens, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily, 32” LED TV,220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone, safe and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available.
Cat 3 Emerald Deck (3) $8,040
Cat 3 Emerald Deck
  • Category: 3
  • Square Feet: 225
Size: 225 sq. ft. Private Balcony: No. Stateroom Amenities: Innovatively designed 225 sq. ft. “split-level” loft cabins, One-and-a-half deck window that opens at the top, electronically controlled, Loft sitting area, Safe, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, 32” LED TV, Window (98 inches x 114 inches) can be partially opened, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available.
Cat 4 Ruby Deck (4) $8,340
Cat 4 Ruby Deck
  • Category: 4
  • Square Feet: 190
Size: 190 sq. ft. Private Balcony: Yes. Stateroom Amenities: One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony (98 inches wide x 75 inches high) with one sliding door that opens, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily, 32” LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone, safe and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available.
Cat 5 Ruby / Diamond Deck (5) $8,940
Cat 5 Ruby / Diamond Deck
  • Category: 5
  • Diamond Deck
  • Square Feet: 190-225
Size: 190 sq. ft. Private Balcony: Yes. Stateroom Amenities: One floor-to-ceiling French balcony (98 inches x 75 inches) with one sliding door that opens, 32” LED TV, Safe, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available.
Cat 6 Ruby Deck (6) $9,140
Cat 6 Ruby Deck
  • Category: 6
  • Square Feet: 225
Size: 225 sq. ft. Private Balcony: Yes. Stateroom Amenities: One floor-to-ceiling French balcony (98 inches x 75 inches) with one sliding door that opens, 32” LED TV, Safe, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed, luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available.

Suite

Cat 7 Diamond Deck Suite (7) $9,640
Cat 7 Diamond Deck Suite
  • Category: 7
  • Diamond Deck
  • Square Feet: 300
Size: 300 sq. ft. Private Balcony: Yes. Stateroom Amenities: Two floor-to-ceiling French balconies, each 98 inches x 75 inches with one sliding door that opens, 32" LED TV, Safe, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, Coffee maker, Breakfast room service, Iron plus ironing board, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available, a $100 credit per stateroom to be used onboard the ship (spa services, gift shop purchases, etc).
Price includes all private Tauck shore excursions, cruise fare, port charges, applicable fuel surcharges, entertainment, and gratuities to Tauck Director and ship staff.

Land / cruise price per person, based on double occupancy, includes cruise fare, most meals, port charges, shore excursions, applicable fuel surcharges, and gratuities to Tauck Directors, Tauck Cruise Director, ship staff, local guides & drivers, as well as on all included meals. Unlimited complimentary beverages aboard ship include regional wine, beer and premium spirits in addition to specialty coffee, water and soft drinks.

 

Itinerary Changes – Although not expected, Tauck reserves the right to alter the sequence of ports or omit or substitute scheduled ports or attractions at any time without prior notice. East and west itineraries are similar. Museums and attractions may be subject to closure due to state, local or religious holidays. This cruise includes a fair amount of walking in each city.

 

Shore Excursion Selection: Tauck will contact guests 90 days prior to departure to assist with shore excursion selections.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

Sun Deck

Deckplan Key

Stateroom Key

  • Cat 7 Diamond Deck Suite (7)
  • Cat 6 Ruby Deck (6)
  • Cat 5 Ruby / Diamond Deck (5)
  • Cat 4 Ruby Deck (4)
  • Cat 3 Emerald Deck (3)
  • Cat 2 Ruby Deck (2)
  • Cat 1 Emerald Deck (1)
Diamond Deck

Deckplan Key

Stateroom Key

  • Cat 7 Diamond Deck Suite (7)
  • Cat 6 Ruby Deck (6)
  • Cat 5 Ruby / Diamond Deck (5)
  • Cat 4 Ruby Deck (4)
  • Cat 3 Emerald Deck (3)
  • Cat 2 Ruby Deck (2)
  • Cat 1 Emerald Deck (1)
Ruby Deck

Deckplan Key

Stateroom Key

  • Cat 7 Diamond Deck Suite (7)
  • Cat 6 Ruby Deck (6)
  • Cat 5 Ruby / Diamond Deck (5)
  • Cat 4 Ruby Deck (4)
  • Cat 3 Emerald Deck (3)
  • Cat 2 Ruby Deck (2)
  • Cat 1 Emerald Deck (1)
Emerald Deck

Deckplan Key

Stateroom Key

  • Cat 7 Diamond Deck Suite (7)
  • Cat 6 Ruby Deck (6)
  • Cat 5 Ruby / Diamond Deck (5)
  • Cat 4 Ruby Deck (4)
  • Cat 3 Emerald Deck (3)
  • Cat 2 Ruby Deck (2)
  • Cat 1 Emerald Deck (1)