I won an all-inclusive A-Rosa Christmas Markets river cruise at an auction. The team at A-Rosa were extremely helpful in giving guidance on flights as well as providing all the details on embarkation and disembarkation to ensure our trip ran smoothly.
We were a party of six, and it was the first time any of us had been on a river cruise.
The trip was a 5-day Christmas market cruise along the Danube travelling from Engelhartszell calling at Vienna and Linzz. It was well planned to give a full day and evening in Vienna to enjoy the many sights and Christmas markets both by day and night.
We flew into Munich and then took the train from Freiberg to Passau. On arrival at the train station in Passau, we were able to leave our luggage with the A-Rosa team, meaning we could enjoy a hassle-free and stress-free transfer to the river boat. It also enabled us to have a short explore of the beautiful cathedral in Passau – such an amazing find.
There was a short transfer from Passau to Engelhartzsell, initially in minibuses before we met up with the larger coach (due to the quaint roads of Passau). On arrival check in was quick and easy with our luggage being delivered straight to the cabin.
The cabins were generous in size with a full window and small standing balcony. The beds were comfortable and the room temperature just perfect. A-Rosa, knowing we were 3 couples, situated our cabins next to each other.
The A-Rosa staff were always very pleasant and helpful.
The team conducted briefings each day to outline the agenda, where we were heading and the key sights to consider visiting. It was a 5-day trip, and we took every opportunity to disembark and see the local sights.
The food on-board was varied, well presented and delicious with a great selection at each meal. There was an opportunity to take a seat at the Captain’s table for a served meal, which many chose to do.
In the bar area were games and cards for guest use and also a jigsaw for people to complete during the cruise with the hope it was finished before we all disembarked.
In the evenings we sat outside with the provided blankets to enjoy the journey along the river, watching the lights on the river banks. Some guests took the opportunity to enjoy the evening entertainment.
I will certainly be looking forward to another cruise.
