Discover our special interest themed cruises

A themed cruise is an itinerary specifically adapted to focus on a special interest or hobby, from foodie cruises to itineraries focussing on the arts and more.

Whether you like good food and wine, the arts and culture, or taking care of mind, body, and soul, these fabulous, unique, and exclusive cruises are a wonderful opportunity to indulge your favourite pastimes and your passion for travel simultaneously. Often including hands-on workshops with professionals and delicious tasting sessions with gourmets, you’ll also have the priceless opportunity to meet likeminded people with shared interests.
The grand staircases, archways, and ceiling of Kunsthistorisches Museum located in Vienna, Austria The grand staircases, archways, and ceiling of Kunsthistorisches Museum located in Vienna, Austria


Christmas market cruises

Originating in Germany and dating back to the late Middle Ages, Christmas markets, or Christkindlmarkt, have become increasingly popular in northern Europe. And, there’s no better way to experience this tradition than with a Christmas market cruise.

Popular attractions tend to include the obligatory large Christmas tree, lit up in all its glory, along with a Nativity scene on show and festive singing and dancing.

The delicious waft of mulled wine and roasting chestnuts, along with a backdrop of festive sounds and twinkling lights ensures that the air is filled with delightful Christmastime cheer. Many stall holders are local trades people selling handcrafted gifts and decorations, along with a delicious array of seasonal food to tempt you.  
Bustling and brightly lit Christmas markets in Frankfurt, Germany Bustling and brightly lit Christmas markets in Frankfurt, Germany

Epic Voyages

Our Epic Voyages combine two or three of our insightful itineraries^ which perfectly complement each other to create an even longer cruising experience full of fascinating stops along the way.  

Sail further on one of our stylish river-cruising Star-Ships and enjoy all that they have to offer, each vessel boasting all the amenities of a world-class hotel. And no journey with Emerald Cruises is complete without our range of EmeraldDISCOVERY excursions and experiences, which you’ll be delighted to find throughout our Epic Voyages.

^Not available on our Southeast Asia itineraries
Luxury river ship sailing through Cochem, Germany Luxury river ship sailing through Cochem, Germany

Discover our range of special interest cruises 

Whether you’re looking for a themed cruise or wishing to sail for longer on an Epic Voyage - or even visit the Christmas markets of Europe or visit the continent as a family - you’re sure to find a cruise that’s perfect for you. 

Budapest to Vienna

7 Days

SEASON: 2025

Christmas Time on the Danube & Budapest

Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises

From
EUR
€2,150*
Budapest to Prague

9 Days

SEASON: 2025

Budapest to Prague & Christmas Time on the Danube

Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises

From
EUR
€2,570*
Budapest to Amsterdam

15 Days

SEASON: 2024

Christmas Markets of Europe

Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises

From
EUR
€4,350*
Budapest to Vienna

5 Days

SEASON: 2024

Christmas time on the Danube

Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises

From
EUR
€1,790*
A luxury river cruise brochure featuring multiple images of river cruising. A river cruise ship infront of the hungarian parliament building, the mekong river and a quintessential European town and river on the cover
A luxury river cruise brochure featuring multiple images of river cruising. A river cruise ship infront of the hungarian parliament building, the mekong river and a quintessential European town and river on the cover

Your guide to river cruising

Download your free Europe & Southeast Asia river cruise brochure to start planning your journey.