CRUISE THE VLTAVA

The Castles Of Bohemia · May 13th 2026 - May 19th 2026

Journey with Theatrical Adventures on an exclusive cruise through Bohemia. We have chartered the only vessel capable of sailing through this idyllic region and are delighted to offer a one-of-a-kind adventure that takes us well off the beaten track.

We will discover some of the Czech Republic’s hidden treasures, from the spectacular Konopiste Castle, the final home of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, to the opulent Nelahozeves Castle, one of the most beautiful Renaissance castles in Bohemia. We will spend a day in Prague, taking a guided tour of the Old Town and the Castle District, nestled under the ever-present gaze of the city’s castle. We will explore St Vitus Cathedral, the largest and most important church in the country, along with the Old Royal Palace and the ‘Golden Lane’, named after the 17th-century artisans who once lived there.

On our final day, we will embark on a full-day excursion to the German city of Dresden, known as the ‘Florence of the Elbe’. Here, we will enjoy an exclusive guided tour of the Royal Palace, once the residence of the Saxon Dukes and Electors, as well as the Kings of Saxony.

Our ship for this adventure will be the premium MS Elbe Princesse, a uniquely designed vessel capable of navigating the shallow waters of the Vltava and Elbe rivers. It features a bespoke paddle wheel, designed and built by Volvo, to propel us on our journey. The Elbe Princesse is a modern ship, with interiors styled in a contemporary Nordic design. All cabins are exterior-facing, with the top deck cabins featuring large French windows, while the main deck cabins offer a large picture window.

The Elbe Princesse is the only river cruise vessel operating on this route, and with its intimate atmosphere, this voyage promises a relaxing, culturally immersive escape that showcases Bohemia’s past and present. As always, we will travel with our Theatrical Adventures soloists and Musical Director, along with dedicated cruise directors, ensuring you have a fabulous journey through this fascinating region.

Please note: Single cabins are sold out. To be added to our waiting list, please email oliver@theatricaladventures.com

Book Now

Itinerary

13 May 2026

Passengers are welcome to check-in onboard from 6:00pm in Prague. We will introduce the crew at 7:00pm, followed by a welcome cocktail and dinner. Performance: Our onboard soloists entertain

14 May 2026

This morning we will cruise down the meandering Vltava towards the Slapy Dam. The journey will take us alongside forest covered hills, dotted with distant castles.
We will dock in Stechovice, ready for lunch onboard, followed by an afternoon excursion to Konopiste Castle, the final residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.
This 13th Century chateau was renovated in the 18th Century and now houses an enormous collection of medieval weapons and Ferdinand's hunting trophies.
We will return to the ship in time for dinner. Performance: Our onboard soloists entertain

15 May 2026

Our journey towards the Slapy Dam continues along the river this morning. You can spend this beautiful day sailing along the Vltava up on the sun deck enjoying the views of castle-clad hillsides and distant forests, or you can join our Theatrical Adventures Choir for some singing, led by our onboard Musical Director.
We will reach the terminus of the navigable Vltava at the mighty Slapy Dam, before making our way back to Prague at the end of the afternoon. Performance: Our onboard soloists entertain

16 May 2026

We start our day with a guided walking tour of the Old Town, or "Stare Mesto" in Prague. This part of the city dates back over 1000 years and is one of the most significant places in Bohemian history. We will wander through the narrow city streets, through the Jewish Quarter into the Old Town, where you will find the famous astronomical clock, the gothic Church of Our Lady before Tyn and the Charles Bridge.
We will return to the ship for lunch onboard.
This afternoon, we will head to the Prague Castle District. Nestled under the ever-present gaze of the city castle, we will find St Vitus Cathedral, the largest and most important church in the country, the Old Royal Palace and the 'Golden Lane', named for 17th Century artisans.
We return to the ship in time for dinner. Performance: An evening of traditional entertainment

17 May 2026

We will spend the morning cruising to Melnik, at the confluence of the Vltava and the Elbe rivers.
After lunch, we will travel by coach to one of the most beautiful Renaissance castles in Bohemia: Nelahozeves Castle - home to 23 Bohemian queens and princesses.
During our tour, we will discover the opulent lifestyle of the Bohemian nobility during the baroque period. Once we have explored the castle, we will sample some of the wines from the castle's vineyard before returning to the ship for dinner and entertainment. Performance: Our onboard soloists entertain

18 May 2026

Today we will travel by coach to Dresden, also known as The Florence of the Elbe. This fabulous city hosts a myriad of attractions, from its magnificent promenades along the banks of the Elbe, to its fascinating museums and a wealth of monuments.
You will have free time this morning to explore the city on your own and find some lunch, before we meet this afternoon for our guided tour of The Royal Palace - once residence to the Saxon Dukes and Electors and the Kings of Saxony.
We will return to the ship this evening for our gala dinner and concert. Performance: Our onboard soloists entertain

19 May 2026

We enjoy a final breakfast onboard before departing from Prague at 9:00am. Performance: No concert tonight, it's just Sbohem until next time!

What's included

All meals from dinner on 13 May, through to breakfast on 19 May
Beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
All listed excursions
Nightly entertainment

What's not included

Personal travel insurance
Transfers to or from the ship

Book Now

Prague

Prague, the heart of Central Europe, is a city where history comes to life. Known as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” the Czech capital offers a breathtaking journey through centuries of architectural splendour, rich cultural heritage, and charming cobblestone streets. For travellers who appreciate history, beauty, and a leisurely pace, Prague is a perfect destination.

The Old Town (Staré Město) is the soul of Prague, home to the iconic Astronomical Clock, which has been mesmerising visitors since 1410. A short stroll through the square reveals stunning Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance buildings, each with a story to tell. The famous Charles Bridge, lined with historic statues, provides a picturesque walk over the Vltava River, leading directly to the city’s other great treasure—the Castle District (Hradčany).

Overlooking the city, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle complex in the world. Within its walls lies St. Vitus Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, along with charming palaces and tranquil gardens. Wandering through the quiet lanes of Golden Lane, named for 17th Century artisans, you’ll feel transported to another time.

Whether admiring medieval landmarks or relaxing in a riverside café, Prague offers an unforgettable blend of history, elegance, and old-world charm.

Slapy

Nestled along the meandering Vltava River, Slapy is a charming retreat in the Czech countryside, offering a peaceful escape just south of Prague. Known for its picturesque reservoir, this serene destination has long been a favourite for those seeking nature, relaxation, and gentle outdoor activities.

The Slapy Dam, built in the 1950s, is the heart of the area, creating a vast, tranquil lake surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests. In Czech, 'Slapy' means 'Rapids' - which is what the Vltava was before the dam was built, controlling the waters in this region and making this cruise possible.

Beyond the reservoir, Slapy offers easy access to historical sites and quaint villages. A short drive away, you’ll find Konopiště Castle, once home to Archduke Franz Ferdinand, with its beautifully preserved interiors and landscaped gardens. The area also boasts gentle hiking trails, perfect for taking in the fresh countryside air at a relaxed pace.

Konopiště Castle

Konopiště Castle, one of the Czech Republic’s most enchanting historical estates, offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of European aristocracy. This elegant 13th-century château is best known as the final residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne whose assassination in 1914 set off the First World War.

The castle’s beautifully preserved interiors transport visitors to a bygone era, with lavish Baroque and Renaissance furnishings, sparkling chandeliers, and an impressive collection of hunting trophies, reflecting Franz Ferdinand’s passion for the sport. The castle’s armoury is one of the most extensive in Europe, showcasing medieval weapons and suits of armour.

Beyond its opulent halls, Konopiště Castle is surrounded by exquisite gardens and parklands, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The rose garden, originally designed by Franz Ferdinand’s wife, Sophie, is particularly charming, offering a peaceful retreat filled with vibrant blooms and classical statues.

Nelahozeves Castle

Set on the banks of the Vltava River, Nelahozeves Castle is one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in the Czech Republic. Often compared to the grand estates of Italy, this elegant 16th-century castle is an undiscovered treasure for those seeking a glimpse into aristocratic life without the crowds.

The castle is still owned by the Lobkowicz family, one of the oldest noble dynasties in Central Europe. Inside, visitors can admire luxurious period furnishings, intricate tapestries, and an outstanding collection of fine art, including works by Rubens, Velázquez, and Brueghel. The castle also offers guided tours that bring its history to life, with stories of nobility, war, and cultural preservation.

Just a short stroll from the castle is the birthplace of composer Antonín Dvořák, now a small museum dedicated to his life and music. The surrounding countryside, with its gentle river views and rolling fields, provides a peaceful setting for a relaxed visit.

For those who love history, art, and classical music, Nelahozeves Castle offers an intimate and enriching experience, just a stone’s throw from Prague.

Dresden

Nestled along the banks of the Elbe River, Dresden is a city of elegance, history, and artistic splendour. Once the royal seat of Saxon Kings, this baroque masterpiece is often called the “Florence of the Germany” for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and cultural richness. A perfect destination for travellers who appreciate history, art, and leisurely exploration, Dresden offers a blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.

At the heart of the city lies the magnificent Zwinger Palace, a baroque gem housing the Old Masters Gallery, where works by Raphael, Rembrandt, and Titian can be admired. Just a short stroll away stands the Frauenkirche, a symbol of resilience and restoration, its grand dome once again dominating the skyline after its meticulous post-war reconstruction.

The Royal Palace (Residenzschloss) invites visitors to explore the legendary Green Vault, home to one of the world’s most dazzling collections of royal treasures, including the famous Dresden Green Diamond. Meanwhile, a leisurely walk along the Brühl’s Terrace offers panoramic views of the Elbe and the city’s stately skyline.

High spires towers of Tyn church in Prague city Our Lady

1 - Prague

Famous meander on Vltava river in springtime

2 - Slapy

Medieval Konopiste Castle in Czech Republic

3 - Konopiště Castle

Nelahozeves castle by the Vltava river

4 - Nelahozeves Castle

Zwinger palace, art gallery and museum in Dresden, Germany.

5 - Dresden

MS Elbe Princesse

At a Glance

Embark on a seven-day cruise through Bohemia, exploring the enchanting landscapes along the Elbe and Vltava Rivers. Departing from Prague, the journey also includes stops at Slapy, Stechovice, Melnik, and Dresden. Cruise alongside forested hills and medieval castles, with opportunities to visit Konopiste Castle, once the hunting lodge of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Discover Prague’s Old Town, its astronomical clock, and the grand St. Vitus Cathedral. In Melnik, explore Nelahozeves Castle and its private art collection. A full-day excursion to Dresden, the “Florence of the Elbe,” includes a tour of the Royal Palace. Every evening, you can enjoy concerts from our onboard professional singers or local, traditional entertainment.

Excursions

The excursions include:

Konopiste Castle: A former Habsburg hunting lodge housing Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s vast collection of medieval weapons, set in an idyllic forest landscape.
Prague Old Town: A thousand-year-old district with narrow lanes, the iconic astronomical clock, and the historic Jewish quarter.
Prague Castle District: Home to St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace, perched on a hill overlooking the city’s Gothic and Baroque treasures.
Nelahozeves Castle: A Renaissance gem featuring a private art collection of Rubens and Velázquez, complete with a local wine tasting.
Dresden (Full Day): Known as the “Florence of the Elbe,” boasting grand baroque architecture and the Royal Palace’s Green Vault, Europe’s largest collection of royal treasures.