Germany Cruises

Germany is a remarkable country that combines rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, making it an incredible cruise destination. From the bustling cosmopolitan charm of cities like Berlin and Hamburg to the picturesque fairy-tale towns along the Rhine and Danube rivers, there is something to capture every traveler’s heart. Fun fact: Germany is known for its famous Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival, held annually in Munich! Exploring Germany by cruise allows you to experience diverse regions with ease, indulging in local cuisine and soaking up the history while enjoying the comforts of a floating hotel.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing to Germany

• MSC Cruises: With a total fleet of 23 ships, MSC has 4 that visit Germany. Noteworthy vessels are the MSC Poesia and MSC Magnifica, which offer exciting onboard activities and diverse dining options that reflect the local flavours of the regions they visit. Departures frequently occur from ports such as Copenhagen and Warnemünde, ensuring convenient access to Germany’s captivating cities.
• Cunard: Cunard operates a fleet of 4 elegant ships, with 3 offering itineraries that include stops in Germany. The majestic Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne are famous for their luxurious onboard experience, featuring fine dining and grand entertainment options. Sailings typically depart from Southampton or Hamburg, providing an elegant gateway to Germany’s cultural gems.
• P&O Cruises: This well-loved cruise line possesses a fleet of 7 ships, 5 of which explore Germany’s captivating coasts. The Britannia and Aurora are especially popular, offering exceptional service and a variety of dining choices. Most voyages depart from Southampton and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, making them a convenient choice for those venturing into Germany’s scenic landscapes.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises features 4 that operate itineraries visiting Germany. The Sky Princess and Emerald Princess are highly regarded for their excellent entertainment and diverse dining options onboard. Cruises predominantly depart from Southampton or Rome, allowing you easy access to Germany’s famous cities.
• Holland America Line: With 11 ships in their fleet, Holland America has 4 that include Germany in their itineraries. The Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam are known for their upscale dining and engagement with local cultures. Departures usually occur from Rotterdam or London (Dover), ensuring a classy start to your exploration of Germany.

Luxury and Small Ship Options to Germany

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania boasts a fleet of 8 ships, with 5 offering itineraries that visit Germany. The Vista and Sirena are well known for their luxurious atmosphere and gourmet dining options, making them a great choice for those looking for an upscale experience. Departures typically occur from Southampton or Reykjavik, allowing you to embark on a stylish journey.
• Azamara Cruises: This boutique cruise line features a fleet of 4 ships, 3 of which visit Germany. The Azamara Journey and Azamara Onward are particularly celebrated for their immersive regional experiences and extended stays in port. Most departures take place from either Lisbon or Stockholm, providing easier access to Germany’s highlights.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 5 ships, Seabourn has 1 ship that specifically focuses on itineraries in Germany. The Seabourn Sojourn is known for its opulent rooms and exceptional service, ensuring a luxurious experience. Cruises typically depart from London or Greenock, offering a refined beginning to your exploration of Germany.
• Fred Olsen: Fred Olsen operates a fleet composed of 3 ships, all of which travel to Germany. The Balmoral and Borealis provide a more intimate cruising experience, featuring a friendly atmosphere and excellent service. Most cruises depart from Southampton or Rosyth (Edinburgh), making it a convenient choice for UK guests.

Must-Visit Harbours in Germany

• Hamburg: As Germany’s second-largest city and an important port, Hamburg greets you with its charming canals and rich maritime history. Visit the historic Speicherstadt district, home to stunning red-brick warehouses, or explore the Elbphilharmonie concert hall for spectacular views of the city. Be sure to sample local seafood at a bustling fish market or dine on traditional Hamburg dishes while you’re there.
• Berlin: While not typically a cruise port, Berlin is easily accessible from nearby ports. This fascinating city is filled with history—consider seeing the iconic Brandenburg Gate, the remains of the Berlin Wall, and the dynamic street art in the East Side Gallery. Allow yourself to indulge in local delights like currywurst or grab a coffee in one of the city’s hip cafés.
• Warnemünde: This charming seaside resort serves as a gateway to the historic city of Rostock. Discover the beautiful sandy beaches, stroll along the promenade, or take a short train ride to explore the medieval architecture in Rostock. Visit the historic market square and enjoy a refreshing beverage at a local brewery before sailing onward.
• Kiel: Known for its naval base and shipbuilding industry, Kiel offers exciting opportunities to explore the city’s maritime culture. Visit the Kiel Canal for a scenic walk or take a ferry to explore nearby islands. If time allows, wander through the Botanical Garden or visit the nearby town of Laboe, famous for its naval memorial.
• Genoa: Although technically in Italy, Genoa plays a crucial role as a departure port for cruises to Germany. This historic city offers a wealth of experiences, including visiting the Aquarium of Genoa and exploring the narrow streets of the old town. Don’t forget to sample some authentic focaccia Genovese while you soak in the charming atmosphere!

The Best Times to Cruise Germany

When it comes to timing your cruise to Germany, each season offers a different perspective on its beauty. January to March experiences cooler temperatures averaging around 0°C to 10°C, ideal for those wanting to explore Germany’s festive winter markets. Spring months (April to June) bring milder weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, perfect for sightseeing and enjoying blossoming landscapes. The summer months of July to September yield warmer temperatures, typically between 20°C and 30°C, attracting larger crowds and making beach visits more appealing. Finally, Autumn (October to December) showcases beautiful fall foliage with temperatures cooling down, averaging around 5°C to 15°C, creating a picturesque backdrop for cultural celebrations.

The Cost of Cruising to Germany

When budgeting for your cruise to Germany, one-week trips generally range from GBP 600 to GBP 1600 per person, depending on the cruise line and cabin selection. For a two-week cruise, expect to spend between GBP 1300 and GBP 3000 or more. Luxury cruises often come at a premium, with average prices sitting between GBP 1800 and GBP 6500 for one week. Dining onshore may cost around GBP 12 to GBP 25 for meals, and drinks tend to range from GBP 3 to GBP 10, allowing you to savour delightful local flavours in Germany without overspending.

Ready to set sail for the captivating ports of Germany? At Cruise1st, we are here to assist you in planning the perfect holiday, featuring a diverse selection of incredible itineraries and cruise lines tailored to your preferences. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by—book your German cruise today!