MS Bellejour

The 2004-built (as Johann Strauss) MS Bellejour ship cruises on the rivers Moselle, Main, Rhine and Danube. In the period 2004-2013, the riverboat served two companies (Austrian River Cruises, Noble Caledonia) under the name "MS Johann Strauss". Bellejour is the 3rd of 6 almost identical riverboats owned by Premicon AG and constructed at Nobiskrug Shipyard (Rendsburg Germany). The limited partnership was about EUR 8 million, and the investment of investors ~EUR 7 million.

Under its current name, the riverboat was also chartered by the UK-based CMV-Cruise and Maritime Voyages. Since 2019, the boat is chartered to Select Voyages (Switzerland-based travel agency).

In 2024, Bellejour boat's chartering was expanded to include the Mystic Cruises-owned brand Nicko Cruises/fleet, where it joined the sisterships Bolero (2003), Maxima (2003) and Viktoria (2004). Nocko's new "Charms of the Danube" itinerary (6 voyages were scheduled for 2024) were inclusive of 1-night pre-cruise hotel in Passau Germany.

Cabins

MS Bellejour has a total of 89 staterooms, all of which are outside. On decks Rhine and Danube, two panoramic windows overlook French Balcony. On deck Moselle, all cabins are with non-opening extra-large portholes. The ship can carry a maximum of 180 passengers, but the cruise company limits their number to 160. There are more than 60 French Balcony cabins with sliding glass-door (floor-ceiling) windows, all located on upper decks.

All staterooms are equally sized (170 ft2 / 16 m2), comfortable, well-designed and smartly furnished in restful colors and light woods. Standard amenities include twin beds (convertible to double), wardrobe, flat TV, radio, phone, electronic safe box (in the closet), minibar, en-suite bathroom (WC, shower, single vanity with under-sink storage, hairdryer, bath products), individually controlled air-conditioning.

Shipboard facilities

Bellejour cruise ship has many things to win guests over, such as culinary delights in its onboard restaurant and an expansive sun deck. Wireless internet connection provided on the whole liner means passengers can send holiday greetings to family and friends from anywhere along the river. In the inviting and cozy spa area, they can use the sauna room, jacuzzi and loungers for absolute relaxation. State-of-the-art cardio machines are found in the fitness room to improve stamina.

A well-designed feature is the positioning of the Restaurant, Bar-Lounge and top deck's Cafe. Floor-ceiling windows allow perfect views for diners. Other popular onboard places are the wellness complex (Spa & Fitness with whirlpool, sauna, modern gym equipment) and the Library (reading lounge). Onboard languages are German and English. The Cruise Director, Tour Escort, tour guides and key staff all speak fluent English.

Bellejour ship was one of all three CMV-chartered riverboats (together with Belvedere). Passengers on MS Bellejour tend to be 45+. At full capacity, the boat's ratio is 1 crew to 4,2 passengers.

Riverboat's cruising experience includes a single-sitting restaurant with unassigned tables. Buffet-style breakfast offers a choice of bread, cereals, pastries, and yogurt together with a Full English option for those who want to indulge. Lunch is a mixture of buffet and served dishes. Afternoon tea is provided daily with a choice of cakes. Dinner is a 4-course affair with various starters, cheese board, main dishes and desserts with beer, house wine, and soft drinks included. Tea and coffee and tea are provided after lunch and dinner. Snacks are available in the bar in the late evening, to finish the day.

Note: You can see the CruiseMapper's list of all river cruise ships and riverboats in the "itinerary" section of our River Cruises hub. All companies and their fleets are listed there.