Ship Description

The gracious River Beatrice was inaugurated in 2009 and offers 3 types of stateroom including a sumptuous owner's suite. The decor throughout is reminiscent of a quality hotel with original artwork displayed throughout. The focal center is a four-deck-high, white, mirrored atrium It spans all passenger decks and is the ship's hub: all public rooms save for the Captain's Club are located off the atrium. Here's where you'll find the purser's area where you can change money, ask to borrow a bicycle or make any other request, for that matter. Up one deck is the shore excursions desk where you can sign up for tours and get information on the stops on the itinerary. A gift shop sells some gorgeous, but pricey, jewelry and collectibles, as well as necessities.

The Lounge is the all-purpose gathering room with a bar. It's most popular as a pre-dinner venue but also is a great spot for peace and quiet during the day and for post-dinner entertainment.

The cozy Captain's Lounge, located aft, is a secondary gathering spot with a well-stocked library, cozy seating area and tables roomy enough for foursomes to play Bridge. Two Internet-connected terminals are available; passengers with their own laptops can also pick up wireless signals in cabins, in the main lounge and on the upper deck. I will warn you that when passing through canals, access was often cut off. Cost is a flat 15 euros for the week -- a pretty good bargain for onboard Internet.

One of the most pleasant aspects of the ship is its outdoor spaces. Wrapping around the Captain's Lounge is a charming seating area with nice wicker furnishings. The ship's sun deck, which runs the length of the ship, was the nicest one on the Danube -- covered in teak-like wood, it's equipped with gorgeous wrought iron chairs, tables and loungers with incredibly comfortable puffy cotton cushions. Three canopies offer shade.