The Hungarian Parliament and Budapest skyline beside the Danube
Presented by Rupa Gadre · TripVIPs

Mah Jongg on the Danube

Two themed journeys aboard the new Emerald Astra. River days, storied cities, and a table waiting for you every day.

Two ways to sail

Pick your direction.

Designed for players of all experience levels, the themed sailings will feature guided play, hosted sessions, instructional opportunities, and curated social events—all seamlessly integrated into Emerald Cruises’ highly inclusive luxury river cruise experience.

Sailing 017 nights

Budapest to Regensburg

August 4–11, 2027
  1. Budapest
  2. Bratislava
  3. Vienna
  4. Dürnstein
  5. Passau
  6. Regensburg

Optional Prague extension follows this sailing.

Register for Sailing 1
Sailing 027 nights

Regensburg to Budapest

August 11–18, 2027
  1. Regensburg
  2. Passau
  3. Dürnstein
  4. Vienna
  5. Bratislava
  6. Budapest

Optional Prague extension comes before this sailing.

Register for Sailing 2
Aboard Emerald Astra

Easy days. Excellent company.

Beyond the game itself, guests will enjoy thoughtfully curated shore excursions, regionally inspired cuisine, premium onboard amenities, and an intimate sailing through some of Europe’s most iconic landscapes along the Danube River.

Emerald Astra river ship sailing past the Hungarian Parliament in Budapest
FREE Platinum Drinks PackageUnlimited spirits, wine, beer, and soft drinks throughout the cruise.
All onboard mealsDining throughout your time aboard Emerald Astra.
Guided excursion in every portDiscover each stop with an included guided experience.
Wi-Fi includedStay connected while you sail.
Gratuities includedOne less detail to manage onboard.
Port charges includedIncluded in your cruise experience.

There’s always room at the table.

Guided play, hosted sessions, instructional opportunities, and curated social events make it easy for newer players and seasoned hands alike to join in. Come on your own and meet your tablemates, or bring friends and make the cruise your group getaway.

Prague Castle and Charles Bridge illuminated beside the Vltava River
Optional extension

Three nights in Prague

Add the Czech capital to your Danube journey—cobblestone lanes, Gothic spires, and evenings beside the Vltava.

$675per person · double occupancy
$1,065single occupancy

Post-cruise for Sailing 1 · Pre-cruise for Sailing 2

Your ship

Choose your place aboard.

Rupa will work with you to select the best available cabin in your selected category.

Sailing 1 deck plan

Budapest → Regensburg · Aug 4–11
Emerald Astra deck plan and cabin availability for the August 4, 2027 sailing from Budapest to Regensburg
Availability snapshot as of September 30, 2026

Sailing 2 deck plan

Regensburg → Budapest · Aug 11–18
Emerald Astra deck plan and cabin availability for the August 11, 2027 sailing from Regensburg to Budapest
Availability snapshot as of September 30, 2026
Your travel advisor · sailing with you

Meet Rupa Gadre

Rupa brings together two great pleasures: the camaraderie of Mah Jongg and the ease of river travel. As your TripVIPs travel advisor, she’ll help you choose the right sailing and cabin, answer your questions, and welcome you into the group once aboard.

Rupa plans to sail with the group—ideally on both departures—while the themed program’s hosts lead the guided play, instructional opportunities, and social events.

Rupa Gadre, Verified Travel AdvisorTripVIPs.com
rupa@tripvips.com 206.750.6220
Good to know

Frequently asked questions

A few essentials before you select your sailing.

Do I need to bring a Mah Jongg set?

No. Tiles are provided onboard, so you do not need to pack or bring a set.

Will there be enough tables—and can I come on my own?

Yes. Tables will be set up throughout the lounge, with enough 34-inch square card tables for all participants. Each table seats four players, and a fourth player is guaranteed, so solo travelers can join with confidence.

When can we play?

Hosted evening play is planned every night, with additional play on select sailing days. All Mah Jongg activities are optional, so you can join as much or as little as you like.

Who leads the Mah Jongg program?

Four dedicated Mah Jongg facilitators will be onboard, along with instructors and tournament directors.

Will there be tournaments or prizes?

Yes. The program includes hosted mini tournaments, prizes, and awards. There is no championship tournament.

What style of Mah Jongg will we play?

The sailings feature American Mah Jongg using the 2027 National Mah Jongg League card. Players are grouped by experience level: beginner, casual, or experienced.

When will I receive the daily schedule?

The full daily schedule will be emailed to booked guests 60 days before sailing. Participation in every session, workshop, and social event is optional.

What is included in the Platinum Drinks Package?

The complimentary package includes unlimited spirits, wine, beer, and soft drinks throughout the cruise.

When does the Prague extension take place?

For Sailing 1, Prague is a three-night post-cruise extension. For Sailing 2, it is a three-night pre-cruise extension.

How do I get current cabin pricing and availability?

Use the registration link for your preferred sailing or email Rupa at rupa@tripvips.com. You can also call 206.750.6220. Cabin availability and pricing can change.

Could the itinerary change?

River itineraries and excursions may be adjusted by the cruise line due to local or navigational conditions. Rupa can confirm the latest details when you register.