It seems like an April Fool’s joke, but it’s actually not: Luftner Cruises has partnered with German travel provider Kreuzfahrthammer Gmbh to create a “pay what you want to” river cruise down the Danube.
The press release issued by Kreuzfahrthammer states that a voyage like this “has never been done before,” which is a bit of an understatement. Designed exclusively for German-speaking guests, the river cruise will operate from October 16 to October 24, 2014 and will depart from Nuremberg, Germany and end in Vienna, Austria.
Regular rates for this voyage start at US$1300 per person don’t apply – in a limited-time promotion (and one could argue last-minute), guests will be able to pay what they’d like to enjoy the weeklong cruise down the Danube aboard Amadeus Silver, which can hold up to 180 guests.
No word on if there’s a “recommended” amount, or what the company would do if someone offered them a seriously low offer, like 5 euros.
Calling on Regensburg, Passau, Melk, Budapest and Bratislava, this special voyage functions just like any other Luftner Cruise voyage along the Danube, with all the expected amenities included, like fine regional wines with dinner.
The press release notes Kreuzfahrthammer is well known for organizing unique theme cruises. The company spearheaded the world’s first vegan-only river cruise recently. Though due to the short booking timeframe (three days in advance), it’s likely this offer would only appeal to those who live in or near the ports of embarkation or disembarkation. It also begs the question on how the majority of the ship’s full-fare-paying guests would feel to learn that their tablemates made off with a heck of a good deal.
Pay what you want. It’s a unique idea – but one that might not catch on too soon. If you happen to speak German, though, it could just be the deal of the year.
