After the successful Connecting Cruise 2022, the authentic replica of a 4th century Roman ship embarks on another journey through the partner countries of the Living Danube Limes project to promote the sustainable use of the ship. The ReConnecting Cruise 2023-2027 aims to visualise and rebuild historical connections and raise awareness of the region's cultural heritage. Numerous events and activities around the Roman ship highlight the unifying character of the shared Roman heritage along the Danube Limes.
In 2023, the Danuvina Alacris already made a stop in Germany. From April 2024, she was anchored in Tulln, where she could be booked for group trips. In the summer, the Danuvina visited the Czech Republic by land before continuing her journey along the Austrian section of the Danube towards Slovakia in the autumn.
The floods in Austria in September 2024 had a significant impact on the journey of the Danuvina Alacris: due to the high water levels and strong currents, the original itinerary had to be adjusted. The strong currents led to some difficult manoeuvres and required the crew to be extremely watchful to ensure the safety of the ship and its crew. Despite these challenges, the Danuvina Alacris was able to continue her journey and carry out most of the planned events and activities.
On October 10, 2024, the Danuvina Alacris started her final journey on the Austrian section of the Danube. The crew consisted of experienced rowers from the Connecting Cruise 2022 as well as new members who were excited about the adventure. During the journey, the Danuvina Alacris docked in several cities: Klosterneuburg, Vienna, Fischamend, and Hainburg.
In Vienna, two elementary school classes visited the ship as part of their lessons on Roman Vienna. The students had the opportunity to explore the authentic Roman ship and learn more about life in Roman times. The Stadtarchäologie Wien provided exciting visual material and members of the Schleuderverein "Schlingel Team Austria" introduced the children to the equipment, clothing, and daily life of a Roman soldier.
The Museum Carnuntinum in Deutsch-Altenburg presented finds from Carnuntum, including some exhibits from the Lower Austrian State Collections that had never been shown before. A special program on the occasion of the arrival of the Danuvina Alacris offered visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Roman history.
A special highlight awaited the crew in the Roman City of Carnuntum. After the exertions of the Austrian rowing stage, they set up camp in the Roman baths. They enjoyed a communal dinner in this historic setting, which gave them a unique opportunity to experience the atmosphere of the ancient city up close. Strengthened and inspired, they prepared for the upcoming final leg of their journey through Austria.
The Danuvina Alacris was finally welcomed in Devín (Bratislava) with a grand Roman festival and officially handed over to the Slovak Municipal Monument Preservation Institute (MMPIB).
This journey of the Danuvina Alacris is an example of how historical connections can be revived and the cultural heritage along the Danube can be celebrated. The ReConnecting Cruise 2024 has once again highlighted the unifying character of the shared Roman heritage along the Danube Limes.
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