Kisfaludy

HISTORICAL CRUISES
WITH THE Kisfaludy AND THE Hableány PADDLE STEAMERS

HOW OUR SHIP CONNECTS TO THE SZÉCHENYIS

Our historic paddle steamers, the Kisfaludy and the Hableány, sail the Danube in Budapest as living tributes to Count István Széchenyi and his son, Count Ödön Széchenyi. Father and son both shaped Hungary and Hungarian navigation, and each is remembered through one of our ships.

Széchenyi István

COUNT ISTVÁN SZÉCHENYI’S LEGACY

Count István Széchenyi (1791–1860), known as “the greatest Hungarian”, was the visionary statesman of Hungary’s Reform Era. Inspired by what he saw in England, he devoted his energy and resources to modernising his country. He helped found the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, championed the Chain Bridge and worked to improve transport and trade, from the Danube to Lake Balaton.

Széchenyi Ödön

COUNT ÖDÖN SZÉCHENYI’S JOURNEY

Count Ödön Széchenyi (1839–1922), the son of István Széchenyi, followed his father’s example and put his talent to work for his country. He established organised firefighting in Hungary and later in Turkey, where he was named a pasha in recognition of his service. In 1867 he also became the first to travel by water from Budapest to Paris, aboard the Hableány, a steamboat of his own design.

Learn more about our historical ships

Hableány

Paddle Steamer

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Hableány Paddle Steamer

Original construction:

1846

Historical significance:

Reform-era icon

A smaller paddle steamer rebuilt after Count Ödön Széchenyi’s original Hableány, which sailed from Pest to Paris in 1867. Intimate and family-friendly, it shows Budapest’s top sights from the Danube with a taste of history on board.

Kisfaludy

Paddle Steamer

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Kisfaludy Paddle Steamer

Original construction:

1846

Historical significance:

First Hungarian-built steamer

A larger paddle steamer rebuilt after Count István Széchenyi’s original Kisfaludy, the first steamship on Lake Balaton. With a lively atmosphere on board, it sails past Budapest’s most iconic sights on the Danube.

Private Boat Events

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Hungary’s Reform Era aboard our historical boats, the Kisfaludy and the Hableány Paddle Steamer, for a truly unique experience. The Kisfaludy accommodates up to 85 guests, making it ideal for larger gatherings, while the Hableány is perfect for more intimate events of up to 45 guests. Our experienced staff will take care of all technical arrangements, and guests are welcome to bring their own cake or cold catering on board by prior arrangement.

  • Corporate events
  • Social gatherings
  • Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties
  • Wedding ceremonies

Arrange your next event on our boat!

360° tour

Take a virtual tour on our ships

The Kisfaludy Steamer

The Hableány Steamer

Contact us!

For any questions, interest in event organization, or quotation requests, feel free to reach out to us via the contact information provided:

+36 30 175 75 39
We will respond to email inquiries within 48 hours. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Our other boat

Discover Budapest aboard the elegant Citadella, another ship in our fleet. The modern interior with comfortable seating and A/C, complemented by an onboard bar offering a delightful selection of quality drinks, ensures you will have an unforgettable time. Unwind on the open-air panorama deck and enjoy the breathtaking view of the city.