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15 Day The Enchanting Rhine - Paris to Zurich
APT River Cruise starting in Paris and finishing in Zurich
Countries Visited: France  Holland  Germany  Switzerland 
APT Platinum SeriesTour Type: River Cruise
Tour Duration: 15 Days (14 Nights)
From: Paris to Zurich
Tour Code: EUECPZ15
Operator: APT
from AU $8,120 pp
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River Cruise Description

From gourmet cuisine and the finest wine, to beautiful green valleys and cities buzzing with chic style and world-class attractions, The Enchanting Rhine offers Holland, Germany and Switzerland with a mixture of a river cruise and luxury hotels.

Included Signature Experiences

  • Enjoy a Welcome Dinner cruise along the River Seine in Paris
  • Visit the Technik Museum in Speyer
  • In Lucerne, ride a cable car for stunning views from Mt Titlis

APT Guaranteed Inclusions

  • Airport transfers and tipping included - save up to A$620 per couple
  • Enjoy excursions and entertainment to the value of A$1,040 per couple
  • Services of an APT Tour Director

Freedom of Choice Touring

  • Discover the sights of Paris with a photography tour, a cooking class, a visit to Giverny or a sightseeing tour
  • In Amsterdam, touring options include a canal cruise, a visit to the Van Gogh museum or a Wetlands Safari canoe tour
  • From Cologne, explore the 2012 Floriade Expo in Venlo, or visit Maastricht
  • Choose from three options in Rüdesheim
  • Choose between a tour of Colmar in France or the Black Forest in Germany
  • In Lucerne, choose between a cruise of Lake Lucerne, a husky dogsled experience or a walking tour of the city sights

Outstanding Accommodation

  • Enjoy seven nights cruising on the luxurious MS AmaCello
  • Stay three nights in Lucerne and Paris

Finest Dining

  • Enjoy 14 Breakfasts (B), 6 Lunches (L) and 10 Dinners (D)
  • All meals, as well as wine and beer with lunch and dinner, are included on board
  • Dine Around Dinner in Lucerne

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Day
1
Arrive Paris
Be met on arrival in Paris and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy time at leisure, before tonight’s Welcome Reception with your APT Tour Director and fellow guests. Three Night Stay: Paris, Hilton Arc de Triomphe
Day
2
Paris, Freedom of Choice Touring
After breakfast, discover the sights and attractions of the French capital with a choice of included touring activities. Take a sightseeing tour, including the famous Avenue des Champs Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower, where you’ll ascend to the second level of the tower to enjoy amazing views out over Paris. Alternatively, you could opt to discover French cuisine during a cooking class, or learn about photography during a tour designed to help you take the perfect picture of Paris. An excursion to Giverny, the picturesque village once home to the celebrated Impressionist artist Claude Monet, is another option. Tonight, enjoy a lovely Welcome Dinner cruise along the Seine River for a unique look at the city. Afterwards, embark on a Paris Illuminations Tour and see why Paris is known as the City of Light. Learn about the city’s intriguing history as you tour the boulevards with their animated cafés and brilliantly illuminated monuments and squares. (B/D)
Day
3
Paris at Leisure
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure, relaxing or exploring Paris independently. Perhaps stroll along the boutique-lined boulevards, sip café au lait in the Latin Quarter, explore the world-famous boutiques or go for a wander along Rue Mouffetard, the city’s most lively market street. This evening, you may like to visit the famous Moulin Rouge, the historic cabaret and birthplace of the can-can (own expense). (B)
Day
4
Paris, Amsterdam, Embark
After breakfast, board the stylish Thalys high-speed train for your luxury 3.5 hour journey to Amsterdam. On arrival, enjoy a tour of the Netherlands Maritime Museum before boarding your ship. Seven Nights: APT’s luxurious Aria Class ship - the MS Amacello (B/D)
Day
5
Amsterdam, Freedom of Choice Touring
Today select your activity from our options. Perhaps take a canal cruise and admire the city’s architecture as you cruise in a glass-top boat past 17th century homes, charming churches and 16th century merchant houses. Alternatively, visit the Van Gogh Museum, which contains the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh paintings, or take a guided Wetland Safari canoe tour through extraordinary landscapes. After your chosen activity, enjoy a photo opportunity at Rembrandt’s Windmill before rejoining your ship in Utrecht. Tonight, enjoy the Captain’s Gala Welcome Dinner on board. (B/L/D)
Day
6
Cologne, Freedom of Choice Touring, Koblenz
Arrive in Cologne today and choose your touring activity. Perhaps travel to Venlo and explore the spectacular displays on show at the 2012 Floriade Horticultural World Expo†, with time to admire the impressive landscaped gardens and floral exhibitions. Alternatively, you may like to take a trip to the historic city of Maastricht, where you can explore the grand ancient architecture and boutique shops. Later, return to your ship in 2,000 year-old Koblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine and the Moselle rivers. (B/L/D)
Day
7
Cochem
This morning your ship will leave the Rhine and turn onto the Moselle River, a winding and picturesque waterway. On arrival in the town of Cochem, visit Reichsburg Castle and absorb stunning views over the river below. Reboard your ship and enjoy an afternoon of stunning views as the scenery of the spectacular Moselle Valley drifts by. Pass breathtaking landscapes of lush vineyards and rolling hills as you cruise back towards the Rhine. (B/L/D)
Day
8
Rüdesheim, Freedom of Choice Touring
Today cruise through the Rhine Gorge on what is known as the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine. Arrive in Rüdesheim, where you have a choice of activities. The Winzerexpress mini-train will take you to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Here, a tour will highlight one of the largest collections of automated musical instruments in the world. Take a ride in a gondola for stunning views over the Rhine Valley or, alternatively, visit a Rhine Valley winery where you can enjoy a tour and tasting of the famous local wines. (B/L/D)
Day
9
Speyer
On arrival in the city of Speyer today, you’ll disembark for a brief sightseeing tour. Then you’ll travel to the fascinating Technik Museum Speyer, Europe’s largest private technology museum, which features more than 3,000 incredible exhibits from all areas of technical history. Spread over more than 30,000 square metres of indoor and outdoor space, exhibits include a genuine Concorde plane from Air France, more than 300 classic cars, the largest permanent Formula 1 exhibition in Europe, 60 aeroplanes and 20 locomotives as well as much more. (B/L/D)
Day
10
Breisach, Freedom of Choice Touring, Colmar/Black Forest
Today, choose between a city tour of Colmar in France, or a tour through the famous Black Forest region of Germany. On the Black Forest tour, enjoy your drive through a scenic forested area where you will encounter a number of lakes as well as charming examples of rural architecture. Your tour will include a visit to a charming cuckoo clock factory, as well as a stop for photos at magnificent Lake Titisee. As an alternative, choose to travel to medieval Colmar, situated along the Alsatian Wine Route and the self-proclaimed ‘Capital of Alsatian Wine’. During your city tour, you will see remarkable half-timbered framed houses; the German influenced old quarter filled with streets of unexpected twists and turns; canals and the Launch River. You will also enjoy a wine cellar visit and wine tasting. Late tonight, your ship sails for Basel, Switzerland. (B/L/D)
Day
11
Basel, Disembark Ship, Basel, Lucerne, Dine Around Dinner
Tour Basel this morning, before departing for Lucerne, situated on the shores of Lake Lucerne and within sight of spectacular Mt Pilatus. Tonight, dine in the ambient ‘Les Artistes’ restaurant of your hotel or at Stadtkeller Musik Restaurant, where cow bells and yodelling bring your evening to life. Three Nights: Lucerne, Palace Hotel Luzern (B/D)
Day
12
Lucerne, Freedom of Choice Touring
Explore Lucerne with a choice of touring activities. Take a walking tour of the beautiful city, followed by an organ recital; cruise the tranquil lake, or see the countryside with a unique husky dogsled experience. (B)
Day
13
Lucerne
Travel from Lucerne to the neighbouring mountain resort town of Engelberg. Here, enjoy a brief tour taking in Engelberg Abbey and more. Then enjoy the opportunity to ride the cable car from the town, over the scenic mountain landscape and up to Mt Titlis. (B)
Day
14
Lucerne, Zürich
Travel to Zürich today and enjoy a sightseeing tour taking in the famous commercial centre and the Old Town. After the tour, enjoy free time to explore. Tonight enjoy a special Farewell Dinner. Stay: Zürich, Hotel Schweizerhof (B/D)
Day
15
Depart Zürich
Your tour ends as you are transferred to the airport. (B)
APT Brochure Itinerary is based on 2012 departures. Click on the icon if you would like to view an electronic version of the brochure online.

River Cruise Prices

Cruise prices are per person. Please request a quote for tour availability.

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER*

2012 APT River Cruise Sale! Save up to $920 per couple. Exclusive to Global Journeys. Deposit this month to apply! Subject to availability at the time of booking.

General Information

The information below relates to this itinerary only.

Tour Operator: APT

APT TouringAPT holidays are designed for the premium end of the market and offer quality, first-class experiences. Each holiday presents a mix of cultural activities, luxurious accommodation, world-class dining and more. Many of APT's holidays, include their innovative Freedom Concept™ which allows travellers to choose from a range of touring and dining options. Further, all holidays are operated by a dedicated team of professionals, who ensure each holiday is as relaxed and enjoyable as possible.





Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find the deck plans, cabin types and more ship information?

We have a dedicated section on our website providing more detailed information on APT including FAQ's on what you need to know before, during and after your travel; as well as information on their 'Touring Styles', and a comprehensive search facility to enable you to easily find more of their cruises. Read more> (Note: This link will take you away from this tour itinerary page).

Why should we choose to cruise with APT?

As market leaders, our resources, experience, passion, expertise and proven track record ensure that we're the most reliable cruise operator on Europe's waterways. With a 98% satisfaction rating, and having launched all of our ships on schedule, there's no company more reliable or trustworthy than APT. We promise we'll continue to set the amazing standards for which we are known, making your choice easy. Put simply, APT are Australia and New Zealand's true European river cruising experts.

When will I receive my documents?

Travel documents, including your travel kit (with luggage labels, ticket wallet, personalised itinerary, touring information and travel bag), are sent approximately two to three weeks prior to departure from your home country, provided full payment has been received.

What will our river cruise ship be like?

APT River CruisesEach of our state-of-the-art ships was designed with our valued travellers in mind. Our operation allows us total control in delivering the standards for which we are famous. And with eight ships cruising in 2012 we are able to offer more cruising routes, ships and departures than most other companies. Custom-designed and built in Holland by the world's foremost ship building experts, APT's European river ships signify the evolution of modern river cruising. From the intricate elegance of the interior appointments and the opulence of the suites to the wealth of recreational choice provided in the vessel's public areas, these river ships are truly the finest on Europe's waters. You can find more information on individual ships here. (Note: This link will take you away from this tour itinerary page).

What is an APT Platinum Sailing?

APT River CruisesOn an APT Platinum Sailing, you'll enjoy special features and inclusions that will enhance what is already an amazing holiday experience. You'll feel as though several elements of the cruise have been designed specifically to meet your own individual interests and expectations, and you'll travel with like-minded APT guests. Throughout our itinerary pages, our special APT Platinum Sailings departures are indicated by this logo. Read more> (Note: This link will NOT take you away from this tour itinerary page).

Are meals included onboard?

All meals are prepared by European chefs and consist of European-style food that has been adjusted for our passengers. On board, enjoy a full buffet breakfast in the restaurant. Lunch offers salads, soups, a choice of mains and dessert. Dinner is a multi-course meal with a selection of mains. Coffee and tea are available free of charge throughout the day and during meals. Water on board the ships is drinkable. Wine, soft drinks or beer are included with dinner on board. All meals on board are included. Meals are served in the dining room in a single sitting. Open seating allows you to sit at different tables if you wish to meet other fellow passengers.

What are your handicapped facilities like?

Handicapped facilities on board are limited. River cruise vessels are not equipped with wheelchair ramps and hallways and doors may not be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs. Ships are equipped with an elevator but it does not access all decks (apart from the Sound of Music with no elevator onboard). Additionally, motorcoaches and minibuses used for transfers and shore excursions may not be equipped with wheelchair ramps. Any condition requiring special attention must be reported to APT at the time of booking. Facilities and services for passengers with disabilities differ among destinations and, in some cases, may be limited or non-existent. Participants requiring special assistance must be accompanied by a person responsible for and physically able to provide such assistance. Transfers and shore excursions follow a predetermined timetable and thus participants should have no physical impairment(s) that would affect the time schedules or interfere with the rights of other passengers on their holiday. Without limitation, APT and its affiliates are not responsible for any denial of services by airline carriers, cruise vessels, hotels, lodges, coaches, local guides, operators or other independent suppliers.

Are gratuities included??

Gratuities to your Cruise Director and ship crew are included in the tour price.

How do I pay for purchases and services onboard?

For your convenience, all purchases and paid services on board are billed with a guest check and added to your shipboard account. At the end of the cruise, you will receive a total, which can be paid with cash or credit card. The ships do not accept payments made by Diners Club cards. The onboard currency is the Euro.

Do you have a share program for singles?

Solo travellers pay only a 50% single supplement on all suite categories from E to P+ on European River Crusies. On Exclusive Sailings we will match up those who are willing to share a suite with another single traveller of the same gender, so you don't have to pay the single supplement. If no match is found then single supplements apply.

 

Arrival & Departure Information

Prebooked Transfers

All APT clients travelling on an Exclusive Sailing or Exclusive land tours receive a transfer on the first and last day of the tour. This will be from the airport to/from either the ship or tour hotel. A transfer is not included, though may be purchased, should you be arriving or departing on days other than the first and last day of touring. These additional transfers are only applicable when your pre and/or post tour arrangements are booked with Global Journeys & APT.

On Your Own Transfers

If you have not arranged an arrival transfer with Global Journeys, make your own way to the ship or hotel with the help of the information provided in your itinerary. If you have independent travel arrangements prior to your APT tour and do not have an APT transfer, the Tourist Information office at your arrival city will be able to offer assistance with directions to the ship or hotel. If you transfer to the ship on your own, we recommend you call the ship prior to confirm the ships docking location. The APT Europe Office is available in case of an emergency.


Terms & Conditions:

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Georgie Walpole

Your Tour Consultant Will Be:

Georgie Walpole
Tour Consultant
Email: georgie@globaljourneys.com
Expertise: International Coach Touring & River Cruising
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