Overview
Your European river cruise vacation starts in marvelous Amsterdam where there is much to see! Discover the treasures of this colorful, historic city on a canal cruise through the elegant Grachten lined with stately homes dating back to the city’s “Golden Age.” Explore the magnificent city of Cologne, Germany, which spans both sides of the Rhine River, then visit Koblenz, strategically located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers.
Explore the charming wine village of Bernkastel with its half-timbered houses from the Middle Ages still standing! Take a guided walk through the delightful read more marketplace, see the renaissance-era Town Hall, and taste famed Moselle wines! Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, considered the most beautiful view of the Rhine River, and see ancient castles standing majestically on cliffs 400 feet above the water. Visit the charming Rhine Valley wine town of Rüdesheim, and visit the ruins of Heidelberg’s Castle, towering magnificently over the city.
Continue your stunning European river cruise to Strasbourg, France, where a local expert will show you the red-sandstone Gothic-style cathedral with ancient murals and fascinating astronomical clock. Also, stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade. At the foot of Kaiserstuhl Mountain on the French-German border sits Breisach—the gateway to Germany’s legendary Black Forest, an area of unrivaled natural beauty. Disembark your river cruise in Basel, Switzerland. Beauty, new discoveries, and delightful surprises are plentiful on your European river cruise on the Rhine and Moselle Rivers!
Explore the charming wine village of Bernkastel with its half-timbered houses from the Middle Ages still standing! Take a guided walk through the delightful read more marketplace, see the renaissance-era Town Hall, and taste famed Moselle wines! Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, considered the most beautiful view of the Rhine River, and see ancient castles standing majestically on cliffs 400 feet above the water. Visit the charming Rhine Valley wine town of Rüdesheim, and visit the ruins of Heidelberg’s Castle, towering magnificently over the city.
Continue your stunning European river cruise to Strasbourg, France, where a local expert will show you the red-sandstone Gothic-style cathedral with ancient murals and fascinating astronomical clock. Also, stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade. At the foot of Kaiserstuhl Mountain on the French-German border sits Breisach—the gateway to Germany’s legendary Black Forest, an area of unrivaled natural beauty. Disembark your river cruise in Basel, Switzerland. Beauty, new discoveries, and delightful surprises are plentiful on your European river cruise on the Rhine and Moselle Rivers!
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Our Price From
A$5,915 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Save up to $2,656 per person
Trip Length
11 Days
Trip Starts
Amsterdam
Trip Ends
Basel
Departures
Cruise Ship
9 Trip Reviews
Passengers
128
Crew
37
Launched
2015
Cruise Code
WHZ
Countries Visited:
Itinerary
Welcome to Holland. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Amsterdam must arrive by 3:30 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.
Your day in Amsterdam is free to explore at your leisure. Join a Guided Optional Excursion to Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills and charming Dutch houses.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM
Included Meals:
Dinner
Colorful Canals of Amsterdam.
Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.
- Classic: Discover the true beauty of Amsterdam with an off-the-beaten-path Guided Walking Tour through its cobblestone streets for a captivating look at this legendary city, OR:
- Classic: Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam's “Golden Age.” This afternoon, choose among the Guided Optional Excursions available. Alternatively spend some free time this afternoon visiting one of Amsterdam's many fascinating museums or galleries.
AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO COLOGNE
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland
This morning, enjoy leisurely sailing.
- Active: Enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Choose a Guided Walking Tour of Cologne's important Jewish heritage sites, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided City Walk of Cologne—with its soaring twin-steepled Gothic cathedral.
Spend free time over a glass of Kölsch pale lager—locally brewed for over 100 years! Local musicians will join us on board for live entertainment.
OVERNIGHT SAILING TO COCHEM
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Charm of the Moselle Valley.
This morning, select a Guided Optional Excursion to Eltz Castle.
- Active: Bike along the Moselle River with your Adventure Host, OR
- Discovery: Visit the former bunker of Germany's Central Bank (Deutsche Bundesbank) and immerse yourself in the underground vault where millions of German Mark were kept during the Cold War, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Walk of Cochem to see the charming town's half-timbered houses and winding streets. Visit Cochem's hilltop Reichsburg Castle with a bird's - eye - view of the Moselle Valley and river bend.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO TRIER
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ancient Worlds and Old - World Charm.
Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.
- Active: Get your daily dose of exercise through a walk in Trier with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided Sightseeing tour of Trier—Germany's oldest city with ancient remnants dating from 144 - 152 AD. Starting from Porta Nigra, walk through the city center, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Tour of Luxembourg City—with its dramatic views, ancient ruins, and modern architecture along the deep gorge terrain.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BERNKASTEL
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hillside Vines and German Wines.
- Active: Join your Adventure Host for a hike in this beautiful area, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided Walking Tour of the charming wine village of Bernkastel—with its medieval marketplace and 17th-century gabled timber - framed houses.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KOBLENZ
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fortress Walls and Manor Halls
- Active: Explore Koblenz's Mosel side by bike with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided City Walk amid ancient fortresses walls, towers, squares, and monuments, OR:
- Classic: Enjoy a Guided Visit to the Sayn Manor House and its Butterfly Gardens.
Enjoy the breathtaking views as you cruise through the spectacular Rhine Gorge on your way to Rüdesheim. RÜDESHEIM: Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country. After dinner, enjoy free time to explore this picturesque village or enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO LUDWIGSHAFEN
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Philosophers' Views and the World's Biggest Wine Barrel.
Ask about today's energizing or relaxing Adventure Host activities.
- Active: Join your Avalon Adventure Host for an inspiring walk in Heidelberg, the Philosophers' way, OR:
- Classic: Discover Schwetzingen Palace—the heart of a stunning site consisting of the palace, palace gardens, and historic palace square, OR:
- Classic: Enjoy a Guided Tour to Heidelberg Castle to see the ruins of the magnificent renaissance treasure towering above the city, and its famed Great Vat, the “World's Largest Wine Barrel."
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO STRASBOURG
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A Grand Cathedral and La Petite France.
- Active: Discover Strasbourg by bike with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Take a City Sightseeing Tour, including the city's Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District.
This afternoon, choose among the Guided Optional Excursions available. Alternatively, take some free time in Strasbourg to visit a museum or stroll across the city center. Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BREISACH
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
German Winemaking and the Beautiful Black Forest
- Active: Take a Guided E-bike Tour to experience the magical Black Forest from a unique point of view, OR:
- Classic: Join a full-day Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience the Vogtsbauernohf open-air - museum, visit an authentic water mill, and see a traditional butter-making demonstration, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Tour to explore Freiburg's medieval city center, sheltered by the Black Forest amid vineyards and gardens of the Upper Rhine Valley.
You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the charming village of Colmar in the morning, with its half-timbered medieval and early renaissance buildings.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BASEL
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
Flights should not leave Zürich airport before 10 am or Basel airport before 8 am.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Life On Board
One of our favourite sayings that describes Avalon Waterways is ‘the possibilities are as wide open as the views’. From Europe to the Galapagos and Asia, you can cruise in relaxed luxury with Avalon Waterways, with choices as unique as you. Avalon offers you a range of choices from excursions, dining more options, activities that help you tailor your experience.
Just imagine gliding away down the world’s most spectacular rivers, all while enjoying a unique vantage point from your own private oasis. Our floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in our suites blur the line between where the world ends, and your suite begins; allowing you to experience the world less seen from the comfort of your bed. This is river cruising from a unique point of view.
Just imagine gliding away down the world’s most spectacular rivers, all while enjoying a unique vantage point from your own private oasis. Our floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in our suites blur the line between where the world ends, and your suite begins; allowing you to experience the world less seen from the comfort of your bed. This is river cruising from a unique point of view.
Avalon Tranquility II
Float along Europe's most famous waterways in relaxed luxury aboard one of Avalon's award-winning Suite Ships. Read more
Our Vision. Your View.
With the only Open-Air Balconies in river cruising, experience Europe with a view like no other in a Panorama Suite. Read more
Exclusive Meets Inclusive
Avalon features all the right inclusions which compliment your luxurious river cruise experience. Read more
Avalon Choice
Personalise your cruise to make it your own with Avalon Choice. Select whichever included excursions interest you the most. Read more
Active & Discovery
Avalon's Active & Discovery river cruises offer activities for travellers with varying interests & for all energy and fitness levels. Read more
From View to Table
Savour regional cuisine and familiar favourites using the freshest local ingredients throughout your river cruise. Read more
River Cruise Reviews (9)
Wonderful Tour of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. 1
John and Rosalie, NSW, Australia, Oct 2024
A great cruise from Amsterdam to Basel. The Avalon experience is perfect for a relaxing time or being adventurous with the local tours on offer every day. October weather is a little cooler but perfect as there are fewer crowds and not too hot. We did encounter high water levels on the Moselle which required a ship transfer by bus from Koblenz up read more to Trier with a stop at Cochem on the way. Avalon made it easy and the rest of the tour went as expected. We spent 2 extra days in Basel which is well worth seeing. Booking was easy as usual through Global Journeys.
Avalon Waterways Amsterdam to Basel Cruise 5
Harold & Wendy Koch, QLD, Australia, Oct 2017
Our first river cruise was with APT in 2016, so we can only use that very good experience as a comparison to the Avalon cruise. The upgrade to deck 2 was a real bonus. Another bonus was the optional excursions offered by Avalon. As with APT, most of the included excursions are half day, leaving a fair bit of time on the cruise spent on the ship or on read more 'own time' in the town where the ship is moored.
APT didn't offer any optional trips, so Avalon has the advantage in that respect. The only negative issue was that the buffet breakfast dishes were consistently lukewarm to cold. Similar dishes at lunch were fine. Overall, we'd be happy to travel with Avalon again. After four trips to Europe, which centered mainly on the culture (churches, cathedrals, palaces and castles), we'll be looking for something that offers a different theme next time. Maybe food, wine etc.
APT didn't offer any optional trips, so Avalon has the advantage in that respect. The only negative issue was that the buffet breakfast dishes were consistently lukewarm to cold. Similar dishes at lunch were fine. Overall, we'd be happy to travel with Avalon again. After four trips to Europe, which centered mainly on the culture (churches, cathedrals, palaces and castles), we'll be looking for something that offers a different theme next time. Maybe food, wine etc.
Beautiful scenery 5
Debbie & Warwick, NSW, Australia, Oct 2017
Very lucky with the weather for the time of year - lots of sunny days. Our 2nd trip with Avalon and overall very happy. There appeared to be less staff in bar and restaurant than previous trip - maybe cost cutting? Some staff didn't appear to be very happy (maybe the end of season is near?). Captain, Cruise Director, room staff & food were very good. read more Included and optional excursions were great. The availability of bikes on board now is an added plus.
Our stateroom (213) was located in the centre of the ship and a good size. Housekeeping staff did a great job of maintaining the room. The scenery along the Moselle was stunning and would highly recommend a cruise along this river - Avalon go further than many of the other cruise lines. The Rhine was beautiful - always something to see! The evening entertainment was mainly the on board keyboard player, they did bring on various musicians along the way. But as dinner didn't usually finish till 9.00pm most people went straight to their cabins as the days were busy when on the excursions. The age of fellow travellers was a lot older for this cruise with more people taking the gentle walkers group than previous tour. Would recommend Avalon for good value. Very happy with all dealings with Global Journeys - you all do an excellent job and we very much appreciate it!
Our stateroom (213) was located in the centre of the ship and a good size. Housekeeping staff did a great job of maintaining the room. The scenery along the Moselle was stunning and would highly recommend a cruise along this river - Avalon go further than many of the other cruise lines. The Rhine was beautiful - always something to see! The evening entertainment was mainly the on board keyboard player, they did bring on various musicians along the way. But as dinner didn't usually finish till 9.00pm most people went straight to their cabins as the days were busy when on the excursions. The age of fellow travellers was a lot older for this cruise with more people taking the gentle walkers group than previous tour. Would recommend Avalon for good value. Very happy with all dealings with Global Journeys - you all do an excellent job and we very much appreciate it!
Avalon Cruise on the Rhine & Moselle 3
Gerry & Theresa, WA, Australia, Jun 2017
Many thanks to Georgie at Global Journeys for your help with organising our European River Cruise. We enjoyed the experience a great deal and much of this was due to you. I do have some comments about Avalon specifically which I will itemise :
1. The cruise itinerary was great especially to places where we had not cruise before ie the Moselle River. read more I would recommend this to anyone
2. The content was varied and generally the operation went smoothly. We were supplied with plenty of information en route. In my critique to Avalon I did say the cruise director talked was too much during her daily 'port briefs' , however in her defense I know many on the cruise thought she was entertaining.
3. Personally I thought the meals were too fussy but as I had the choice of eating in the lounge at midday I did miss the evening meals on several occasions. Again I know others felt it was all fine and I will admit to being a 'non-foodie'
4. The cruise passengers were generally seniors from the USA, Canada, Australia, and NZ. We all got along well and we established some friendships
5. I was miffed with Avalon charging me $600 for the amendments to my flight details when I felt the mistake was not my doing. I have he email detailing my requirements which they did not seem to follow however as I did not notice this until much later in the booking process I did not feel justified in making a big issue of the matter.
6. Would I recommend this cruise to anyone - yes, but I would hesitate going with Avalon (this was my third and last trip with them). There did seem to be a big difference in what we Australians pay to that paid in the UK and the USA.
1. The cruise itinerary was great especially to places where we had not cruise before ie the Moselle River. read more I would recommend this to anyone
2. The content was varied and generally the operation went smoothly. We were supplied with plenty of information en route. In my critique to Avalon I did say the cruise director talked was too much during her daily 'port briefs' , however in her defense I know many on the cruise thought she was entertaining.
3. Personally I thought the meals were too fussy but as I had the choice of eating in the lounge at midday I did miss the evening meals on several occasions. Again I know others felt it was all fine and I will admit to being a 'non-foodie'
4. The cruise passengers were generally seniors from the USA, Canada, Australia, and NZ. We all got along well and we established some friendships
5. I was miffed with Avalon charging me $600 for the amendments to my flight details when I felt the mistake was not my doing. I have he email detailing my requirements which they did not seem to follow however as I did not notice this until much later in the booking process I did not feel justified in making a big issue of the matter.
6. Would I recommend this cruise to anyone - yes, but I would hesitate going with Avalon (this was my third and last trip with them). There did seem to be a big difference in what we Australians pay to that paid in the UK and the USA.
We had an amazing trip along the Rhine & Moselle rivers. 2
Lynette & Lorenzo Galletti, Australia, Apr 2016
The hole experience was amazing. The staff were very friendly and the other passengers on board were all friendly as well, which really added to the enjoyment of the cruise. All of the included excursions were extremely good as well, with the guides all being very knowledgeable and friendly. We travelled in May and the weather was a bit hit and miss. read more Some days were cold and wet and others were quite pleasant. I don't think we would choose to travel at that time of year again. Avalon Waterways lived up to all of our expectations and we would have no hesitation in recommending them to others. Finally we wish to thank Global Journeys for their efficient service and friendly staff. Michelle White was our contact there and she was always very helpful and friendly. We have booked through Global Journeys before and intend to book our next trip through them again.
We had an amazing time 1
Leonie Arnold, Australia, Jul 2013
We had an amazing time, thank you for all your help, the trip was excellent so glad we went through the Moselle River it was absolutely gorgeous. Avalon Affinity was excellent, the food was fantastic and the service impeccable. We enjoyed our cabin it was again excellent. We can't speak highly enough of Avalon and Global Journeys. Thank you for all read more your help and look forward to returning to Europe in the next couple of years.
Constant rain affected our trip 1
Graeme Ashworth, Australia, May 2013
Internet and TV was a problem during the cruise - we expected more local regional foods and wines, but found the wines were imported and food was generalized, except for one German lunch, which was great. There was no aparent extra value for being in a Suite (other than a slightly larger room), so to us, the extra cost couldn't be justified. Staff were read more great and the Cruise Director helpful and informative. We thought there would be more local information sessions at night, so those who were interested could learn about local history, customs and culture. Our journey was restricted because of the cold and constant rain, leading to flooded rivers and restricted access.
We highly recommend this tour 1
Neal & Julie Smith, Australia, May 2012
We thoroughly enjoyed the Rhine & Moselle river cruise with Avalon Waterways during May 2012. The tour was a very positive experience from booking with Global Journeys and travelling with Avalon Waterways. The ships crew and local guides were all very professional, friendly and helpful at all times. The travel schedule was a comfortable pace and on read more time. The meals on board were a high standard and accompanied by good wine. The sites and towns along the waterways are unforgettable.
Cruise was up to my expectations, without exception 1
Bruce & Sandra Maclean, Australia, Jun 2011
I was very pleased with the professional manner in which both any requested information was given and the reservation was handled in Australia. The cruise was up to my expectations. Without exception, the staff were very friendly and I was impressed with the quality of the cabin, the various organised tours and the food! I would certainly recommend read more both Global Journeys and Avalon Cruises for anyone wishing to try a river cruise in Europe.
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Avalon River Cruises (2027)
Discover the world’s most iconic rivers and waterways with Avalon River Cruises, where thoughtful journeys, spacious Suite Ships, and immersive experiences place you at the heart of every destination. From the Rhine and Danube to the Amazon and Galápagos, enjoy unforgettable scenery, regional flavours, and expertly guided exploration, all backed by more nearly a century of Swiss heritage and craftsmanship.
Dates & Pricing
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Cabin Layout Options:
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Sunday
09 May 2027
09 May 27
Amsterdam
Wednesday
19 May 2027
19 May 27
Basel
Details
Avalon Tranquility II
Exclusive Savings
River View
A$6,982
Save $1,989
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
27 Jul 2027
27 Jul 27
Amsterdam
Friday
06 Aug 2027
06 Aug 27
Basel
Details
Avalon Tranquility II
Exclusive Savings
River View
A$5,915
Save $2,656
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Avalon. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Avalon. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
