Jewels of the Rhine

Welcome to Basel. On arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board. (D)

Today, as part of your incredible EmeraldPLUS programme, you will visit the city of Freiburg. Considered the 'Capital of the Black Forest', Freiburg has lovely sights that will amaze you. You’ll also have the opportunity to sample authentic Black Forest delicacies. If you're feeling more active, you can choose to join a guided bike tour in Breisach. (B/L/D)

• EmeraldPLUS Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour in Breisach
• DiscoverMORE Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)

This morning, you'll arrive in Kehl and disembark your Star-Ship, then be transferred by coach to the picturesque town of Strasbourg. Here, an enthralling medieval past is yours to discover, including quaint cobblestone squares framed by wellpreserved, half-timbered houses. During your included excursion, you’ll also have the opportunity to discover the heart of Alsace in Strasbourg and embark on a culinary journey where you’ll discover typical flavours of this region. Tonight, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’re invited to join an exclusive private concert in a historical venue. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Flavours of Alsace
• DiscoverMORE Baden Baden Spa experience (extra expense)
• EmeraldPLUS Private Evening Concert on the Rhine

Relax on board this morning as you sail towards Germersheim, following the meandering Rhine River and passing the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar. Travel by coach to Heidelberg, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about how it became a UNESCO City of Literature, having inspired the likes of Mark Twain and William Turner with its historical setting.
Your guided tour of the town will allow you to find your own inspiration among its delightful landmarks, including Heidelberg Castle, one of the most impressive Renaissance. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Guided tour of Heidelberg
• EmeraldACTIVE Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg

This morning enjoy sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Here, romantic castles sit atop tree-covered canyons and half-timbered medieval villages appear suspended in time.

We’ll take you into the heart of Koblenz, an ancient city pulled from the pages of a German fairy tale. Enjoy the picturesque backdrop of vineyards and snow-topped mountain ranges as your local guide takes you through open cobbled squares and down narrow streets, passing façades adorned with boxes of spring-blooming flowers. You’ll also have the chance to see the point at which two of Europe’s great rivers meet at the German Corner and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, one of the largest preserved fortresses in Europe. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Orientation Walk of Koblenz
• DiscoverMORE Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)

This morning, you’ll will arrive in Cologne and have the chance to know one of Germany's oldest cities and get up close with the famous post card worthy Cathedral. After lunch, join a walking tour of Düsseldorf, a vibrant city renowned for its stylish boutiques and charming Old Town. Stroll along the picturesque Rhine River, admire the stunning architecture and discover hidden gems off-the-beaten path. Immerse yourself in the city's lively atmosphere, indulge in the delicious local cuisine, and marvel at the contrast of Düsseldorf’s ancient and modern charms. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Guided tour of Cologne Old Town
• Included Excursion Walking tour of Duesseldorf
• DiscoverMORE Cologne Beer Experience (extra expense)

This morning, discover the charm of Alkmaar, a picturesque Dutch town just a short distance from Amsterdam. Explore its historic center, lined with charming canals and medieval buildings. Alkmaar is famous for its centuries-old cheese market where traditional cheesemakers showcase their craft and engage in lively auctions. Immerse yourself in the local culture in this typical charming town. Alternatively, embark on a bike tour through the Dutch countryside. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Excursion to Alkmaar
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to Waterland
• DiscoverMORE Private hidden Gems tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)
• DiscoverMORE Dutch Delights (extra expense)

After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your Star-Ship and fellow guests and disembark for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the Black Forest and charming Strasbourg with you.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. (B)