Embark on a 10-day Europe river cruise aboard the Emerald Dawn. Begin in Germany’s Black Forest region, then travel to Strasbourg, the capital of France’s Alsace region. Continue through western Germany with guided tours of Koblenz and Heidelberg, including local wine tastings. Explore the Gothic architecture of Cologne before sailing into the Netherlands, where scenic windmills line the waterways. Visit Keukenhof Gardens during tulip season and cruise Amsterdam’s iconic canals. Conclude your journey with a two-night hotel stay in Amsterdam, offering additional time to explore the Dutch capital’s cultural landmarks, historic districts, and vibrant local atmosphere. This itinerary combines historic cities, regional cuisine, and guided excursions, delivering a comprehensive cultural experience along the Rhine River.
Highlights
Cycle Breisach’s riverside trails on a guided active exploration tour
Discover Strasbourg’s medieval charm and authentic Alsatian cuisine
Explore Heidelberg’s castle ruins and inspiring literary heritage
Wander Koblenz’s cobbled streets and see the German Corner site
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Welcome to Basel. Upon arrival, you are met at the airport and transferred to your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where the captain and crew will warmly welcome you aboard. This evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow guests on board.
Please ensure your flight arrives in Basel before 3:00 PM.
Today, as part of your enriching EmeraldPLUS program, visit Freiburg, often referred to as the ‘Capital of the Black Forest.’ Explore its charming landmarks and enjoy a tasting of traditional Black Forest specialties. Alternatively, guests seeking a more active experience may opt for a guided bike tour through Breisach.
EmeraldPLUS
Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour in Breisach
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Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)
This morning, 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 well preserved, half-timbered houses. During your included excursion, you can also have the opportunity to discover the heart of Alsace in Strasbourg and embark on a culinary journey where you can discover typical flavors of this region. Tonight, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’re invited to join an exclusive private concert in a historical venue.
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 can 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.
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.
The team will 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 facades adorned with boxes of spring-blooming flowers. You can 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.
Included Excursion
Orientation Walk of Koblenz
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Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)
This morning, 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.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Cologne Old Town
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.
Included Excursion
Excursion to Alkmaar
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour to Waterland
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Private hidden Gems tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)
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Dutch Delights (extra expense)
Day 8: Amsterdam | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Disembark and transfer to your centrally located hotel where you enjoy a two-night stay.
Day 9: Amsterdam
1 Breakfast
This morning, your local guide will take you on a tour of Amsterdam, introducing you to a place of fascinating stories, spellbinding art and remarkable architecture. Amsterdam is considered one of the greatest small capitals in the world where your destination is never too far away. Your carefully planned walking tour will take you to one of world's greatest museums, the Rijksmuseum, hosting a collecting of over 8000 works including those of Dutch masters Rembrandt, Vermeer and Rubens.
Included Excursion
Walking tour of Amsterdam with Rijksmuseum visit
Day 10: Amsterdam
1 Breakfast
After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to your fellow passengers as you leave your accommodation for your transfer to the airport, taking memories from a fascinating journey on the Rhine.
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 the terms and conditions for further information.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$8,9002-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Single Stateroom (ES)
Single Occupancy Only. 117 sq ft. 2 single cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a deluxe single bed, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Stateroom (E)
162 sq ft. 9 cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Stateroom (D)
162 sq ft. 8 cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Panorama Balcony Suite (C)
180 sq ft. 19 cabins located on the Vista Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Panorama Balcony Suite (B)
180 sq ft. 18 cabins located on the Vista Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Panorama Balcony Suite (A)
180 sq ft. 23 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Grand Balcony Suite (S)
210 sq ft. 8 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, outdoor private balcony with the open-air system, in-suite mini-bar available at own expense, a complimentary Nespresso machine and bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hairdryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes, and slippers
Owner's Suite (SA)
315 sq ft. 4 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin beds, an outdoor private balcony with the open-air system, a separate bathroom and lounge area, a walk-in wardrobe, an in-suite mini-bar, restocked daily with wine, beer, and soft drinks
Notes
Single accommodations are available on some tours for an additional single supplement rate. Contact us for details of pricing and availability.
The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
