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Romantic evening light over Basel

Jewels of the Rhine

Zurich - Amsterdam - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard Emerald Dawn
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Embark on an 8-day cruise from Zurich to Amsterdam aboard the Emerald Dawn. Begin your river journey in Basel, Switzerland, and travel through key cultural hubs along the Rhine. Visit Freiburg in the Black Forest, known for its regional cuisine, and admire Strasbourg’s well-preserved medieval architecture. Tour Heidelberg, a UNESCO City of Literature, and explore Koblenz, a city with Roman roots. Enjoy a guided walking tour in Dusseldorf, and in Cologne, discover one of Germany’s oldest cities, home to a landmark Gothic cathedral. Conclude your itinerary in the Netherlands with a visit to Alkmaar, which is recognized for its traditional cheese-making heritage.
Historic old town StrasbourgCruise the rivers of GermanyCologne, GermanyExplore quaint towns along the RhineDiscover charming HeidelbergRiver through Koblenz GermanyRomantic evening light over Basel
Highlights
  • Explore Zurich's bustling cityscape and its stunning alpine surroundings
  • Discover Freiburg's Black Forest delicacies and cultural heritage
  • Wander Strasbourg's cobblestone streets and half-timbered medieval houses
  • Taste Koblenz’s acclaimed Riesling wines in a Rhine Valley vineyard
Activities
Activity Level: Variable
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.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Zurich | Basel | Embark

Welcome to Basel. Upon arrival, transfer to your Emerald Cruises ship, where the captain and crew will be ready to welcome you on board. This evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow guests.

Please book your flight to arrive into Zurich prior to 01:00 PM.

Day 2: Freiburg (Breisach)

Today, as part of your exclusive EmeraldPLUS experience, visit Freiburg, known as the ‘Capital of the Black Forest.’ Explore its notable landmarks and enjoy the opportunity to sample traditional Black Forest specialties.

EmeraldPLUS
Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting

Day 3: Kehl | Strasbourg

This morning, your ship will dock in Kehl, where you be transferred across the river to Strasbourg, the capital of France’s Alsace Region. Cobbled squares surrounded by half-timbered houses make Strasbourg appear as if it has been effortlessly suspended in time, and you can get the opportunity to explore the past during your included walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Witness the ornate beauty of many of Strasbourg’s highlights, including the Maison Kammerzell and the canal network that weaves through Petite France, before enjoying free time to explore at leisure.

Included Excursion
Panoramic tour of Strasbourg

Day 4: Heidelberg (Germersheim)

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 ruins in all of Europe.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Heidelberg

Day 5: Koblenz

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.

In Koblenz, discover the rich winemaking heritage on a captivating winery tour. Immerse yourself in the world of Riesling, the region's renowned grape variety, as you explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample exquisite wines. Experience the beauty of the Rhine Valley, savor the flavors of local cuisine, and create unforgettable memories in this charming German city. Later on, embark on a culinary adventure on board and experience a captivating cooking demonstration while sailing towards the Rhine river.

Included Excursion
Visit to a local winery

EmeraldPLUS
Cooking demo on board

Day 6: Dusseldorf | Cologne

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. Afterwards, continue sailing north, to join a tour of Dusseldorf, 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 delicious local cuisine, and experience the unique charm of Dusseldorf. This afternoon enjoy a unique EmeraldPLUS experience on board with a cocktail demonstration demo.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town

Included Excursion
Panoramic tour of Duesseldorf

EmeraldPLUS
Cocktail making demo on board

Day 7: Amsterdam

This morning, discover Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal network during a glass-top canal cruise, passing Roman houses and ornate merchant houses that tell tales of the prosperous Dutch Golden Age. This afternoon, you are welcome to join an exclusive EmeraldPLUS very typical clog painting on board your ship.

Included Excursion
Canal cruise

EmeraldPLUS
Clog painting on board

Day 8: Amsterdam | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your 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 the terms and conditions for further information.

Ship/Hotel

Emerald Dawn

Outdoor Terrace
Horizon bar and lounge
Sundeck

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

  • May 23, 2026from $8,790
  • Jul 18, 2026from $7,990
  • Aug 1, 2026from $7,990
  • Oct 10, 2026from $7,990
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Available departures
Selected departure
Deal available

Deals

Special Deals 27521
Book your Emerald River cruise for select 2025-2026 departures between April 1- July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $1000 per suite ($500 per person) on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $300 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to S, RA, or SA cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 90 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $125 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2026 Emerald River Cruises

Special Deals 27523
Book your Emerald Yacht cruise for select 2025-2027 departures between April 1- July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $1000 per suite ($500 per person) on select departures. Savings vary by departure. Not applicable on Oceanview Staterooms (D category).

Free air offers are also available based on suite category when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 120 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $300 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to  Y, T or SA cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 120 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $200 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2027 Emerald Yacht Cruises

Per person starting at
$7,990

Please confirm embark/disembark locations before reserving flights, as this itinerary operates in reverse on alternating departures.
 
Emerald Single Stateroom
Select a Date
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
Emerald Stateroom
Select a Date
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
Emerald Stateroom
Select a Date
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
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
Select a Date
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
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
Select a Date
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
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
Select a Date
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
Select a Date
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
Owners One-Bedroom Suite
Select a Date
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.
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Choice between Emerald Plus and Emerald Active Excursions
  • Wifi
  • Complimentary Wine, Beer and Soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises Tour Manager
  • Airport transfers to and from the ship
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Guided tour of Strasbourg, Heidelberg and Cologne's Old Town
  • Walking tour of Koblenz & a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Canal cruise in Amsterdam
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Travelers are urged to arrange comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances that may occur during the tour

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