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.
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
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, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
$7,9902-3 travelers
Please confirm embark/disembark locations before reserving flights, as this itinerary operates in reverse on alternating departures.
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.
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
