Embark on a 15-day cruise from Basel to Amsterdam aboard the Scenic Ruby. Discover the Rhine and Moselle, two of Europe's most storied rivers, where medieval villages, hilltop castles, and rich cultural traditions define the landscape. Journey through regions shaped by centuries of folklore, from the legend of Lorelei to the deep woods of the Black Forest. These iconic waterways offer an immersive experience of central Europe's history, architecture, and enduring charm. With every stop, uncover the real stories behind the myths, explore remarkably preserved towns, and witness the enduring legacy of these rivers on the people and places that line their banks.
Highlights
Tour Strasbourg’s Grand Ile with lively alleys and bright facades
Explore Colmar with canals and timbered medieval houses
Admire Rudesheim vineyards from hilltop with scenic monument vista
Roam Cochem’s cobbled lanes with vineyards and turreted castle
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.
Nestled between the Rhine River and the Black Forest, Breisach sits along the border of France’s Alsace region and is renowned for its culinary and wine traditions. Nearly destroyed during WWII, the town has been carefully restored, preserving its charming cobbled streets and pastel-hued buildings. This morning, arrive in Breisach, ready to discover its storied past and vibrant culture.
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Wine tasting at Kaiserstuhl: Thanks to its 16-million-year-old volcanic soil, the Kaiserstuhl is known as a top-quality wine-producing region. Visit a local winery today and sample some of these delicious wines.
Excursion to Colmar: Visit Colmar and step into a fairy tale. Likened to Venice due to its quaint canals, the city center features an abundance of half-timbered houses, some dating back a thousand years, cobblestoned streets lined with charming stores and cafes, and bustling markets serving up delicious local produce.
Excursion to Freiburg: Discover picturesque Frieburg, located on the edge of the magical Black Forest. Your local guide will escort you through the medieval town center to see the Cathedral, one of only a handful of structures that survived the bombings during WWII.
Strasbourg is the capital of the Alsace wine region, where sherbert-colored, half-timbered houses heave together on the banks of a complex network of canals. It’s a captivating blend of France and Germany, of a medieval past and an innovative future. Strasbourg has an infectious, youthful energy and you regularly see the locals enjoying spontaneous soccer games and pop-up wine bars.
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Guided walking tour of Strasbourg: See the city’s most important sites on foot, like the Cathedral, Petit France and the Grand Ile, and learn about its unique mixture of both French and German architecture and culture. (Note: this is an active walk.)
Alsace wine region: Travel by coach through the pretty Alsace wine region to the village of Obernai for some free time. Then visit Mittelbergheim for a wine tasting in a local cellar.
Cycle through Strasbourg: Hop on board an e-bike and explore the sights surrounding the city. Strasbourg has over 500 km of bicycle trails and you can explore some of these while cycling through the city’s charming suburbs past historic buildings beautiful parklands and charming canals.
Arrive in Mannheim this morning. A large metropolitan center, Mannheim still runs along its recognisable 18th -century grid pattern and is known for its grand Baroque squares, fountains and palace. Your Freechoice excursions today will take you away from the city to discover more of the surrounding region.
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Orientation tour of Heidelberg with free time: Transfer by coach to Heidelberg for a brief walking tour of the city, including the Old Town, and then enjoy some free time. (Note: the walk includes some stairs and uneven ground.)
Historical tour of Heidelberg: Take a guided tour of Heidelberg, then visit Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Admire the views from the castle’s balcony and the great Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest wine barrel. (Note: the walk includes some stairs and uneven ground.)
Excursion to Bad Durkheim: It’s just a short drive through stunning vine-covered landscapes to Bad Durkheim. Visit the renowned property of Fritz Ritter, a ninth-generation family-owned vineyard that offers exceptional quality wine. Enjoy a tour and tasting.
This morning, discover Rudesheim, a pretty town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for more than two millennia. The charming town center is filled with half-timbered houses lining cobbled streets, quaint shops selling trinkets, as well as a smattering of wine taverns and open-air beer gardens.
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Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum: Visit Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum, where a local guide will introduce you to the weird and wonderful mechanical musical instruments. Then explore on your own or take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument.
Hike & Cable Car: Join a local guide for a hike through the rolling vineyards of Rudesheim and enjoy spectacular views of the countryside and Rhine River below. After your hike, descend on the cable car and return to town.
Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise through the picturesque Rhine Gorge, where the landscapes could have been pulled from the pages of a fairytale. This 65-kilometer stretch of the river is dotted with some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Look out for the Lorelei statue, dedicated to the tragic legend of a beautiful maiden.
A medieval gem resting on the banks of the Moselle River, Cochem will make you feel as if you are stepping directly into a fairy-tale. The traditional town is nestled on the riverbanks, with pastel-colored buildings, half-timbered houses, cobbled laneways and an enchanting medieval hilltop castle surrounded by sloped vineyards.
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Walking tour of Cochem: Explore Reichsburg Castle, which dates back to the Middle Ages and has a well-preserved Knight’s Hall and Trophy Room, then enjoy some free time to walk Cochem’s charming streets on your own.
Cycling tour of Cochem: Hop on an e-bike to cycle along the flat path beside the Moselle River. Your local guide will show you Reichsburg Castle, the half-timbered houses of Cochem, and the nearby towns of Valwig and Belstein.
Another wonderfully preserved riverside town, Bernkastel is home to an atmospheric market square with buildings that date to the 13th century and the relics of Landshut Castle sitting high above on a hill, where archaeological remains from the fourth and fifth centuries were uncovered in 2012. It also sits at the heart of the Moselle Valley wine region and one of the world’s most famous Riesling vineyards, Bernkasteler Doctor, is just on the edge of town.
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Walking tour of Bernkastel: Your expert guide will explain the local architecture and culture during a guided tour or the town’s highlights, including perfectly preserved half-timbered houses and the Renaissance-style Rathaus (Town Hall). Then enjoy some time at leisure.
Excursion to Trier: Drive to Trier, a charming Roman city located near the Luxembourg border and birthplace of Karl Marx. Join a local guide to see the Porta Nigra, one of the best-preserved Roman gates in Germany, as well as the Trier Cathedral.
Wine tasting along the Moselle: The fertile banks of the Moselle River are a winemaker's paradise. Learn about the varieties that are grown and produced at one of the most renowned wineries in the region, then sample a selection of local wines.
Enrich
Tonight, experience an enchanting private classical concert in the breathtaking surroundings of the World Heritage-listed Liebfrauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady, in the heart of the Roman city of Trier. During the concert, admire the incredible architecture and intricate stained-glass windows of the church as you are immersed in magnificent classical music.
Today is a highlight of your journey. Enjoy a full day on board your ship as it cruises through the spectacular Moselle Valley, renowned as one of the most picturesque passages of waterways in Europe. The steep banks are lined with postcard-perfect villages, terraced vineyards, historic half-timbered houses and hilltop castles. Open the windows to your private Scenic Sun Lounge and admire the uninterrupted vistas as you cruise gently through the valley. You can also use this day to relax in the Salt Therapy Lounge or book in for a spa treatment (at an extra cost).
One of Germany’s oldest cities, Koblenz was founded by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago and is brimming with history. It sits where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet and promises a mélange of French and German cultures. Koblenz is filled with parks and flowers and is the gateway to both the romantic Rhine Valley and the beautiful Moselle Valley.
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Guided tour of Koblenz: Join your guide to explore the old town’s winding streets, impressive townhouses, charming squares and historic churches, and visit the famed Florinsmarkt, the former political and economic center of the city.
Marksburg Castle visit: Drive to Marksburg Castle, overlooking the Rhine River below. Dating back to 1117, it’s the only castle on the Middle Rhine that has avoided destruction over the years. (Note: This is for active guests only and requires a good degree of fitness and mobility.)
Medieval Limburg: Travel by coach to the charming medieval town of Limburg an der Lahn. Walk the historic cobblestone streets lined with perfectly preserved half-timbered houses, visit the Cathedral that overlooks the city and see Alte Lahnbrucke, the old bridge that straddles the Lahn River.
Your ship will overnight in Koblenz, offering you the opportunity to explore the city after dark.
The city of Dusseldorf is known for its art scene and fashion industry. This affluent center was dubbed ‘Little Paris’ by Napoleon and is filled with museums, galleries and luxurious shops. Its charming old town is home to around 260 pubs and bars, and the harbor precinct blends the old with new: historic quay walls, warehouses and silos rub shoulders with striking architecturally designed buildings by the likes of Frank Gehry.
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Walking tour: Explore Dusseldorf on a guided walking tour. Discover its gentrified harbor, charming old town, the modern tech hub of Media Harbor, and Castle Tower, which dates to the 13th century.
Cycling tour: Active travellers can explore the banks of the Rhine on two wheels, cycle on an e-bike to one of the most historic regions of Dusseldorf, Kaiserswerth.
Dusseldorf‘s Altbier: Learn about Dusseldorf long tradition of beer production, visit well-known microbreweries and sample some delicious Altbier, the traditional ale produced in this region.
Dusseldorf , the city of art: Uncover the artistic heritage of Dusseldorf starting in the historic Old Town and making your way to Media Harbor, then visit the K21 Museum for a self-guided exploration of the contemporary exhibits.
Arrive in Arnhem after lunch. Located at the edge of the Veluwe Nature Reserve, the city offers a beautiful landscape surrounded by dense forest, lush green parklands and riverside promenades. Arnhem also played an important role in World War II and the campaign ultimately helped bring about the end of the conflict.
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Arnhem Airborne Museum: Military buffs should visit the Airborne Museum, which gives an in-depth account of the Battle of Arnhem. Follow in the footsteps of the British servicemen who parachuted into the city in September 1944 after long years of German occupation.
The Netherlands Open Air Museum: Learn about the lives and traditions of local Dutch people through the ages at the Netherlands Open Air Museum. Your local guide will take you on an exploration of this fascinating 44-hectare outdoor museum, to see replicas of historic houses, mills and farmhouses.
Palais Het Loo: Art lovers will enjoy the Palais Het Loo. Dating to 1685 it served as the royal family's summer home for centuries and is now an incredible museum showcasing the family’s rich history, elaborate décor, art collection and grand gardens.
Arrive in Belgium’s second city, Antwerp. Full of historical and cultural contrasts, Antwerp has a melange of architectural wonders, a medieval center with cobbled streets and Gothic buildings, many that were severely bombed during WWII, blended with architecture. It’s also the diamond capital of the world, with 70 per cent of the world’s diamonds traded there.
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Guided walking tour: Join your local guide on a walking tour through this beautiful city, known as the diamond capital of the world. Explore sights such as the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, Steen Castle, the Medieval fortress, and main square lined with extravagant buildings.
Excursion to Ypres & Passchendaele: On a full day excursion from Antwerp, visit the towns of Passchendaele and Ypres to learn about the WWI battle of Passchendaele. Visit memorials dedicated to the 325,000 allied troops who perished during this terrible battle, learn about the strategies put in place to defend against the German troops and learn how this region was rebuilt in the aftermath. Tour includes lunch in a local restaurant.
Excursion to Bruges: Transfer via coach to Bruges where a local guide will walk you through the main sights of the city including the medieval center. Highlights of this tour will be the medieval Bell Tower and the Belfry of Bruges. Please note: Due to uneven surfaces (cobblestone) and extensive walking, tour is recommended for guests with a high level of fitness.
Craft Beer & Chocolate pairing: Some of Belgium's most iconic culinary delicacies are Chocolate and Beer. Today join your local expert guide and take your taste buds on a journey of flavor while learning and appreciating how the complex flavors of local craft beer and chocolate pair.
Your ship departs later this afternoon, which means you have free time to wander Antwerp at your own pace. Alternatively return to your ship and take the time to unwind in the exclusive Salt Therapy Lounge, which provides natural anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Dock this morning in Bruinisse, a mussel fishing village set on an ocean estuary. Known simply as ‘Bru’ it’s a popular holiday destination for its beaches, rich heritage and sumptuous seafood. It’s also the gateway to the 13th century town of Veere, considered one of the prettiest in the Netherlands.
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Guided tour of Veere: Travel to the nearby town of Veere for a guided tour of its many charms, including the port area, Scottish merchant houses, impressive church and 15th-century town hall. Enjoy some free time before returning to the ship.
Delta Works visit: Visit the engineering marvel that is the Delta Works, a system of dams, locks and levees that protects the towns on the delta plain against flooding.
Oyster farm visit: The crisp, cold waters of the nearby North Sea are ideal for oysters. Visit a local farm to learn how they are grown and taste some fresh from the ocean.
Arrive this morning in Dordrecht. One of the oldest cities in Holland, it dates back to the 11th century. Dordrecht was once an important merchant city, drawing its wealth from wood, grain and wine. More than 1,000 historic monuments can be found in its historic center, many of which have been reborn as restaurants, museums and theatres.
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Walking tour of Dordrecht: Admire the city’s picturesque streets, winding canals and historic buildings on a walking tour. Highlights include Groothoofd Quay, the Grote Kerk (Great Church) and the Old Water Tower.
Excursion to Delft: Travel to the nearby city of Delft, famed for its blue and white pottery and visit the only remaining 17th-century pottery factory to see the master's at work.
Excursion to Kinderdijk: Visit the traditional village of Kinderjik to see its World Heritage listed windmills, which are an icon of Dutch culture.
Day 15: Amsterdam | Disembark
Your cruise will finish in Amsterdam. The Netherland’s capital city is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, masterpiece-filled galleries, tranquil scenes of boats putting along 16th-century canals, narrow cobbled laneways filled with boutiques and cafes, and streets busy with cyclists criss-crossing their way about town. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, much of the UNESCO-listed canal system exists today as it did hundreds of years ago, lined with well-preserved canal houses and intersected by charming bridges.
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.
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.
$15,7902-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Standard Stateroom E
160ft2. Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.
Standard Stateroom D
160ft2. Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.
Single Balcony Suite BS
160ft2. Single Balcony Suites are located on the Sapphire Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.
Balcony Suite C
205ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Balcony Suite BA
205ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Balcony Suite BB
205ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Balcony Suite B
205ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Junior Balcony Suite BJ
These spacious Suites (250ft²), located on the Sapphire Deck, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.
Balcony Suite A
Located on the Diamond Deck these 205ft2 cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Balcony Suite P
Located on the Diamond Deck these 205ft2 cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Balcony Suite PA
Located on the Diamond Deck these 205ft2 cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Balcony Suite PP
Located on the Diamond Deck these 205ft2 cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Junior Balcony Suite RJ
These spacious Suites (250ft²), located on the Diamond Deck, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.
Royal Balcony Suite RA
315ft2. These suites are located on the Diamond Deck and are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area, and an oversized bathroom.
Royal Balcony Suite R
315ft2. These suites are located on the Diamond Deck and are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area, and an oversized bathroom.
Royal Panorama Suite RS
At 325ft², this suite is the largest on the ship. At the rear of the Diamond Deck, enjoy panoramic views of the breathtaking passing scenery through floor to ceiling windows across two walls of the cabin.
Royal Owner's Suite RO
520ft2 including the outdoor balcony. These Suites are located on the Diamond Deck and are the ultimate in luxury with more space (315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area, and an oversized bathroom.
Notes
All rates are quoted in USD and represent cost per person, based on double occupancy. Please contact us for the Single Supplement Rate.
Initial deposit is $700, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Visa or Mastercard. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
13 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 14 Dinners
14 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Wifi
Porterage
Port taxes and charges
All tipping and gratuities
Complimentary beverages
Your choice of Scenic Freechoice activities
1 exclusive Scenic Enrich experience
Innovative Salt Therapy Lounge and fitness area on board your Scenic Space-Ship
The freedom of our e-bikes – electrically assisted bicycles
Scenic Cruise Director to guide and assist & expert local guides
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
Passport or Visa fees
All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions
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!
