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Koblenz at night

Tulips & the Rhine

Basel - Amsterdam - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard Emerald Star
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Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard the Emerald Star. Start your adventure in the enchanting Black Forest before crossing the German border into Strasbourg, the picturesque capital of France's Alsace region. Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Germany with visits to Koblenz and Heidelberg, where you can savor exquisite local wines. Marvel at the grandeur of Cologne's iconic Gothic cathedral, then glide past storybook windmills as you journey into the Netherlands. Conclude your river cruise in Amsterdam, exploring its iconic canals and the breathtaking Keukenhof Gardens—a vibrant celebration of Dutch culture and natural beauty.
Explore quaint towns along the RhineView of Strasbourg cityStop to explore MannheimCologne, GermanyOld buildings in AmsterdamKoblenz at night
Highlights
  • Explore Breisach, Germany, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage fortress of Neuf-Brisach
  • Discover Strasbourg, France, strolling through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town
  • Tour Koblenz, Germany, learning about ancient history amidst picturesque landscapes
  • Explore Cologne, Germany, with a guided tour of its Roman history and Cologne Cathedral
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: Basel | Embark

Welcome to Switzerland! Upon arrival, an Emerald Cruises representative will meet you at the airport and escort you to your ship. Settle in as the captain and crew warmly welcome you aboard, then enjoy a delightful dinner with your fellow guests this evening.

Please book your flight to arrive in Basel before 03:00 PM.

 

Day 2: Breisach

Today, explore the fascinating history of two cities separated by the Rhine: Breisach in Germany and Neuf-Brisach in France. On your guided tour, visit key landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed fortress that majestically overlooks Neuf-Brisach.

EmeraldPLUS
A tale of two cities divided by the Rhine

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour in Breisach

Day 3: Kehl | Strasbourg

Today, dock in Kehl, to be transferred by coach to the medieval city of Strasbourg. During an insightful guided tour, a local guide will teach you about the city’s history, passing through cobbled squares adorned with quaint boutiques and charming cafes. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, including Petite France. An area of unmatched beauty, the picturesque canal system cascades past half-timbered houses once home to fishermen, tanners, and millers during the Middle Ages. The narrow lanes and footbridges that pepper the area all add to its undeniable charm. This afternoon, Strasbourg is yours to explore at leisure.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Strasbourg

Day 4: Schwetzingen (Mannheim)

Schwetzingen Palace is famous for the beauty and harmony of its gardens. Remarkably, the original design survives to this day. Besides the palace interior, you can also visit the Palace Gardens, a cultural heritage site of European significance boasting more than 100 sculptures. Alternatively, you can hike through the beautiful vineyards of the quaint wellness town of Bad-Durkheim. 

EmeraldPLUS
Visit to Schwetzingen Palace & Gardens

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike through a vineyard in Bad-Durkheim

DiscoverMORE
Rudesheim with specialty coffee (extra expense)

Day 5: Koblenz

Today, go 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.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Koblenz

DiscoverMORE
A Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle Visit (extra expense)

Day 6: Cologne

The largest city on the Rhine awaits your arrival. Once a major trade route linking both sides of Europe, today, the city offers the perfect platform to explore Roman history, including the ornate Roman mosaics that have stood the test of time. Your insightful guided tour of Cologne will detail how the air raids of WWII turned its streets into a blank canvas, resulting in the loss of ancient monuments and cultural treasures. Many of the city's historic buildings have undergone restoration and now sit alongside modern architecture. Your tour will conclude at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, constructed over six centuries, using medieval techniques to retain authenticity. You can also explore the Botanical Gardens, established in the 19th century and visited by more than a million people yearly.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Cologne's Old Town & a visit to the Botanical Gardens

Day 7: Amsterdam

A visit to the iconic Keukenhof Gardens is sure to leave an impression. More than 800 varieties of spring-flowering tulips and regular flower shows showcase spring in a quintessentially Dutch fashion. Each year, the gardens adopt a theme, and you can have every opportunity to learn about different planting techniques and the work completed behind the scenes by the landscape architects. Soak in the sights of expertly arranged tulips, hyacinths, and orchids of every color, creating a swathe of natural beauty. You can also have the chance to see statues commissioned by world-renowned artists. 

Included Excursion
Visit to Keukenhof Gardens

DiscoverMORE
Private Hidden Gems Tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)

Day 8: Amsterdam | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your fellow guests as you disembark for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of spring-blooming flowers and delightful cobblestone squares 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 Star

Outdoor Terrace
Sundeck
Horizon bar and lounge

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$7,790 2-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Emerald Single Stateroom
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
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
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
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
Panorama Balcony Suite (B)
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite - 18 cabins located at 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
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
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
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
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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