Rhine, Moselle & Switzerland river cruise

Lucerne & Bernese Oberland

Lucerne

What an impressive kick-off to our cruise, as today promises to be a visual feast. We’ll take the short drive to Lucerne, spectacularly nestled among mountain views. This chic city is by far Switzerland’s most beautiful and has been attracting well-heeled visitors for two centuries - our very own Queen Victoria among them.  

A must-do is a brisk stroll along the Chapel Bridge symbol of the city, a unique and covered wooden walkway crossing the lake, supported by stilts, lined with flower-filled window boxes and a superb way to absorb Lucerne’s rather regal atmosphere.  You’ll be transported back in time as you take in the views that have charmed royalty and travellers alike. 

Bernese Oberland  

The scenery becomes ever more dramatic, and as you enter the Bernese Oberland in central Switzerland, it becomes quite literally, breathtaking! This is the majestic Alpine heart of Europe, boasting some of the planet’s most sublime mountain landscapes. Mendelssohn, the composer, once declared it as ‘the most wonderful of all in this unbelievably beautiful country’. He wasn’t wrong.  

Prepare to be awestruck as you take in the legendary snow-draped peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau; this is quintessential Switzerland at its absolute best. We’ll ascend by mountain railway for even more extraordinary vistas, with crystal-clear lakes mirroring the grassy meadows and emerald forests below - this magical landscape is sure to enchant you.  

Later we’ll descend again by mountain railway, soaking up the views before making our way by coach back to our ship in Basel. Please note: temperatures will be significantly lower at altitude, even during the summer months, so it’s advisable to pack suitable clothing. While lunch is not included on this full-day excursion, the ship will offer a packed lunch.  

Cap off this spectacular day with another exquisite dinner in the ship's restaurant.

Breisach & The Black Forest

Breisach

Relax this morning on board whilst we sail to the ancient town of Breisach, whose historic heart is surrounded by stone ramparts and dominated by the impressive Saint Stephan’s Cathedral. 

Black Forest & Titisee 

This afternoon you drive through some of Central Europe’s most stunning scenery – the Black Forest Mountains. This is a fabled landscape of rugged valleys, white-water rivers, cascading waterfalls and rolling hillsides covered with huge, densely packed pine trees – exactly as you expect it to be. Our destination is the idyllic village of Titisee, nestling on the shores of its crystal-clear lake. 

As the sun sets and the riverside lights begin to twinkle, enjoy the views through the restaurant’s panoramic windows during tonight's excellent dinner. Afterwards retire to the lounge to enjoy tonight's live performance of popular music spanning the years by a highly talented violin soloist, before we slip our moorings to commence our cruise towards Strasbourg.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg 

This morning, we have arrived in France and Strasbourg, capital of the Alsace region. After a hearty breakfast, we embark on a stroll through the charming 16th-century old town; straight from the pages of a storybook, it’s a real-life maze of narrow streets and canals adorned with timber-framed houses and fancy portals.   

Prepare to be wowed by the Gothic grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral, the multi-towered Ponts Couverts - covered bridges - and the pretty Petite France quarter with pastel-painted houses lining the canals. And let's not forget the wine. Alsace wine is famed the world over, so don't resist the urge to linger in an Alsatian café or two to sample a crisp Riesling or the spicy kick of Gewürztraminer.  

During lunch, our vessel glides away from our mooring as we commence an afternoon’s scenic cruising. Flop onto a sun lounger on the sun deck or retire to the shady comfort of the lounge to chat over a coffee with newly made friends.  

As evening falls, thoughts turn to what might be on the menu tonight, so head to the relaxed ambience of the ship’s restaurant as the chef presents another delicious meal. In the bar toast the day’s adventures with newly made friends as we arrive in Speyer later tonight.  

Speyer

Speyer

We’ll remain moored in Speyer this morning to enjoy a guided tour of this medieval gem, founded by the Celts and one of Germany’s oldest cities, celebrated for its illustrious past.  

The Imperial Cathedral steals the show—a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Romanesque masterpiece, and the resting place of Holy Roman emperors and German kings. The marble-floored crypt, a serene space adorned with pastel-coloured pillars, is the resting place of many Holy Roman emperors and German kings.  

Another landmark is the neo-Gothic Gedächtniskirche, built to commemorate the 1529 ‘Protestation at Speyer’, a pivotal moment in Protestant history when a group of Martin Luther’s followers rejected his imperial ban – and his religious followers subsequently known as Protestants.  

Returning on board for lunch, we’ll recommence our cruise, so sit back and watch the scenery slipping past through the panoramic windows. Soak up the rolling hills and fertile vineyards, home to the Liebfraumilch wines of the region, oxbow lakes, long deserted by the river flow and now havens for bird and wildlife.  

Captain’s Dinner 

Tonight on board, we’ll be served a special treat - the 'Captain's Dinner,' a culinary journey featuring specialties from the regions we've explored. Dress to impress – if you fancy it; It’s the perfect way to celebrate the flavours of our cruise!  

During dinner our vessel arrives in the classic Rhine wine village of Rüdesheim, so you might fancy wandering ashore to enjoy a digestif – perhaps a glass of Asbach, the famous brandy distilled locally.   

Rüdesheim, Rhine Gorge & Koblenz

Rüdesheim

Our ship is moored in Rüdesheim, amidst crooked houses cascading down wooded hillsides and terraced vineyards. The morning unfolds with a walking tour through the bustling marketplace, (you’ll struggle not to fall for its charms), stopping to admire the half-timbered Klunkhardshof and formidable Bromserburg Castle, standing guard since 1275. 

Rhine Gorge

This afternoon we’ll witness a real highlight of the cruise, the dramatic Rhine Gorge. Steep vineyards give way to almost vertical rocky outcrops, towering above the sweeping valley sides. Sailing past Saint Goar and its many ruined castles, the legends of this historic river come to life, and the infamous Loreley Rock, where beautiful nymphs supposedly lured sailors to their demise, adds a touch of mystique to our journey.  

Relax on the sun deck as our captain skilfully navigates the ship through the huge looping bend at Boppard – one of the river’s most captivating turns. Keep an eye out for the mighty Marksburg Castle too, an impressive fortress dating back to the 13th century.

Koblenz

It’s not long before we arrive in picturesque Koblenz, founded by the Romans, and strikingly located at the confluence of the Rhine and its sister, the Moselle. Wander Koblenz’s maze of medieval buildings in the Altstadt – old town – with traditional little shops and delicious aromas wafting from its classic Rhineland cafés.  

On our guided tour of this town, historic buildings emerge at every turn: you’ll see the former mint, the Four Towers with their ornamental 17th-century turrets and several fascinating squares and churches, including the 9th-century Basilica of Saint Kastor. The waterfront along the Moselle is stunning too, with the medieval Balduin Bridge, staggeringly still in use.  

If you manage to resist the tempting cakes on offer from the beckoning pavement cafés, then you’ll be ready for tonight’s meticulously prepared dinner on board. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the lively sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance featuring traditional instruments - a fitting conclusion to a day rich in history and culture.  

Cologne

Free time sailing

Early birds will witness our departure from Koblenz as we set sail towards Cologne before we settle in for a leisurely morning on board as we drift through this lovely Rhineland scenery, past quaint riverside towns with pretty waterfronts and carefully tended vineyards. See the famous ruined bridge at Remagen, which was captured intact by the Allies towards the end of the Second World War, allowing thousands of troops to cross into Germany’s heartland and the forested Siebengebirge - Seven Mountains – a cluster of ancient volcanic hills. Rumour has it they inspired many of the Brothers Grimm’s legends, including Snow White.  

Cologne

During lunch, we arrive in historic Cologne, where you’ll have a free afternoon to explore. Perhaps visit the cathedral, the largest Gothic structure on earth. It has Europe’s most intricate stained glass, (a labour of 600 years!) and when work was finally complete, it was the largest building on earth, until eclipsed by the Eiffel Tower.  

Or maybe you’ll opt to wander in the vibrant and attractive old town, beautifully restored and boasting a plethora of excellent shopping and cosy bars, some of which still traditionally brew their own beer.  

This evening, the chef presents another superb menu and it’s the perfect moment to reflect with your fellow diners on some of the wonderful places you’ve seen so far – with plenty more to in store!   

Cologne

Free day in Cologne

After a lazy breakfast there’ll be the opportunity to recharge and reset today with time to yourself to get further acquainted with this beautifully grand and historic city. Your tick list might include a wander round the Sculpture Park or indulging your sweet tooth at the famous Chocolate Museum. Take a ride on the city’s cable car as you soar over the Rhine with dazzling views of the city and beyond. Or perhaps while away a few peaceful hours in the Museum Ludwig pondering the colourful canvases in its modern art collections then head to the Flora Botanic Hardens to lose yourself in the vibrant blooms and exotic plants. Don’t forget to stop for some refreshment with a glass or two of craft beer in the quirky Belgian Quarter too, with its cool bars and laid-back feel.  

Later return to the ship and relax on board (you’ll be in the swing of things by now!) before the chef wows us once again with another exquisitely presented menu.  

Cochem

Free morning sailing

Make the most of a free morning on board. After a leisurely breakfast, perhaps head to the gym or hair salon. Alternatively, you could find a spot on the sun deck and watch the scenery slip by.

Cochem

After lunch we ease into our moorings at Cochem, the traditional centre of the Moselle wine trade, for an afternoon guided tour. A multi-turreted castle dominates the scene, but Cochem’s real allure lies in its jumble of narrow streets, quirky shops and wine cellars. (Top tip: don’t forget to sample the local Riesling).  

There’s ample time to explore here, immersing yourself in the relaxed ambience of this quintessential riverside town, before stepping back on board to enjoy the chef’s choices for dinner. Then delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance on traditional instruments.  

Trier

Free time sailing

As we bid farewell to Cochem, our journey continues through a remarkable series of four locks, guiding us upstream. The steep surrounding landscape is a patchwork of vineyard-clad slopes, traversed by narrow tracks and zig-zagging roads - an impressive feat of cultivation on such challenging terrain. In the second century AD, the Romans discovered just how good the Moselle's flinty soils were for cultivating grapes and the region still thrives on its production of white varieties like Riesling. Whilst you ponder an aperitif before lunch, we’ll arrive in the town of Zell.  

Trier

Following lunch, we’ll drive to Trier for an afternoon exploration of one of Germany's ancient cities in the company of a local expert. Established by the Romans, Trier served as the capital of a vast empire that included present-day Spain, France, Britain, and parts of Germany and it had a population of 80,000 people. Walking in the footsteps of Emperor Constantine who once resided here, the city's history unfolds through its well-preserved Roman monuments such as the amphitheatre, baths, and bridge – as well as the Porta Nigra, a fortified gate made of massive stone blocks, which provides further proof (if it was needed) that the Romans knew a thing or two about building. You’ll not be surprised to learn Trier's Roman heritage, along with its Cathedral—the oldest bishop's church in Germany - forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

Returning to our ship, nestled in the town of Bernkastel, we prepare for another evening of exquisite dining. 

Bernkastel

Bernkastel

After breakfast on board, we’ll rendez-vous with our local expert to wander Bernkastel’s cobbled lanes to the market square.  Stand back and soak up the ambience: with its half-timbered houses complete with colourful window boxes and pointy gables, there’s more than a touch of the fairytale about this place. The town’s famous Pointed House isn't just a landmark - it's a classic example of a Moselle vintner’s dwelling, dripping in rustic charm and Middle Ages sophistication!  

Free time sailing

Lunch will be served on board as the ship gracefully glides downstream. This afternoon it’s time to put your feet up and let the river views work their magic. Flop into a sun lounger on deck and drink in the fresh breeze to the soothing sounds of the rippling water. And relax.  

Another gourmet experience awaits this evening in the ship’s restaurant, and then cap off the evening with a nightcap in the company of newly made friends.  

Koblenz & Boppard

Koblenz

Early this morning we arrive in Koblenz, a city that stands as an incredible testament to over 2,000 years of history, with its imposing fortress overlooking the water. Koblenz is the perfect place to wander, so why not enjoy a little window shopping, before the aroma of fresh coffee and cakes tempts you to take a well-earnt break in one of the traditional cafés. Explore historic squares, marvel at restored facades, and uncover hidden gems known only to the locals.

Boppard

Returning to our ship for lunch, we’ll proceed to Boppard, also known as the ‘Pearl of the Rhine’ for a guided tour, a famously picturesque town located on a long, looping bend of the river. The black and white spires of the Church of Saint Severus vie for our attention from afar, but as we draw closer the quayside comes into view.  

Cobbled streets, lined by half-timbered houses, tucked-away shops selling traditional goods and characterful restaurants, lead into the town and its main square. Like many riverside settlements in the area, Boppard wears its heritage proudly, with preserved town walls that rank among Germany's finest. Take your time here, promenading along the river, or just gazing at views of the vineyard-covered hillsides. Alternatively relax on board in anticipation of more fine dining in the ship’s restaurant this evening.  

Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim

Rhine Gorge

There’s a bucket-list treat in store this morning as we cruise through the world-famous Rhine Gorge again, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and area of outstanding natural beauty. As the river twists and turns, encased by valley sides, make sure you’re up on deck to experience these views close-up. Ruins of castles teeter on the valley slopes, built by wealthy princes eager to display their power and influence and to extort tolls from passing river traffic. Legends abound here, most famously of the Lorelei - murmuring rock – where enchanting maidens lured unsuspecting sailors to watery graves. Look out for birds of prey floating above as we cruise on passing quaint villages – Saint Goar, Bacharach and Kaub – all famed for their wine production.  

Rüdesheim

Later, we’ll arrive back in Rüdesheim where you’ll have the afternoon to yourself. This town is like a postcard come to life, set amongst vine-covered slopes, with crooked houses, winding alleys, and quirky shops. Famous for its wine, especially the Riesling grape, Rüdesheim is a wine lover's paradise so make time to enjoy a glass or two in a local Weinstuben. Wander to the marketplace, with its pastel facades, and enjoy a spot of people-watching in a cosy tavern. You’ve got time to check out the Brömserburg Castle of one of the towns little museums. There’s a cable car over the town too, so you can hover above the vines taking in the views.

Captain's Dinner

This evening the Captain hosts another gourmet dinner during which delicious specialities of the regions you’ve visited will be served.

Cologne

Free time sailing

We’ll slip our mooring early this morning and our ship resumes its voyage downstream. Breakfast-with-a-view is served as you savour the riverside towns, backed by the area’s trademark volcanic hills. Passing the last vineyards and half-timbered houses around the town of Linz, it’s not long before we reach the railway bridge at Remagen, captured intact towards the end of the Second World War, and arguably shortening the war in Germany.  

Cologne

Not long after, we’ll draw into the heart of Cologne, in the shadow of the dual-spired cathedral. It’s a truly monumental building, taking over 600 years to build and featuring myriad religious and art treasures and perhaps the most intricate stained-glass windows in Europe.  

After lunch, our local guide leads us on a historic trail through the city, and then you’ll have time to yourself to stroll its tree-lined squares, stopping for a craft beer perhaps in one of the traditional bars, many of which still brew their own beer.  

Lindt Chocolate Tasting

After our final dinner tonight, indulge in a delicious on-board tasting, with a presentation and Q&A session from Cologne's Lindt Chocolate Museum and the chance to sample its world-famous produce. It’s the perfect way to ensure the sweetest memories of this river adventure!  

Return home

Wave goodbye to your ship and crew this morning to start your journey home.

Cochem

Free morning sailing

The first morning on board a river cruise is always a thrill, awakening to the peaceful lapping of the water outside as the scenic valley sides slip past your cabin window – there’s no other holiday experience quite like it. (And we should know). Breakfast is a leisurely affair; life on board is unhurried, so you can linger over that extra cup of tea or coffee – and the panoramic windows in the ship’s restaurant ensures you won’t be missing any of the view. You’re cruising some of Europe’s most dramatic waterways – the mighty River Rhine and its tributary the Moselle – and you’ll find the sun deck is perfect for an stroll, to watch picture-postcard villages passing by.  

Cochem

After lunch we ease into our moorings at Cochem, the traditional centre of the Moselle wine trade, for an afternoon guided tour. A multi-turreted castle dominates the scene, but Cochem’s real allure lies in its jumble of narrow streets, quirky shops and wine cellars. (Top tip: don’t forget to sample the local Reisling).  

There’s ample time to explore here, immersing yourself in the relaxed ambience of this quintessential riverside town, before stepping back on board to enjoy the chef’s choices for dinner. Then delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance on traditional instruments.  

Trier

Free time sailing

As we bid farewell to Cochem, our journey continues through a remarkable series of four locks, guiding us upstream. The steep surrounding landscape is a patchwork of vineyard-clad slopes, traversed by narrow tracks and zig-zagging roads - an impressive feat of cultivation on such challenging terrain. In the second century AD, the Romans discovered just how good the Moselle's flinty soils were for cultivating grapes and the region still thrives on its production of white varieties like Riesling. Whilst you ponder an aperitif before lunch, we’ll arrive in the town of Zell.  

Trier

Following lunch, we’ll drive to Trier for an afternoon exploration of one of Germany's ancient cities in the company of a local expert. Established by the Romans, Trier served as the capital of a vast empire that included present-day Spain, France, Britain, and parts of Germany and it had a population of 80,000 people. Walking in the footsteps of Emperor Constantine who once resided here, the city's history unfolds through its well-preserved Roman monuments such as the amphitheatre, baths, and bridge – as well as the Porta Nigra, a fortified gate made of massive stone blocks, which provides further proof (if it was needed) that the Romans knew a thing or two about building. You’ll not be surprised to learn Trier's Roman heritage, along with its Cathedral—the oldest bishop's church in Germany - forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

Returning to our ship, nestled in the town of Bernkastel, we prepare for another evening of exquisite dining.  

Bernkastel

Bernkastel

After breakfast on board, we’ll rendez-vous with our local expert to wander Bernkastel’s cobbled lanes to the market square.  Stand back and soak up the ambience: with its half-timbered houses complete with colourful window boxes and pointy gables, there’s more than a touch of the fairytale about this place. The town’s famous Pointed House isn't just a landmark - it's a classic example of a Moselle vintner’s dwelling, dripping in rustic charm and Middle Ages sophistication!  

Free time sailing

Lunch will be served on board as the ship gracefully glides downstream. This afternoon it’s time to put your feet up and let the river views work their magic. Flop into a sun lounger on deck and drink in the fresh breeze to the soothing sounds of the rippling water. And relax.  

Another gourmet experience awaits this evening in the ship’s restaurant, and then cap off the evening with a nightcap in the company of newly made friends.  

Koblenz & Boppard

Koblenz

Early this morning, we reach Koblenz. Strategically situated at the confluence of these two great rivers, this 2,000-year-old city, with its mighty fortress towering above, is full of appeal. A knowledgeable local guide accompanies us around its principal monuments and intriguing centre, taking in historic squares, highlighting painstakingly restored house frontages and revealing hidden aspects of the city that only locals know. Koblenz is a joy to wander through, pausing to window shop while trying to resist the aromas of fresh coffee and cakes drifting from the numerous traditional cafés.

Boppard

Returning to our ship for lunch, we’ll proceed to Boppard, also known as the ‘Pearl of the Rhine’ for a guided tour, a famously picturesque town located on a long, looping bend of the river. The black and white spires of the Church of Saint Severus vie for our attention from afar, but as we draw closer the quayside comes into view.  

Cobbled streets, lined by half-timbered houses, tucked-away shops selling traditional goods and characterful restaurants, lead into the town and its main square. Like many riverside settlements in the area, Boppard wears its heritage proudly, with preserved town walls that rank among Germany's finest. Take your time here, promenading along the river, or just gazing at views of the vineyard-covered hillsides. Alternatively relax on board in anticipation of more fine dining in the ship’s restaurant this evening.  

Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim

Rhine Gorge

Leaving Boppard, expectation rises at what lies in store as we journey through the outstanding natural beauty of the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, at every dramatic turn of the river, towering valley slopes are crowned by the ruins of castles built by princes to display their power and extort tolls from passing river traffic. The Gorge is home to medieval legends, tales of mysterious happenings and dark deeds, most famously the Lorelei – or ‘murmuring rock’ – said to have lured passing boats onto the rocks with its irresistible song. 

The villages drifting by – Saint Goar, Bacharach and Kaub – are synonymous with wine production and one of the many thoughtful details of this cruise is the carefully compiled wine list, from which you can choose fine Rhine and Moselle wines to enjoy with the foods sourced from the region. 

Rüdesheim

During lunch, we arrive in Rüdesheim, for a guided tour with our local expert. Perhaps the best known of all the wine towns, the crooked houses slope down from wooded hillsides and vineyards. Meander through the Market Place, Brömserburg Castle and Klunkhardshof, a half-timbered building dating back to the first half of the 16th-century. You’ll also see the Brömserhof, now the home of Siegfried‘s mechanical music museum - a collection of around 350 intricate antique musical instruments and musical boxes from all over the world, many in working order, still playing the delicate sounds of yesteryear. 

Captain's Dinner

This evening the Captain’s Dinner takes place on board, during which delicious specialities of the regions you’ve visited will be served, hosted by the Captain himself, of course.

Cologne

Free time sailing

We’ll slip our mooring early this morning and our ship resumes its voyage downstream. Breakfast-with-a-view is served as you savour the riverside towns, backed by the area’s trademark volcanic hills. Passing the last vineyards and half-timbered houses around the town of Linz, it’s not long before we reach the railway bridge at Remagen, captured intact towards the end of the Second World War, and arguably shortening the war in Germany.  

Cologne

Not long after, we’ll draw into the heart of Cologne, in the shadow of the dual-spired cathedral. It’s a truly monumental building, taking over 600 years to build and featuring myriad religious and art treasures and perhaps the most intricate stained-glass windows in Europe.  

After lunch, our local guide leads us on a historic trail through the city, and then you’ll have time to yourself to stroll its tree-lined squares, stopping for a craft beer perhaps in one of the traditional bars, many of which still brew their own beer.  

Lindt Chocolate Tasting

After dinner tonight indulge in a delicious on-board tasting, with a presentation and Q&A session from Cologne's Lindt Chocolate Museum and the chance to sample its world-famous produce.

Cologne

Cologne free time

After a lazy breakfast there’ll be the opportunity to recharge today with time to yourself to get further acquainted with this grand and historic city. Your tick list might include a wander round the Sculpture Park or indulging your sweet tooth at the famous Chocolate Museum. Take a ride on the city’s cable car as you soar over the Rhine with dazzling views of the city and beyond. Or perhaps while away a few peaceful hours in the Museum Ludwig pondering the canvases in its modern art collections then head to the Flora Botanic Hardens to lose yourself in the vibrant blooms and exotic plants. Don’t forget to stop for some liquid refreshment with a glass or two of craft beer in the quirky Belgian Quarter too, with its cool bars and laid-back feel.  

Later return to the ship and relax on board (you’ll be in the swing of things by now!) before the chef wows us once again with another superb and exquisitely presented menu.  

Koblenz

Free time sailing

As you wake for breakfast, the delights of this river cruise emerge as we drift past the rolling hills of the Rhine Valley. The forested Siebengebirge – Seven Mountains – a cluster of ancient volcanic hills that inspired many of the Brothers Grimm’s legends, including ‘Snow White’, act as the overture for even more dramatic scenery upstream.

We cruise past the famous ruined bridge at Remagen, which was captured intact by the Allies towards the end of the Second World War, allowing thousands of troops to cross into Germany’s heartland. Pretty waterfront towns and vineyards come into view as we glide into our mooring to visit Koblenz, where you’ll have free time to explore. 

Free time in Koblenz

Founded by the Romans, this historic city is beautifully located at the confluence of the Rhine and its sister river the Moselle. You’ll have plenty of time to discover Koblenz at your own pace. There’s maze of medieval buildings in the Altstadt – old town – which is studded with a fine array of traditional shops and classic Rhineland cafés.  

If you fancy a dose of culture, consider the Ludwig Museum or Beethoven Museum, or if gardens are your thing, you can’t go wrong with the beautifully kept grounds of the Electoral Palace. 

As you wander, historic buildings appear seemingly at every turn; see a former mint, the Four Towers – 17th-century houses with turrets set at a crossroads – and many fascinating squares and churches, including the ninth-century Basilica of Saint Kastor. 

Wherever you wander you’re never far from a riverbank, and it’s worth crossing the 14th-century stone Balduin Bridge across the Moselle for views back across the spires of the Altstadt. 

If you’d like to indulge in seriously pretty views, consider a ride on the Cable Car – it connects the Rhine River to the plateau where the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress site. 

Return to the ship in the evening for dinner and a nightcap. 

Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim

Rhine Gorge

This morning we'll have another chance to witness a real highlight of the cruise, the dramatic Rhine Gorge. Steep vineyards give way to almost vertical rocky outcrops, towering above the sweeping valley sides. Sailing past Saint Goar and its many ruined castles, the legends of this historic river come to life, and the infamous Loreley Rock, where beautiful nymphs supposedly lured sailors to their demise, adds a touch of mystique to our journey. 

Relax on the sun deck as our captain skilfully navigates the ship through the huge looping bend at Boppard – one of the river’s most captivating turns. Keep an eye out for the mighty Marksburg Castle too, an impressive fortress dating back to the 13th century.

Free time in Rüdesheim

After lunch we moor in Rüdesheim, a classic Rhine wine village with crooked houses sloping down from wooded hillsides and terraced vineyards. 

You’ll have the whole afternoon to spend as you wish. You can take it easy and just explore at your own pace – we recommend Drosselgasse Old Town where you can spend hours wandering cobbled streets and popping into quirky buildings. Alternatively, there are plenty of things to do and things to see which can teach you about various areas of the city’s past. Maybe you’d like to visit the Rheinstein Castle that overlooks the river, or the petite Mauseturm tower; or perhaps you’d prefer the Eberbach Monastery with its vaulted ceilings and pristine gardens, or the Abbey of St Hildegard to understand the city’s religious history. If you’ve got a touch of morbid curiosity, there’s the Medieval Torture Museum, while history lovers might want to consider taking a cable car ride up to the Niederwald Monument, built to commemorate the Unification of Germany. 

Speyer

Speyer

Still sailing upstream, the landscape becomes much wider and flatter, with rolling hills and vineyards that are home to the Liebfraumilch wines. Occasionally the excited chatter of birdlife breaks out as we pass oxbow lakes, long deserted by the river flow, which are now havens for over a hundred bird species. 

Today we berth in historic Speyer, founded by the Celts and one of Germany’s oldest cities, celebrated for its illustrious past, for an afternoon walking tour. The breath-taking Imperial Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is among the largest Romanesque churches in the world; it’s also one of the finest. Its beautiful four-roomed crypt is the resting place of many Holy Roman emperors and German kings. 

Another landmark is the neo-Gothic Gedächtniskirche, built at the turn of the 20th-century to commemorate the 1529 ‘Protestation at Speyer’, a significant event when a group of Martin Luther’s followers protested against his imperial ban – henceforth Luther’s religious followers were known as ‘Protestants’. 

There’s free time to explore here before stepping back on board for another splendid dinner. 

Strasbourg

Strasbourg 

This morning, we cruise gently upstream, passing through two spectacular locks, whose elaborate engineering never ceases to fascinate. Why not find a comfortable chair and catch up on some reading, play chess or watch the rolling kaleidoscope of scenery from the Sun Deck? 

We soon arrive in France and moor in Strasbourg, capital of the Alsace region. This afternoon we have a walking tour of its picturesque Old Town, bisected by canals and made up of a maze of narrow streets lined with timber-framed houses and sculptured portals. 

Unforgettable sites include the stupendous Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, multi-towered Ponts Couverts – covered bridges – and the pretty Petite France quarter of pastel-coloured former artisans’ houses lining the canals. 

Don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to linger a while in a typical Alsatian café to sample some of the region’s world-famous wines – a crisp Riesling or that particular speciality of Alsace, spicy Gewürztraminer. 

Live music on board

After another delicious dinner on board, you can retire to the lounge to enjoy tonight's live performance of popular music spanning the years by a highly talented violin soloist. 

Breisach & The Black Forest

Breisach

This morning's cruising is spent gliding through the dramatic scenery of the rift valley separating the Vosges and Black Forest mountains. 

We arrive at the ancient town of Breisach, whose historic heart is surrounded by stone ramparts and dominated by the impressive Saint Stephan’s Cathedral. 

Black Forest & Titisee 

This afternoon you drive through some of Central Europe’s most stunning scenery – the Black Forest Mountains. This is a fabled landscape of rugged valleys, white-water rivers, cascading waterfalls and rolling hillsides covered with huge, densely packed pine trees – exactly as you expect it to be. Our destination is the idyllic village of Titisee, nestling on the shores of its crystal-clear lake. 

Captain's Dinner

Back on board this evening there’s a truly memorable occasion – the ‘Captain’s Dinner’, featuring delicious specialities of the countries and regions we visit during our cruise. Overnight we will continue to Switzerland and our final stop, Basel. 

Lucerne & Bernese Oberland

Lucerne

Today we take the short drive to Lucerne, often considered Switzerland’s most beautiful city, spectacularly situated among mountain views. 

It has been attracting well-heeled visitors for two centuries, including our very own Queen Victoria. Highly recommended is an invigorating stroll along the Chapel Bridge, a unique covered wooden walkway crossing the lake, supported by stilts and lined with colourful flower-filled window boxes. Not only is it the city’s most iconic structure, it’s a superb way to absorb Lucerne’s regal atmosphere. 

Bernese Oberland  

As you enter the Bernese Oberland in central Switzerland, the views become quite literally breathtaking! This is the grand alpine heart of Europe with some of the finest mountain scenery on earth, described by the composer Mendelssohn as ‘the most wonderful of all in this unbelievably beautiful country’. 

On viewing the legendary snow-capped peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau you’ll be quite simply awestruck. We then ascend by mountain railway for more extraordinary vistas, with the crystal-clear lakes reflecting the meadows and forests below. This truly magical landscape is sure to enchant you. 

Later we’ll descend again by mountain railway before returning to the ship. Please note, temperatures will be significantly lower at altitude, even during the summer months, so it’s advisable to pack suitable clothing. Lunch is not included on this full day excursion; however, the ship will offer a packed lunch. 

Return home

Wave goodbye to your ship and crew this morning to start your journey home.