Early Season on the Rhine: 8 days Zurich to Amsterdam

Welcome to Basel. On arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.

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

Today, as part of your incredible EmeraldPLUS experience, you will visit the city of Freiburg. Considered the 'Capital of the Black Forest', Freiburg has lovely sights that will amaze you. You’ll also have the opportunity to sample authentic Black Forest delicacies.

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Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting

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Guided tour Colmar (extra expense)

This morning, your Star-Ship will dock in Kehl, where you will 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 will 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

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Baden Baden Spa Experience (extra expense)

Relax on board this morning following the meandering Rhine River and passing the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar. Travel by coach to Heidelberg, where you’ll 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

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

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Cooking demo on board

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Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)

This morning, you’ll will 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 we continue sailing north, to join a tour of Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf. 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

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Cocktail making demo on board

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German Beer Experience (extra expense)

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 Star-Ship.

Included Excursion
Canal cruise

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Clog painting on board

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Private hidden Gems tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)

After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your Star-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 our terms and conditions for further information.