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Serenity on the Rhine: 8 days Basel to Amsterdam

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Operated by Emerald Cruises
Tripcode: NZ-7b9b8f9d49f3fc799
Overview
Destination:
Netherlands
Switzerland
Start:Basel, Switzerland
Finish:Amsterdam, Netherlands
Duration:8 days
Style:
River/Small ship/Barge,
Travel Period
March 2026 - March 2026

Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises

A classic journey on the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers promises spectacular landscapes, rich culture, and fascinating history, where world-class cities are complemented by romantic towns.
Discover spectacular Europe without the crowds and the enticing possibility to indulge in daily local life and feel the cosy atmosphere of the continent’s winter months. Relish activities on board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship that immerse you in the local culture of the region, from traditional Dutch clog painting and an exciting cooking demonstration showcasing local flavours to the sophisticated world of cocktail-making. Enjoy cosy indoor visits especially crafted for this memorable voyage as you sail along the majestic Rhine River, including sampling authentic Black Forest delicacies in the charming city of Freiburg, in southern Germany. On this memorable journey, you can also relish unforgettable cruises along historic canal networks in Amsterdam and Strasbourg. Fairytale-like castles and the remnants of fascinating history along the banks of the river can also be relished from the luxurious comforts of your Star-Ship, from within your elegant Suite or Stateroom, or perhaps relaxing out on the panoramic Sun Deck.
Standard inclusions
  • 7 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
  • Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Canal cruise in Amsterdam
  • Panoramic tour of Düsseldor
  • Vsit to a local winery
  • Guided tour of Heidelberg
  • Guided tour of Strasbourg
  • Clog painting on board
  • Cocktail-making on board
  • Cooking demo on board
  • Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting
  • 20 delectable meals including 7 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
  • Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board
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Itinerary
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Day 1 - Amsterdam

Welcome to the Netherlands and the quintessentially Dutch city of Amsterdam. Here, you’ll be greeted at the airport and then transferred to your stylish Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will welcome your arrival on board.

Day 2 - Amsterdam

Every narrow street and gabled façade in Amsterdam tells a tale of the Dutch Golden Age, a prosperous time when Dutch art was among the most acclaimed in the world. Today, relax during an iconic, glass-top canal boat tour through Amsterdam's elaborate UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system, gliding past the Dutch city's medieval centre and Roman patrician houses.

Then enjoy cruising through the scenic Dutch countryside and towards the Rhine River. This afternoon, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn about traditional Dutch clog painting on board your Star-Ship.

Included Excursion
Canal cruise

EmeraldPLUS
Clog painting on board

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Dutch Delights (extra expense)

Day 3 - Düsseldorf - Cologne

Today, embark on a tour of Düsseldorf, a vibrant German 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 the delicious local cuisine, and marvel at the contrast of Düsseldorf’s modern and ancient charms. This afternoon, enjoy a unique EmeraldPLUS experience, joining an exciting cocktail-making demonstration on board your Star-Ship.

Included Excursion
Panoramic tour of Düsseldorf

EmeraldPLUS
Cocktail-making demo on board

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Cologne beer experience (extra expense)

Day 4 - Koblenz

This morning, you’ll arrive in Koblenz, where you can discover its rich winemaking heritage on a captivating winery tour. Immerse yourself in the esteemed world of Riesling, the region's renowned grape variety, as you explore verdant vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample exceptional wines. Experience the magnificent beauty of the Rhine Valley, savour the delicious flavours of local cuisine, and create unforgettable memories in this charming German city. Later, embark on a culinary adventure on board your Star-Ship, experiencing an enthralling cooking demonstration as you sail towards the Rhine River.

Included Excursion
Visit to a local winery

EmeraldPLUS
Cooking demo on board

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Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)

Day 5 - Heidelberg (Germersheim)

This morning, Heidelberg awaits, a delightful UNESCO City of Literature that has inspired the likes of such luminaries as American writer, Mark Twain and British artist, William Turner. A guided tour of the city will unveil its rich history, starting at the Renaissance ruins of Heidelberg Castle, a city landmark and among the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Here, admire the carefully curated gardens, filled with serene water features, sculptures and colourful flowerbeds.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Heidelberg 

Day 6 - Kehl – Strasbourg

This morning, your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship will sail into Kehl, where you’ll then be transferred across the river to Strasbourg, the capital of France’s Alsace Region. Cobblestone squares framed by well-preserved, half-timbered residences make Strasbourg appear as if it has been effortlessly suspended in time. Here, you’ll get the opportunity to explore Strasbourg’s storied 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 picturesque canal network that weaves through the historic neighbourhood of Petite France, before enjoying free time to explore at your own pace.

Included Excursion
Panoramic tour of Strasbourg

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Baden Baden Spa Experience (extra expense)

Day 7 - Breisach - Freiburg

Today, as part of your fascinating EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll visit the charming city of Freiburg. Considered the 'Capital of the Black Forest,' Freiburg is home to lovely sights that will amaze you. As part of your visit, you’ll also get the chance to sample authentic Black Forest delicacies. If you're feeling more active, you can choose to pedal your way through Breisach on a guided bike tour.

EmeraldPLUS
Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting

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Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)

Day 8 - Basel

This morning after breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, leaving with cherished memories of the enchanting Black Forest, scenic canal systems and many other unique European delights.

Please book your flight to depart out of Basel after 10:00 AM.

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.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.

Departure dates

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Travellers

Operator
Emerald Cruises

Discover the world with Emerald Cruises. Whether you’re travelling to unspoilt islands or bustling metropolises, our fleet of river-cruising Star-Ships and ocean-going luxury yachts guarantee an unparalleled voyage. Enjoy modern exploration, pairing authentic adventures with inimitable luxury. Founded in 2013, and first sailing as Emerald Waterways in 2014, Emerald Cruises is an award-winning travel operator specialising in deluxe river cruises and luxury yacht cruises. Just one year later, in 2014, the first Star-Ship, Emerald Sky, set sail. Our extensive fleet of Star-Ships are custom-built to sail Europe’s iconic Rhine, Main, Moselle, Danube, Rhȏne, Saône and Douro rivers, as well as the majestic Mekong River in Southeast Asia, with each ship featuring a range of stylish innovations. Whether you’re travelling by river or sea, your luxury vessel will dock in the heart of amazing destinations. In 2024, we celebrate 10 years of Emerald Cruises by introducing the next generation of superyachts: Emerald Kaia, launching in early 2026.

Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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