Day 1 – Zürich, Switzerland – Basel – Board Cruise Ship

Today, after your flight arrives in Zürich, Switzerland, travel to Basel where you’ll board your ship. As arrival times will vary, the ship’s lounge is available for you to relax on board until your cabin is ready in the late afternoon. If arriving early in the day, you may wish to take this time to explore Basel independently. Then, settle into your home on the ship for the next seven nights, featuring outside staterooms, delicious food and wine at every dinner, and daily onboard musical performances. This evening, meet in the lounge for a cocktail reception followed by a welcome dinner.

Day 2 – Breisach, Germany – Freiburg – Breisach

This morning, travel to Germany and experience Breisach, one of the oldest towns in the country. Spend the morning strolling through its picturesque alleys and colorful market square on a guided tour before continuing by coach to Freiburg, the capital of the Black Forest region. This afternoon, enjoy some free time back in Breisach to explore on your own. Perhaps you’ll visit one of the town’s many cafés or ice cream shops before your ship departs for Strasbourg.

Day 3 – Strasbourg, France

Cross the French border and experience Strasbourg, a fairytale town that blends centuries of international influences to create its own unique culture. On a guided walking tour of the old quarter, Petite France, and a canal cruise, take in the iconic timber-framed houses, the Cathedral of Notre Dame, and Place de la République. Make the most of your free time in the afternoon by exploring this perfectly preserved town before returning to your ship.

Day 4 – Speyer, Germany – Mannheim

Sail to Speyer, another of Germany’s oldest cities. This morning, it’s your choice! Get to know Speyer on a walking tour where you’ll trace the story of Speyer’s Jewish community from the year 1084 to today, visiting significant UNESCO sites -OR- follow guides on a journey back in time to discover the everyday lives of citizens in the Middle Ages. Later, the river takes you to Mannheim where you’ll have free time to explore this German city and its parks on your own. Perhaps you’ll join an optional excursion to Heidelberg, an ancient city of Renaissance buildings and castle ramparts.

Day 5 – Winningen – Cochem

Start your morning with scenic sailing along the Rhine and through the Lorelei Passage, the river’s narrowest point, named for a storied siren. After lunch, dock in Winningen and travel by coach to Cochem, a storybook town overlooking the water. Embark on a guided tour through the town and into Reichsburg Castle, a fortress perched high upon a hill with a stunning view of Cochem and the Moselle Valley below.

Day 6 – Cologne

Your journey brings you to Cologne, where you’ll join a guide for a walking tour of the city’s Gothic Old Town. Wander along cobblestone streets and admire the Cologne Cathedral, the Roman Dionysus mosaic, and the Romanesque church of St. Martin. Top off this walking tour with a tasting of Cologne’s famous Kölsch beer. Continue your afternoon gliding along the Rhine River and passing through the picturesque German landscapes dotted with medieval towns. End your day at the Captain’s Gala Dinner – a lively celebration of food, music, and entertainment.

Day 7 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Begin your day in Amsterdam, a city of narrow canals and stone bridges. Embark on a tour with a local expert before seeing the city from a different perspective, voyaging along the city’s centuries-old canal system. Sail by charming cafés and famous 16th-century row houses stacked side-by-side.

Day 8 – Amsterdam – Disembark Ship – Tour Ends

This morning, wish the river valleys goodbye as you disembark and your tour comes to a close.