Discover the Tulips of the Rhine & Rhone River Cruise

Welcome to the Netherlands and world-famous Dutch city of Amsterdam. Here, you’ll be met at the airport and then transferred to your contemporary Star-Ship where a warm welcome awaits on board from your friendly captain and crew.  Then set sail for a quintessentially Dutch adventure.

This morning, you’ll visit the iconic Keukenhof Gardens, boasting 32 hectares of spring-flowering bulbs – the largest collection in the world. This beautiful area is infused with delightful aromas and a swathe of vibrant colours. Soak in the sights of tulips, hyacinths, and orchids of every colour, creating an expertly arranged pattern of beauty, extending out to traditional Dutch windmills. You can also admire the variety of statues commissioned by world-renowned artists, each adopting an annual theme. Enjoy sailing through the picturesque countryside and onwards to the Rhine River. This afternoon, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn more about traditional Dutch clog painting on board your Star-Ship. Included Excursion Visit to Keukenhof Gardens EmeraldPLUS Clog painting on board

This morning, explore the vibrant city of Düsseldorf. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Japanese Garden, a ‘Garden of Reflection’ and tranquil oasis amidst the bustling urban landscape. After lunch, you’ll continue sailing along the scenic Rhine River, which will bring you to Cologne, one of Germany’s oldest cities. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to join an active walk in town, stopping off at the beautiful Cologne Gardens. Included Excursion Walking tour of Düsseldorf with a Japanese Garden visit EmeraldACTIVE Active walk to Cologne Gardens DiscoverMORE Cologne beer experience (extra expense)

Once a Roman stronghold revered for its strategic position, Koblenz nowadays is a city that offers a unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture. Today, join your local guide for an insightful walking tour of Koblenz, passing examples of architecture that survived the war years, including the Church of Our Lady. You’ll also have the chance to see the point at which two of Europe’s greatest rivers converge at the German Corner and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, one of Europe’s largest preserved fortresses. Later, you’ll cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, exemplifying the extraordinary beauty of an area that left philosophers and artists of the German Romanticism movement entranced. Included Excursion Orientation walk in Koblenz DiscoverMORE A Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)

Schwetzingen Palace is famous foremost for the beauty and harmony of its gardens. Remarkably, the original design in all its diversity survives to this day. Besides the palace interior, you’ll  also take a stroll through the Palace Gardens, a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site of European significance with more than 100 sculptures scattered throughout this picture-perfect landscape. Alternatively, you can embark on an active journey to the quaint wellness town of Bad-Dürkheim and a hike through verdant vineyards. EmeraldPLUS Visit to Schwetzingen Palace & Gardens EmeraldACTIVE Guided vineyard hike in Bad-Dürkheim DiscoverMORE Guided tour of Heidelberg (extra expense)

Today, you’ll arrive in Kehl, where youll then be transferred to Strasbourg, a city that promises much in the way of stunning architecture. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Neustadt District is particularly iconic, perfectly encapsulating the Rhineland region. The Neustadt district is yours to discover during your included tour, as well as the Maison Kammerzell, a prime example of German Renaissance architecture. Paying homage to the region’s artistic past, Petite France is an exceptional historic quarter that looks as though it has been plucked straight from an artist’s easel. Included Excursion Guided tour of Strasbourg EmeraldACTIVE Active walk to Orangerie Park DiscoverMORE Baden Baden Spa Experience (extra expense)

Today, discover the enchanting city of Freiburg, nestled amidst the Black Forest. Explore the city’s historic centre, resplendent with its colourful half-timbered houses and vibrant market square. Wander through the picturesque Botanical Garden, showcasing a diverse array of flora. For a more active experience, choose an exhilarating bike tour around Breisach, a charming medieval town that reveals stunning views of the Rhine River. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of this captivating region. Included Excursion Freiburg visit, including the Botanical Garden EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour in Breisach DiscoverMORE Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)

After breakfast, you will disembark your Star-Ship and be transferred by coach to Lyon, where your river cruising journey will continue.

Chalon-sur-Saône is known for its art and history. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the area’s architectural heritage and peaceful surrounds as you travel to the quaint village of Beaune and visit the Hospices de Beaune. Originally a hospital for the poor, the Hospices de Beaune is now home to one of Burgundy’s most popular wine auctions.  Included Excursion Visit to the Hospices de Beaune EmeraldPLUS Cheese and olive tasting on board

France’s third-largest city, Lyon is a former Roman capital, steeped in history and considered to be the gastronomic heartbeat of the country. Home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, youll enjoy an array of exemplary culinary delights.  Today, a guided city tour awaits you, including a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, part of the inscribed historic site of Lyon. Wander through the city and soak in its vividly illustrated history, as buildings from all time periods can be seen adorning narrow cobblestone streets. Alternatively, explore the highlights of the city on two wheels as part of a guided bike tour of Lyon.   Included Excursion Guided tour of Lyon EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour of Lyon DiscoverMORE Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense) DiscoverMORE Private Culinary Charms of Lyon (extra expense)

The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhône, dominated by a 16th century castle that overlooks the village and a number of iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers.  Your guided tour of the village will showcase its intangible cultural heritage, granting every opportunity for you to immerse yourself in your surroundings. Alternatively, embark on an EmeraldACTIVE hike through the local vineyards and marvel at the rows upon rows of grapes used to make some of the finest wines in Europe.  Included Excursion Guided tour of Tournon EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike through the vineyards

Arrive in Viviers, a town with much Middle Age flair and home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Your included walking tour will highlight many of the city’s numerous spectacular monuments, along with their ornate windows and lavish façades.  Included Excursion Guided tour of Viviers DiscoverMORE Visit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)

Avignon has a rich history, from Celtic beginnings to being the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. The city also played a major part central to the French Revolution.  Your included walking tour will take you past the ornate beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as Pont d’Avignon, an ancient stone bridge crossing the Rhône. This evening you are invited to join the unique experience of a classical concert in Avignon.  Included Excursion Guided tour of Avignon EmeraldACTIVE Canoeing excursion in Avignon DiscoverMORE Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense) DiscoverMORE Private hidden Gems tour of Avignon (extra expense) DiscoverMORE Visit to Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting (extra expense) EmeraldPLUS Classical concert in Avignon

The past is yours to uncover in Arles, a once-important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who peppered the city with iconic monuments. Today, your included tour of the city will showcase some of its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments, illustrating how the city has evolved over the centuries.  Visit the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre and follow in the footsteps of world-renowned artist, Vincent van Gogh. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure, where a stop at a local and quintessential café is a must before returning to relax on board your Star-Ship. This evening, you’ll enjoy a delightful Provençal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by Frances Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale.  Included Excursion Guided tour of Arles with arena visit DiscoverMORE Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense) DiscoverMORE Visit to L’Occitane Factory (extra expense) EmeraldPLUS Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the idyllic French countryside and delightful cuisine with you.  Please book your flight to depart out of Nice after 01:00 PM. 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.