Rhine River Magic Cities and Castles

Welcome to Mainz! Your adventure begins with a convenient transfer from Frankfurt Airport, arriving at the MS Crucevita 4* (or similar) from 4:00 p.m. onwards. Should you arrive early, you can leave your luggage with reception and take the chance to explore Mainz at your own pace. This charming city is ripe for discovery, whether you choose to visit its museums, stroll along the riverbanks, or simply soak in the atmosphere. Our evening kicks off with a warm welcome reception and dinner on board, as we set sail into the night. Please note that travellers may join or leave the tour at different points, but rest assured that the group will never exceed its maximum size. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

We'll begin our day docked in Mannheim, an energetic university hub where the Rhine and Neckar Rivers converge. This city holds a special place in automotive history—Karl Drais invented the first two-wheeled vehicle here in 1817, and it later became the birthplace of Carl Benz’s automobile in 1886. From Mannheim, we set off to Heidelberg, famous for its historic 14th-century university and the magnificent castle that overlooks the town from its hilltop perch. The evening will see us once again cruising through the night, ready for another day of discovery.

Our third day begins with our morning arrival in Strasbourg, the enchanting capital of the Alsace region. Strasbourg's historic centre, Grande Île, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated as an exemplary medieval city. Wander through La Petite France, a particularly scenic area once home to fishermen and millers, adorned with charming canals. As you wander beyond La Petite France, you'll encounter numerous landmarks, including the magnificent cathedral, a true icon of the city. We will spend the night on board, immersed in the serene atmosphere of Strasbourg.

After a restful night, we will arrive in Worms, an ancient city steeped in history and renowned for its Romanesque architecture. Our morning is dedicated to exploring St. Peter’s Cathedral, an 11th-century masterpiece of High Romanesque design with its striking four towers and twin domes. Together with the cathedrals of Speyer and Mainz, it forms a trio of architectural triumphs from this period. Worms also serves as an ideal starting point for the Deutsche Weinstrasse, a 50-mile journey through charming wine-producing towns.In the afternoon, we anchor in Rüdesheim, one of Germany's most popular villages. It's a wonderful place to delve into history with landmarks like Klunkhardshof, the fortified Adler Tower, the thousand-year-old Brömser Castle, and the ruins of Ehrenfels Castle awaiting your discovery. We'll spend the night on board, soaking in the enchanting atmosphere of this beautiful locale.

By midday, we will arrive in Koblenz, a strikingly beautiful city nestled at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers at the famous Deutsches Eck, or German Corner. Surrounded by breathtaking vistas of four central mountain ranges, lush vineyards, and dense forests, Koblenz invites you to explore its rich tapestry of over 2,000 years of history. As you wander through the city, you'll discover its picturesque charm and see why it ranks among Germany's most appealing destinations. We'll spend the night on board, allowing you to rest and absorb the scenic beauty that envelopes this enchanting region.

The day begins early as we arrive in Cochem, a delightful town nestled in the Moselle wine region, famed for both its fine wines and scenic charm. A key attraction here is the Cochem Castle, an imposing structure with a history that stretches back over a millennium. The castle has been carefully restored over the past hundred years, offering a glimpse into its storied past. In the afternoon, our journey takes us to Alken, a picturesque village tucked along the Moselle River's banks. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely wander through its quaint streets and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. We will spend the night aboard the vessel, anchored in this enchanting setting.

As we sail peacefully along the river, we reach the charming town of Boppard around midday. This delightful locale offers an enticing blend of natural beauty and fascinating history. During your free time, you can explore landmarks such as the impressive Sterrenberg and Liebenstein Castles, the historical Church of St. Severinus, or take in the stunning views of Boppard Bay. Later, we gather on board for the Captain's Dinner, a splendid evening that promises fine dining and warm company. We will spend the night on board.

As we wake up back in Mainz, the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg's revolutionary movable-type printing press, you'll find yourself in a city where history meets modernity. The heart of Mainz features a thousand-year-old cathedral that stands proud amidst the lively atmosphere of a vibrant university town. We ask that you vacate your cabin by 9:00 a.m.; however, you are welcome to leave your luggage safely stored at reception until your departure. After a hearty breakfast, we will embark on a guided tour of Mainz to delve deeper into its rich history and attractions. Please ensure the timing fits with your travel arrangements. Our services conclude here, leaving you with cherished memories of our journey.