Rhine, Moselle & Switzerland river cruise - MS George Eliot

Arrive in Basel - Arrive at your five-star cruise ship moored in Basel. Your professional, English-speaking crew will welcome you on board, show you to your cabin and help you familiarise yourself with all aspects of this floating boutique hotel.

Lucerne & Bernese Oberland - What an impressive kick-off to our cruise, as today promises to be a visual feast. We’ll take the short drive to Lucerne, spectacularly nestled among mountain views. This chic city is by far Switzerland’s most beautiful and has been attracting well-heeled visitors for two centuries - our very own Queen Victoria among them.  

A must-do is a brisk stroll along the Chapel Bridge symbol of the city, a unique and covered wooden walkway crossing the lake, supported by stilts, lined with flower-filled window boxes and a superb way to absorb Lucerne’s rather regal atmosphere.  You’ll be transported back in time as you take in the views that have charmed royalty and travellers alike. 
The scenery becomes ever more dramatic, and as you enter the Bernese Oberland in central Switzerland, it becomes quite literally, breathtaking! This is the majestic Alpine heart of Europe, boasting some of the planet’s most sublime mountain landscapes. Mendelssohn, the composer, once declared it as ‘the most wonderful of all in this unbelievably beautiful country’. He wasn’t wrong.  

Prepare to be awestruck as you take in the legendary snow-draped peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau; this is quintessential Switzerland at its absolute best. We’ll ascend by mountain railway for even more extraordinary vistas, with crystal-clear lakes mirroring the grassy meadows and emerald forests below - this magical landscape is sure to enchant you.  

Later we’ll descend again by mountain railway, soaking up the views before making our way by coach back to our ship in Basel. Please note: temperatures will be significantly lower at altitude, even during the summer months, so it’s advisable to pack suitable clothing. While lunch is not included on this full-day excursion, the ship will offer a packed lunch.  

Cap off this spectacular day with another exquisite dinner in the ship's restaurant.

Breisach & The Black Forest - Relax this morning on board whilst we sail to the ancient town of Breisach, whose historic heart is surrounded by stone ramparts and dominated by the impressive Saint Stephan’s Cathedral. 
This afternoon you drive through some of Central Europe’s most stunning scenery – the Black Forest Mountains. This is a fabled landscape of rugged valleys, white-water rivers, cascading waterfalls and rolling hillsides covered with huge, densely packed pine trees – exactly as you expect it to be. Our destination is the idyllic village of Titisee, nestling on the shores of its crystal-clear lake. 

As the sun sets and the riverside lights begin to twinkle, enjoy the views through the restaurant’s panoramic windows during tonight's excellent dinner. Afterwards retire to the lounge to enjoy tonight's live performance of popular music spanning the years by a highly talented violin soloist, before we slip our moorings to commence our cruise towards Strasbourg.

Strasbourg  - This morning, we have arrived in France and Strasbourg, capital of the Alsace region. After a hearty breakfast, we embark on a stroll through the charming 16th-century old town; straight from the pages of a storybook, it’s a real-life maze of narrow streets and canals adorned with timber-framed houses and fancy portals.   

Prepare to be wowed by the Gothic grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral, the multi-towered Ponts Couverts - covered bridges - and the pretty Petite France quarter with pastel-painted houses lining the canals. And let's not forget the wine. Alsace wine is famed the world over, so don't resist the urge to linger in an Alsatian café or two to sample a crisp Riesling or the spicy kick of Gewürztraminer. 
During lunch, our vessel glides away from our mooring as we commence an afternoon’s scenic cruising. Flop onto a sun lounger on the sun deck or retire to the shady comfort of the lounge to chat over a coffee with newly made friends.  

As evening falls, thoughts turn to what might be on the menu tonight, so head to the relaxed ambience of the ship’s restaurant as the chef presents another delicious meal. In the bar toast the day’s adventures with newly made friends as we arrive in Speyer later tonight.  

Speyer - We’ll remain moored in Speyer this morning to enjoy a guided tour of this medieval gem, founded by the Celts and one of Germany’s oldest cities, celebrated for its illustrious past.  

The Imperial Cathedral steals the show—a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Romanesque masterpiece, and the resting place of Holy Roman emperors and German kings. The marble-floored crypt, a serene space adorned with pastel-coloured pillars, is the resting place of many Holy Roman emperors and German kings.  

Another landmark is the neo-Gothic Gedächtniskirche, built to commemorate the 1529 ‘Protestation at Speyer’, a pivotal moment in Protestant history when a group of Martin Luther’s followers rejected his imperial ban – and his religious followers subsequently known as Protestants. 
Returning on board for lunch, we’ll recommence our cruise, so sit back and watch the scenery slipping past through the panoramic windows. Soak up the rolling hills and fertile vineyards, home to the Liebfraumilch wines of the region, oxbow lakes, long deserted by the river flow and now havens for bird and wildlife.  

Tonight on board, we’ll be served a special treat - the 'Chef's Dinner,' a culinary journey featuring specialties from the regions we've explored. Dress to impress – if you fancy it; It’s the perfect way to celebrate the flavours of our cruise!  

During dinner our vessel arrives in the classic Rhine wine village of Rüdesheim, so you might fancy wandering ashore to enjoy a digestif – perhaps a glass of Asbach, the famous brandy distilled locally.   

Rüdesheim, Rhine Gorge & Koblenz - Our ship is moored in Rüdesheim, amidst crooked houses cascading down wooded hillsides and terraced vineyards. The morning unfolds with a walking tour through the bustling marketplace, (you’ll struggle not to fall for its charms), stopping to admire the half-timbered Klunkhardshof and formidable Bromserburg Castle, standing guard since 1275. 
This afternoon we’ll witness a real highlight of the cruise, the dramatic Rhine Gorge. Steep vineyards give way to almost vertical rocky outcrops, towering above the sweeping valley sides. Sailing past Saint Goar and its many ruined castles, the legends of this historic river come to life, and the infamous Loreley Rock, where beautiful nymphs supposedly lured sailors to their demise, adds a touch of mystique to our journey.  

Relax on the sun deck as our captain skilfully navigates the ship through the huge looping bend at Boppard – one of the river’s most captivating turns. Keep an eye out for the mighty Marksburg Castle too, an impressive fortress dating back to the 13th century.
It’s not long before we arrive in picturesque Koblenz, founded by the Romans, and strikingly located at the confluence of the Rhine and its sister, the Moselle. Wander Koblenz’s maze of medieval buildings in the Altstadt – old town – with traditional little shops and delicious aromas wafting from its classic Rhineland cafés.  

On our guided tour of this town, historic buildings emerge at every turn: you’ll see the former mint, the Four Towers with their ornamental 17th-century turrets and several fascinating squares and churches, including the 9th-century Basilica of Saint Kastor. The waterfront along the Moselle is stunning too, with the medieval Balduin Bridge, staggeringly still in use.  

If you manage to resist the tempting cakes on offer from the beckoning pavement cafés, then you’ll be ready for tonight’s meticulously prepared dinner on board. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the lively sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance featuring traditional instruments - a fitting conclusion to a day rich in history and culture.  

Cologne - Early birds will witness our departure from Koblenz as we set sail towards Cologne before we settle in for a leisurely morning on board as we drift through this lovely Rhineland scenery, past quaint riverside towns with pretty waterfronts and carefully tended vineyards. See the famous ruined bridge at Remagen, which was captured intact by the Allies towards the end of the Second World War, allowing thousands of troops to cross into Germany’s heartland and the forested Siebengebirge - Seven Mountains – a cluster of ancient volcanic hills. Rumour has it they inspired many of the Brothers Grimm’s legends, including Snow White.  
During lunch, we arrive in historic Cologne, where you’ll have a free afternoon to explore. Perhaps visit the cathedral, the largest Gothic structure on earth. It has Europe’s most intricate stained glass, (a labour of 600 years!) and when work was finally complete, it was the largest building on earth, until eclipsed by the Eiffel Tower.  

Or maybe you’ll opt to wander in the vibrant and attractive old town, beautifully restored and boasting a plethora of excellent shopping and cosy bars, some of which still traditionally brew their own beer.  

This evening, the chef presents another superb menu and it’s the perfect moment to reflect with your fellow diners on some of the wonderful places you’ve seen so far – with plenty more to in store!   

Cologne - After a lazy breakfast there’ll be the opportunity to recharge and reset today with time to yourself to get further acquainted with this beautifully grand and historic city. Your tick list might include a wander round the Sculpture Park or indulging your sweet tooth at the famous Chocolate Museum. Take a ride on the city’s cable car as you soar over the Rhine with dazzling views of the city and beyond. Or perhaps while away a few peaceful hours in the Museum Ludwig pondering the colourful canvases in its modern art collections then head to the Flora Botanic Hardens to lose yourself in the vibrant blooms and exotic plants. Don’t forget to stop for some refreshment with a glass or two of craft beer in the quirky Belgian Quarter too, with its cool bars and laid-back feel.  

Later return to the ship and relax on board (you’ll be in the swing of things by now!) before the chef wows us once again with another exquisitely presented menu.  

Cochem - Make the most of a free morning on board. After a leisurely breakfast, perhaps head to the gym or hair salon. Alternatively, you could find a spot on the sun deck and watch the scenery slip by.
After lunch we ease into our moorings at Cochem, the traditional centre of the Moselle wine trade, for an afternoon guided tour. A multi-turreted castle dominates the scene, but Cochem’s real allure lies in its jumble of narrow streets, quirky shops and wine cellars. (Top tip: don’t forget to sample the local Riesling).  

There’s ample time to explore here, immersing yourself in the relaxed ambience of this quintessential riverside town, before stepping back on board to enjoy the chef’s choices for dinner. Then delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance on traditional instruments.  

Trier - As we bid farewell to Cochem, our journey continues through a remarkable series of four locks, guiding us upstream. The steep surrounding landscape is a patchwork of vineyard-clad slopes, traversed by narrow tracks and zig-zagging roads - an impressive feat of cultivation on such challenging terrain. In the second century AD, the Romans discovered just how good the Moselle's flinty soils were for cultivating grapes and the region still thrives on its production of white varieties like Riesling. Whilst you ponder an aperitif before lunch, we’ll arrive in the town of Zell.  
Following lunch, we’ll drive to Trier for an afternoon exploration of one of Germany's ancient cities in the company of a local expert. Established by the Romans, Trier served as the capital of a vast empire that included present-day Spain, France, Britain, and parts of Germany and it had a population of 80,000 people. Walking in the footsteps of Emperor Constantine who once resided here, the city's history unfolds through its well-preserved Roman monuments such as the amphitheatre, baths, and bridge – as well as the Porta Nigra, a fortified gate made of massive stone blocks, which provides further proof (if it was needed) that the Romans knew a thing or two about building. You’ll not be surprised to learn Trier's Roman heritage, along with its Cathedral—the oldest bishop's church in Germany - forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

Returning to our ship, nestled in the town of Bernkastel, we prepare for another evening of exquisite dining. 

Bernkastel  - After breakfast on board, we’ll rendez-vous with our local expert to wander Bernkastel’s cobbled lanes to the market square.  Stand back and soak up the ambience: with its half-timbered houses complete with colourful window boxes and pointy gables, there’s more than a touch of the fairytale about this place. The town’s famous Pointed House isn't just a landmark - it's a classic example of a Moselle vintner’s dwelling, dripping in rustic charm and Middle Ages sophistication!  
Lunch will be served on board as the ship gracefully glides downstream. This afternoon it’s time to put your feet up and let the river views work their magic. Flop into a sun lounger on deck and drink in the fresh breeze to the soothing sounds of the rippling water. And relax.  

Another gourmet experience awaits this evening in the ship’s restaurant, and then cap off the evening with a nightcap in the company of newly made friends.  

Koblenz & Boppard - Early this morning we arrive in Koblenz, a city that stands as an incredible testament to over 2,000 years of history, with its imposing fortress overlooking the water. Koblenz is the perfect place to wander, so why not enjoy a little window shopping, before the aroma of fresh coffee and cakes tempts you to take a well-earnt break in one of the traditional cafés. Explore historic squares, marvel at restored facades, and uncover hidden gems known only to the locals.
Returning to our ship for lunch, we’ll proceed to Boppard, also known as the ‘Pearl of the Rhine’ for a guided tour, a famously picturesque town located on a long, looping bend of the river. The black and white spires of the Church of Saint Severus vie for our attention from afar, but as we draw closer the quayside comes into view.  

Cobbled streets, lined by half-timbered houses, tucked-away shops selling traditional goods and characterful restaurants, lead into the town and its main square. Like many riverside settlements in the area, Boppard wears its heritage proudly, with preserved town walls that rank among Germany's finest. Take your time here, promenading along the river, or just gazing at views of the vineyard-covered hillsides. Alternatively relax on board in anticipation of more fine dining in the ship’s restaurant this evening.  

Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim - There’s a bucket-list treat in store this morning as we cruise through the world-famous Rhine Gorge again, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and area of outstanding natural beauty. As the river twists and turns, encased by valley sides, make sure you’re up on deck to experience these views close-up. Ruins of castles teeter on the valley slopes, built by wealthy princes eager to display their power and influence and to extort tolls from passing river traffic. Legends abound here, most famously of the Lorelei - murmuring rock – where enchanting maidens lured unsuspecting sailors to watery graves. Look out for birds of prey floating above as we cruise on passing quaint villages – Saint Goar, Bacharach and Kaub – all famed for their wine production.  
Later, we’ll arrive back in Rüdesheim where you’ll have the afternoon to yourself. This town is like a postcard come to life, set amongst vine-covered slopes, with crooked houses, winding alleys, and quirky shops. Famous for its wine, especially the Riesling grape, Rüdesheim is a wine lover's paradise so make time to enjoy a glass or two in a local Weinstuben. Wander to the marketplace, with its pastel facades, and enjoy a spot of people-watching in a cosy tavern. You’ve got time to check out the Brömserburg Castle of one of the towns little museums. There’s a cable car over the town too, so you can hover above the vines taking in the views.

This evening the Chef hosts another gourmet dinner during which delicious specialities of the regions you’ve visited will be served.

Cologne  - We’ll slip our mooring early this morning and our ship resumes its voyage downstream. Breakfast-with-a-view is served as you savour the riverside towns, backed by the area’s trademark volcanic hills. Passing the last vineyards and half-timbered houses around the town of Linz, it’s not long before we reach the railway bridge at Remagen, captured intact towards the end of the Second World War, and arguably shortening the war in Germany.  
Not long after, we’ll draw into the heart of Cologne, in the shadow of the dual-spired cathedral. It’s a truly monumental building, taking over 600 years to build and featuring myriad religious and art treasures and perhaps the most intricate stained-glass windows in Europe.  

After lunch, our local guide leads us on a historic trail through the city, and then you’ll have time to yourself to stroll its tree-lined squares, stopping for a craft beer perhaps in one of the traditional bars, many of which still brew their own beer.  
After our final dinner tonight, indulge in a delicious on-board tasting, with a presentation and Q&A session from Cologne's Lindt Chocolate Museum and the chance to sample its world-famous produce. It’s the perfect way to ensure the sweetest memories of this river adventure!  

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