Strasbourg • Mannheim • Nierstein • Rüdesheim • Rüdesheim • Cologne • Amsterdam
Embark on an unforgettable Rhine River journey and sail from Strasbourg to Amsterdam in comfort and style. Begin with seamless private transfers and a refined hotel stay before you sail through the heart of Europe aboard the elegant MS Gérard Schmitter. Sail along the legendary Romantic Rhine, where medieval castles, vineyard-covered hills, and the iconic Lorelei Rock create a breathtaking backdrop. Discover charming towns such as Rüdesheim and Cologne, rich in history, culture, and character. Continue to sail into the Netherlands and enjoy ample time in Amsterdam exploring its world-famous museums and picturesque canals.
Day 1: London Gatwick Airport to Strasbourg International Airport
Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
Stay a night at Hotel Hannong
Private Transfer Hotel to Port
Day 2: Strasbourg
Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, is a city where French and German cultures have intertwined since its Roman founding. Historically known as Argentoratum, it became a center of the Protestant Reformation and is now a symbol of European unity. After your welcome cocktail, take a moment to admire the timber-framed houses of Petite France and the soaring spire of the Strasbourg Cathedral. As the ship departs at 6:00 p.m., you will glide past the illuminated European Parliament buildings, beginning your journey north through the ancient locks of the Upper Rhine toward Mannheim.
Day 3: Mannheim - Nierstein - Rdesheim
Mannheim is a city of innovation, famous as the site where Karl Benz invented the first motorcar in 1885. After a morning arrival, the cruise continues toward Nierstein, one of Germanys most prestigious wine-growing regions. Upon reaching Rdesheim, a town known for its viticulture since Roman times, you must visit the famous Drosselgasse. This narrow cobblestone lane is lined with historic wine taverns and live music. You can also take a cable car over the sloping vineyards to the Niederwald Monument for a breath taking panoramic view of the Rhine Valley and the shimmering river below.
Day 4: Rdesheim - Cologne
Today you sail the "Romantic Rhine," a UNESCO World Heritage stretch famous for its concentration of over 40 medieval castles. You will pass the legendary Lorelei Rock, where myths say a siren lured sailors to their doom. By afternoon, you arrive in Cologne, a city founded by the Romans in 38 B.C. The skyline is dominated by the Cologne Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that took over 600 years to complete. After exploring the Old Town and its famous Brauhauses, return to the ship for a sophisticated Gala Dinner, celebrating your journey with a festive evening of fine dining and music.
Day 5: Amsterdam
As you transition from the Rhine to the Dutch waterways, the landscape shifts to the iconic flat polders and windmills of the Netherlands. This day of cruising allows you to enjoy the panoramic views from the sun deck of the MS Grard Schmitter. Upon arriving in Amsterdam, a city built on millions of wooden pilings during the 17th-century "Golden Age," you are free to explore. Spend your evening wandering along the Prinsengracht or Keizersgracht canals, which are beautifully lit at night. The city's atmosphere is uniquely "gezellig" (cozy), offering endless charm in its leaning brick houses and historic bridges.
Day 6: Amsterdam
With a full day in Amsterdam, you can dive into its world-class art history at the Rijksmuseum, home to Rembrandts The Night Watch, or visit the Van Gogh Museum. Historically a powerhouse of global trade, the city's heart is Dam Square, the site of the 13th-century dam that gave the city its name. For a local perspective, take a canal boat tour to see the city from the water, passing the Anne Frank House and the historic Western Church. Whether you are browsing the floating Flower Market or enjoying a Dutch pancake, the citys blend of historic grit and modern creativity is captivating.
Day 7: Amsterdam/Departure
Your journey through the soul of Western Europe concludes this morning. After enjoying one last buffet breakfast on board the MS Grard Schmitter, you will disembark at 9:00 a.m. If you have time before your flight or train, consider a final walk through the Jordaan district, once a working-class neighbourhood that has transformed into a hub of artisan boutiques and quiet courtyards called hofjes. As you leave the ship, you take with you memories of the vineyard-clad hills of the Rhine and the timeless, water-bound elegance of the Dutch capital.
What is included in the offer
• Return flights from Gatwick with 23kg baggage
• 1 night at the 4* Hotel Hannong, Strasbourg with breakfast
• 5 nights full-board cruise on-board MS Gérard Schmitter
• All meals
• Wine, beer & soft drinks at meal times
• Wi-Fi
• Official welcome from the captain and crew
• Onboard activities
• All overseas transfers
Prices & Departures:
Full Payment
B33893 Gatwick from £1,749pp
B34024 Manchester from £1,849pp
B34030 Glasgow from £1,899pp
B34038 Dublin from £1,799pp
Based on solo occupancy
• B34009 Gatwick from £2,649
Terms & Conditions:
Based on 2 adults sharing
Meal Plans
- As per Itinerary