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A cruise starting in Munich is a great way to experience river cruising. We have 22 cruises that range from 8 days up to 11 days in length. The most popular time for river cruises leaving Munich is May.

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Top Rhine River Day-Trip Cruise Lines in Germany

Published on March 18, 2024

by Henk Bekker

in Germany , N24 , Rhine / Rhein River , Rhine River , River Cruises

Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) is the best Rhine River day trip cruise line with excursions from Cologne (Köln), Koblenz, Rüdesheim, and the Loreley Valley.

Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) and the Weisse Flotte Rhein are the best-known day-trip riverboat cruise lines on the Rhine River in Germany and are good choices for short to all-day excursion cruises. Popular day-trip cruises are to tour the Loreley Valley between Rüdesheim, St Goar, and Koblenz or panorama sightseeing cruises in larger cities such as Cologne, Düsseldorf, Cochem ( Mosel ), and Frankfurt ( Main ).

The Rhine River is a very popular day-trip destination from cities such as Cologne (Köln) and Frankfurt am Main. Trains run on both banks of the Rhein but nothing beats a cruise on the river itself. Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) has the largest number of boats on the Rhine River and has many cruises through the lovely Loreley Valley that could be as short as an hour or all day. Several further companies operate cruises on the Rhine and past the Lorelei (Loreley). Special savings deals are available on many cruises.

The KD Rhine Pass savings deal has not been on sale in recent years but Get Your Guide offers easy booking (and often sensible cancelation options) for day-trip cruises on the Rhine departing from many popular cities such as Cologne , Düsseldorf , Bonn , Koblenz , Boppard , Ruedesheim , Cochem , and Frankfurt . Most cruise lines now also accept online ticket purchases but several still prefer to sell tickets directly at the quay or on board cruise boats.

Tips for the Best Rhine River Day Trip Cruises in Germany

Day-trip cruises on the Rhine River are very popular in Germany with departures available from many cities and even small towns on the Rhine. Reservations are often not possible for regular day cruises but it is worth planning a bit in advance to take advantage of savings deals to get the best value (and finest views) from a cruise.

• Rhine riverboats differ in size in and between companies but there are little real noticeable differences between boats. Often it is best to simply take the next boat to depart.
• Most boats cruising on the Rhine River have their own restaurants and bars but it is acceptable to consume your own food and drink on the open decks of Linienfahrten , i.e. cruises with stops en route.
• The high season for Rhine River day cruises is from end April to early October. However, regular cruises operate usually from late March to late October.
• Cruises in winter months are very limited but often a few cruises may be available during the Christmas market Advent season. Departures are most likely from Rüdesheim and Cologne .
• Return trips on most Rhine River cruise lines are only marginally more expensive than one-way cruises. Often cruising up and down river on a scenic part of the river may be more rewarding than going a longer distance in one direction.
• If space is available, bicycles are transported for free on some boats — KD charges €3.50.
• Show Deutsche Bahn tickets (or often any public transportation ticket) if applicable when buying boat tickets and discounts are often applied – check German Railways timetables and book train tickets online at Deutsche Bahn . (If available, select the town name with KD at the end to include instructions on how to reach the boat landing from the train station.) The timetables sometimes include boat trips too.
• Smaller lines are often slightly cheaper than the Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) boats. However, the price difference is very small and the discounts offered by KD and the higher number of departures may well outweigh any price disadvantage.

See also Loreley Valley Rhine River Day Cruises for tips on sensible routings and cruise times between ports on the very popular Middle Rhine Valley.

Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) – the Largest Pleasure Day Cruise Line on the Rhine in Germany

Köln-Düsseldorfer, or simply KD , is the largest operator of pleasure boats for short and full single day cruises on the Rhine River in Germany. KD has been in business since 1827 but the oldest KD boat in operation is the SS Goethe first launched in 1913.

Köln-Düsseldorfer is generally a good choice for day cruises on the Rhine. KD has the largest number of departures by far of all Rhine pleasure boat lines. This allows passengers to make more stops en route if desired — remember to indicate all planned stops when buying tickets as separate tickets are issued for each leg of the cruise.

During the high season, KD has at least two boats doing the daily cruise route from Rüdesheim and Bingen to Koblenz (and return) with further boats cruising between Mainz and Boppard. Many more KD boats cruise between Bonn and Linz with the occasional boat starting from Cologne.

In 2024, no regular Rhine boats cruise between Linz and Koblenz in either direction. KD also does not offer Mosel cruises other than the panorama cruise in Cochem .

KD also often has arrangements with other local boat operators to offer a high number of departures.

Köln-Düsseldorfer historic SS Goethe paddle steamer from 1913 is the oldest regular cruise boat on the Rhine River. The Goethe steams daily (except Monday) from Koblenz to Rüdesheim and back — just over 6 hours upstream and just less than 4 hours going back.

Depending on the season, KD has scheduled cruises on the Rhine, Mosel , and Main rivers and panorama cruises in Düsseldorf , Cologne , Cochem , and Frankfurt . The Middle Rhine and Loreley Valley remain the top cruise by far.

Special Savings Deals KD Rhine River Boat Day Cruises

Köln-Düsseldorfer offers a wide range of special savings deals to make Rhine River day trips cheaper. Different discounts generally cannot be combined and official identification may be required. Also, discounts are only available for tickets bought in person for regular cruises and are usually only valid if KD’s own boats are used:

• Birthday Child – irrespective of age, a passenger and any partner may cruise for 50% off on the specific birthday date.
• Special family passes are good value. Sometimes the family day deals are available: Family Day — Wednesdays up to three children under 13 cruise for free per paying adult.
• Children between 4 and 13 cruise on KD for only €9 per day as long as they are accompanied by a fare-paying adult (up to 3 children per adult). Children under 4 sail for free.
• School children and students under 27 pay only half price if the above discounts are not applicable.
• Seniors over 60 receive 20% discount on all cruises.
• Dog tickets are €3.90 per cruise — dogs must be kept on a leash the whole cruise.
• On Tuesdays and Thursdays, cyclists sail two for the price of one on one-way trips (two cyclists and two bicycles – or a tandem – are required!). Ironically the bicycle ticket (€3.50 per bike per cruise) is not discounted.

For more details on these and other saving fares see Rhine River Day Cruise Saver Fares .

Weisse Flotte Rhein Rhine River Day Cruises in Germany

A few independent Rhine boat cruise operators cooperate under the Weisse Flotte Rhein banner. However, these companies set their own schedules and prices. These companies cruise on all parts of the Rhine but departures and cruises are most frequent in the vicinity of the Rhine where these independent boat cruise lines are based. Many cruise lines offer discount combination tickets for cruises and sightseeing sites.

Note that Rundfahrt (circular cruises) and Panorama Cruises usually mean that it is not possible to leave the boat en route or at a destination other than the original departure point, while Linienfahrten allow passengers to disembark anywhere en route, as is mostly the case with KD cruises.

The Weisse Flotter Rhein companies in geographical downstream order:

Bingen-Rüdesheimer Rhine River Day Cruise Pleasure Boat Line

Bingen-Rüdesheimer offers cruises in the Rüdesheim and Bingen area, as well as up to three daily cruises through the Loreley Valley to St Goar and St Goarhausen. Rüdesheim has a popular Christmas market and is one of the few towns along the Rhine that offers some cruises during the winter season. Bingen-Rüdesheimer still honors the tradition Geburtstagtarif — free cruises on a birthday. The child and bicycle fares are also slightly cheaper than KD and dogs mostly cruise for free.

See also Rhine River Cruises from Rüdesheim – a great town to start or conclude a Rhine day cruise.

Loreley Linie Weinand from Kamp Bornhofen

Loreley-Linie Weinand operates from Kamp Bornhofen with cruises to the Loreley Valley with stops mostly in Boppard, Kamp Bornhofen, Kestert, St Goar, and St Goarhausen. Once a week, it is possible to cruise all the way to Rüdesheim and back.

Bonner Personen Schiffahrt Rhine Cruises

Bonner Personen Schiffahrt cruises on the Rhine mostly from Bonn with panorama cruises in the former German capital as well as Rhine cruises mostly to Linz — some may be booked online. Cruises between Linz and Koblenz are rare and usually only for repositioning boats after Rhine in Flames fireworks shows.

Rössler Linie Rhine River Boat Cruises in Germany

Rössler Line is based in Rüdesheim-Assmannshausen. Rössler has mostly shorter Rhine cruises in the Rüdesheim vicinity but Rössler occasionally cruises down the Loreley Valley past Die Lorelei to St Goar / St Goarhausen. The shorter cruises in the popular Rüdesheim area may include visiting castles or winetastings — many may be booked online .

Köln Tourist Personenschiffahrt am Dom

Köln Tourist competes with KD in its home town Cologne. Although it offers some excursion cruises, it mostly operates panorama sightseeing cruises in the Cologne area including special harbor cruises and cruises with an emphasis on culinary events, dancing, and parties.

See also Loreley Valley Rhine River Day Cruises for tips on sensible routings and cruise times between towns from Koblenz to Mainz and Top Rhine Day Cruises from Cologne for similar information on cruises from Cologne (Köln), Bonn, and Düsseldorf.

More on the Rhine River in Germany

Day-Trip Excursions and Pleasure Cruises on the Rhine River:

• cruise from Rüdesheim ( cruise lines ), Koblenz ( cruise lines ), winter & Christmas
• from Frankfurt — fast trains to the Rhine , or slow boat to the Rhine
• from Mainz and Wiesbaden
• Savings Tips , Best Cruise Lines
• Lower Rhine — Cologne, Düsseldorf, Bonn to Linz
• Special events: Cruises to Rhine in Flames Fireworks , Christmas and New Year’s Cruises in Cologne , Düsseldorf , Frankfurt , and Rüdesheim
• Moselle River Cruises ( Cochem , Bernkastel-Kues, Trier, Koblenz , Burg Eltz )
• Cruises on the Main River in Frankfurt (or better By Train from Frankfurt to the Best Rhine Cruises )
• Cruises from Worms, Mannheim, Heidelberg (on the Neckar River)
• Cruises from Speyer
• Rhinefalls (Rhine Waterfalls, Schaffhausen, Stein am Rhein, Kreuzlingen) in Switzerland

Tips and Savings on Day-Trip Rhine Cruises

• The best part of the Rhine for day-trip excursion cruises in the Middle Rhine between Rüdesheim / Bingen and Koblenz . See Savings Tips and the Best Cruise Lines cruising in the Loreley Valley.
• Check train times for Germany (and most of Europe) at German Railways .

About the author:

Henk Bekker

Henk Bekker is a freelance travel writer with over 20 years of experience writing online. He is particularly interested in history, art, and culture. He has lived most of his adult life in Germany, Switzerland, and Denmark. In addition to European-Traveler.com , he also owns a travel website on the Lake Geneva region of Switzerland and maintains statistical websites on car sales and classic car auction prices . Henk holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School and an MSc in Development Finance from the University of London.

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Autumn Along the Rhine: Munich's Oktoberfest

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Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

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Along the river Rhine… where mountains rise abruptly from the water's edge, ancient castles perch aloft, keeping watch over comings and goings, gentle valleys and ancient winelands lure, spas give respite, cathedrals speak to powerful times, plains and woods catch the eye, and a river travels, connecting centuries of history, cities of the arts and crossroads of thought.

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There are "Oktoberfest" celebrations all over the world, but until you experience the one in Munich, where it began, you haven't really "done" the true Oktoberfest – a unique mix of beer consumption, Bavarian feasting, live brass bands, communal singing, and dancing. It all started in 1810 when a royal couple invited the citizens to their wedding festivities on the fields in front of the city. Today Munich's Oktoberfest – always held in September – is the largest festival in the world. Tauck has reserved seats for you in the center of the action, in one of the exclusive brewery tents... come join the party!

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If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into The Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland and France. You are not required to obtain a visa to enter any country visited for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact a consulate or embassy of the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland and France to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please Note: Longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

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Cruise Regulations – International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the riverboat, your passport will be held by the purser temporarily to make copies.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

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See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

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The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $900 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

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Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $799   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $900 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

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Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

The ms Grace is registered in Basel, Switzerland; ms Inspire is registered in Valleta, Malta. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section above for details on the coverage we can offer you.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S. , no vaccinations are currently required for travel to the Netherlands, Germany, France or Switzerland. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country , please contact an embassy or consulate of the Netherlands, Germany, France and  Switzerland to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for you to visit.

While a cruise from Amsterdam to Munich is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy all the cruise has to offer, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to significant amount of walking during our excursions, often along cobblestone streets, and at many sites there are multiple stairs or steps; for the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.

Your riverboat has four decks: Sun, Diamond, Ruby and Emerald. The elevator runs between the Diamond Deck and Emerald Deck; there is no elevator access to the Sun Deck. There is no chair lift between any of the decks.

Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor onboard the riverboat. In case of emergency, we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate service animals on any river cruise for medical and legal reasons.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

On board the riverboat, smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking (including e-Cigarettes) is not permitted in any cabin, the restaurant, the lounge or any other interior space.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The climate along the Rhine is temperate and unpredictable. From May through October, the average high temperatures increase as you travel south along the river.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is recommended. A light jacket or sweater for the sun deck is also recommended. Pack comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in, as many of the sites visited were built centuries ago and have uneven surfaces, some steep inclines and many steps.

During evenings aboard the riverboat, dress is resort casual.  Items such as slacks and collared shirts are appropriate for men.  For women, slacks, a dress or a skirt and blouse are suitable.  For dinner and throughout the evening, guests should refrain from wearing shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops or sneakers.  Your journey also includes one or two special occasion dinners, where a sport coat and tie for gentlemen and a dress/pantsuit for ladies are suggested.  (Your Tauck Director will advise you prior to those evenings.)

Bathrobes, slippers and hairdryers are provided in each cabin.

Valet laundry service is available on the riverboat for a fee. There is no valet dry cleaning available on the riverboat. Ironing facilities are available by request to the front desk. Category 7  suites feature their own irons and ironing boards.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the riverboat.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your cruise: 

• Flat, rubber-soled walking shoes for onboard the ship
• Comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your ship cabin while traveling

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River cruises from Munich, Germany 2024

A river cruise in Germany might take you along the Rhine, Danube, or Elbe, or through the picturesque Main and Moselle wine regions. If you want to explore more of Germany and experience everything it has to offer, these are your best bets. Finding a suitable spot to stay while also seeing many of...

Cruise Lines departing from Munich

Cruise lines departing from Munich include

River cruises departing from Munich can sail on the

Duration of the Munich cruises

The duration of river cruises departing from Amsterdam can be a

The best time of year for Munich river cruises

European river cruising generally runs from March through December; however, the months of late spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October) are considered to be the finest times to take a Isar river cruise. In the end, it all depends on the time of year you choose to explore the banks of the Isar. So, you will find river cruises departing from Munich in and any month you choose, you won't go wrong.

2024 Munich River Cruise Schedule

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We Took Our 5-year-old Son on a European River Cruise — Here's Why It Was the Ultimate Family Vacation

Most river cruise lines offer few accommodations for families, but German cruise line A-Rosa is working to change that.

Courtesy of A-Rosa Cruises

"Keep up, mummy," bellowed Sebastian, my fearless 5-year-old, as he and my husband, Eamonn, descended into Antwerp Cathedral's eerie crypt. This subterranean vault, accessed via a narrow coiling staircase off the church nave, is a small room with a low ceiling and crumbling hollow tombs. A shiver crept up my spine as I stood among the remains of this former burial chamber. This was my cue to return to the ground floor of Antwerp's extraordinary Gothic cathedral. 

While Sebastian and Eamonn explored the dimly lit crypt, I took the opportunity to gaze at the church's three Baroque masterpieces by Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens, before we reconvened at the cathedral's bar and bistro, De Plek, moments later. The bar, inside a chapel of the cathedral, serves the church’s own brews, including a dark and blond ale. Only in beer-loving Belgium, I thought to myself, would you find beers served inside a church. 

We were visiting Antwerp on day six of a seven-night family river cruise on the Rhine aboard A-Rosa Cruises ' A-Rosa Sena . Starting in Cologne, Germany, our voyage would take us northwest to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Dordrecht in the Netherlands, then to Antwerp before returning to Cologne. 

Kerry Spencer/Travel + Leisure

River cruising and families don't — typically — go together, with most river cruise lines catering to a much older market and offering few family facilities, if any at all. German river cruise line A-Rosa Cruises has set about changing this with the launch of the family-orientated A-Rosa Sena, which debuted in June 2022. 

The hybrid ship, partially electric-powered, is the largest on the Rhine, carrying up to 280 guests, and the vessel also boasts some nifty industry firsts. There's a jaunty kids' club; 12 large family cabins measuring 301 square feet, sleeping up to five with built-in bunkbeds; and a dedicated kids' splash pool on the top deck. 

The main pool, adjacent to the splash pool, is almost 250 square feet, making it big enough to swim short laps. For grown-ups, there's a spa, a buzzy lounge, a sun deck bar, and a wine room for tasting local libations.

It's all part of A-Rosa's mission to draw more families to river cruising — and it's working, says Serkan Bilici, A-Rosa Sena's assistant hotel manager. "We currently have 32 children onboard, and all of our family cabins are occupied," Bilici told Travel + Leisure . "During summer, this was even higher, with over 40 children sailing, from babies up to teens, and guests from over 20 different countries." 

"We also offered swimming lessons aboard selected sailings in August, which were very popular," Serkan adds. Indeed, there were babies, toddlers, older children, and teens on our weeklong October sailing. 

The ship, which primarily operates in English and German, ensures that children are well taken care of. Typically, there are two hosts at the kids' club, and on our sailing, host Mai organized a "Meet the Captain" event, treasure hunts, and arts and crafts sessions. The children were given independence too, free to choose exactly how they spend their time at the club, with games, books, and plenty of space for young passengers to relax.  

The kids' club is a real treat for families. Decorated with nautical-themed artwork, the space is soft and inviting, with children reading, coloring, and building dens while we played countless rounds of Snakes and Ladders with Sebastian.  

It wasn't the family facilities alone that lured us in, though — our voyage, " Rhine Experience Amsterdam & Rotterdam ," was a big pull.

Admittedly, this northwest section of the Rhine, flat and more industrial, doesn't have the cinematic drama of the more southerly stretch, where vineyards, castles, and medieval towns flank the waterway. But with overnight stays in ludicrously pretty Amsterdam and modern and buzzy Rotterdam, our itinerary excited us. 

We explored Cologne's ravishing twin-spire cathedral on a gloriously crisp fall day. Later, we roamed Rotterdam’s famous Piet Blom-designed cube houses and the city's excellent Maritime Museum, where the entire rooftop is dedicated to children.  

Lesser-known Dordrecht, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, felt like wandering a real-life fairytale. Compact and walkable, its cobbled streets are jam-packed with wonky, characterful merchant houses, antique stores, artisan workshops, and quaint cafes. 

We split our day here between exploring the town's enchanting streets and De Biesbosch National Park on the edge of Dordrecht. If it hadn't been lashing down with rain, we would have cycled from Dordrecht's center to the reserve, which takes around 40 minutes. Instead, we made the breezy 10-minute journey via the local Waterbus service.  

We'd just heard of De Biesbosch a few weeks earlier, yet it's among Europe's largest freshwater tidal zones, home to some 300 dam-building beavers. Made up of around 22,000 acres of streams, rivers, willow forests, marshes, and meadows, it was a welcome discovery.

As well as beavers, the reserve is rich in birdlife, including osprey, sea eagles, kingfishers, and kestrels. Canoes and boats can be hired and are the best way to explore this vast network of swampy paths and islands. 

A-Rosa offers some excursions geared towards families, such as a trip to Antwerp Zoo or Madurodam, a miniature park in the Netherlands. We opted to do our own thing at each destination, carefully balancing time onboard with time in each river port. 

"But I don’t want to leave the boat," Sebastian would grumble each morning we left the ship. However, his reluctance was soon forgotten as we explored family-friendly museums and thrilling nature reserves, and he was treated to a warm waffle with lashings of chocolate in Antwerp.

Early on in our voyage, after a less than harmonious night's sleep that saw Sebastian climb into our king-size bed at 2 a.m., I almost wept with gratitude when I remembered the kids' club had programming start right after breakfast. So, while Sebastian happily played, we caught a blissful extra hour of rest before heading to the NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam, a big hit with families thanks to its five floors demystifying sciences. 

Our penultimate day aboard saw us spend a whole day sailing. It was our chance to carve out time to relax. My husband joined a salmon-curing class while I visited the sauna, where I was instantly reminded that A-Rosa is a German tour operator — with mostly German passengers — meaning bathing suits are optional and rarely worn. I also indulged in a Thalgo facial, where Jelena, a former spa manager with Cunard and Celebrity Cruises, gave my dull-looking skin a blissful facial massage. 

We accompanied Sebastian to a pizza-making class with some of the other kids led by the chef in the ship's pastry galley. His jaw dropped as he experienced a real-life Willy Wonka moment; only the chocolate-filled conveyor belts were replaced with vats of colorful churning ice cream. 

As he ate his chaotic-looking pizza with his newfound friends, Eamonn and I pondered whether to choose a sliver of dressed salmon, pork goulash, or both for dinner. Another mealtime highlight was osso buco, a divine sauce-laden veal shank. 

Veal was a reoccurring theme, with juicy, seared cuts of the meat served one evening and meatballs another. A nightly children's buffet also featured popular dishes such as spaghetti bolognese and macaroni and cheese. A highlight for Sebastian: the three homemade ice creams set out each evening, complete with various toppings. In addition to the main buffet restaurant, A-Rosa Sena has a specialty steak restaurant where passengers can dine on salmon sashimi and beef entrecôte for an additional fee. 

One evening, we dined off the ship in Amsterdam and ate supper at a cozy bistro on a corner of Prinsengracht. Dining on bowls of lightly curried mussels at a sun-dappled canal-side table, we imagined milestones and romantic dinners were celebrated over the restaurant's intimate candlelit tables inside.

Later, instead of joining the quiz in the ship's lounge, we crashed out in our cabin to watch one of the family movies ("Peter Rabbit" was selected by Sebastian). Our Deck 3 room had a balcony, plenty of closet space, a sofa bed, and a flatscreen TV as big as you'd find in any luxury hotel. Some nights, we drifted to sleep with the blackout curtains slightly ajar, allowing moonlight to drift in as we lazily floated along the Rhine. Thinking of our entire trip, traveling to five cities in three countries over eight days any other way would have been, frankly, whiplash-inducing and undoubtedly exhausting, But this way, taking in the gentle bends of the Rhine, felt unhurried, perfectly punctuated with cities that matched the energy and curiosity of our almost 6-year-old.

In the end, it wasn't just the sights that made the trip memorable, but the serene pace of the river that allowed us to truly savor each moment with our son.

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7 of the best river cruises around the world for 2024

Take a tour of the world’s most famous waterways on your next holiday, article bookmarked.

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A cruise holiday isn’t always about setting sail across vast oceans. For an alternative type of break on the water, winding your way inland might sound similar but it’s a vastly different experience.

From crossing deep into the untouched areas of the Amazon rainforest to exploring some of Europe ’s finest cities, the river cruise experience is one that allows tourists to get to grips with the history, culture and tradition of a destination in a slow, immersive fashion.

This could be in the form of sampling Creole cuisine in Mississippi or discovering historic sites in Vietnam , but whatever it is, there’s plenty of choice across Europe , Asia , South America and North America .

Read on for a selection of the best cruises, from the Mississippi to the Mekong.

Europe’s second longest river – and arguably its most famous – river takes you through amazing capital cities and host of charming towns, as well as plenty of scenic countryside in Austria , Hungary , Slovakia and Romania. Cruises along the Danube can vary from a handful of days to almost three weeks, giving you time to explore the elegance of cities like Vienna , Budapest, Bratislava or Belgrade.

Emerald Cruises lets you see the best of the Danube with the addition of a hefty dose of traditional German culture in Munich. Leaving the Bavarian capital, you’ll travel to Passau before a quick cross-border trip to the Unesco-listed Czech city of Cesky Krumlov. Vienna is the next city, replete with opulent architecture, before a quick overnight stay in Bratislava on the sixth night. Guided tours and hikes around the castle are included, before you get three nights to explore Budapest, the Hungarian capital that is blessed with picturesque buildings, relaxed thermal baths and a buzzing nightlife scene. 

From £1,999pp, including nine nights’ accommodation, full board, tours of Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest and airport transfers. Departing 7 May 2024 to 20 October 2024.

Read more on Europe travel :

• The lesser-known Croatia destinations you may not have considered
• The best spas in Eastern Europe for an affordable, yet luxurious, break
• Lisbon travel guide: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay in Portugal’s vivacious capital

This famous river runs for over 4,000 miles throughout South America and is a major part of the eponymous rainforest, one of the most biodiverse and important natural areas on the planet. A river cruise remains the best way to reach deeper into the jungle, with many cruises beginning in the northern Brazilian city of Manaus or in the Peruvian city of Lima.

Start in Peru’s enchanting capital with the Peruvian Rivers and Rainforest Discovery cruise from Uniworld. You’ll fly to Iquitos, the largest city in the Amazon as your next stop, before delving into some of the most remote areas in the world as you take to the waters. From here, nature takes centre stage, with a variety of experiences – including jungle walks and kayaking on a lake – added to the enjoyment of natural features such as giant lilies, towering barrigona trees and around 10 per cent of the world’s known animal species.

From £8,799pp, including 10 nights’ accommodation, full board, return flights from London, domestic flights and various excursions. Departing regularly from 17 January until 6 November 2024.

Start in  Cairo  and make your way down to Aswan over a few days (though many shorter routes operate between  Aswan and Luxor  only). For a relaxing way to take in riverside scenery and some of Egypt’s most important historical sites, a river cruise is the ideal choice.

AP Touring’s  Egypt Discovery  trip takes you on a round trip from Cairo. You’ll cross thousands of years of history, starting with West Bank the Valley of the Kings, before a short flight to Aswan to explore Abu Simbel and a sighting of the landmark Pyramids of Giza near the Egyptian capital. The scenery along the route is exceptional, too, with palm trees, green spaces and mini oases dotted in between the yellow-hued rock.

From £6,995pp, including 12 nights’ accommodation, 30 meals (including unlimited local beer and wine) return flights from London Heathrow, domestic flights within Egypt and activities in each of the 10 destinations. Departing regularly from September 2024 to April 2025.

Exploring this land of castles and fairytales is a worthwhile European trip, with tours often starting in the pretty Dutch capital of Amsterdam and weaving across the German and French countryside, with the route broken up by cities such as Cologne, Dusseldorf and Strasbourg. Many of the towns located on the banks of the Rhine, such as Koblenz, are incredibly picturesque, with a range of medieval castles and natural sites like the Black Forest also featuring.

Ama Waterways provide a seven-night cruise that runs from Basel to Amsterdam. Get your cultural fix at either end of your trip in either of these two cities, before admiring the vistas around the Rhine Valley, the medieval castles that loom over towns like Heidelberg and the timber-framed buildings that line the streets of Riquewihr and Strasbourg. Stops in both Freiburg and Dusseldorf are also included, as well as an optional excursion to Cologne.

From £2,399pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, full board and tours in each destination. Departing regularly between 18 February and 28 December 2024.

The views around the Douro Valley are some of the best in Portugal , whether you’re sitting by the banks in Porto or admiring the verdant hills and vineyards around Pinhao. This region, well-known for its port production, has cruises lasting roughly one week that usually begin and end in Porto – where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean – with a brief crossing over into Spain and Salamanca.

The Riviera Travel package offers an affordable eight-day Douro option starting and ending in Porto , with two nights to explore Portugal’s magnificent second city (and to go on a guided tour of a well-known port producer). Days three and four take you to sleepy Castelo de Rodrigo and the historic Spanish city of Salamanca (with guided tours and time to explore at your leisure) before traversing the cascading vineyards of the valley on your way back to Porto via the beautiful Peso de Regua (and a local wine tasting).

From £1,599pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, full board, flights from a London airport, one excursion one each day and airport transfers. Departing regularly from 7 April 2024.

The Mississippi

Discovering the Deep South is often done by car, but with new routes recently from Viking Cruises, exploring Louisiana, Mississippi, Minnesota and Tennessee has never been more idyllic. The famed cities of New Orleans and Memphis can bookend your tour, with lesser-known locations such as Baton Rouge, Natchez and Darrow making up the other stops.

Opt for Viking’s ‘Heart of the Delta’ cruise to if you really want to immerse yourself in the Deep South. The cruise begins with a few days exploring the French influences and Creole cuisine of New Orleans , before moving on to Baton Rouge – a haven of Creole and Cajun culture – and then onto Natchez, the oldest city on the river. You’ll travel through other towns on the Mississippi – complete with walking tours or excursions to the Atchafalaya Swamp basin – before reaching Memphis, the atmospheric home of blues music.

From £6,545pp, including 12 nights’ accommodation, full board, return flights from London and one excursion per destination. Departing weekly from March 7 until 13 June, with additional departures on 7 November and 13 November.

The Mekong flows through a host of Asia’s most fascinating countries, including Vietnam , Thailand , China and Cambodia. Most cruises only take in parts of Vietnam and Cambodia , though this mix of floating fishing villages, traditional markets and the two capitals of Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh will be enough for most travellers. With Avalon Waterways , you’ll combine energetic, modern cities with some of the most vibrant culture in Asia and a history that is equal parts sobering and fascinating.

It starts in Siem Reap, site of the Angkor Wat temple, before moving on to the Cambodian capital, where you can learn about the dictatorship of Pol Pot and visit several must-see landmarks. After this, Vietnam beckons, with a visit to the dizzying Ho Chi Minh City to see its admirable architecture. Visits to markets, old Vietnam War tunnels, temples and cooking classes are dotted in between these city trips for good measure, with stops at characterful towns like Vinh Long, too.

From £4,229pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, full board and activities on each day of the trip. Departing regularly from 15 January to 11 March and from 12 August to 2 December 2024.

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'You're not fighting the crowds' in Europe when you visit on a river cruise

Europe has no shortage of marquee tourist hot spots , but Diamond Meadows’ first river cruise there didn’t include them.

The 28-year-old graduate student took a cruise along the Rhine and Moselle rivers that took her to cities like Koblenz and Trier in Germany (she supplemented the sailing with train travel around Austria, Switzerland and elsewhere).

Meadows was traveling with her mom and her mom’s boss, who uses a wheelchair. The group chose the CroisiEurope Cruises sailing for the ease of sailing with a mobility device . But she discovered other upsides.

“It takes you exactly into the heart of the city,” said Meadows, who is based in Tennessee. Their roughly 160-guest vessel offered convenient drop-offs in smaller destinations, allowing them “to access so much more.”

Many European destinations were packed with tourists last summer . But river cruises in the continent can offer a more laid-back way to travel with small ships visiting a mix of popular and less-crowded ports.

Are river cruises better than ocean cruises?

Jen Campbell Boles, founder of the travel agency Explore More Family Travel, said that while cruising in general is a “great value for seeing Europe,” river sailings are particularly immersive. “One quote we always use in the travel industry is, ‘Ocean cruise liners take you to the destination, river cruises take us through the destination,’” she said.

Passengers visit not only major cities but also quaint villages and often disembark within walking distance of attractions. When they are done exploring, they return to a ship with an average of 150 guests.

“It's more intimate, it's cozier,” said Campbell Boles. “You're not fighting the crowds, obviously.”

That was part of the draw for Jim Jones, 57, who took Avalon Waterways river cruises with his wife in 2011 and 2014.

“The smaller cities were an attraction,” said Jones, who is based in Phoenix and works for a software company. He enjoyed visiting Avignon in the south of France, for example, which was once the seat of the papacy . “I’m a total history geek,” he said. On their first cruise, he recalled, “just about every town” they visited had a farmers’ market, allowing them to sample local food.

'Access to hidden-gem ports': Why this luxury yacht is the best option for beach lovers

Unlike ocean cruise ships, with their large casinos and plentiful bars, onboard “it was very relaxed and a much slower pace.”

River cruise vessels tend to have “less bells and whistles,” Campbell Boles said (though she added that guests get a more personalized experience as a result of their small size).

Adam Duckworth, president and founder of Travelmation, echoed that. He said the cruises are less about the ship than where it’s going. “This is truly an experience about itineraries.”

Are European river cruises cheaper than land-based trips?

While travelers can find land-based accommodations that are less expensive than river cruises, there are other factors to consider.

River cruises tend to bundle more costs, such as alcohol in the fare, than a mainstream ocean cruise line, Duckworth said (though exact policies vary by line). At least one excursion per day is typically included, as well, Campbell Boles added.

She said demand for Europe is still “through the roof” and land-based pricing is particularly high. “Even if you're staying in the highest category stateroom or suite, you're spending less than an equivalent hotel,” she said.

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Transportation from one destination to another is also built into a river cruise, whereas travelers might have to take a train or make other arrangements to visit a mix of places. “I mean that really adds up in Europe, so this is a great way to see a lot more variety,” Campbell Boles said.

Passengers can also add pre- and post-cruise stays, allowing them to “get the best of both worlds.”

“What we say is that a river cruise oftentimes can be a premium product,” added Duckworth. “But for what you're experiencing – the comfort, the (lower) stress, the luxurious experience on board – we find it to be actually the best value through Europe from our experience.”

Are European river cruises kid-friendly?

Since river cruises require a certain amount of free time – most are at least seven days long – they have tended to be popular with older guests, according to Duckworth.

But in the past couple of years, he has noticed more multigenerational travel in the sector. “We're seeing grandparents bring their grandkids, we're seeing young professionals go on a river in Europe for the first time,” Duckworth said.

Some operators have offerings that are particularly well-suited to younger guests. Adventures by Disney offers river cruises with AmaWaterways, and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has a Generations Collection .

How long should I go on a cruise?: How long and short cruises compare

Even if programming is curated with kids in mind, though, Duckworth cautioned that river cruise vessels don’t offer the same breadth of amenities as large ocean ships. “If your kids want to go to a waterpark and they want to go on a FlowRider and they want to play putt-putt all day, there are great lines for you, but a European river cruise is probably not one of them currently,” he said.

Some lines also don’t allow kids or have varying age requirements, so it’s important to do some research beforehand.

For those going for the first time, Campbell Boles suggested starting with a cruise on the Danube or Rhine since they are “kind of the most iconic.”

“I mean, it’s Europe,” she added. “It’s going to be great no matter what river you go on.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville, Tennessee. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Cruise with Paso Wineries Around the World

By Jessica Locklin

May 22, 2024.

From the sun-drenched hillsides of Spain to the rolling vineyards of the Rhine Valley and icy beauty of Alaska, winery cruises offer a taste of some of the most enchanting settings. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, these cruises are sure to delight all who come aboard. Join these great Paso Robles wineries for an unforgettable journey through Spain, France, Germany, Hungary, Tahiti, or Alaska, where every sip tells a story, and every moment is filled with magic.

But it’s not just about the breathtaking scenery – it’s also about the wine. Guests onboard will have the chance to participate in exclusive wine tastings led by the owners and winemakers, where they can sample a variety of wines from the host winery and learn about the unique characteristics of each varietal. For those looking to elevate their experience even further, onboard winemaker dinners provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy gourmet cuisine expertly paired with exceptional wines, all while cruising through some of the world’s most stunning landscapes.

Check out the list below to discover some of the Paso Robles wineries hosting a cruise between 2024-25. With a variety of options available, there’s something for everyone!

Lone Madrone: Rhine River through Germany, France, and Switzerland

Immerse yourself in history, and take a stroll through beautifully preserved medieval towns and visit stunning imperial palaces… Sample the fruits of the Rhine’s famously excellent wineries, the superb crisp white varieties such as Riesling, Sylvaner, and Gewürztraminer, and enjoy traditional delicious local treats such as Sauerbraten, waffles, Halver Hahn, Himmel und Erde, and Spekulatus. Explore the lush environment of this verdant river valley, with active nature excursions including a canoe ride through the Mainschleife nature reserve. Plus, partake in the sophistication of cosmopolitan cities like Frankfurt, Strasbourg, and Basel.

Set sail July 17-24, 2024

View full itinerary and purchase tickets here

Turtle Rock Vineyards , Riise Wine, Hawks Hill Ranch Winery : Rhône River

Join Turtle Rock Vineyards , RIISE Wine , and Hawks Hill Ranch Winery on an epic seven-night cruise along France’s picturesque Rhône River. Winemakers Don Burns, Juan Mercado, Kit Kuyper and Where Wine Takes You podcast host Adam Montiel will be onboard with you for this remarkable voyage, with daily stops at charming historic vineyard towns along the route. Experience captivating land excursions, exquisite pairing dinners, breathtaking scenery, and intimate tastings of some of the finest wines in the world.

Set sail August 1-8, 2024

Brecon estate : spain and portugal.

Join Damian and Amanda on this “bucket list” trip to Spain and Portugal. Embark from charming Porto and cruise the wild Douro River for seven nights to the Spanish border. Then spend two nights in delightful Penafiel, staying in a 12th century monastery converted to a deluxe, five-star hotel and spa. We’ll also visit the Roman city of Segovia and conclude the program with two nights in Madrid visiting the renowned Prado Museum.

On board will be an ample provision of Brecon Estate wines , along with local Iberian vintages. This exclusive holiday is dedicated to great food, fine wines, and plentiful sunshine. Join Brecon for this once-in-a-lifetime wine experience.

Set sail August 13-24, 2024

Justin vineyards & winery : rhine river.

Enjoy a JUSTIN cruise personally hosted by Justin Baldwin, founder of JUSTIN, and Rachel Haggstrom, executive chef, aboard Uniworld’s new S.S. Victoria.

Discover Alsace, whose dual French and German heritage has given it fabulous food and a winemaking tradition that goes back to the Romans. Marvel at castles that were once mighty fortresses and get an insider’s look at one of the only castles on the Rhine that has never been destroyed, Marksburg Castle. Visit historic cities, including ancient Cologne and picturesque Strasbourg; stroll through the fairytale town of Rüdesheim; and taste delightful white wines in the villages where the grapes are grown.

While cruising the Rhine you will be treated to exclusive JUSTIN events with your hosts and enjoy impeccable JUSTIN wines.

Set sail September 14-22, 2024

Peachy Canyon Winery : Seine River

This program is an 11-night Seine River cruise and tour, starting in the village of Chantilly and visiting the Champagne city of Epernay. Visit the extraordinary caves of Moet Chandon, then on to Paris for two nights before voyaging for seven nights down the Seine River Valley through Normandy. The deluxe 148-passenger ship AmaLyra will be our home for seven nights as we cruise down and up the placid and beautiful Seine River.

On board, enjoy two private tastings and a paired dinner with the best wines from Peachy Canyon , contrasting our Central Coast wines with those of France. More importantly, explore together the charming villages and chateaux of Normandy. This is an incredibly historic region. If you enjoy great art, history, wine, and food, this is a fabulous experience.

Set sail October 20-31, 2024

Hearst ranch winery: danube river to budapest.

Cruise the enchanting Danube from Passau to Budapest on a culinary, wine-filled, and breathtaking tour through the heart of Europe aboard Uniworld’s luxurious S.S. Maria Theresa. This perfectly composed journey provides an immersive cultural tasting menu of four equally beguiling countries—ideal for first-time river cruisers as well as seasoned travelers seeking to experience yet another dimension of these much-loved destinations. The ship is anticipated to sell out fast due to this limited availability. Jim and Debi Saunders of Hearst Ranch Winery invite you to join them in discovering incomparable wine, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking sights. Pre-cruise in Munich July 3-5 and a post-cruise in Prague will be offered July 13-15.

Set sail July 6-13, 2025

For further information or to book your trip please contact Joelle Cliff of Frosch Travel at [email protected]

Eberle Winery: Rome to Venice

Join Winemaker Chris Eberle of Paso Robles family-owned Eberle Winery for an unforgettable journey offering culture, natural beauty, and regional cuisine through Italy, Greece, Croatia, and more. The ten-day cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ intimate ship – Nautica the perfect blend of magnificent ports of call appealing to the wine-lover in all of us!

Set sail July 7–17, 2025

Harmony cellars: alaska.

Immerse yourself in the best of the 49th state – calving glaciers, breathtaking fjords, fascinating wildlife encounters and lively historic gold-mining towns – all while enjoying hand-selected wines during exclusive onboard events with your hosts, Harmony Cellars Proprietors Chuck and Kim Mulligan.

Set sail July 8-17, 2025

Midnight Cellars : Bordeaux

Rich and Michele Hartenberger are hosting an unforgettable wine cruise in Bordeaux. This exclusive journey, organized by Food & Wine Trails aboard Uniworld’s S.S. Bon Voyage , will take you through Bordeaux’s diverse terroirs, historic sites, and world-renowned wines.

During this exceptional voyage, you will explore the iconic wine regions of Bordeaux, including visits to Bordeaux, Fort Médoc, Cadillac, Blaye, Libourne, St. Émilion, and more. You’ll delve into the nuances of Left Bank Cabernet Sauvignon wines and Right Bank Merlot wines, experiencing the unique terroirs that produce these exceptional varietals.

Onboard, you will be treated to exclusive events featuring Midnight Cellars wines alongside Midnight’s owner and winemaker, Rich Hartenberger who is celebrating his 30th year in business. From informative wine tastings to gourmet dining experiences, every moment of this cruise promises to be a delight for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

Set sail August 3-10, 2025

Cass winery : lower danube.

Join Steve and Alice Cass on a river cruise through Lyon, Macon, Vienne, Avignon, Arles, and Nice. Treat yourself to the regional sights, culinary experiences, cultures, and more.

This weeklong excursion is a chance to dive deeper into the culture of wine, great cuisine, and the balance of world adventure.

Set Sail October 15-22, 2025

View the full itinerary and purchase tickets here

Tobin James Cellars: Danube River

Come join winemakers and owners Tobin James, Lance and Claire Silver and your wine loving friends on a complete takeover cruising down the Danube River. Enjoy a free flowing array of Tobin James Wines and amazing cuisine!

Set Sail May 5-12, 2025

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4 reasons why a river cruise is an exceptional travel experience

T he joys of a river cruise are plenty. Whether you are dreaming of sailing down the romantic Danube, historic Seine or vineyard-laced Douro, this exceptional way to travel combines a unique blend of relaxation, culture, and exploration.

What makes Viking river cruises great is their intimate and sociable ambiance. River cruise ships are smaller than ocean ships, which means that you can connect more easily with fellow travellers and enjoy attentive service throughout your journey.

Scenic beauty is unparalleled, too, as you peacefully glide along picturesque rivers, passing through charming towns, taking in the awe-inspiring landscapes.

Plus, once onboard a Viking river cruise you get to unwind in modern, comfortable staterooms with stunning views from your room.

A river cruise journey offers a relaxed, hassle-free way to explore diverse destinations, making it an exceptional travel choice for those seeking a balance of leisure, culture, and captivating views.

Thinking of booking a river cruise? Let’s get into four key reasons why it is such an exceptional travel experience.

1. Ease of travel

One of the great joys of river cruising is that you can visit multiple countries or destinations with ease. There’s no need to navigate foreign roads, train stations or airports, no packing and unpacking and checking in and out of hotels every day. Simply unpack once and wake up in a new destination every day, refreshed and ready to explore.

“As far as ease of travel goes, river trips can’t be beaten. Not having the hassle of constantly having to pack and unpack like you do on long road trips or guided coach tours is a marvellous feeling,” confirms our Australian Women’s Weekly travel editor, Bernard O’Shea.

2. Everything is included

The all-inclusive nature of a river cruise simplifies your travel experience and makes it one of the most cost-effective ways to travel, too.

On Viking, your cruise fare includes transportation between destinations, a river view stateroom, all meals on board with wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, unlimited Wi-Fi, a guided excursion in every port, and more.

Port excursions are led by Viking’s knowledgeable local guides who are passionate about their unique region. From the iconic to the obscure, soak up the culture, art, history and architecture of your destination while gaining an insight into the local way of life. They will often share stories and traditions passed down through their family generations, all insights that you’ll never read in a guidebook.

Food is one of the best ways to experience a destination. On board a Viking cruise, expect world-class chefs who use locally sourced ingredients to prepare meals, regional specialities and everyday classics that are bursting with fresh, local flavours.

On Viking, enjoy personalised service in The Restaurant, or dine al fresco on the Aquavit Terrace – the only outdoor á la carte restaurant on the rivers of Europe.

3. Experience a new destination every day

Sit back, relax and enjoy the ever-changing scenery on board the elegant Viking Longships as they gently carry you into a new destination every day. Because of their size, river ships can dock in the heart of some of the world’s biggest cities as well as the smallest towns, so you are just a short walk from opportunities of discovery.

River cruises prioritise cultural enrichment, providing guided excursions to historical sites and local experiences that deepen your understanding of the regions you visit.

4. Explore your own way

You can choose to do as much or as little as you like on a Viking cruise. Join a range of included and optional excursions, hike a mountain, cycle a valley, explore on your own, or enjoy an afternoon of quiet solitude, the choice is yours.

Discover more about the people, culture, history and cuisine of every destination. On a Viking river cruise you will spend longer in each place and enjoy entertaining talks, cookery demonstrations and lively performances to bring each destination to life back on board.

Laid-back, easy-going, and sociable, that’s the Viking way. There’s no butlers, formal nights or fancy dress, just a relaxed and casual ambience on board a Viking river ship, very much like the kind of guest they attract. Visit Viking to find out more about river cruises.

Europe’s best-kept secrets

7 things to expect on your first river cruise, holiday, scandi style .

The post 4 reasons why a river cruise is an exceptional travel experience appeared first on The Australian Women's Weekly .

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Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle

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Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle Map

Holiday traditions in the Rhineland

Revel in yuletide cheer as you discover beloved European holiday traditions during this scenic 12-day cruise tour. Admire festive seasonal displays in Paris, the vibrantly lit facade of the cathedral in Reims and Alsatian bonhomie in Strasbourg. Browse stalls full of local delicacies and handicrafts at the charming Christmas markets of Trier, Koblenz and Mannheim, and enjoy a warm mug of glühwein while in the shadow of the Alps in Zürich.

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All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

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2 dead, 5 missing after Danube River boat collision in Hungary

• By Associated Press

Police say two people have died and five are missing following a boat collision on the Danube River in Hungary.

Hungarian police received a report late Saturday night that a man had been found with a head injury on the shore of the Danube near the town of Veroce, around 50 kilometers north of the capital, Budapest. The bodies of a man and a woman were later discovered nearby.

Hours after the police began their search, they discovered a damaged boat in the water, which they towed to shore. They are still searching for five adults — three men and two women — who they believe were on the boat.

Police said they determined that a river cruise boat had been in the area at the time of the accident. They stopped a cruise boat with a damaged hull near the town of Komarom, more than 80 kilometers farther upriver.

Hungarian public television station M1 reported that the cruise boat, Heidelberg, is a 357-foot Swiss craft that can accommodate 110 people. No passengers on that boat sustained any injuries, M1 said.

The Danube at Veroce is roughly 460 meters wide and is in the center of an area called the Danube Bend where the river makes a sweeping, nearly 90-degree turn to the south. The area is a popular recreational and boating destination and is on a route often used by cruise boats between Budapest and the Austrian capital, Vienna, some 230 kilometers upriver.

The deadly accident comes five years after at least 27 people were killed in Budapest when a river cruise boat collided with a smaller tourist vessel, sinking it in seconds.

The tourist boat Hableany, carrying 35 people who were mostly South Korean tourists, was overtaken from behind by the much larger cruise boat, Viking Sigyn, beneath Budapest's Margit Bridge, in May 2019. The Ukrainian captain of the Viking Sigyn was last year found guilty of negligence leading to a fatal mass catastrophe and sentenced to five years and six months in prison. He has appealed the decision.

Police said Sunday they have initiated criminal proceedings against an unknown perpetrator on suspicion of endangering water transport and causing the deaths of several people.

A spokesperson for the Directorate General for Disaster Management told Hungarian news agency MTI that a group of nearly 90 people from several regional disaster management agencies were conducting the search for the missing from the land, water and sky.

Twelve boats and three drones are involved in the search, and two rescue divers are also involved, Imre Doka said.

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