ITINERARY
Switzerland, France, Germany, The Netherlands
June 24 - July 1, 2028
Grand cities blend in perfect harmony with their historic past and progressive future. Along the Rhine, inspiring towns have given rise to great stories, poetry, and music, including Heidelberg, a city that has inspired generations of writers, poets, and musicians, including Mark Twain. Timeless traditions endure,
from the brewing of Germany’s legendary beers to the ceremonial preparation of Rüdesheimer coffee. Take a front-row seat on an
enchanting journey through the Rhine Valley and its UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site, where more than 40 castles
are strung like pearls along the riverbanks and magnificent cities and charming villages await at every turn.
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DAY 1. BASEL – EMBARKATION
Bon voyage! Embarkation day is finally here and we are thrilled to have you on board for this exquisite journey along the Rhine River. As you step aboard, prepare to immerse yourself in a world of flavors, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. We are especially excited to share this experience alongside our incredible wine hosts and fellow travelers. From unforgettable tastings and scenic villages to lively conversations and memorable evenings together, we look forward to an amazing week of discovery, connection, and celebration.
***On-Board Event:
Meet the Winemakers Happy Hour
Please note itinerary, included excursions and on board wine events are subject to change. The confirmed itinerary will be shared leading up to the departure date.
Dinner included on board. -

DAY 2. BREISACH, GERMANY
Breisach serves as your gateway to several distinctive excursions, each offering a different perspective on the region. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Colmar, where centuries-old architecture and storybook canals create an unforgettable setting. During your walking tour, admire the beautifully preserved historic center and discover why this charming town remains one of the region’s most beloved destinations.
Guests seeking a more active experience may choose to cycle through the scenic countryside or hike through the heart of the Kaiserstuhl, a volcanic region celebrated for its unique landscapes, vineyards, and remarkable biodiversity.
Included Excursions:
Colmar Walking Tour
Scenic Bike Ride
Kaiserstuhl Hike
***On-Board Event: Wine Tasting hosted by the winemakersBreakfast, lunch, and dinner included on board.
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Day 3. STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, reflects both French and German influences shaped by its storied borderland history. Begin with a short drive to Place de la République before exploring the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-designated La Petite France district on foot. Wander along charming canals and cobbled streets lined with half-timbered homes while taking in the beauty of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame and its renowned astronomical clock.
For those seeking a more active experience, a guided bike ride offers another perspective of this captivating city and nearby Parc de l’Orangerie.
Included Excursions:
Strasbourg Walking Tour
Strasbourg Bike Tour
***On-Board Event:
Wine Pairing Dinner with the wine hostsBreakfast, lunch, and dinner included on board.
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Day 4. LUDWIGSHAFEN, GERMANY – RÜDESHEIM
Ludwigshafen is your gateway to a choice of excursions. Visit Heidelberg, the beautifully preserved medieval city along the Neckar River, where you’ll explore the iconic red sandstone Heidelberg Castle and its remarkable Great Vat. For a more active experience, hike the Philosopher’s Path and enjoy panoramic views of the city and river valley. Alternatively, visit historic Speyer, home to a UNESCO-listed Romanesque cathedral and the medieval Altpörtel.
Later, sail to Rüdesheim, where you may visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet or sample the town’s signature Rüdesheimer coffee, traditionally prepared with brandy.
Included Excursions:
Heidelberg Castle Tour
Philosopher’s Path Hike
Speyer Tour
Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet
Rüdesheimer Coffee ExperienceBreakfast, lunch, and dinner included on board.
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Day 5. RÜDESHEIM – RHINE GORGE – LAHNSTEIN
Your exploration of Rüdesheim continues with a selection of excursions designed to match a variety of interests. Ride a gondola to the Niederwalddenkmal monument and enjoy sweeping views over the Rhine before savoring a tasting of local Riesling wines among the vineyards.
Those seeking a more active experience may hike through Rüdesheim’s vineyards, taking in views of the town, Roman Bridge, and Bromserburg Castle, or join a guided bike ride through town and along the Rhine River.
Later, settle in for one of the cruise’s most scenic stretches as the ship sails through the legendary Rhine Gorge, where castles rise above the riverbanks and centuries of folklore come to life. Upon arrival in Lahnstein, enjoy a visit to Lahneck Castle.
Included Excursions:
Gondola Ride and Riesling Tasting
Vineyard Hike
Rhine Bike Tour
Lahneck Castle VisitBreakfast, lunch, and dinner included on board.
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Day 6. MONHEIM – DÜSSELDORF, GERMANY
Monheim serves as your gateway to nearby Cologne, where you may join a guided tour through the city’s enchanting Old Town. Discover historic landmarks including the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall, the Fishmarkt, dating back to the 12th century, and Great St. Martin Church.
Guests wishing for additional time in Cologne may opt for a full-day excursion that includes ample free time for independent exploration.
In the afternoon, explore historic Düsseldorf on foot alongside a knowledgeable local guide or choose a more active bike tour for a broader perspective of the city.
Included Excursions:
Cologne Walking Tour
Full-Day Cologne Excursion
Düsseldorf Walking Tour
Düsseldorf Bike Tour***On-Board Event: Q&A with winemakers + rare/library wine tasting.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included on board.
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Day 7. AMSTERDAM
Begin your day in Utrecht, where you may explore this charming Dutch town on a guided walking tour or enjoy a special beer tasting experience.
Later, return to the ship and enjoy the scenic journey into Amsterdam. Once there, choose between a picturesque canal cruise offering close-up views of the city’s celebrated waterways or a culinary stroll through Amsterdam, where traditional canals, gabled houses, narrow bridges, and houseboats create the backdrop for tasting local Dutch specialties.
Featured Excursions:
Utrecht Walking Tour
Beer Tasting Experience
Amsterdam Canal Cruise***On-Board Event:
Farewell post-dinner cocktails with the winemakersBreakfast, lunch, and dinner included on board.
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Day 8. AMSTERDAM - DISEMBARK
DISEMBARKATION.
Bid farewell to Amsterdam as you prepare for your return flight home. After a week of remarkable wines, inspiring destinations, and shared experiences with our wine hosts and fellow guests, we hope you leave with lasting memories and new friendships formed along the Rhine.Breakfast included on board.
PLEASE NOTE:
Itinerary is subject to change.
***On-Board Events are examples and subject to change based on the final itinerary.
Airport Information
Airlines typically release flight schedules 11 to 12 months in advance. The nearest airport to the embarkation port in Basel is EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL), located approximately 20 to 30 minutes away by car. Zurich Airport (ZRH) is a convenient alternative, offering additional international flight options and located approximately 1 to 1.5 hours away by train or car.
At the conclusion of the cruise, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is the closest airport, located approximately 30 to 40 minutes
from the port, depending on docking location and traffic. After making your reservation, the Cork & Cruise team will be
happy to assist with flight arrangements.