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Enchanting Rhine Cruise

July 14, 2020

7 Days | 9 Cities | 3 Countries

RC140720 – Basel to Cologne

Overview

What better place to start your Enchanting Rhine Adventure than in the historically diverse city of Basel, Switzerland.  Nestled along the river, where the borders of Germany, France and Switzerland converge, Basel’s wide offering of museums, festivals, and architectural styling has earned it the title of Switzerland’s Cultural Capital.  

You will want to keep your camera handy as you wind through the beautiful town of Strasbourg, France. The city’s rich French and German heritage is on full display within each of Strasbourg’s four “quartiers” (districts) showcasing architectural styles ranging from Medieval and Renaissance to Art Nouveau. We end our Rhine adventure in the old Roman city of Cologne. One of Germany’s largest cities and the capital of the Rhineland, Cologne straddles both sides of the Rhine and is Gothic cathedral.

The MS Royal Crown is a luxury river cruise vessel with it’s on board ambiance “intended to compare with that of a private yacht” and the chef on board is generally regarded as one of the finest working on the rivers.

Itinerary

Date
Port
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Arrival: Embarkation: Check in 3:00 PM
Depart: 9:00 PM

What better place to start your Enchanting Rhine Adventure than in the historically diverse city of Basel, Switzerland.  Nestled along the river, where the borders of Germany, France and Switzerland converge, Basel’s wide offering of museums, festivals, and architectural stylings has earned it the title of Switzerland’s Cultural Capital.  Recently voted as one of the world’s top 10 livable cities, Basel embraces its unique blend of past and present at every turn. From the ornate Gothic spires of Basel Münster and centuries-old art collection of the world famous Kunstmuseum, to Roche Tower, the city’s 41-story contemporary icon and the whimsical Spielzeug Welton toy museum, expect the unexpected as you explore this unique gem.

Arrival: 9:00 AM
Depart: 7:00 PM

You will want to keep your camera handy as you wind through the beautiful town of Strasbourg, France. The city’s rich French and German heritage is on full display within each of Strasbourg’s four “quartiers” (districts) showcasing architectural styles ranging from Medieval and Renaissance to Art Nouveau. At the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage center is the breathtaking Strasbourg Cathedral and its intricately designed Astronomical Clock.  From there a maze of narrow streets, waterways and picturesque bridges beckon you deeper into its fairytale setting, but be warned, once you taste the tarte flambée you may never want to leave.

Arrival: 2:00 AM
Depart: 8:00 PM

Welcome to Speyer, the small Rhine port city that offers a big glimpse into the history of the Palatinate’s religious growth and diversity.  Listed as one of Germany’s oldest cities, rare archeological findings trace Speyer’s roots back to a Roman camp in 10 BC and its spared location during WW2, has allowed it to safeguard and restore a number of important places of worship. From the enormous UNESCO World Heritage landmark, the Romanesque Cathedral of St. Mary and St. Stephen, to the stained glass beauty of Gedächtniskirche (The Protestant Memorial Church), your visit to Speyer delivers an unparalleled glimpse into the rituals and beliefs that shape Germany today.

Arrival: 3:00 AM
Depart: 12:30 PM

Mainz, the capital of the Rhineland-Palatinate, is wine-central in the Reinhessen – Land of a Thousand Hills.  Located at the confluence of the Rhine & Main rivers, Mainz’ rich cultural heritage dates back 2000 years, but its sophisticated and fun-loving enthusiasm keeps this city vibrant today.  Historians will revel in the majesty of the Mainz Cathedral (Mainz Dom) and decades old printing demonstrations at the Gutenberg Museum (home to two original 15th century Gutenberg Bibles).  Or spend time exploring Mainz’ many picturesque squares where the exuberance of a Fassenacht (carnival) is always on display. Savor some “Spundekas” (a spicy creamed cheese) with a local wine before heading back to the boat.

Arrival: 2:00 PM
Depart: O/N

Rudesheim, the small city along the Rhine where wine, music and history blend seamlessly together.  Surrounded by wineries, you can explore Germany’s Riesling region on foot, via their many hiking trails or by gondola, on one of two breathtaking cable car journeys that give you a bird’s eye view of the rolling vineyards. Lovers of music will delight in Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet, where over 350 automated music boxes, from miniature to a 15 instrument orchestra will captivate your imagination, and all year long live music fills the streets as Rheingau Music Festival and weinfests celebrate all that is Rudesheim.

Arrival: O/N
Depart: 9:00 AM
Arrival: 2:00 PM
Depart: O/N

Located at the intersection of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz was named from the Roman Confluentes, which is Latin for confluence, or “where rivers flow together.”  This blending however could also speak to the many different cultures that have laid claim to this strategically located city throughout the centuries.  The cuisine and the many Art Nouveau buildings in Old Koblenz are heavily influenced by the French. The Basilica of St. Castor is the result of Roman rule, and in the 1800’s Koblenz was the government seat of Prussia in the Rhine region.  The result is a bustling contemporary city that not only embraces it’s diverse past but celebrates it.

Arrival: O/N
Depart: 7:00 AM
Arrival: 9:00 AM
Depart: 1:00 PM

Remagen is not only a beautiful riverside resort but an important historical town with a fascinating past.  The main attraction is the museum dedicated to peace which is sited in one of the last remaining bridge towers. In 1945 the Ludendorff Bridge was one of the last two remaining bridges across the river Rhine in Germany when it was captured during the Battle of Remagen by United States Army forces during the closing weeks of World II.  The Arp museum is a must for art lovers or follow the twelve stations of the cross on a short uphill hike to the stunning Apollinaris church.

Arrival: 2:00 PM
Depart: 7:00 PM

Konigswinter is a popular resort in the Seven Hills mountain range topped by the ruins of Drachenfels castle, a national park. The Drachenfels(“Dragon’s Rock”), a hill 1,053 feet (321 meters) high, is crowned by the ruined castle built in the 12th century by the archbishop of Cologne and destroyed by the French in the 17th century. According to the Nibelungen legends, the Drachenloch (“Dragon’s Cave”) in the hill sheltered the dragon slain by the hero Siegfried.  Travelers can either hike up the mountain to savor the views across the Rhine Valley or travel the railway to the top with a stop at the fairy tale Drachenburg castle in the clouds which has been likened to a medieval castle, Gothic Cathedral, and Big Ben. All in all, visitors are enchanted with the folklore and fabulous views of this sleepy little town.

Arrival: 9:00 PM
Depart: O/N

Awaken your senses in the 2,000 year-old city of Cologne. One of Germany’s largest cities and the capital of the Rhineland, Cologne straddles both sides of the Rhine and is Gothic cathedral. Peer up at the soaring twin spires of the Cologne Cathedral (Germany’s largest cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and to really get your blood pumping climb the 533 steps of the south tower for a panoramic view of the city and the Rhine. Tantalize your taste buds at the Cologne’s most popular museum, Imhoff Chocolate Museum. Follow your nose to the quirky Farina Fragrance Museum (advance reservations recommended), smelling the scent that put Cologne on the map. You might also choose to spend your afternoon & evening exploring the Roman ruins and the Old Town abounding with shops, cafes & taverns (try a Kölsch pale lager, locally brewed for over a hundred years).

Arrival: Disembarkation: Check out 9:00 AM
Depart:

Guests must disembark the MS Royal Crown by 9:00 AM. While this is the end of your adventure, your memories will live on from your Enchanting Rhine Cruise. Thank you for cruising with Teeming River Cruises, where vacations come first and memories last!

Please Note: For navigational reasons and passenger safety, Teeming River Cruises and the captain reserve the right to modify the cruise itinerary as necessary. These Optional Excursions may or may not be offered, since availability is subject to number of participants and weather conditions.

Deck Plans

Cabin Options

Your cruise will take place on the RC140720 – Basel to Cologne. To learn more about this ship, click here.

Availability & Pricing

Prices per person based on double occupancy

Reserve Your Cabin

What's Included in the Cruise

Highlights and Notes

  • Welcome & Farewell Receptions with Sparkling wine & hors-d’oeuvres
  • Welcome Aboard Dinner & Farewell Dinner
  • All Meals Included Daily (onboard your ship)
  • Locally inspired cuisine
  • Early Riser Breakfast in addition to Buffet Breakfast
  • Daily Afternoon Tea
  • Daily Midnight Snack
  • Complimentary Coffee & Hot Tea
  • Drink packages available
    • The Basic Drink Package includes house wine, beer (draft beer only), and sodas for lunch and dinner in the restaurant. The Drink Package does not include drinks in the ship’s lounge. ($15 per day)
      • 7 day cruise: $90 per person
    • The Premium Drink Package includes house wine, beer (draft beer only), soft drinks, juices, bottles of mineral water (sparkling and still) and long drinks (house whiskey, gin and vodka). This package is available all day. ($25 per day)
      • 7 day cruise: $150 per person
    • There is a Corking Fee on board of 8 euro for any alcohol enjoyed outside your cabin.
    • All other drinks and cocktails are available at an additional cost.
    • (Must purchase for entire cruise)
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi will not support large photos, videos, streaming movies, etc. It is only good enough for texting and emails of minimal size)
  • TeemingRC/PopGuide App City Walking Tour in all ports
  • Tech Talks
    • Using Your Smartphone As Your Personal Tour Guide
      • How to Navigate with your Smartphone without cell service or date
  • Daily Port Talks- We Give You the Tools to “Explore More for Less!”
    • Museums/Sites/History/Architecture
      • Opening Times
      • Information on Entry Fees
      • Location
      • Explore On Your Own Information
  • Musician for Live Music Onboard
  • Room Steward and Twice Daily Housekeeping Service
  • Evening Turndown Service
  • Non-Smoking Ship Interior

Trip Notes:

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change.
  • Disruptions in cruising and itinerary may occur (low/high water levels).
  • Prices are for cruises only. Flights are not included.
  • Transfers to and from the airport are not included in the cruise fare.
  • Shore Excursions are not included in the cruise fare. These may be purchased for an additional cost.
  • Due to currency fluctuation, pricing shown is subject to change until purchased.
  • Port Taxes and Fees are not included
  • Please be sure to read our Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to many common questions.