Grand Cruise of the Rhine Gorge, Medieval Germany & Switzerland

Grand Cruise of the Rhine Gorge, Medieval Germany & Switzerland

About This Cruise

Pack your sense of adventure (and camera, you’ll want to document this!) as we embark on a classic journey through the Rhine valley, where the cities you visit are only surpassed by the river scenery. 

From Switzerland's most distinguished cities to timber-framed towns, the Rhine’s prettiest spots are revealed in all their glory on this classic river adventure. Embark on a leisurely mountain rail journey into the dazzling alpine landscapes of the Bernese Oberland and experience some of the world’s most cinematic scenery as we sail in five-star style through the famous Middle Rhine Valley, where a tapestry of castles, vineyards, and panoramic views create the perfect cruising backdrop.  

We’ll explore historic Koblenz and its old town, and experience the natural drama of the Rhine Gorge where the valley walls tower above. Step into Rüdesheim, straight from the pages of a fairytale and one of the region’s most famed wine towns and discover medieval Speyer with its beloved Romanesque Basilica as well as the Alsatian city of Strasbourg as you wander the cobbled alleys of its old town, all in the insightful company of a local guide. 

We’ll drive through the typical rolling tree-clad massif of the Black Forest and visit the charming town of Titisee, nestling on the shores of its namesake lake, and moor in the vibrant Swiss city of Basel.  Sail the great engineering feat of the Main-Danube Canal to discover medieval surprises off the tourist trail – timber-framed Wertheim and resplendent Würzburg for starters – then sit back for a scenic drive on the legendary Romantic Road through some of Germany’s most exceptional winelands scenery – and some seriously good grapes!  

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

MS George Eliot

Departure Date

30 September 2026

Cruise Line

Riviera Travel

Duration

17 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Overview

Pack your sense of adventure (and camera, you’ll want to document this!) as we embark on a classic journey through the Rhine valley, where the cities you visit are only surpassed by the river scenery. 

From Switzerland's most distinguished cities to timber-framed towns, the Rhine’s prettiest spots are revealed in all their glory on this classic river adventure. Embark on a leisurely mountain rail journey into the dazzling alpine landscapes of the Bernese Oberland and experience some of the world’s most cinematic scenery as we sail in five-star style through the famous Middle Rhine Valley, where a tapestry of castles, vineyards, and panoramic views create the perfect cruising backdrop.  

We’ll explore historic Koblenz and its old town, and experience the natural drama of the Rhine Gorge where the valley walls tower above. Step into Rüdesheim, straight from the pages of a fairytale and one of the region’s most famed wine towns and discover medieval Speyer with its beloved Romanesque Basilica as well as the Alsatian city of Strasbourg as you wander the cobbled alleys of its old town, all in the insightful company of a local guide. 

We’ll drive through the typical rolling tree-clad massif of the Black Forest and visit the charming town of Titisee, nestling on the shores of its namesake lake, and moor in the vibrant Swiss city of Basel.  Sail the great engineering feat of the Main-Danube Canal to discover medieval surprises off the tourist trail – timber-framed Wertheim and resplendent Würzburg for starters – then sit back for a scenic drive on the legendary Romantic Road through some of Germany’s most exceptional winelands scenery – and some seriously good grapes!  

Balcony

Deluxe Balcony Suite

For the ultimate in space and river cruise luxury, the spacious Deluxe Balcony Suite offers a generous living area with chairs and table, plus soft cotton bathrobes and slippers. There are floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors that open out on to a small balcony with a table for two.

There are four Deluxe Balcony Suites on the Diamond Deck (upper deck).

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with outside balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Spacious ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

Suite

Superior Suite

Superior Suites on the Diamond Deck and Ruby Deck benefit from a generous living area, plus floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open up to create a French balcony for guests to enjoy panoramic river views.

There are two Superior Suites on the Diamond Deck (upper deck).

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service
Suite

Superior Suite

Superior Suites on the Emerald Deck benefit from a generous living area and smaller fixed windows.

There are two Superior Suites the Emerald Deck (lower deck).

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Fixed window
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service
Suite

Standard Suite

Standard Suites are 172 square metres and feature full floor-to-ceiling glass doors and a French balcony. Standard Suites are located on the Diamond Deck and Ruby Deck.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service
Suite

Standard Suite

Standard Cabins on the Emerald Deck have smaller fixed windows. Some are available for sole occupancy (supplements may apply) and are subject to availability.

There are 10 Standard Cabins on the Emerald Deck (lower deck).

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Fixed window
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service
fine

Main Restaurant

The spacious main restaurant offers an intimate yet relaxed fine dining experience with informal free seating. Guests are spoilt for choice with a hearty buffet at breakfast; a salad and dessert buffet plus pasta station at lunch with served soup and main courses, and sumptuous four-course dinners executed with silver service.

casual

Riverview Kitchen

Escape to the Riverview Kitchen at the rear of the ship and enjoy a quiet read on the terrace.

Sun Deck, Pool Deck

Sun Deck

Crowning MS George Eliot is the Sun Deck, the ideal spot for taking in unhindered river views. There is a shaded seating area with plenty of comfortable outdoor chairs and sun loungers, as well as a putting green and splash pool.

Please note: The Sun Deck is only accessible by stairs.

Bar, Lounge

Observation Lounge & Bar

At the heart of the ship is the elegant panoramic observation lounge, where guests can enjoy marvellous views through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Take a seat on a leather armchair or modern settee, while the charming bar staff prepares your drink. During the evenings, the ship pianist entertains with a relaxing repertoire.

Reception, Atrium

Reception and Travel Desk

Should you have any queries, stop by the reception desk in the lobby, or let our Cruise Concierge or Cruise Director at the travel desk help you with your travel arrangements.
Shop

Souvenir Shop

The Souvenir Shop can be found on the Diamond Deck.

Salon

Hair Salon

Book an appointment at the hair salon, which also offers manicures and pedicures for a small additional fee.