Contact UsCall Us Today
Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards

Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards

About This Cruise

Explore a landscape of sun-drenched vineyards, magnificent castles, and quaint villages along the Rhine & Moselle rivers. Begin in the Netherlands with a tour of the quintessentially Dutch cities of Amsterdam and Utrecht before a visit to the traditional Kinderdijk windmills. You will then continue to Germany, traversing the wonderful countryside, stopping in Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle meet. After exploring the picture-perfect Moselle, travel south to the Alsatian capital of Strasbourg, followed by the serenity of Switzerland in Basel.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Adults only

    Emerald Destiny is an adults-only ship

  • Couples

    An adults-only atmosphere made for two

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

Emerald Destiny

Departure Date

2 November 2026

Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Duration

10 Nights

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

Itinerary

Switzerland

Zurich

Upon arrival at Zurich airport, you will be met and transferred to your innovative Emerald Cruises Star-Ship in Basel (Huningue), where your friendly captain and crew will welcome your arrival.Please book your flight to arrive into Zurich prior to 01:00 PM.

Switzerland

Basel

Upon arrival at Zurich airport, you will be met and transferred to your innovative Emerald Cruises Star-Ship in Basel (Huningue), where your friendly captain and crew will welcome your arrival.Please book your flight to arrive into Zurich prior to 01:00 PM.

Germany

Breisach

Commence your magical morning with a tour of Colmar. As you walk down the cobblestone lanes, it’s easy to imagine the characters from the Grimm’s Fairy Tales here, where window boxes full of colourful blooms adorn the façades. Alternatively, embark on a canoeing adventure on the banks of the Rhine to experience the destination from another perspective.Included ExcursionGuided tour of ColmarEmeraldACTIVECanoeing on the banks of the RhineDiscoverMOREAlsatian Wine Route (extra expense)

France

Colmar

Commence your magical morning with a tour of Colmar. As you walk down the cobblestone lanes, it’s easy to imagine the characters from the Grimm’s Fairy Tales here, where window boxes full of colourful blooms adorn the façades. Alternatively, embark on a canoeing adventure on the banks of the Rhine to experience the destination from another perspective.Included ExcursionGuided tour of ColmarEmeraldACTIVECanoeing on the banks of the RhineDiscoverMOREAlsatian Wine Route (extra expense)

Germany

Kehl

This morning, you will discover Strasbourg, the medieval capital of France’s Alsace Region. The best way to discover the city’s charm is via its quaint waterways. Embark on an EmeraldPLUS traditional canal boat tour.Relax as you pass through petite France, full of storybook canals, half-timbered houses, and narrow lanes. Witness the covered bridges and the Vauban Dam before reaching the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Neustadt imperial quarter, where many of Strasbourg’s administrative buildings are based. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.Included ExcursionCanal boat tour in Strasbourg

France

Strasbourg

This morning, you will discover Strasbourg, the medieval capital of France’s Alsace Region. The best way to discover the city’s charm is via its quaint waterways. Embark on an EmeraldPLUS traditional canal boat tour.Relax as you pass through petite France, full of storybook canals, half-timbered houses, and narrow lanes. Witness the covered bridges and the Vauban Dam before reaching the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Neustadt imperial quarter, where many of Strasbourg’s administrative buildings are based. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.Included ExcursionCanal boat tour in Strasbourg

Germany

Mainz

Your day will start with a guided tour of Mainz and a visit to the impressive sandstone cathedral of the tremendous Old Town with medieval market squares and half-timbered houses. The town is famous as the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg who invented the first printing press and manufactured his first books in the 15th century, including the Gutenberg Bible. Included ExcursionGuided tour of MainzDiscoverMOREVisit to Eberbach Abbey & wine tasting (extra expense)DiscoverMORERüdesheim with specialty coffee (extra expense)

Germany

Rüdesheim

Your day will start with a guided tour of Mainz and a visit to the impressive sandstone cathedral of the tremendous Old Town with medieval market squares and half-timbered houses. The town is famous as the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg who invented the first printing press and manufactured his first books in the 15th century, including the Gutenberg Bible. Included ExcursionGuided tour of MainzDiscoverMOREVisit to Eberbach Abbey & wine tasting (extra expense)DiscoverMORERüdesheim with specialty coffee (extra expense)

Germany

Rüdesheim

Today as part of your incredible EmeraldPLUS programme, you will visit the grand Schloss Johannisberg Winery. Set in the breathtaking Rheingau region, the legendary Schloss Johannisberg is steeped in history, cultivating exquisite wine for over 1000 years. The first Riesling winery in the world, at Schloss Johannisberg, discover a unique wine culture and fabled history during this exclusive tour. Set over 50 hectares in front of the Taunus mountains, the onsite 300-acre forest grows native oak to make the wooden barrels used for producing this exemplary wine. These extra-special barrels are then kept in the 900-year-old abbey cellar, known as ‘Bibliotheca Subterranea’, where over 25,000 precious wines are stored. Alternatively for those who feel particularly active after sailing time, you may participate in an active hike through vineyards to the historical Niederwalddenkmal Monument.Later in the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to join your Activity Manager on a hike in Sankt Goar, although a small town, it holds the magnificent Rheinfels Castle ruins that gaze over the Moselle.EmeraldACTIVEActive hike to Niederwalddenkmal MonumentEmeraldACTIVEAfternoon hike with AM in Sankt GoarEmeraldPLUSWine visit and tasting at Schloss Johannisberg (Please note: If Schloss Johannisberg is not available, it will be replaced with Castle Vollrads)

Germany

Bernkastel-Kues

Enjoy a sailing morning on board your Star-Ship as you absorb the enchanting sceneries of the Moselle. Dating back to 3000 BC, Bernkastel is situated along the banks of the Moselle River and is home to well-preserved buildings dating back to 1416. During your EmeraldPLUS you will have the opportunity to wander through some of the peaceful Moselle vineyards that compose this bucolic landscape and have a taste of the famous Riesling wine produced in this region. Or get a different perspective of the region when you take part in an active hike to the Landshut Castle Ruins overlooking the Moselle.EmeraldPLUSMoselle vineyard hike & wine tastingEmeraldACTIVEActive hike to Landshut Castle ruins

Germany

Cochem

Today, you will enjoy the enchanting town of Cochem during a guided tour of its well-preserved sites. You’ll see the remains of the historic town wall with its old fortifications, alongside the town hall and its many other gems.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Cochem (Please note: Select dates will also include a visit to Reichsburg Castle)EmeraldACTIVECycling along the Moselle

Germany

Koblenz

Today, you will enjoy the enchanting town of Cochem during a guided tour of its well-preserved sites. You’ll see the remains of the historic town wall with its old fortifications, alongside the town hall and its many other gems.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Cochem (Please note: Select dates will also include a visit to Reichsburg Castle)EmeraldACTIVECycling along the Moselle

Germany

Koblenz

Enjoy your free morning in Koblenz prior to the peaceful sailing this afternoon admiring the landscapes of the Rhine and the Moselle river. You will arrive in Bonn – the former capital of West Germany and the birthplace of Beethoven. During your walking tour you will have the opportunity to know more about Bonn Minster, known for its Romanesque architecture with Gothic elements. Its old town is also quite a gem of historical buildings and quaint streets. Landmarks like the Altes Rathaus and Beethoven House will be some of the many architectural highlights.Alternatively, join a guided bike tour in Bonn and unveil some of the city’s secrets off the beaten track.Included ExcursionWalking tour of BonnEmeraldACTIVEGuided bike tour in Bonn

Germany

Bonn

Enjoy your free morning in Koblenz prior to the peaceful sailing this afternoon admiring the landscapes of the Rhine and the Moselle river. You will arrive in Bonn – the former capital of West Germany and the birthplace of Beethoven. During your walking tour you will have the opportunity to know more about Bonn Minster, known for its Romanesque architecture with Gothic elements. Its old town is also quite a gem of historical buildings and quaint streets. Landmarks like the Altes Rathaus and Beethoven House will be some of the many architectural highlights.Alternatively, join a guided bike tour in Bonn and unveil some of the city’s secrets off the beaten track.Included ExcursionWalking tour of BonnEmeraldACTIVEGuided bike tour in Bonn

Netherlands

Nijmegen

Welcome to Nijmegen, the Roman settlement of Noviomagus and the oldest town in the Netherlands. Join a walking tour through its centre, exploring its architectural wonders and learn more about the International Four Days Marches Nijmegen that takes place every year, welcoming tens of thousands of people. If you are feeling more active, join a bike ride along the river, embracing the unique countryside features along the Waal river.Included Excursion Nijmegen Walking tourEmeraldACTIVEGuided bike tour in NijmegenDiscoverMOREVisit to Palais Het Loo (extra expense)

Netherlands

Dordrecht

This morning you will be docked in Dordrecht, where you will have the opportunity to join your Activity Manager for a walk into town. After a smooth sailing, you will arrive in Rotterdam where you will have the chance to learn more about this city during a walking tour. Following the air raids of WWII, reconstruction efforts utilised a patchwork of architectural styles, forever altering the city’s skyline. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to explore contemporary Rotterdam, which currently boasts the tallest commercial and residential buildings in the Netherlands. The reputation as the city of high rises has historical roots, beginning with the construction of the 45-metre-high office building, the Witte Huis, which, for quite some time, was the tallest office building in Europe.Included ExcursionWalking tour of RotterdamEmeraldACTIVEWalk to town with Activity Manager in Dordrecht

Netherlands

Rotterdam

This morning you will be docked in Dordrecht, where you will have the opportunity to join your Activity Manager for a walk into town. After a smooth sailing, you will arrive in Rotterdam where you will have the chance to learn more about this city during a walking tour. Following the air raids of WWII, reconstruction efforts utilised a patchwork of architectural styles, forever altering the city’s skyline. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to explore contemporary Rotterdam, which currently boasts the tallest commercial and residential buildings in the Netherlands. The reputation as the city of high rises has historical roots, beginning with the construction of the 45-metre-high office building, the Witte Huis, which, for quite some time, was the tallest office building in Europe.Included ExcursionWalking tour of RotterdamEmeraldACTIVEWalk to town with Activity Manager in Dordrecht

Netherlands

Amsterdam

After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark the ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of all the beautiful Moselle with its vineyards and the castles on the legendary Rhine.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.Please book your flight to depart out of Amsterdam after 10:00 AM.

Overview

Explore a landscape of sun-drenched vineyards, magnificent castles, and quaint villages along the Rhine & Moselle rivers. Begin in the Netherlands with a tour of the quintessentially Dutch cities of Amsterdam and Utrecht before a visit to the traditional Kinderdijk windmills. You will then continue to Germany, traversing the wonderful countryside, stopping in Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle meet. After exploring the picture-perfect Moselle, travel south to the Alsatian capital of Strasbourg, followed by the serenity of Switzerland in Basel.

View More Images
Suite

Owner's One-Bedroom Suite

The Owner’s One-Bedroom Suites boast their own separate bedroom which closes off from the rest of the suite. A dedicated lounge area and outdoor balcony, complete with open-air system, allow you to enjoy the views of your surroundings whatever the weather. They also include a selection of special features including a spacious bathroom, walk-in wardrobe and Nespresso™ machine. Your complimentary mini-bar is restocked daily and you’ll have an iPad to use throughout your cruise so you can keep up-to-date with the latest news. For a more intimate dining experience, upon request, you can also order a continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats to enjoy in the privacy of your suite.

Your suite features:

  • Outdoor private balcony with open-air system
  • Separate bedroom and lounge area
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • Pillow menu
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Walk-in wardrobe
  • Complimentary in-suite mini-bar, restocked daily with wine, beer and soft drinks
  • Complimentary Nespresso™ machine
  • Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  • Four items of laundry per day
  • An invite to the top table to enjoy dinner with the senior on board team
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Use of an iPad
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Suite

Grand Balcony Suite

These generously appointed suites offer an inviting vantage point for watching the sunset. Floor-to-ceiling windows on your private balcony, complete with an open-air system and sleek glass partition, let you soak up the ever-changing landscape. Thoughtful touches include an in-suite Nespresso™ machine, mini-fridge and the option of continental breakfast served on your balcony. In the evening, savour pre- dinner canapés and sweet treats delivered directly to your suite.

Your suite features:

  • Outdoor private balcony with open-air system
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • Pillow menu
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board
  • complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar with wine, beer and soft drinks available to purchase
  • Complimentary Nespresso™ machine
  • Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  • Two items of laundry per day
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Balcony

Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

These spacious suites are ideal for uninterrupted views of the stunning scenery passing by. The innovative all-weather balcony system allows the upper part of the suite’s floor-to-ceiling window to drop down at the touch of a button and the indoor decked area allows you to enjoy the sights in all their glory. You’ll also find a mini-fridge, complimentary Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and infotainment system, a safe for your valuables and plenty of storage.

Your suite features:

  • Indoor balcony with open-air system
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar with wine, beer and soft drinks available to purchase
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Outside

Emerald Stateroom

Marrying exceptional comfort with refined and practical design, the staterooms are spacious and luxurious retreats that provide ample room to accommodate two guests. A picture window welcomes in the natural light, beautifully framing the surrounding landscape.

Your suite features:

  • Picture window
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar with wine, beer and soft drinks available to purchase
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Outside

Emerald Single Stateroom

Select Emerald Cruises Star-Ships on the Danube, Moselle, Rhine and Rhône rivers feature Emerald Single Staterooms which are specially created for solo travellers. These tastefully appointed staterooms include a wealth of quality facilities and excellent levels of comfort for an enjoyable stay.

Your suite features:

  • Picture window
  • Deluxe single bed
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar with wine, beer and soft drinks available to purchase
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

View More Images
casual

Reflections Restaurant

Our premiere on board dining spot
With open seating and elegant design, our Reflections Restaurant sets the benchmark in on board dining across our fleet of boutique Star-Ships throughout Europe and Southeast Asia. Here, savour delightful chef-prepared meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with dishes inspired by local flavours and a few favourites you may recognise from home.

View More Images
casual

The Terrace

Dine alfresco
A beautifully decked area in the forward of our European Star-Ships, The Terrace provides a lovely retreat from which to enjoy a light snack or refreshing drink. Depending on the ship, this partly indoor and outdoor space is a spectacular vantage point from which to soak up the scenery, whatever the weather. This peaceful setting is also a great spot to enjoy a drink as the wonders of the landscape pass by.

healthy

Healthy Dining

The freshest ingredients

Dine on delectable meals made with fresh, locally sourced produce.

Lunch with a view

Enjoy healthy meals while soaking in the stunning views and fresh air.

A range of dietary options

Sample amazing vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meal options^. ^Please inform your crew of any dietary requirements.

bbq

Sky Barbecue

The Sky Barbecue can be found on the Sun Deck.
Cinema, Pool Deck

Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema

Exclusive to Emerald Cruises Star-Ships cruising Central Europe and France, the innovative heated indoor pool with is a tranquil haven to swim and take in the passing river views by day. As dusk falls, the floor gently rises to cover the pool, and the space transforms into an intimate cinema or Riverside Lounge – a blissful setting to enjoy magical vistas, read, or socialise to gentle music and soft lighting. Morning stretch sessions will also invigorate you, before seamlessly transforming back into a luxurious pool for the day. Enjoy a touch of innovation on board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship in Central Europe and France with the heated indoor pool. With expansive river views, it is a tranquil setting to relax by day and on select evenings, the space transforms into a cosy indoor cinema.

View More Images
Bar, Lounge

Horizon Bar and Lounge

Peruse our extensive drinks menu from the comfort of the Horizon Bar, the principal lounge area on board our boutique Star-Ships. Fitted with comfortable seating, a well-stocked bar and dancefloor and entertainment space, this is the premier spot to relax, unwind or dance the night away at the end of another exceptional day on the river. During the day, you'll also find unlimited coffee and speciality teas here

Relax, socialise and dance the night away in the contemporary lounge and bar. On selected nights enjoy evening entertainment or simply relax and unwind with your favourite drink from the well-stocked bar. Throughout the day, you can enjoy complimentary tea and coffee, making this an inviting space to pause, connect and take in the on board comforts.

View More Images
Sun Deck

Sun Deck

Soak in your surroundings from the Sun Deck, a space for sun-seeking, sightseeing and blissful relaxation. Offering a front-row seat to the wonders of southern France; you won’t miss a thing from the comfort of your Sun Deck deckchair.

Sun Deck

Games Area and Golf Putting Green

Feel free to enjoy our games area and golf putting green. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the scenery while you challenge new-found friends.

Reception

Reception

Your warm welcome on-board begins at Emerald Destiny’s dedicated reception. Here, our friendly crew are happy to help you get the most from your time on-board – whether that’s organising the day’s excursions or arranging any special requirements you may have.

View More Images
Pool

Emerald Serenity Pool

Emerald Destiny features a range of innovative on-board features, including an infinity-style pool that transforms into an evening cinema space. Take a dip by day and catch a flick by night – two more ways to spend your downtime on the rivers of Europe.

Gym, Wellness

Fitness Area

Your well-equipped gym

Keep up your workout regime in our well-equipped, modern gym.

Pool, Wellness

Wellness Area

A space dedicated to mind, body, and soul. Stay active on board with a fitness session in the well-equipped gym, or indulge in a blissful range of relaxing and invigorating spa treatments (at an additional cost).

A relaxing massage

Unwind with a massage courtesy of our expertly trained masseuses.

A dedicated space

Settle into a professional massage therapy room designed around serenity.

Every thoughtful detail

From soft gowns to luxurious ESPA toiletries, you’ll enjoy unparalleled comfort.

Salon

Hairdressers

In need of a quick trim during your travels? On-board the Emerald Sun, Emerald Luna and Emerald Dawn, you can treat yourself at any point during your cruise with our dedicated hairdressers – perfect if you’re looking to get spruced up for a special evening.

Jogging or Walking Track

Walking Track

Stretch your legs and take in the sights as you enjoy a stroll on our purpose-built walking track. Taking you around the outside of the Sun Deck, it’s a great addition for those who like to stay active on their travels.