The Majestic Rhine: Beer and Wine Cruise

The Majestic Rhine: Beer and Wine Cruise

About This Cruise

Trace storied vineyards, atmospheric beer halls and character-filled old towns, with exclusive tastings, castle visits, and a private palace concert revealing the Rhine’s layered history and enduring charm.

From Mainz to Basel, embark on this eight-day luxury river cruise through Germany, France and Switzerland, curated for those passionate about wine and beer and their storied traditions and heritage. Along the beautiful Rhine River, cruise past picturesque riverscapes and vine-clad hills, where world-class wines have been perfected for centuries. Delight in fairy-tale castles and well-preserved medieval architecture that await in destinations like Colmar and Heidelberg. Among a wealth of included excursions, join castle visits, guided hikes through vineyards and fascinating EmeraldPLUS experiences, including an exclusive evening concert within Baroque Bruchsal Palace. Savour exclusive wine tastings, including elegant Rieslings at the historic Schloss Johannisberg, the world’s first Riesling winery near delightful Rüdesheim (gateway to the Rhine Valley wine culture) and at the esteemed Fitz-Ritter Winery in Bad-Dürkheim. Beer enthusiasts can also enjoy delicious tastings in Strasbourg, learning about the unique Alsatian beer brewing heritage and experience an authentic German beer garden in Koblenz – one of Germany’s oldest cities. On board your Emerald Star-Ship, learn about the legends of the Rhine River by attending a fascinating lecture. This custom-made river cruise is your passport to experiencing the authentic heritage, flavours, and beauty of Europe along the classic Rhine River.

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

11 July 2027

Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Duration

7 Nights

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

Itinerary

Germany

Frankfurt

Welcome to Germany. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at Frankfurt Airport and then transferred to your award-winning Emerald Star-Ship in Mainz. Here, you’ll be welcomed on board by your friendly captain and crew.Please book your flight to arrive into Frankfurt prior to 02:00 PM.

Germany

Mainz

Welcome to Germany. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at Frankfurt Airport and then transferred to your award-winning Emerald Star-Ship in Mainz. Here, you’ll be welcomed on board by your friendly captain and crew.Please book your flight to arrive into Frankfurt prior to 02:00 PM.

Germany

Rüdesheim

Your first port of call is Rüdesheim, a delightful small town and gateway to storied German wine culture and Rhine Valley history. A blend of medieval architecture and a lively, tourist-oriented atmosphere, Rüdesheim is celebrated for its fine wines, especially Riesling and Sekt (sparkling wine). Wine-making traditions here date back over a thousand years. Later, enjoy a Welcome Dinner on board your luxury Emerald Star-Ship with your fellow guests.EmeraldPLUSVisit to Schloss Johannisberg WineryThis morning, you’ll visit the historic Schloss Johannisberg Winery in the picturesque Rheingau wine region. Famous for its stunning vineyard views and centuries of Riesling production, the world’s first Riesling winery comes steeped in history and is a must for wine lovers and those who appreciate quintessential vineyard scenery.

Germany

Koblenz

Located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz is one of the oldest cities in Germany, steeped in history and brimming with fascinating landmarks. It is also renowned for its World Heritage-listed landscapes and rich culture.Included ExcursionGerman beer garden experience Experience the heart and soul of German hospitality with a visit to an authentic beer garden in Koblenz, where good company and freshly poured beer come together in a lively, relaxed atmosphere. Set beneath leafy trees or along the picturesque banks of the Rhine or Moselle, a local beer garden experience invites you to sip on local brews – like crisp Königsbacher or a smooth Bitburger – served in true German style. EmeraldACTIVEGuided e-bike tour of KoblenzIf you’re feeling active, join today’s guided e-bike tour amid beautiful riverscapes beyond Koblenz. You’ll leisurely cycle along the picturesque riverbanks. At certain spots along the way, your local guide will stop for a few minutes to provide fascinating insights into the area.DiscoverMOREEltz Castle Visit (extra expense)Considered one of the most magical castles in Germany, Burg Eltz is perched on a rocky outcrop deep in a valley of the Eltz Forest. Unscathed by wars that have crumbled so many other castles in Germany, Burg Eltz is the epitome of a fairytale castle with eight towers and turrets. It has been under the ownership of the same family for over 850 years and contains many original furnishings and interiors to this day, including 15th-century murals. Inside the castle walls, you can visit the treasury and armoury, which exhibits nine centuries of artefacts.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 3.5 hours

Germany

Mannheim

Mannheim is a lively university city along the Rhine, best known for its unique grid system, which is why it is often referred to as the ‘City of Squares’ (Quadratestadt). The city’s most famous landmark is the striking Baroque Mannheim Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe.Included ExcursionGuided tour of HeidelbergThe enchanting UNESCO World Heritage City of Literature has inspired the likes of Mark Twain and famed British artist, William Turner. Today’s fascinating guided tour of the town will unveil its rich history, starting at the Renaissance ruins of Heidelberg Castle, where carefully curated gardens are still peppered with serene water features, sculptures and colourful flowerbeds.EmeraldACTIVEVineyards hike and wine tasting in Bad-DürkheimVisit the quaint wellness town of Bad-Dürkheim for an active hike through the beautiful vineyards. Afterwards, enjoy an orientation walk through town to visit the Fitz-Ritter Winery, which has been in the same family for nine generations. Here, enjoy a special wine tasting.

Germany

Rastatt

Included ExcursionGuided walking tour of Baden-BadenWhimsical Baden-Baden is a spa town that has been frequented by celebrities and royalty for centuries. Enjoy a guided walking tour of Baden-Baden, soaking in the nostalgic, elegant boutiques and timeless gardens.A historic Baroque town in Baden-Württemberg, located on the Murg River near the Black Forest, Rastatt is a former residence of the Margraves of Baden-Baden. It’s best known, however, for its 18th-century palace, the Favourite Palace, which hosted the 1714 Treaty of Rastatt, ending the War of the Spanish Succession.EmeraldPLUSEvening Concert at Bruchsal Palace Bruchsal Palace, also known as the Damiansburg, is a breathtaking Baroque Palace noted for its fine Rococo decoration. Made up of over 50 buildings, this impressive complex includes a three-winged residential building with an attached chapel, four pavilions separated by a road, some smaller utility buildings, and an impressive garden. This evening, in one of the palace’s most beautiful rooms, you’re invited to attend an exclusive private classical concert.DiscoverMOREEntrance to the Casino (extra expense)Step into a world of elegance and intrigue with a visit to the legendary Casino Baden-Baden, considered one of Europe’s most beautiful and historic gaming houses. With its gilded halls, crystal chandeliers, and ornate interiors inspired by French palaces, this 19th-century jewel has hosted royalty, artists and aristocrats for over 150 years.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 1 hourDiscoverMOREBaden-Baden spa experience (extra expense)Escape to the heart of Germany’s Black Forest for a rejuvenating day at the world-renowned Baden-Baden spa. Famous for its healing thermal waters and elegant ambience, Baden-Baden offers an enchanting blend of wellness, history, and indulgence.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3 hoursDiscoverMOREVisit to Rastatt Palace & Gardens (extra expense)

France

Strasbourg

Today, you’ll arrive in Strasbourg, a city that promises much in the way of beautiful architecture. The World Heritage-listed Neustadt district is an iconic example of 19th-century German Imperial architecture. Strasbourg is also at the heart of the celebrated Alsace wine region.Included ExcursionAlsatian beer tastingDiscover the flavours of Alsace with a beer-tasting experience that blends French finesse and German brewing traditions. Sample distinctive local beers, from crisp lagers to aromatic ales, while learning about regional ingredients, brewing heritage, and the unique Alsatian beer culture.

Germany

Breisach

Included ExcursionGuided tour of ColmarCommence your magical morning with a tour of Colmar. As you walk down the quaint cobblestone lanes, it's easy to imagine the characters from the Grimm's Fairy Tales here, where half-timbered façades are adorned with window boxes full of colourful blooms.EmeraldACTIVEGuided e-bike tour to ColmarIf you’re feeling active, embark on a guided e-bike tour from the German town of Breisach to the French town of Colmar.DiscoverMOREGuided tour of Freiburg with market tasting (extra expense)Spectacular and historic Freiburg sits on the edge of the mountainous Black Forest. Founded in 1120, the city claims to be the sunniest in Germany. Life in this vibrant university city centres on the Altstadt's cobbled and arcaded Rathausplatz (City Square), lined with Gothic churches and civic buildings interspersed with buzzy cafés and bars. Enjoy a fascinating guided tour of the city and sample some local delicacies during a visit to a local market, such as Black Forest ham.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 5 hours

Switzerland

Basel

Welcome to Switzerland and Basel (Huningue). Gracing the banks of the Rhine River, Basel is known for its high concentration of museums, showcasing anything from contemporary art to scientific achievements. After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your Emerald Star-Ship and fellow guests. As you transfer to the airport, you’ll surely leave with treasured memories of the jewels of the Rhine’s wealth of heritage sights, exclusive viticulture, beer immersions and rich cultural traditions.Please book your flight to depart out of Basel after 10:00 AM.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.

Overview

Trace storied vineyards, atmospheric beer halls and character-filled old towns, with exclusive tastings, castle visits, and a private palace concert revealing the Rhine’s layered history and enduring charm.

From Mainz to Basel, embark on this eight-day luxury river cruise through Germany, France and Switzerland, curated for those passionate about wine and beer and their storied traditions and heritage. Along the beautiful Rhine River, cruise past picturesque riverscapes and vine-clad hills, where world-class wines have been perfected for centuries. Delight in fairy-tale castles and well-preserved medieval architecture that await in destinations like Colmar and Heidelberg. Among a wealth of included excursions, join castle visits, guided hikes through vineyards and fascinating EmeraldPLUS experiences, including an exclusive evening concert within Baroque Bruchsal Palace. Savour exclusive wine tastings, including elegant Rieslings at the historic Schloss Johannisberg, the world’s first Riesling winery near delightful Rüdesheim (gateway to the Rhine Valley wine culture) and at the esteemed Fitz-Ritter Winery in Bad-Dürkheim. Beer enthusiasts can also enjoy delicious tastings in Strasbourg, learning about the unique Alsatian beer brewing heritage and experience an authentic German beer garden in Koblenz – one of Germany’s oldest cities. On board your Emerald Star-Ship, learn about the legends of the Rhine River by attending a fascinating lecture. This custom-made river cruise is your passport to experiencing the authentic heritage, flavours, and beauty of Europe along the classic Rhine River.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.