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Tulips & the Rhine

Tulips & the Rhine

About This Cruise

A vibrant celebration of all things quintessentially Dutch, Amsterdam’s winding canals and a trip to Keukenhof Gardens are the perfect start to your river cruise. View traditional windmills en-route along the river towards Cologne, where a guided excursion will introduce you to its Gothic cathedral. Discover even more of archaic Germany in Koblenz and Heidelberg, before crossing the border into Strasbourg and concluding in the enchanting Black Forest.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Couples

    Luxury service and an intimate, small-ship feel

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

Emerald Luna

Departure Date

24 April 2027

Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Duration

7 Nights

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

Itinerary

Switzerland

Zurich

Welcome to Switzerland. You’ll be greeted at Zurich Airport by an Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to Basel (Huningue). Here, you’ll board your Emerald Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you.Please book your flight to arrive into Zurich prior to 01:00 PM.

Switzerland

Basel

Welcome to Switzerland. You’ll be greeted at Zurich Airport by an Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to Basel (Huningue). Here, you’ll board your Emerald Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you.Please book your flight to arrive into Zurich prior to 01:00 PM.

Germany

Breisach

Set high above the Rhine at the point where the Black Forest joins Alsace, Breisach presents a charming blend of German and French cultures. The Romanesque-Gothic St. Stephen’s church, resting upon a volcanic hill, is visible from a great distance and is a notable landmark.Included ExcursionFreiburg visit with Botanical GardenDiscover the enchanting city of Freiburg, nestled amidst the Black Forest. Explore its historic centre, lined with colourful half-timbered houses and a vibrant market square. Wander through the picturesque botanical garden, showcasing a diverse array of flora at their most spectacular in spring.EmeraldACTIVEGuided e-bike tour in BreisachFor a more active experience, choose an exhilarating e-bike tour around Breisach. Your route takes in the picturesque scenery between the Kaiserstuhl mountains and the river through the woods. Once you arrive in Burkheim, take a break to enjoy some traditional Black Forest cake. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of this captivating region on two wheels.DiscoverMOREGuided tour of Colmar (extra expense)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 half-timbered façades are adorned with window boxes full of colourful blooms.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 5 hours

France

Strasbourg

Today, you’ll arrive in Strasbourg, a city shaped by both French and German influences and renowned for its fascinating history and beautiful architecture. Once a key medieval trading centre and later part of the German Empire, Strasbourg’s World Heritage-listed Neustadt district showcases grand 19th-century boulevards and impressive imperial buildings. Its historic core, centred around the magnificent cathedral, reflects centuries of cultural exchange and shifting borders. Strasbourg also lies at the heart of the celebrated Alsace wine region, where charming villages and vineyard-covered hillsides are never far away.Cruise onwards to Germersheim tonight for an exclusive concert at Bruchsal Palace.Included ExcursionGuided tour of StrasbourgThe Neustadt district is yours to discover during your included tour, as is the Maison Kammerzell, a prime example of German Renaissance architecture. Paying homage to the region’s artistic past, Petite France is an exceptional historic quarter that looks as though it has been pulled directly from an artist’s easel. EmeraldACTIVEActive walk to Orangerie ParkSet out on an active walk to Orangerie Park, a beautiful 17th-century estate in the centre of Strasbourg. Covering 64 acres, it is the city’s largest and oldest park, and in spring is a riot of colour with magnolia and Japanese cherry blossoms. Look out for the storks, which famously roam free around the grounds. DiscoverMOREBaden 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 the perfect blend of wellness, history and indulgence.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3 hoursEmeraldPLUSEvening Concert at Bruchsal PalaceBruchsal 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 a pretty garden. This evening, you’re invited to attend a classical concert in one of the most beautiful rooms. This exclusive experience blends culture, atmosphere, and refinement, an enchanting night in one of Germany’s most stunning historical settings.

Germany

Mannheim

A lively university town, Mannheim is best known for its unique grid system and is often called the City of Squares (Quadratestadt). Its most famous landmark is the striking Baroque Mannheim Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe.Included ExcursionGuided tour of HeidelbergToday, you’ll travel to nearby Heidelberg, the charming UNESCO City of Literature that has inspired the likes of Mark Twain and famed British artist William Turner. A 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. EmeraldACTIVEGuided hike through the vineyards in Bad-DürkheimVisit the quaint wellness town of Bad-Dürkheim for an active hike through the beautiful vineyards. Afterwards, enjoy an orientation walk through the town to visit the Fitz-Ritter Winery, which has been in the same family for nine generations. Here, enjoy a wine tasting to savour the local flavours. This evening, you’ll cruise onwards to Rudesheim.DiscoverMORERüdesheim walk with specialty coffeeOn your visit to the charming town of Rüdesheim, take a short ride on the mini train to taste the specialty coffee in the region. A swig of Rüdesheimer coffee is a treat for wine lovers and coffee fans alike.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Germany

Koblenz

Cruise through the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, exemplifying the extraordinary beauty of an area that left the philosophers and artists of the German Romanticism movement entranced. Look out for the iconic Lorelei Rock, where a beautiful siren is said to have lured sailors to their death with her song.Once a Roman stronghold, Koblenz was established around 8 BC for its strategic value. Today, it’s a modern park- and flower-filled city with a unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture. It is particularly charming in spring, with pleasant weather and the surrounding vineyards bursting into life.Included ExcursionOrientation walk of KoblenzJoin your local guide for an insightful walking tour of Koblenz, passing examples of architecture that survived the war years, including the Church of Our Lady. You’ll also have the chance to see the point at which two of Europe’s great rivers converge at the German Corner. DiscoverMOREA Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visitResting on a spectacular hill 91m (299 ft) above the Moselle Valley, you’ll find the medieval town of Cochem. Embark on a walking tour including a guided visit to the magnificent Cochem (Reichsburg) Castle, boasting impressive views of the Moselle Valley. The original 12th-century Romanesque style was replaced by King Louis XIV, who ordered his troops to destroy it in 1689. Rebuilt in 1868, he chose the neo-Gothic architecture that we know today as his family's summer residence.Activity level: Difficult/Active, Duration: 5 hours

Germany

Cologne

Continue along the Rhine River to Cologne. Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, this is one of the oldest cities in Germany and was almost completely rebuilt after the destruction of World War II. Look out for the twin spires of its Gothic cathedral, known locally as the Kolner Dom.Later, you’ll arrive in the vibrant city of Düsseldorf. With its innovative architecture, high-end art scene and passion for fashion, Düsseldorf is one of the country’s most intoxicating cities. Included ExcursionGuided tour of Cologne’s Old TownJoin your local guide and explore the city of Cologne, including the Old Town with its beautiful squares, historic monuments and contemporary architecture. You’ll conclude at the World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, whose filigree twin towers form an iconic part of the skyline. During your free time, perhaps shop for trinkets or explore further in the city, before returning to your Emerald Star-Ship. Included ExcursionWalking tour of DüsseldorfDiscover the vibrant city of Düsseldorf on a guided walking tour that takes you through its cultural landmarks and picturesque streets. During your tour, you can explore the historic Altstadt and modern cityscape. EmeraldACTIVEActive walk to Cologne’s GardensEmbark on an active guided walk through Cologne’s beautiful Flora and Botanical Garden. Opened in 1863, this houses more than 12,000 species from across the planet, featured in themed gardens, palm houses and lush green fields. EmeraldACTIVEActive walk to Düsseldorf GardensAs the city awakens from winter, its parks and riverside promenades burst into bloom. Take an active visit to one of Düsseldorf’s beautiful gardens, such as the Nordpark or the Botanical Garden, to admire the vibrant tulips and cherry blossoms, along peaceful walking paths. Combined with a stroll along the Rhine, or a stop at the Old Town’s cafés, this spring experience captures the city’s lively yet tranquil charm at its most picturesque time of year. DiscoverMOREGerman beer experience (extra expense)Discover the spirited beer culture of Cologne on this lively and flavourful guided tour through the city's legendary brewhouses.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Germany

Düsseldorf

Continue along the Rhine River to Cologne. Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, this is one of the oldest cities in Germany and was almost completely rebuilt after the destruction of World War II. Look out for the twin spires of its Gothic cathedral, known locally as the Kolner Dom.Later, you’ll arrive in the vibrant city of Düsseldorf. With its innovative architecture, high-end art scene and passion for fashion, Düsseldorf is one of the country’s most intoxicating cities. Included ExcursionGuided tour of Cologne’s Old TownJoin your local guide and explore the city of Cologne, including the Old Town with its beautiful squares, historic monuments and contemporary architecture. You’ll conclude at the World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, whose filigree twin towers form an iconic part of the skyline. During your free time, perhaps shop for trinkets or explore further in the city, before returning to your Emerald Star-Ship. Included ExcursionWalking tour of DüsseldorfDiscover the vibrant city of Düsseldorf on a guided walking tour that takes you through its cultural landmarks and picturesque streets. During your tour, you can explore the historic Altstadt and modern cityscape. EmeraldACTIVEActive walk to Cologne’s GardensEmbark on an active guided walk through Cologne’s beautiful Flora and Botanical Garden. Opened in 1863, this houses more than 12,000 species from across the planet, featured in themed gardens, palm houses and lush green fields. EmeraldACTIVEActive walk to Düsseldorf GardensAs the city awakens from winter, its parks and riverside promenades burst into bloom. Take an active visit to one of Düsseldorf’s beautiful gardens, such as the Nordpark or the Botanical Garden, to admire the vibrant tulips and cherry blossoms, along peaceful walking paths. Combined with a stroll along the Rhine, or a stop at the Old Town’s cafés, this spring experience captures the city’s lively yet tranquil charm at its most picturesque time of year. DiscoverMOREGerman beer experience (extra expense)Discover the spirited beer culture of Cologne on this lively and flavourful guided tour through the city's legendary brewhouses.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Welcome to the Netherlands, a postcard-worthy destination of World Heritage-listed canals, Dutch countryside, and esteemed art galleries. Included ExcursionVisit to Keukenhof GardensThis morning, you’ll visit the iconic Keukenhof Gardens, boasting 32 hectares (79 acres) of spring-flowering bulbs. Open only from March to May each year, more than seven million bulbs are planted, including 800 varieties of tulips. This area is infused with delightful aromas and a swathe of vibrant colours. Soak in the sights of tulips, hyacinths, and orchids of every colour, creating an expertly arranged pattern of beauty. You’ll also see statues commissioned by world-renowned artists, each adopting the annual theme.EmeraldPLUSClog painting on boardBack on board your Emerald Star-Ship this afternoon, join a local expert for a clog painting class. Learn about this proud tradition and create your own Dutch masterpiece.DiscoverMOREHidden Gems tour of AmsterdamExplore a quieter, more authentic side of Amsterdam on this relaxed and personalised tour through the city’s hidden treasures. Visit the historic Jordaan area and a charming chocolate shop for a sweet treat. Continue through some of the city’s most beautiful streets to Our Lord in the Attic, a 17th-century house with a fully preserved Catholic church in its attic. Finish with a beer and traditional Dutch snacks at a local brewery.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hoursDiscoverMOREDutch Delights (extra expense)See the highlights of this amazing city while tasting some delicious Dutch treats.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Today, after breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests as you disembark for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of spring-blooming flowers and delightful cobblestone squares with you. Due to new restrictions on cruise ships at Amsterdam’s city docks, your cruise is now likely to embark and/or disembark at a port outside central Amsterdam. If your ship does not have a central Amsterdam docking, Emerald Cruises will provide a central Amsterdam meeting point and transfers to your ship as required. These changes are required by local authorities and are in line with our booking terms which allow changes to berthing or dock locations and ports where operationally necessary. You will be advised of the confirmed docking location prior to departure.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

A vibrant celebration of all things quintessentially Dutch, Amsterdam’s winding canals and a trip to Keukenhof Gardens are the perfect start to your river cruise. View traditional windmills en-route along the river towards Cologne, where a guided excursion will introduce you to its Gothic cathedral. Discover even more of archaic Germany in Koblenz and Heidelberg, before crossing the border into Strasbourg and concluding in the enchanting Black Forest.

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Suite

Owners One-Bedroom Suite

A limited number of Owner’s One-Bedroom Suites are available on each Star-Ship, making them our most exclusive suites. A separate living room and bedroom area offers a greater amount of space and a walk-in wardrobe provides ample storage room.

Suite inclusions

  • 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
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary 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

Grand Balcony Suites come with an outdoor private balcony area, complete with open-air system. A pillow menu ensures you have the best night’s sleep possible, and a continental breakfast can be delivered to your room on request.

Suite Inclusions

  • 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 available at own expense
  • 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 Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Suite

Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

These chic suites are perfect for viewing the scenery pass by. Our innovative all-weather balcony system allows the floor-to-ceiling window to drop down electronically and an indoor decked area allows you to enjoy the sights in all their glory. 

Suite Inclusions

  • 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 available at own expense
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
Outside

Emerald Stateroom

Staterooms boast a spacious layout when it comes to European small ship river cruising. A picture window provides plenty of natural light, and your en-suite bathroom will be fully stocked with luxurious ESPA toiletries.

Inclusions

  • 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 available at own expense
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
Outside

Emerald Single Stateroom

Select Star-Ships on the Danube, Moselle, Rhine and Rhône rivers come with tastefully-appointed cabins specially built for solo travellers, with excellent levels of comfort to guarantee the perfect accommodation for one. 

Inclusions

  • 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 available at own expense
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
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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.

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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.

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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

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Sun Deck

Sun Deck

From the stunning rooftop deck of our Star-Ships, enjoy panoramic views of the passing landscapes and a selection of activities to keep you entertained.

Cinema

Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema

Pool by day, cinema by night

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.

Activity, Exclusive

The Wheelhouse

The wheelhouse is open for all guests to visit during a river cruise itinerary. If you have a particular interest in river navigation, the wheelhouse can provide a wonderful insight into the role of the captain and the intricacies of working through locks.

Reception

Reception

Whether you want to buy a drinks package, learn about our optional excursions or simply talk with our friendly and attentive crew, the reception is the place to go for questions and enquiries during your time on-board.

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Pool

Pool

Getting your laps in
Spacious on board pools provide plenty of room for swimming.

Pool, Wellness

Wellness Area

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.

Gym, Wellness

Fitness Area

Your well-equipped gym

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

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

Take a stroll, stretch those legs and drink in the views on our dedicated walking track. Spanning the perimeter of the ship, it’s there to help you stay active on-board.