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Explore the majestic splendor of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers from Lucerne to Amsterdam on a 13-day Active & Classic small river cruise voyage encompassing all of the best destinations from Germany, Switzerland, France and Netherlands. Loose yourself abroad by foot, bike or simply savour the slow pace sailing and sightseeing life while finding connection to foreign cultures.
Your journey starts in Lucerne, Switzerland, where you will spend two nights exploring the charming city at your own pace and on a guided walking adventure. Your cruise on the Rhine and Moselle Rivers begins in Basel, Switzerland, where you’ll board your Avalon Suite Ship to explore extraordinary cities in Germany, France and Amsterdam. Journey to Breisach, your gateway to exploring the charming Black Forest by bike or simply sightsee historical landmarks and ...
Your journey starts in Lucerne, Switzerland, where you will spend two nights exploring the charming city at your own pace and on a guided walking adventure. Your cruise on the Rhine and Moselle Rivers begins in Basel, Switzerland, where you’ll board your Avalon Suite Ship to explore extraordinary cities in Germany, France and Amsterdam. Journey to Breisach, your gateway to exploring the charming Black Forest by bike or simply sightsee historical landmarks and wineries. Your cruise continues to Strasbourg in France where a local expert showcases the city’s Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals, astronomical clock, to the magical La Petite France District. Sail to the lovely Rhine Valley wine town of Rüdesheim. Cruise through the dramatic Rhine Gorge for sweeping views of the Rhine River as you uncover ancient castles towering majestically on cliffs 400 feet above the water. Discover Koblenz before coming to the charming wine village of Bernkastel. From history to culture, explore on foot, wine taste the famed Moselle wines and discover medieval castles before cruising back along the Rhine River. End your captivating journey in Amsterdam soaking in picturesque sceneries on a canal cruise traversing the charming Grachten posied with stately homes dating back to the city’s ‘Golden Age’. In between, enjoy the leisure of free time exploring at your own pace and uncover each location in your own style.
In between adventures, relax onboard the Avalon Fleet delivering the largest staterooms with panoramic suites complete with an open-air balcony of floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall views. The largest standard window in river cruising more than 30% larger than others. With panoramic suites, world-class amenities and refreshing off-shore excursions, experience your own slice of heaven aboard Avalon Waterways.
Active, Discovery or Classic
With multiple activity options from Active, Discovery or Classic to choose from each day, the cruise itinerary would accommodate varied interests and fitness levels, giving you the freedom to enjoy the best of a region tailored to you. You can choose to go slow pace taking in sounds and flavors of each city or as active to fulfill natural curiosity and wonder as spirited travelers. For more information, please refer to daily itinerary and ‘How To Choose Your Excursion Type ‘.
This luxury river cruise package includes 12 nights of accommodation in city hotels and onboard the cruise on a twin-share basis. Meals and activities are included in this trip. Experience a river cruise that is action-packed or filled with interactive discoveries as you explore destinations in true comfort and cruise your way.
Immerse into the bountiful pleasures of 4 intriguing countries across Europe as you cruise and create your own adventures unearthing the best of each country in your style.
Customised Itinerary: Skip a stay in Lucerne, Switzerland and begin in Basel where your ship is ready for boarding for an 11 days 10 nights cruise from Basel to Amsterdam. Please contact us to book. 11D10N Basel to Amsterdam Itinerary Download
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points
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Start your adventure by uncovering the breath-taking city of Lucerne, nestled at the bank of the Reuss River. Today, spend time unlocking the gems of this charming town filled with an array of squares and churches.
Explore picturesque bridges such as the iconic Chapel Bridge, a 200-meter-long wooden covered bridge that is thought to be the oldest of its kind in Europe. Lucerne's history is depicted through paintings that are inside the bridge. Walk along to discover this city’s famous landmarks like Hofkirche St. Leodegar and the Swiss Museum of Transport. Soak in the beautiful sight of Mount Rigi and Pilatus from the center of the town where Mount Rigi is often known as the "Queen of the Mountains." Embark on a cable car up Mt. Piltaus dor sweeping mountain views or a serene boat rude on Lake Lucerne.
Classic: Engage on a guided walking tour that includes some iconic landmarks highlighting the Lion Monument, Old Town, Water Tower, and Jesuit Church. Carved out of a giant wall of sandstone, the Lion Monument is essentially a dying lion that serves as a memorial for the Swiss guards who sacrificed their lives during the French Revolution of the 18th century. Marvel at the Water Tower built in the 13th century and learn the religious significance of Jesuit Church
Classic: This morning savour a highlight venturing to Mount Pilatus, a tiny paradise of Lucerne where you’ll journey almost 7,000 ft. (2,132 m) up for breathtaking views over central Switzerland with Lake Lucerne nestled right into the Swiss Alps! In case of bad weather, visit the Swiss Transport Museum to experience the history of road, rail, water- and air-borne mobility, as well as that of space travel.
Later, step onboard your Suite Ship, your luxury floating home for the next few days. Be welcomed with cocktails, sparkling wine and canapes to begin your cruise. Unwind in your ensuite staterooms with large private bathrooms, enjoy cocktails with a view at the Sky Deck or simply bask in the view with your floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door with open-air balcony.
This evening, we will cruise to Breisach.
Today uncover Breisach and Black Forest with 3 activity types to choose from:
Active: Awaken your adventurous soul with an excellent 1.5hrs bike ride along the Rhine River with your Adventure Host. Cycling in the Rhine River region is made easy with the miles of well-marked, dedicated bike paths and country roads with minimal traffic. Explore the magnificent landscapes of the rolling fields and countryside.
Discovery: Option 1: Embark on a full-day guided tour to the mystic Black Forest that is 200 kilometers (124 Miles) long and 60 kilometers (37 Miles) wide. and discover the Vogtsbauernohf open-air museum. Home to elaborate cuckoo clocks, striking half-timbered houses, ruined castles, and quaint towns, engage in a Cuckoo Clock Workshop learning of cultural traditions. Visit Vogtsbauernohf open-air museum, witness a traditional butter-making demonstration and uncover an authentic water mill.
Option 2: Visit a local winery in Breisach where you will learn a lot about German winemaking and delight your tastebuds to a wine tasting affair.
Optional Tour (additional cost): Embark on a guided morning tour exploring the charming village through storybook Colmar, The "Little Venice" Of France And Capital Of The Alsace Wine Region, boasting half-timbered medieval and renaissance buildings.
This evening, enjoy the voyage to Strasbourg where you will be dazzled by the beauty of landscapes.
Active: Uncover the wonders of Strasbourg by bike with your Adventure Host. With its bike paths covering the entire urban area, Strasbourg is the most bike-friendly.
Classic: Immerse in a guided sightseeing adventure of Strasbourg and delve into this charming city as you discover blending of cultures. Highlight include The Gothic Cathedral, Astronomical Clock and its picturesque La Petite France District.
Optional Tour (additional cost): Option 1: Explore France's Awe-Inspiring WWII Maginot Line, One Of The Greatest Networks Of Defensive Fortifications Ever Built, On This Guided Visit Through The Underground Barracks, Storehouses, And Railways.
Options 2: Unlock the charming Alsace countryside as you journey along the famed Alsace Wine Route on a half-day adventure. Explore traditional medieval Alsace village and be treated to a cellar wine tasting affair.
Alternatively spend the rest of the afternoon at your own leisure exploring Strasbourg from museum visits to simply strolling the city centre finding alleyways and streets filled with shops and cafes.
Retreat back to your luxury vessel and enjoy a delicious dinner as you journey on an overnight cruise to Ludwigshafen.
Today, your highlight is exploring Philosophers’ Views and the World’s Biggest Wine Barrel.
Active: Guided by your Adventure Host, go off the beaten path and hike up Heidelberg’s Philosophers’ Way for spectacular views of the city below. Traverse the serene Neckar River and soak in the panoramic views on this easy hike.
Classic: Option 1: Engage on an entertaining guided tour to the beautiful Frankenstein castle, located in the hills of the majestic Western Odenwald area. From here, you will get a breathtaking view of the phenomenal Rhine Valley.
Option 2: Experience the magic of Heidelberg Castle towering majestically above the Neckar Valley that will enchant you with its royal status and golden age with free time to explore at your leisure. Uncover the ruins of the magnificent renaissance treasure towering above the city and the ‘World’s Largest Wine Barrel’, the iconic Great Vat.
Enjoy your afternoon with a leisurely voyage and a delicious dinner onboard as the ship sails to Rudesheim.
Bask in the breathtaking views over breakfast this morning as you depart Rudesheim and cruise to the picturesque Rhine Gorge journeying to Koblenz.
Active: Venture on a bike adventure discovering Koblenz’s Mosel side with your Adventure Host. This town is where the two mighty rivers, Rhine and Mosel, meet, perfect base for exploring the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site of Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Pedal through picturesque vineyards, rolling fields, and landscapes.
Classic: Option 1: Embark on a guided walking city adventure through the historic old town. Uncover the ancient highlights of Koblenz from ancient fortress walls, towers, cathedrals, historic squares and monuments.
Option 2: Take a guided tour to Sayn Manor House and its unique Butterfly Garden. Walk through its magnificent palace park with its arboretum and idyllic ponds, observe exotic butterflies between tropical plants in the Butterfly Garden, or take a view from the medieval castle high above Sayn across the Rhine valley.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board as the ship sails to Bernkastel.
This morning, enjoy a leisurely morning and breakfast before partaking in several activities on offer.
Active: Explore the mesmerizing beauty of the region on a bike adventure along the Mosel River. Meander through some of the most spectacular landscapes, lush terraced vineyards, dreamy river promenades, fairy tale villages, half-timbered houses and rolling hills.
Classic: Take a classic guided tour to discover the medieval marvels of Bernkastel with an expert guide. Uncover its medieval marketplace, 17th century gabled timber-framed houses, renaissance-era Town Hall, Landshut Castle Ruins and tap into the region’s rich wine making tradition.
Optional Tour (additional cost): this afternoon, delight your tastebuds with a local winery and wine tasting affair.
Come evening, savour a dinner cruise as you set sail to Remich.
This morning, spend time discovering the lovely town of Remich at your own leisure. Alternatively, choose from the Guided Optional Excursions on offer. Come lunch time, enjoy a short sailing to Trier where you can choose from a selection of activities.
Active: Discover Trier, Germany’s oldest city by foot and you journey around the city unveiling its collection of unique roman monuments revealing an intriguing past.
Classic:Option 1: Uncover the highlight of ancient Trier of old world charm and Germany’s oldest city with ancient remnants dating from 144-152 AD. Begin from Porta Nigra and wander the historical streets of the city centre.
Option 2: Join a history-focused Roman TrierGuided Tour to learn more about the history of Roman civilization in this Moselle River city, and visit the ruins of a 20,000-seat amphitheatre, and imperial Roman baths.
This evening, continue your journey as you cruise to Cochem.
Discover the Moselle Valley in the adventure that interests you most today.
Active: Bike your way through the majestic Mosel River to witness the jaw-dropping beauty of the Moselle Valley and abundance of incredible scenery accompanied by your Adventure Host.
Discovery: Explore the former bunker of Germany’s Central Bank (Deutsche Bundesbank) and immerse yourself in the underground vault where millions of GermanMark were kept during the Cold War.
Classic: Venture on a guided walking adventure of Cochem, one of Germany’s prettiest villages, meandering its Old Town of charming half-timbered houses. Explore the majestic hilltop Reichsburg Castle giving panoramic views of the Moselle Valley and river bend.
This afternoon, savour a short cruise to Alken where you’ll explore this quaint town at your own pace. Alternatively, those in pursue of more castle discovery can partake in the following.
Optional Tour (additional cost): Engage in one of Germany’s most iconic fairytale castles, the spectacular 12th century Burg Eltz. Marvel at its eight towers, soaring up to 35 metres high, its oriels, roofs, timber frame structures and turrets make it the epitome of a medieval castle. Admire its unrivalled location, set in the midst of a forest, deep down in a valley. Delve into its fascinating history as an expert guide reveals its intriguing tales. Uncover its impressive treasury, armoury and collection of world-class gold and silver artworks.
This evening, continue your journey as you cruise to the historical city of Cologne.
Explore the city of Cologne your way.
Active: Savour a serene 1.5 hours bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host.
Discovery: Embark on a journey into the past uncovering Cologne’s ancient Jewish Qaurter and its heritage site on an evocative guided walking tour.
Classic: Unveil the highlights of the ‘Holy City’ of Cologne on this fascinating walking tour through the quaint Old Town with its towering twin-steepled gothic cathedral.
Spend the rest of the day at your leisure with a glass of Kolsch pale lager, locally brewed for over 100 years. Come afternoon, begin to set sail for an overnight cruise to Amsterdam.
Today, unearth the delights of Amsterdam with a list of activities on offer.
Active: Begin your morning with a lovely walking adventure around the city of Amsterdam with your Adventure Host and rub shoulders with the locals.
Classic: Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a guided canal cruise pass enchanting stately homes of Amsterdam’s ‘Golden Age’ and traverse some of its most famous sites.
Optional Tour (additional cost):Option 1: During tulip season, venture on a guided adventure to Keukenhof gardens with more than seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, as well as other bulbs, planted each year.
Option 2: Outside of tulip season, embark on a guided adventure to Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills and charming Dutch houses. Alternatively, choose an Optional Biking Tour to discover the countryside.
This afternoon, explore at your leisure visiting one of Amsterdam’s many interesting galleries and museums. Come evening, retreat back onboard for a mouth-watering dining affair. Indulge in the freshest ingredients boasting flavours from small farms and local producers for a healthful and innovative dining experience. You will overnight dock in Amsterdam.
Your journey ends here. Enjoy your breakfast early morning on your ship before bidding farewell to the stunning city of Amsterdam
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
The displayed price is a guide for per person, based on Twin occupancy for available Deluxe Staterooms or Panorama Suites or Royal Suites. Please contact us for available cabins and prices.
- The departure point is Lucerne, Switzerland
- The finish point is Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Lucerne. The nearest major airport is Zurich Airport which has international and domestic flights from Zurich and is 66 km from the center of Lucerne. Another major airport is Bern Airport which has international flights and is 124 km from Lucerne.
Germany is favoured with a generally temperate climate. The average temperature is around -10.5 °C (13 °F) in winter and around 4 °C (39 °F) in summer.
Switzerland's climate is heavily influenced by the Alps as well as by the Atlantic Ocean. The climate is moderate with no excessive heat, cold or humidity. From July to August the daytime temperature range is 18 to 28 °C (65° - 82° F) and from January to February the range is -2 to 7 °C (28° - 45° F).
France weather and climate is mostly temperate with mild winters and summers.
The Netherlands enjoys a moderate maritime (or oceanic) climate. This type of climate generally features mild winters and cool summers. Precipitation, such as rain, is common throughout the year, which means there is no dry season.
The sister ships, Avalon Tranquility II and Avalon Imagery, features two full decks of Panorama Suites with Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows that transform the living space into a unique Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard-perfect for stretching out and relaxing-or even throwing a private cocktail party for up to six adults in the spacious sitting area. Onboard amenities and services include free Wi-Fi access, Internet corner, a fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, a hair salon, elevator, and a spacious Sky Deck with shade system, whirlpool, deck games, and the delightful Sky Bistro for al-fresco lunches of light grill fare.
Length: 110 metres
Crew: 37
Deluxe Stateroom: 12
Panorama Suites: 50
Royal Suites: 2
Deluxe Stateroom: Category E & D. 172 square feet. Unique features are two bay windows.
Panorama Suite: Category A, B & P. 200 square feet. Unique features are wall-to-wall Panoramic Window measuring 11'- 50% larger than industry standard, wall-to-wall Panoramic Window opens to transform the living space into a large Open-Air-Balcony and Open-Air-Balcony with spacious sitting area.
Royal Suite: Category S. 300 square feet. Unique features are wall-to-wall Panoramic Window measuring 11'- 50% larger than industry standard, wall-to-wall Panoramic Window opens to transform the living space into a large Open-Air-Balcony and Open-Air-Balcony with spacious sitting area.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.