Your journey begins in the picturesque city of Amsterdam. A labyrinth of narrow laneways adorned with twinkling lights, canals lined with beautifully preserved 17th-century buildings, and Christmas trees decorating historic squares, Amsterdam is not only pretty to wander, it's also steeped in history, art, and an undeniable festive atmosphere. This afternoon, board your all-inclusive luxury Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views of ever-changing landscapes and life along the riverbanks. Relax and raise your glass to the days ahead at this evening's welcome reception. ... Read More
Amsterdam is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, masterpiece-filled galleries, tranquil scenes of boats putting along 16th-century canals, narrow cobbled laneways filled with boutiques and cafes, and streets busy with cyclists criss-crossing their way about town. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, much of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system exists today as it did hundreds of years ago, lined with well-preserved canal houses and intersected by charming bridges. This afternoon, we set sail towards the cosmopolitan metropolis of Cologne, Germany. Download the Scenic Tailormade app to listen to river commentary and gain insight to the villages and sites you're passing as you relax on the Sun Deck. ... Read More
Wednesday - Nov 27, 2024
Day 3
Cologne, Germany
Perhaps enjoy a leisurely morning starting with coffee in your suite, delivered by your personal butler upon request, followed by breakfast in Crystal Dining. You will arrive in Cologne, Germany, after lunch. Cologne is a city known for its liberal and laidback lifestyle, its unique beer culture, thriving auto industry, and the jaw-dropping cathedral that dominates its skyline. Settled by the Romans, this major cultural center for the Rhineland was built during the Middle Ages but was largely destroyed during WWII. The magnificent Gothic cathedral, an enormous UNESCO World Heritage site that dates to 1248, was badly damaged but remained standing tall above the ruins of the city. Take the time to discover Cologne on a walking tour. Wander the laneways of the historic Old Town, which is home to many breweries serving up draft Kolsch beer. Enjoy some free time to visit the city's centerpiece and icon, Cologne Cathedral. The Kolner Dom, as it is known locally, is also the location for magnificent Christmas markets and after your guided tour there is plenty of time to wander the wooden stalls where local venders sell delicious treats and decorations. Don't forget to look out for the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland. Your Scenic Space-Ship will depart during dinner, allowing you plenty of time to be immersed in the tastes and scents of Christmas, like hot chestnuts, freshly baked gingerbread, and mulled wine, all on offer in this lovely town. ... Read More
Thursday - Nov 28, 2024
Day 4
Koblenz, Germany
Rhine Gorge, Germany
You will arrive in Koblenz this morning. Located where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet, Koblenz is a melange of French and German cultures and one of Germany's oldest cities with a history spanning 2,000 years. Koblenz is surrounded by vineyards, forest, and mountain ranges and is also known as the gateway to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. During the festive season, the city sparkles with thousands of lights strung along the streets and many buildings illuminated with colorful projections. This afternoon, you will cruise along the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. This 65-kilometer stretch of the river is dotted with some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Sailing down this section of the river is like being transported through the pages of a fairytale. The Rhine abounds in myths, legends, and folklore that have been passed on for generations, including the story of Lorelei. This enchanting woman was betrayed by her sweetheart and spent her days bewitching men. As her punishment, she was sent to a nunnery, however on her way she jumped to her death in the river. Legend has her spirit casting spells on sailors who passed the rock, where a bronze statue sits today. ... Read More
Friday - Nov 29, 2024
Day 5
Mannheim, Germany
Bus Travel
Heidelberg, Germany
Bus Travel
Mannheim, Germany
You will arrive in Mannheim early this morning. Known as a 'chessboard city' for its streets that were methodically laid out like a grid in the 17th century, it is also famous as the home of some of the world's most brilliant engineering minds, including Carl Benz, founder of Mercedes-Benz, who set up his workshop in the city. Nearby, the city of Heidelberg is a truly romantic setting, with an 18th-century arch bridge that straddles the Neckar River and a 16th-century ruined castle on the hillside looming above town. ... Read More
Saturday - Nov 30, 2024
Day 6
Rastatt Landing, Germany, Germany
Bus Travel
Baden-Baden, Germany
Bus Travel
Rastatt Landing, Germany, Germany
This morning, you will arrive in Rastatt. Enjoy a delicious, hearty breakfast in Crystal Dining before your excursion to Baden-Baden, famous for its Roman baths. Located on the fringes of the Black Forest, this luxurious town was a favored summer escape during the Belle Epoque and is UNESCO World Heritage listed as part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. It oozes relaxation and has tranquil green spaces, many pretty public gardens, and grand historical architecture. This afternoon, choose to stay in Baden-Baden and enjoy the Christmas markets, with around 100 beautifully decorated huts and stalls set up in front of the Kurhaus. Pick up handmade gifts, sample local festive treats or take a turn around the ice rink. You can also choose to return to your Scenic Space-Ship for lunch and take the time to relax onboard. Soak up the opulence of your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views of the Rhine. If you feel like something more active after your morning in the spa town, head to the state-of-the-art gym for an invigorating workout. ... Read More
Sunday - Dec 1, 2024
Day 7
Kehl, Germany
Bus Travel
Strasbourg, France
Bus Travel
Kehl, Germany
Arrive in the city of Kehl, the gateway to Strasbourg, this morning. It's the capital city of the Alsace region, where sherbet-colored, half-timbered houses heave together on the banks of a complex network of canals. On its central island, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grande Ile, is the Petite France district, so named for the 15th-century hospital that was built here for patients suffering from syphilis, the 'French disease'. It is also known as the tanners' quarter, thanks to its medieval industries. Its meandering cobbled laneways are lined with a medley of buildings with shuttered windows and bright flowerboxes. Enjoy a guided walking tour of this charming town, taking in many of its most important sights including the Cathedral, Petite France, the Grande Ile and its beautiful canals. Strasbourg is located on the border of France and Germany and ownership of the town has changed hands many times between the two countries. Due to this, Strasbourg is a unique mixture of both French and German architecture and culture. You will be driven to Strasbourg, passing many notable sites, including the European Parliament on your way. After your guided tour you have free time to explore the magical markets. Strasbourg has some of the largest and most popular Christmas markets in Europe with the town squares and pedestrian zone coming alive with festive cheer. Make the most of your time at the Christmas markets before your Scenic Space-Ship sets sail after lunch bound for Basel. ... Read More
After a hearty breakfast, you'll be transferred to Zurich Airport for your onward or homebound flight. Please book your flight to depart out of Zurich after 11 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.; Note: Massage/spa treatments at additional cost. ... Read More
Cruise and Land Value Offers that combine with this sailing.
Pricing Terms and Conditions
Unless otherwise indicated above, all cruise rates are per person, double occupancy, cruise-only without airfare, do not include government taxes and fees and quoted in in U.S. dollars. Ponant Cruises rates are based on foreign currencies that are converted to USD based on today's exchange rates. Rates are subject to availability, can vary by ship and sailing date, and for new bookings only. Fares are capacity controlled, and subject to change without notice. Port charges are included. Prices do not include additional service charges; Travel Insurance; and applicable government taxes & fees unless otherwise specified in the offer. Surcharges and fees implemented by a travel supplier, even after the reservation is made, will be the sole responsibility of each traveler and is due and payable in full prior to departure. Certain promotions which may include amenities like shipboard credits, pre-paid gratuities, drink packages or other packages may be available by category, room type or fare code and may not be combinable with other promotions. For any questions, please consult one of our cruise specialists for applicability and verification. All prices, inclusions & promotions listed on the web-site are current at the time they we published and are subject to change without advance notice. Arrivia, Inc., its subsidiaries, and partners are not responsible for last minute changes to price or itinerary by cruise lines, or for any errors or omissions in the content of this website.
Track this Cruise. 
Favorite this Cruise and receive Price Alerts when the rates go up or down.
