Tulips and the Rhine with Emerald Cruises – Save $1,600 per couple!*
PP From
$4,395
Duration
8 days
Deal Type
River Cruise
Add Business Class flights to unlock an Exclusive Package discount
Cruise onboard “Emerald Astra”, Emerald Cruises brand new luxury river ship. Book now and save $1,600 per couple*! ⏰
Emerald Astra is set to elevate the standard for luxury river cruising. It offers guests an even more memorable experiences through innovative, modern design and extended amenities available onboard.
Embrace the beauty of spring on a cruise through the Netherlands, France and Germany in the early season. From the famed Keukenhof Gardens to rolling tulip fields and the wildflowers of the Rhine Gorge. This is Europe at its most picturesque.
A classic journey on the Rhine River promises rich culture and fascinating history, where bustling cities are complemented by romantic towns and lush spring landscapes. Visit the stunning Keukenhof Gardens, boasting the world’s largest collection of tulip bulbs. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Düsseldorf’s Japanese Garden, with exotic blooms and serene ponds creating a tranquil oasis. Travelling on a stylish Emerald Star-Ship, each stop of this enthralling voyage invites you to indulge in the rich history and natural splendour of Europe, creating memories to last a lifetime.
20 meals including 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board
Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
Port taxes and charges
All tipping and gratuities
Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
A number of day tours - please speak to our expert tour & cruise consultants!
Tour Company
Emerald - River
Tour Location
Europe
Deal Type
River Cruise
Map
More Information
Full Itinerary +
DAY 1 – AMSTERDAM Welcome to Amsterdam, a postcard-worthy destination of picturesque canals, cafés, and art galleries. Upon arrived in Amsterdam, you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your innovative Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will welcome your arrival.
Meals Included: Dinner
DAY 2 – AMSTERDAM
Enjoy a full day to explore the surrounding area.
Included Excursion: Visit to Keukenhof Gardens
This 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 will also see statues commissioned by world-renowned artists, each adopting the annual theme.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 3 – DUSSELDORF & COLOGNE
This morning, you’ll cross the German border and arrive in the vibrant city of Düsseldorf. With its innovative architecture, high-end art scene and passion for fashion, this is one of the country’s most captivating cities.
After lunch, continue along the Rhine River to Cologne. Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany and was almost completely rebuilt after the destruction during World War II. Look out for the twin spires of its Gothic cathedral, known locally as the Kolner Dom.
With a late departure from Cologne, you can go ashore and visit some of the city’s lively pubs or chic cocktail bars.
Included Excursion: Walking tour of Düsseldorf
Discover the vibrant city of Düsseldorf on a guided walking tour that takes you through its cultural landmarks and picturesque streets. During the tour, you can also explore the historic Altstadt and modern cityscape.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4 – KOBLENZ
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.
Later, you’ll cruise through the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, exemplifying the extraordinary beauty of an area that left 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.
Included Excursion: Orientation walk of Koblenz
Join 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 merge at the German Corner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5 – MANNHEIM & GERMERSHEIM
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 arguably the striking Baroque Mannheim Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe.
Cruise onwards to Germersheim tonight for an exclusive concert at Bruchsal Palace.
Included Excursion: Guided tour of Heidelberg
Travel to nearby Heidelberg, an idyllic 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 remnants of Heidelberg Castle, where carefully curated gardens are still peppered with serene water features, sculptures and colourful flowerbeds.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6 – 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 Excursion: Guided tour of Strasbourg
The 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.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7 – 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 on a volcanic hill, is visible from a great distance and is a notable landmark.
Included Excursion: Freiburg with Botanical Garden visit
Today, discover 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.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8 – BASEL & ZURICH
Welcome to Switzerland and Basel. Gracing the banks of the Rhine River, Basel is known for its high concentration of museums, showcasing anything from contemporary art to scientific achievements.
Today, after breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your Emerald Star-Ship and fellow guests as you transfer to Zurich airport, taking memories of the dazzling jewels of Europe with you.
Please book your flight to depart out of Zurich after 12:00 PM.
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.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ship Information - Emerald Astra +
Launching in 2026 the Emerald Astra has been built and designed by Emerald Cruises expert team. With luxurious interiors and cutting-edge features, the ship debuts a refreshed look and feeling having taken inspiration from our luxury yachts, with art installations in partnership with leading European galleries and collaborations with luxury design houses such as Missoni and Freifrau.
Guest suites and staterooms feature luxurious ESPA toiletries, premium linens, pillows (with an expanded pillow menu), towels, mattresses, and toppers from top European brands, with select suites incorporating Missoni soft furnishings.
Other firsts on Emerald Astra will include complimentary guest laundry facilities and a reimagined Sun Deck with new furniture and refreshed outdoor spaces that maximise panoramic views.
The stylish, contemporary décor of the fleet provides a wonderful setting for watching the beautiful river views pass by. From the illuminated atrium, to the crisp, clean linens in each of our suites and staterooms, to the centre point of the dining experience – Reflections Restaurant, it’s easy to see why these Star-Ships are award-winning.
The Star-Ships sailing the Danube, Rhine and Rhône are home to an indoor pool with floor-to-ceiling windows and a retractable roof. In the evenings the pool innovatively transforms into a cosy cinema.
During warmer months, the panoramic Sun Deck is the perfect spot to watch the world go by with your favourite drink in hand. On the Sun Deck of Emerald Radiance sailing Portugal’s Douro River you will find a spa-style serenity pool and on Emerald Harmony the open-air pool is ideal for Asia’s exotic climate.
Emerald Cruises are dedicated to ensuring that every aspect of your stay on board their Star-Ships goes above and beyond your expectations. The wealth of amenities on board are complemented by their highly-trained, skilled and attentive crew, dedicated to ensuring your Emerald Cruises holiday is unforgettable.
What Can You Expect Onboard?
Al fresco dining and BBQ area
Complimentary tea and coffee
Dedicated Cruise Director
Evening cinema*
Fitness & Wellness Area
Hairdresser
Innovative indoor heated pool with retractable roof*
Spa-style Serenity Pool on the Emerald Radiance
Stylish staterooms and suites
Sun Deck with seating area, walking track, games area & putting green
On-Board Entertainment
With Emerald Cruises the journey is just as important as the destination. It’s about enjoying every moment and creating memories that will last a lifetime. That’s why they believe that entertainment is an integral part of your cruise experience. To ensure there’s never a dull moment on board, their Cruise Directors oversee a fantastic range of entertainment activities for you to enjoy. From the ever-popular crew show and bar quizzes to local performances in a traditional style, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
The crew members will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about the entertainment schedule and point you in the direction of the latest activities taking place on board. With so much to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Horizon Bar & Lounge
The Horizon Bar & Lounge is the social heartbeat of the Star-Ships. Surprisingly spacious and exceedingly modern, this contemporary and comfortable haven is one of the most popular areas of the Emerald vessels day or night. There’s a fully stocked bar with attentive bartenders, help-yourself to a selection of coffees from the high-tech coffee-machine, or try one of the speciality teas, and take a seat in their plush and spacious sofas and chairs. In the day it’s a place to catch up with new friends and unwind.
Each evening before dinner, your Cruise Director welcomes you to the Horizon Bar and Lounge for an informal yet fascinating talk on your forthcoming ports of call. With tips on what you’ll see and things to look out for, this is an ideal opportunity to plan for the day ahead. When the evening arrives, there is a medley of entertainment planned especially for you.
After Dinner Entertainment
After another delicious dinner in our Reflections Restaurant, head up to the Horizon Bar and Lounge, where, on select nights there is local entertainment on-board. Relax with your favourite cocktail and catch up with your new found friends.
On select evenings guests are invited to watch local performances in the traditional style. From a Bavarian band to Hungarian dancing, there’s no finer way to celebrate the native culture than in the comfort of familiar surroundings.
The Horizon Bar & Lounge also plays host to challenging quizzes and the popular crew show. This jovial event happens at the end of every cruise after the Farewell Dinner.
Heated Pool & Cinema
Unlike any other on Europe’s waters, the ships boast a heated pool* complete with retractable roof and bar which cleverly transforms into a cinema in the evening. *please note the Emerald Radiance does not have an indoor pool/cinema.
Make your way to the back of the ship where the indoor heated pool is situated. When the evening arrives this oasis of calm is transformed into a hub of entertainment.
Watch in awe as the floor rises through the pool’s surface and a screen is lowered from above. In a matter of minutes the area is converted from a swimming pool into a cosy cinema where a selection of classic and contemporary films are shown throughout your cruise.
On selected evenings the cinema will play host to a variety of iconic concerts performed by some of the world’s most significant musicians. Popular music, classical and jazz are just some of the genres you can expect to see on the big screen.
The live music showcase is just another was to ensure you enjoy an unforgettable river cruise. Emerald are always looking for exciting and unexpected ways to entertain their guests and they are sure that you will love their collection of fun and inspirational performances.
Relax On The Sun Deck
The top deck of othe Star-Ships boasts the Sun Deck*. A panoramic rooftop space, home to a walking track, putting green and games area, as well as deck chairs and sun-loungers, perfect for warmer climates.
Why not challenge your new-found companions to a spot of putting or noughts and crosses, accompanied by the sensational backdrop of each magnificent river bank village, town or city?
Feel the breeze as you navigate your way through the heart of Europe’s most spectacular towns and cities. Raise a toast with new friends and watch as areas of outstanding natural beauty pass by.
Those travelling on Emerald Radiance through Portugal’s Douro region, can look forward to doing so from the outdoor heated Serenity Pool, a truly indulgent way to experience some of the country’s highlights.
Booking Terms & Conditions
Advertised price based on 27 March 2027 departures in a Category E Stateroom, price is per person twin share and reflects the savings offer. Pricing is correct as of 07 May 2026 and subject to availability at the time of booking. Offers may be withdrawn or prices updated by the supplier at any time, so please enquire with our expert consultants for the latest pricing, terms and conditions. Single supplement may also apply. *Pay in full offer: Save $1,600 per couple when paid in full 10 months prior to departure or no later than 31 October 2026. If booking inside of 10 months prior, payment is required within 30 days. Tour Code: EWAB.
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