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DAY 1 Depart the USA

Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

DAY 2 Amsterdam, the Netherlands / Zaandam

Welcome to the Netherlands! You will be met and transferred from the airport to your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. After boarding, enjoy some leisure time to begin exploring. This evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner on board. (D)

DAY 3 Alkmaar, the Netherlands / Amsterdam

This morning, step beyond the city and discover the authentic rhythm of Dutch countryside life. Wander through the charming villages, see working windmills, and meet locals keeping age-old traditions alive. Watch the daily life go by as you experience the simple pleasures of life surrounded by Holland’s heritage, hospitality and heart. Return to the ship to sail through the Dutch countryside towards the Rhine River. (B, L, D)

EmeraldACTIVE: Guided Bike Tour to Waterland

DiscoverMORE: Dutch Delights (extra expense)

DAY 4 Düsseldorf - Cologne

This morning, join a walking tour of Düsseldorf, a vibrant city renowned for its stylish boutiques and charming Old Town. Stroll along the picturesque Rhine River, admire the stunning architecture, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. Later in the day, we will arrive in Cologne, famous for its Gothic Cathedral. This afternoon, you can immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and experience the unique charm of the city. (B, L, D)

Discover MORE: German Beer Experience (extra expense)

DAY 5 Koblenz

Cruise to the 2000-year-old town of Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Enjoy a walking tour of Koblenz, seeing the German Corner where the 2 rivers meet and the Church of Our Lady. This afternoon, sail through the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Rhine Gorge. Pass countless medieval castles and vineyards lining the shores of this section of the river, with photo opportunities around every bend. See the infamous Lorelei statue and Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, built on an island in the middle of the river as a medieval toll station. (B, L, D)

Discover MORE: Moselle Valley & Castle Visit (extra expense)

DAY 6 Mannheim / Heidelberg

Continue sailing to the town of Mannheim, docking site for Heidelberg. Travel by coach to Heidelberg for a guided visit of the castle ruins and a walk along the cobblestone lanes of the old town. This evening, attend a private concert as an EmeraldPLUS activity. (B, L, D)

EmeraldACTIVE: A Hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg

EmeraldPLUS: Evening Concert at Bruchsal Palace

DAY 7 Kehl / Strasbourg, France

Travel by coach across the river to Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace region in France. Your guided walking tour includes the Grande Île - the historical city center and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its medieval black and white timber-framed buildings, old tanning houses, baroque sandstone buildings, canals and river locks, the city’s star attraction is the cathedral, dominating the main square. Enjoy free time this afternoon to continue exploring this charming

town on your own. Tonight, local entertainment is provided onboard. (B, L, D)

DiscoverMORE: Baden Baden Spa Experience (extra expense)

DAY 8 Breisach, Germany / Freiburg

On today’s adventure, visit the city of Freiburg, considered the ‘capital of the Black Forest’. Aside from seeing the lovely sights, sample true Black Forest delicacies from the lively market in the city center near the main cathedral. Alternatively, join a guided bike tour in Breisach. (B, L, D)

EmeraldPLUS: Guided Tour of Freiburg with Tasting

EmeraldACTIVE: Guided Bike Tour around Breisach

DiscoverMORE: Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)

DAY 9 Huningue, France – Lucerne, Switzerland

After breakfast, disembark the ship in Huningue and begin your Swiss adventure. Depart by coach to Lucerne, a picturesque town surrounded by mountains and meadows. An included walking tour highlights the city’s landmark - the famous 14th-century Chapel Bridge. See the 17th-century Renaissance Town Hall and town squares, all set amongst the beautiful backdrop of the Swiss Alps. The remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)

DAY 10 Lucerne

Your last day is left free of planned activities. Explore on your own, or join the optional excursion to Mt. Pilatus – a mountain overlooking Lucerne that offers a unique alpine experience! This evening, get together for an included dinner at the hotel. (B, D)

DiscoverMORE: Mt. Pilatus (extra expense)

DAY 11 Lucerne / USA

Bid ‘Auf Wiedersehen’ to Europe and return home with memories of life-enriching experiences from your European adventure and cruise along the Rhine River. (B)

CRUISE AND HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS

Days 2 through 8 – Aboard an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship

Days 9 and 10 – Hotel Europe or similar, Lucerne, Switzerland

*Itinerary subject to change based on weather and/or other events.