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Tulips & the Rhine

Emerald Cruises Emerald Astra
Date 27th Mar 27
Nights 7 Nights
1
Amsterdam
Fly from the UK for the start of your cruise. Welcome to the Netherlands. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted at the airport by an Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to your Emerald Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you.
2
Amsterdam
Enjoy a full day to explore the surrounding area. 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.
3
Düsseldorf - 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
8
Basel (Huningue)
Welcome to Switzerland and Basel (Huningue). 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 the airport for your return flight to the UK. taking memories of the dazzling jewels of Europe with you.
Why Book
Why Book
  • Emerald Stateroom from £2,095pp
  • Balcony Suite from £2,495pp 
  • Add Platinum Drinks Package for just £149pp
  • Upgrade to a balcony suite from £400pp
  • 7 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
  • Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Visit to Keukenhof Gardens
  • Guided tour of Cologne's Old Town
  • Walking tour of Duesseldorf
  • Orientation walk of Koblenz
  • Guided tour of Strasbourg
  • Freiburg visit with Botanical Garden
  • Clog painting on board
  • Evening concert at Bruchsaal Palace
  • Active walk to Cologne’s gardens
  • Guided vineyard hike in Bad-Dürkheim
  • Active walk to Orangerie Park
  • Guided bike tour in Breisach
  • Active walk to Düsseldorf gardens
  • 20 delectable meals including 7 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
  • Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board

Get in touch now to book this deal or make an enquiry

Background
Emerald Astra
Overview

Experience the luxurious Emerald Astra

Launching in 2026 the Emerald Astra has been built, designed and will be operated by our 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. 

Emerald Astra
Emerald Astra - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Astra - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Astra - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Astra - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Astra - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Astra - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Astra - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Astra - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Astra - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Astra - The Terrace Emerald Astra - The Terrace Emerald Astra - The Terrace Emerald Astra - The Terrace Emerald Astra - Healthy Options Emerald Astra - Sky Barbecue
Food & Drink

Indulgent regional flavours

Indulge in the rich regional flavours of Europe, from epicurean five-course dinners to light bites on deck. Each meal takes inspiration from local produce and the authentic tastes of your destination. Enjoy a celebratory welcome and farewell dinner, with friendly hospitality from the moment you step on board to when you leave. With no formal dress code, you can step straight from ship to shore and return to a smart-casual evening of beautifully prepared cuisine.

Entertainment

As you cruise through Europe, your dedicated Activity Manager curates a programme of activities and engagingm entertainment. Enjoy an afternoon of trivia, an insightful on board lecture, or a lively evening performance, with each journey as unique as the region you’re in. Local entertainers will join you on board bringing the spirit, sounds, and stories of each European destination to life for a truly immersive experience. Between events, enjoy relaxed conversation with fellow guests and the welcoming, sociable atmosphere.

Emerald Astra - Horizon Bar and Lounge Emerald Astra - Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema Emerald Astra - Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema Emerald Astra - Sun Deck Emerald Astra - Sun Deck Emerald Astra - Games Area and Golf Putting Green Emerald Astra - Games Area and Golf Putting Green Emerald Astra - Games Area and Golf Putting Green Emerald Astra - Games Area and Golf Putting Green Emerald Astra - Reception
Emerald Astra - Emerald Serenity Pool Emerald Astra - Emerald Serenity Pool Emerald Astra - Emerald Serenity Pool Emerald Astra - Emerald Serenity Pool Emerald Astra - Emerald Serenity Pool Emerald Astra - Emerald Serenity Pool Emerald Astra - Emerald Serenity Pool Emerald Astra - Wellness Area Emerald Astra - Fitness Area Emerald Astra - Hairdressers Emerald Astra - Hairdressers Emerald Astra - Walking Track
Health & Fitness

If you want to feed your body and mind during your cruise, we’ve got you covered with EmeraldACTIVE. During your Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Danube, or Douro cruise, our activity managers will be on hand to help you stay active during your voyage.

Terms & Conditions
Terms and conditions apply. All our holidays are subject to availability and are valid for new bookings only made between 24th September and 2nd November 2026. All prices correct as of 24th September 2026, and are based on two people sharing our lowest priced available cabin and include any relevant discounts. Supplements may apply for single travellers, upgraded cabins and other departure dates. All balcony suites, one price is based on individual itinerary and sailing dates, and based on category C, B, and A. Offers must be paid for in full 10 months prior to departure. Best Available Fare is strictly limited, and subject to availability until sold out or withdrawn. Flights may not be a direct service and flights are up to a set credit amount of £400 per person. If the required air fare exceeds the set credit amount, additional charges will apply. Combinable with loyalty discount, not combinable with any other offers. We reserve the right to withdraw offers and promotions at any time and only applicable to residents in the UK. Emerald Cruises is a trading name of Scenic Tours (UK) Ltd. Prices correct at time of publication.E&OE.
Tulips & the Rhine
Emerald Astra
27th Mar 27
7 Nights
From
£2,095PP
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