Day 1: To Cologne
We depart St Pancras International by Eurostar to Brussels. Here we change trains for our journey into Germany to Cologne, where MS Marilena is moored. We embark the ship and settle in for a relaxing six-night cruise. (D)
Day 2: Rüdesheim
This morning we arrive in Rüdesheim, the Rhine Valley's most popular wine town, which is nestled beneath the vineyards. Free time allows you to wander the quaint squares and alleys such as the famous Drosselgasse, before we continue our journey southwards. (B,L,D)
Day 3: Kehl and Strasbourg
After lunch today we moor in Kehl. This small town in south-west Germany is situated on the east bank of the Rhine, directly opposite the French city of Strasbourg. From Kehl there will be an optional excursion across the bridge to Strasbourg and a guided tour to sample the Alsace capital's Christmas Markets and visit its Old Town, Gothic cathedral and stunning Petite France quarter, an area of picturesque half-timbered houses by the River Ill. (B,L,D)
Day 4: Speyer
This morning we arrive in Speyer, an imperial city with an ancient Old Town and famous Romanesque cathedral. The cathedral houses the tombs of eight German emperors and kings. (B,L,D)
Day 5: New Year’s Eve in Mainz
We arrive in Mainz on New Years Eve, a city established by the Romans at the confluence of the Rhine and Main rivers. Home of the printing pioneer, Johannes Gutenberg, whose bible was the first major printed work, Mainz has a carefully restored Old Town of half-timbered houses and narrow alleyways, and the magnificent cathedral of St Martin. Tonight’s gala dinner on board includes entertainment and Mainz is illuminated by fireworks at midnight. (B,L,D)
Day 6: The Rhine Gorge and Koblenz
After spending New Year’s Day morning cruising along the Rhine Gorge and past the famous Lorelei Rock, we reach the Roman town of Koblenz. Situated at the confluence of the Rhine and the Moselle, Koblenz has a fine collection of medieval and Baroque-style buildings. (B,L,D)
Day 7: To Cologne, Brussels and London
We arrive in Cologne in the morning and disembark for the journey by train to Brussels. Here we join the Eurostar service to St Pancras International. (B)
Your Cruise Ship
MS Marilena is a brand new vessel, featuring two restaurants, a wine bar, Café Vienna, wellness lounge, library, plus a lounge with bar and veranda. Our accommodation is in Lower Deck cabins. Upgrades are available to Main Deck and Upper Deck cabins, which have the additional feature of French windows. Please call for details.
Itineraries may be subject to change by the cruise operator and may be affected by tidal and general river conditions.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday.
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