Active & Discovery on the Rhine (Southbound) 2024
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an enchanting 8-day journey that will take you through the heart of Europe, from the vibrant city of Amsterdam to the serene landscapes of Basel. This multi-day tour is designed to immerse you in the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the region. Explore the iconic canals of Amsterdam, the avant-garde architecture of Düsseldorf, the fortress walls of Koblenz, and the world-renowned vineyards of Heidelberg. Discover the grandeur of Strasbourg's cathedral and the charm of its La Petite France district. Experience the magic of the Black Forest and the artistry of German winemaking. Each day is filled with unique activities, from guided tours and culinary walks to kayaking and e-bike adventures. Enjoy comfortable overnight stays on a luxurious Avalon Suite Ship, with delicious meals included.
Included
7 nights of accommodation onboard an Avalon Waterways River cruise ship
Avalon Vista: Avalon Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite
Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere
Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options
Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections
Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
New in 2023 - included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
Panoramic windows throughout the ship
Elegant, contemporary design & decor
Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
Covered Observation Lounge
Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
Elevator
Non-smoking interior and staterooms
Avalon Waterways offers a selection of included excursions in every port of call, with something for everyone within their "Classic", "Discovery" and "Active" collections
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Welcome to Amsterdam
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
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- Castle De Haar
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Begin your journey in the lively city of Amsterdam. Arrive by 3:30 pm and board your Avalon Suite Ship by 5 pm. Opt for a guided excursion to Zaanse Schans, a charming historical site known for its windmills and Dutch houses. Spend the rest of the day exploring Amsterdam's colorful cafes, galleries, bridges, and canals at your leisure. Enjoy a delightful dinner on board and rest for the night as the ship docks in Amsterdam.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discovering Amsterdam's Canals
- Amsterdam
- Dusseldorf
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- Amsterdam Museum
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Start your day with a visit to the Adventure Center. Choose between a guided kayak tour offering a unique perspective of Amsterdam's iconic canals, a painting class inspired by the masters' techniques, or a guided canal cruise. In the afternoon, relax on the Sky Deck as we set sail for Düsseldorf. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board.
Day 3 – Day 3: Exploring Düsseldorf
- Dusseldorf
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- Duisburg Zoo
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Experience the unique architecture and amazing Altbiers of Düsseldorf. Join a city biking tour, explore Düsseldorf's Old Town and its culinary diversity, or take a guided tour of the city, including its spectacular subway line. You may also opt for a guided excursion to Düsseldorf's microbreweries. Enjoy live entertainment on board as we cruise to Koblenz. All meals are included.
Day 4 – Day 4: Journey to Koblenz and Bingen
- Koblenz
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- Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
- Rheingrafenstein
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Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities in Koblenz. Take a guided e-bike tour in the vineyards, explore the 'Lava City' of Mendig, or enjoy a leisurely guided walk of ancient Koblenz, including a cable car ride to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. Sail through the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy an exclusive private reception at Rheinstein Castle. We dock overnight in Bingen. All meals are included.
Day 5 – Day 5: Exploring Heidelberg and its Vineyards
- Strasbourg
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- Heidelberg Palace
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Experience the charm of Heidelberg. Follow the road less traveled on a guided hike along the Philosophers' Way, learn about the art of beer making with a guided tour of local breweries, or enjoy a guided tour to Heidelberg Castle, home to the 'World's Largest Wine Barrel'. Enjoy a tasting of local specialties and live entertainment on board as we cruise to Strasbourg. All meals are included.
Day 6 – Day 6: A Day in Strasbourg
- Strasbourg
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- St Thomas Church
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Explore the enchanting city of Strasbourg. Enjoy a walking tour along the river, join a culinary walk to discover Alsatian cuisine, or join a city sightseeing tour, including Strasbourg's Gothic cathedral and the magical La Petite France District. In the afternoon, choose from a variety of optional excursions. We set sail for Breisach in the evening. All meals are included.
Day 7 – Day 7: The Black Forest and German Winemaking
- Basel
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- Wutach Gorge
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Experience the beauty of the Black Forest and the artistry of German winemaking. Take a guided e-bike tour through the Black Forest, join a full-day guided tour to experience the Vogtsbauernohf open-air-museum and a traditional butter-making demonstration, or visit a local winery and its vineyards for a wine tasting. We cruise to Basel in the evening. All meals are included.
Day 8 – Day 8: Farewell in Basel
- Basel - Departure day
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Your enchanting 8-day journey comes to an end with breakfast this morning. Please ensure your flights do not leave Zürich airport before 10 am or Basel airport before 8 am.
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