DAY 1 Saturday, July 25: Amsterdam

Upon arrival in Amsterdam, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your innovative Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting for your arrival.

DAY 2 Sunday July 26: Amsterdam

Every narrow street and gabled façade in Amsterdam tells tales of the Dutch Golden Age, a prosperous time when Dutch art was among the most acclaimed in the world. Today, relax during a glass top canal boat tour through Amsterdam’s elaborate UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system, sailing through the medieval center of the city and past Roman patrician houses. Alternatively, embark on a guided bike tour to Waterland, passing quintessential villages, traditional windmills and flower fields. Enjoy sailing through the countryside and on towards the Rhine River this afternoon, perhaps enjoying a drink on the Sun Deck and watching the passing scenery before joining your captain for a gala dinner.

DAY 3 Monday, July 27: Cologne

Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany. Step back in time today, as a guided walking tour takes you through the ancient heart of the city, passing iconic landmarks such as Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. After your tour, you will be taken to a one-of-a- kind farm estate just outside of Cologne, which provides the locals with sustainable products. As part of your EmeraldPLUS program, enjoy a fantastic cooking demo and have a glimpse behind the scenes of this incredible place.

DAY 4 Tuesday, July 28: Koblenz

Immerse yourself in fairytale-like surroundings today as we cruise to Koblenz, a town with a postcard-worthy backdrop of vineyards and mountain ranges. Your included walking tour of the town will unveil the twin-towered façade of the Church of Our Lady, the point at which two of Europe’s great rivers meet at the German Corner and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, one of the largest preserved fortresses in Europe. Enjoy sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge this afternoon, where romantic castles sit atop tree-covered canyons and half-timbered medieval villages appear as though they have been suspended in time.

DAY 5 Wednesday, July 29: Ludwigshafen – Heidelberg

This morning you will discover Heidelberg. The idyllic UNESCO City of Literature 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 ruins of Heidelberg Castle, where the carefully curated gardens host serene water features, sculptures and colorful flowerbeds.

DAY 6 Thursday, July 30: Kehl – Strasbourg

This morning, you’ll dock in Kehl and be transferred by coach to the picturesque town of Strasbourg, where a medieval past is yours to discover among cobbled squares surrounded by half timbered houses. Your included walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town will touch on many of Strasbourg’s highlights, including the astrological signs that adorn the façade of the Maison Kammerzell and the idyllic historic scenery around Petite France. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Strasbourg at leisure.

DAY 7 Friday July 31: Breisach - Freiburg

Today as part of your incredible EmeraldPLUS program, you will visit the city of Freiburg. Considered the ‘capital of the Black Forest’, Freiburg has lovely sights that will leave you amazed. As part of your visit, you will also have the opportunity to sample true Black Forest delicacies from the lively market in the city center near the main cathedral. If you are feeling more active, why not join a guided bike tour in Breisach.

DAY 8 Saturday, August 1: Basel - Zurich

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark the ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of traditional cuckoo clocks and the Black Forest with you.