At a Glance
Embark on an extravagant voyage across the Rhine River in this enlivening 10 days active and discovery small river cruise voyage. An amazing approach to admire historic landmarks and rich cultures of the European chersonese by foot, bike, kayak or leisure cruise along Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands.
Begin your journey with a 2-night stay at the picturesque city of Lucerne in Switzerland. Enjoy the leisure of exploring the city’s charms at your own pace and with guided excursions including wine tastings and city sightseeing of its iconic highlights. Journey to Basel where you’ll board your Avalon suite ship to begin a memorable cruise experience in every sense. Venture through the beautiful Black Forest in Breisach on foot or by bike and learn German terroir at the sui generis local winery. ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 9 nights accommodation on a twin share basis including 2 nights in Lucerne hotel and 7 nights onboard river cruise vessel with modern services and amenities
- Meals, snacks, tea, and coffee during voyage including complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Welcome, & farewell cocktails with sparkling wines and canapés
- Activities as stated in the itinerary
Itinerary
Welcome to Switzerland. Forge your path to experience the beloved city of Lucerne at your fingertips. Embark on a self-guided tour to discover the region's historical gems at your pace. Get off to a good start exploring Lucerne's Old Town, a mediaeval area home to cobblestone streets lined with charming squares, art galleries, radiant fountains, small restaurants, covered bridges, and antique buildings. Visit historic city walls and iconic towers that give you a wide view of the tranquil city from above. Fully immersed in beautiful sights at every turn, you just can’t get enough of strolling through this cherished area. Walk along the Reuss river bank to enjoy the buzz of the Swedish Farmers’ Market. Delight in the lingering tastes of fresh meat, authentic Fondue, vegetables, and fruits among other indigenous produce available. Complete this tour with a visit to other Lucerne's memorable highlights including the Lion of Lucerne Monument, the infamous Chapel Bridge, and the formidable Mount Pilatus. Your choices are limitless. After making the most of the day, descend back to your resort to enjoy a lovely night at your magnificent accommodation. |
Start the day with a sumptuous breakfast that includes cooked-to-order delicacies and embark on a guided classic tour to behold the city from the picturesque shores of Lake Lucerne. Classic: Enjoy guided sightseeing through the Canton of Lucerne to explore the charming old city which lies along the banks of the lake Lucerne couched in a breathtaking mountainous landscape. Capture the moment as you admire the alluring views of the Lake and its surrounding attractions filled with panoramic vistas. Conclude your splendid sightseeing tour and retire into comfort combined with exclusive services in your luxury resort for the night. |
Enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared from fresh indigenous products to your fill. Afterward, join a guided tour to bless your taste buds with signatory wines that will leave you asking for more before boarding your suite ship. Discovery: Enjoy a first-class wine tasting tour in the notable Basel area of Lucerne known for its characteristic sparkling wines. Cleanse your palette with a variety of tasty wines and marvel at the new sensational discoveries before heading back for your Rhine river cruise embankment. Welcome onboard your spectacular Avalon suite ship, Avalon Expression. Enjoy an unhindered view of the world at your feet from your open-air balcony, feel at home in the window-facing comfort collection bed, enjoy free Wi-Fi access, deck games, a well-equipped fitness centre, premium lounge chairs, and whirlpool among other shipshape services. Call it a day with a hearty four-course dinner including complimentary wine or soft drinks in the glass-walled panorama dining room serviced by stewards lauded for their commitment to quintessential and healthy dining. Embark on an evening cruise to Breisach. |
Follow a guide through the historical town centre of Breisach to explore the Beautiful Black Forest. You also have the option to include a visit to a winery for sumptuous wine tasting and German winemaking savoir-faire discussion. Active: Discover the town of Breisach on a guided E-bike sightseeing tour to experience the magical Black Forest from a unique point of view. Enjoy lovely views of the region, from the Rhine to the Black Forest, and learn about the town's centuries of history. Discovery: Option 2: Sip your way through Breisach on a wine tasting focused tour enjoying local wine varieties from outstanding local vineyards. Retire into the night in your luxurious suite ship as you sail to Strasbourg on an overnight cruise. |
Traverse the spectacular city of Strasbourg on a guided tour. From admiring the Grand Cathedral and La Petite France district to enjoying the Alsatian cuisine, you have the luxury to choose from the three activity types provided for the day. Active: Take a guided hike along the heart of north-eastern France to marvel at the jaw-dropping views of the Marne river and the Marne-Rhine canal- a watercourse that connects the river Marne and the Canal entre Champagne et Bourgogne in Vitry-le-François with the port of Strasbourg on the Rhine. Discovery: Take full advantage of the enticing culinary walk available to explore the Alsatian cuisine and traditions, influenced by the unique history of a region, whose control alternated between Germany and France for centuries. Classic: Enjoy a city sightseeing tour to explore remarkable Strasbourg Landmarks. Immerse in the magical La Petite France District grandeur as well as the panoramic view of Strasbourg’s Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock. Optional Tour (additional cost): From your adventure host, ask about today’s energising or relaxing optional excursions available for the afternoon. Come evening, enjoy live entertainment including live piano music in the main lounge of your suite ship. While enjoying luxury and a relaxed night aboard your Avalon suite ship, continue on an overnight cruise to Mainz. |
After a hearty breakfast, choose from the enthralling activities provided to take in the beauty of iconic sites of Mainz or tour famous vineyards with the world's biggest wine barrel. Active: Seek out an entirely new adventure in today's exciting guided tour, follow the road less travelled around the Neckar River on this perfect urban hike along the Philosophers’ Way for an inspiring view of Heidelberg's Old Town below. Discovery: Set out on an exclusive beer tour to learn about the art of brewing from an expert beer sommelier. Consequently, stroll through the Heidelberg Castle garden-terraced gardens around the ruins of a Renaissance palace to admire astounding valley panoramas. Classic: Join a Guided Tour to Heidelberg Castle to be amazed by the ruins of the magnificent renaissance treasure towering above the city, and its famed Great Vat, the "World’s Largest Wine Barrel. A taste of ambrosial specialties prepared from locally sourced ingredients will make for a perfect end to this exciting tour. Experience an overnight docking in Bingen. |
Cruise through the Rhine Gorge, discover breathtaking views of ancient castles perched on cliffs 122 metres (400 ft) above the water, and pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei-where the mythological siren’s songs lured ill-fated sailors. Active: Take a guided E-Bike tour to explore the city's local vineyards at the confluence of the Rhine and Moreselle rivers. Discovery: For a unique experience, take an exhilarating trip to the "Lava City" of Mendig for a Volcano Encounter, including exploring the large caverns and corridors where basalt (cold lava) was mined. Classic: Take a leisurely guided tour of the historic district of Koblenz. And join a cable car ride to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for a breathtaking panoramic view. Navigate to Dusseldorf on an overnight cruise while enjoying splendid river views. |
Enjoy a delicious breakfast on board before setting out to make for the best experience touring Avant-Garde Architecture and Amazing Altbiers. Active: Join a city biking tour to discover interesting stories about the unbelievably pretty sights of Dusseldorf. As an important cultural centre, the city is dotted with numerous lovely tourist attractions to take pleasure in. Get lost in the dozens of museums, art galleries, and wide squares that make Dusseldorf a pleasant place to visit. Discovery: Experience Dusseldorf's beautiful environment by admiring the ruins of the city and its wonderful riverside walkways. Be impressed by the panorama of the picturesque old electoral capital and get an insight into its culinary diversity. Classic: Join a guided tour of Dusseldorf to explore the Old Town and also discover its spectacular subway line, where each station has an individual special character. Optional Tour (additional cost): In the afternoon, you could take a Guided Optional Excursion to one of Dusseldorf's microbreweries to sample a variety of Alters. Later in the evening, carouse aboard your Avalon suite ship enjoying live entertainment performed by talented artistes. Embark on a scenic cruise to Koblenz. |
Admire the breathtaking scenery of Amsterdam's vibrant canals and choose an activity type that suits your interests in today's tour. Active: Sail beneath the surface of the city by floating across its iconic canals on a guided kayak excursion. Discover many fascinating facts along the way and gain a distinctive understanding of the "Venice of the North" from the waters of its magnificent canals. Discovery: Immerse yourself in a Painting Class, be inspired by the masters’ techniques and revive your inner artist by painting your canvas. Complete your experience with an orientation walk along the diverse attractions of the surrounding area. Classic: Lose yourself to the breathtaking beauty of the city's famous waterways in a guided canal cruise to explore the iconic waterways and sites of Amsterdam. Optional Tour(additional cost):This afternoon, consider taking an optional culinary walk in one of Amsterdam's famous neighbourhoods, and stroll through its pristine galleries and cafes. Enjoy an overnight docking in Amsterdam. |
Your 10 days of immersive adventure on the Rhine cruise voyage ends this morning in Amsterdam. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast offered aboard before disembarking your home away from home Avalon cruise ship with a head full of fresh adventure memories recorded from sailing through the magical Rhine river across awesome Western Europe countries. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
The displayed price is a guide for per person, based on Twin occupancy for available Deluxe Staterooms or Panorama Suites or Royal Suites. Please contact us for available cabins and prices.
More Info
- The departure point is Lucerne, Switzerland
- The finish point is Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Lucerne. The nearest major airport is Zurich Airport which has international and domestic flights from Zurich and is 66 km from the center of Lucerne. Another major airport is Bern Airport which has international flights and is 124 km from Lucerne.
Switzerland's climate is heavily influenced by the Alps as well as by the Atlantic Ocean. The climate is moderate with no excessive heat, cold or humidity. From July to August the daytime temperature range is 18 to 28 °C (65° - 82° F) and from January to February the range is -2 to 7 °C (28° - 45° F).
The Netherlands enjoys a moderate maritime (or oceanic) climate. This type of climate generally features mild winters and cool summers. Precipitation, such as rain, is common throughout the year, which means there is no dry season.
The sister ships, Avalon Tranquility II and Avalon Imagery, features two full decks of Panorama Suites with Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows that transform the living space into a unique Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard-perfect for stretching out and relaxing-or even throwing a private cocktail party for up to six adults in the spacious sitting area. Onboard amenities and services include free Wi-Fi access, Internet corner, a fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, a hair salon, elevator, and a spacious Sky Deck with shade system, whirlpool, deck games, and the delightful Sky Bistro for al-fresco lunches of light grill fare.
Length: 135 metres
Crew: 47
Deluxe Stateroom: 16
Panorama Suites: 65
Royal Suites: 2
Deluxe Stateroom: Category E & D. 172 square feet. Unique features are two bay windows.
Panorama Suite: Category A, B & P. 200 square feet. Unique features are wall-to-wall Panoramic Window measuring 11'- 50% larger than industry standard, wall-to-wall Panoramic Window opens to transform the living space into a large Open-Air-Balcony and Open-Air-Balcony with spacious sitting area.
Royal Suite: Category S. 300 square feet. Unique features are wall-to-wall Panoramic Window measuring 11'- 50% larger than industry standard, wall-to-wall Panoramic Window opens to transform the living space into a large Open-Air-Balcony and Open-Air-Balcony with spacious sitting area.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.