Cologne, the Rhine Gorge & Medieval Germany River Cruise - MS George Eliot
Cologne, the Rhine Gorge & Medieval Germany River Cruise - MS George Eliot
Cologne, the Rhine Gorge & Medieval Germany River Cruise - MS George Eliot
11 Days Starting in COLOGNE and ending in NUREMBERG
Visiting: Cologne, Andernach, Braubach, Rhine Gorge, Rüdesheim an der Nahe, Mainz, Miltenberg, Wertheim am Main, Würzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Ochsenfurt, Bamberg, Nuremberg
Tour operator:
Ship Name:
MS George EliotGuide Type:
Fully Guided
Ship Capacity:
132
Physical rating:
Low
Age range:
12-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
From:
$3870 (USD) including Flights from the UKTourhub Members Discount - Sign In
Tour Overview
Experience some of the world's most inspiring scenery on our spectacular cruise celebrating the wonders of the famous Middle Rhine Valley. Sail the great engineering feat, the Main-Danube Canal to discover medieval treasures off the tourist trail, the legendary Romantic Road and Germany's exceptional winelands.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival In Cologne
Location: Cologne
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrive at your five-star cruise ship moored on the banks of the Rhine in historic Cologne, one of Germany’s oldest cities. Your professional, English-speaking crew will welcome you on board, show you to your cabin and help you familiarise yourself with all aspects of this first-class floating boutique hotel before dinner is served.
Day 2 : Cologne
Location: Cologne
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, disembark for a guided walking tour of this most majestic of cities, Cologne. The cathedral’s famous spires tower above the old town’s maze of cobbled streets, where our expert guide will bring the city’s fascinating history to life. Visit the cathedral, the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe, miraculous survivor of Second World War bombing and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It took six centuries to complete this iconic masterpiece and among its many treasures are the magnificent stained-glass windows and gilded sarcophagus said to contain the remains of the three kings from the Nativity story. Explore the vibrant old town, beautifully restored and boasting an abundance of excellent shopping and cosy bars, some of which still brew their own beer.
After some free time, return to the ship to enjoy lunch and relax on board as our journey truly begins. As we leave Cologne’s imposing skyline behind head up onto the sun deck to enjoy fabulous river views during an afternoon of scenic sailing. Sink into a good book in a comfortable lounge chair, cool off in the splash pool or relax on the terrace area with a refreshing drink. Freshen up in your elegant cabin before reconvening with your fellow cruisers in the bar for an aperitif. During tonight’s dinner we arrive in Andernach.
Day 3 : Andernach & Braubach
Location: Andernach, Braubach
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
One of the oldest towns in Germany, Andernach, was founded by the Romans in 12BC on the site of an old Celtic settlement then seized by the Franks in 450 AD who set up a royal court within its old fort walls. By medieval times, the town had grown in stature and was trading with places as far away as England and Scandinavia – even having its own mint and coinage. Andernach and the surrounding area is well known for its pumice with production booming since the 1950s. Enjoy a guided walking tour around its picturesque streets and admire the town’s mighty defensive walls, gates and towers, the finest of which is the 56-metre tall Round Tower. See the impressive, ruined castle with its well-preserved keep, and the majestic cathedral with its four soaring towers, fine interior and unusual wall decorations. At the old harbour area discover the Old Crane, a 16th-century stone-turning tower crane, still in use until 1911 to load millstones, tuff and wine.Â
Back on board for lunch, take in the glorious river scenery as we set sail for Braubach. Later, discover this hidden gem, set against a backdrop of rolling forested slopes and vineyards. Nicknamed ‘Town of the Roses’ it’s a joy to amble through its picture-perfect streets soaking up the ambience of yesteryear. If you’re feeling energetic Marksburg Castle set on a hill overlooking the town makes for an interesting visit. Dating from the 13th century, as one of the only castles on the Rhine to fully escape war damage it well-deserves its UNESCO status. Learn about life here through the ages as you wander through the impressive Gothic Hall, armoury and kitchen. Take in the expansive views stretching for miles over the river and valley below – you can see exactly why the castle was so well sited to view oncoming enemies.Â
Our ship remains moored overnight so after dinner there’s the chance to hop ashore once more for a nightcap in one of the cosy tucked away wine cellars.
Day 4 : Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim
Location: Rhine Gorge, Rüdesheim an der Nahe
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
There’s a bucket-list treat in store this morning as we cruise through the world-famous Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and area of outstanding natural beauty. As the river twists and turns, encased by sheer valley sides 600 feet high, make sure you’re up on deck to experience these incredible views close up. Ruins of ancient castles teeter on the valley slopes, built by wealthy princes eager to display their power and influence and to extort tolls from passing river traffic. Legends abound here, most famously of the Lorelei - murmuring rock – where enchanting maidens lured unsuspecting sailors to watery graves. Look out for birds of prey floating above as we cruise on passing quaint villages – Saint Goar, Bacharach and Kaub – all famed for their wine production.
Later, arrive in Rüdesheim for a guided walking tour. A tangle of crooked houses, winding cobbled alleys and curious little shops, this pretty town is famous for its wine making. Set amongst vineyard-clad slopes, Riesling is the region’s speciality grape, and you’ll find a wealth of Weinstuben where you can sample the locally produced wines. A delightful marketplace lined with pastel facades and cosy taverns lies at Rüdesheim’s heart, overlooked by Brömserburg Castle. As you wander the maze of streets, don’t miss the impressive Klunkhardshof, one of the town’s finest 15th-century homes with its traditional timber frame and gabled roof.
After dinner back on board, reconvene in the bar for a digestif or perhaps a coffee with a shot of locally produced Asbach brandy. We remain moored in Rüdesheim overnight.
Day 5 : Mainz
Location: Mainz
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
During breakfast arrive in the historic city of Mainz, a colourful ensemble of domes and spires rising above the riverbank. Situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Main Rivers, it’s famed as Germany’s wine capital and the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of the movable type printing press. The excellent city museum houses a reconstruction of his workshop and two copies of original Gutenberg Bibles dating from 1455. Dominating Mainz’s skyline is the Martinsdom Cathedral, with its fine Romanesque architecture and another must-see is the spectacular stained-glass windows in Saint Stephen’s Church. On our guided walking tour explore the cobbled streets of the old town, stopping to admire the elegant patrician houses and charming timber-framed buildings.
Lunch is served on board as we continue our scenic cruise so it’s the perfect opportunity to relax and make the most of the ship’s excellent facilities. Indulge in a treatment in the spa or at the hairdressers, or simply find a comfy seat in the lounge with an afternoon cup of tea and enjoy the views. This is the very heart of Germany’s winelands, a dreamy landscape of lush woodland and fertile vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see.
Enjoy dinner on board as we continue sailing overnight to Miltenberg.
Day 6 : Miltenberg & Wertheim
Location: Miltenberg, Wertheim am Main
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we arrive in Miltenberg, a beautifully preserved medieval village with a labyrinth of winding alleys and lanes to explore. With our local guide, discover the impressive gatehouse, standing as a proud guardian of the village and the charming marketplace, lined by traditional fachwerk buildings, with their characterful timber frames. Legend has it that the locals were allowed free wood from the surrounding forests, hence the abundance of this architectural style. Admire the square’s trickling fountain, ornately carved from stone and complete with dancing cherubs, and the intricately detailed Gasthaus Zum Riesen, claiming to be Germany’s oldest tavern.
Later as we drift away, we’ll pass under Miltenberg’s red-brick bridge as our Captain skillfully navigates the gentle meandering bends of the Main. This afternoon we’ll arrive in Wertheim, a delightful surprise, off the tourist trail and all the better for its unspoilt ambience. Passing the fishing boats at anchor, admire the little houses opposite, painted in cheery pastel tones. A russet-walled 12th century castle overlooks the old town, surveying the church spires, turrets and patchwork of multicoloured buildings below. Enjoy a late afternoon walking tour, discovering the town’s secrets through the eyes of an expert guide. Look out for the Zobelhaus, a contender for the narrowest house in Germany!Â
This evening enjoy another delectable dinner as we set sail towards Würzburg.
Day 7 : Würzburg
Location: Würzburg
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy a relaxed morning of scenic sailing – one of the real treats of a river cruising holiday. Early afternoon we arrive in the refined Bavarian city of Würzburg, sitting resplendent on the banks of the Main. A fascinating contrast to the quintessential villages we’ve encountered, after lunch disembark for a guided tour. Founded in the 10th century as the centre of the kingdom known as Franconia, the Marienberg Fortress overlooks neat rows of grand, pastel-coloured buildings punctuated by the spires and domes of the city’s many churches. The jewel in Würzburg’s illustrious crown is the Residenz, a magnificent Baroque palace that whisks you back to a more romantic age. Originally conceived to rival the Palace of Versailles in scale, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and features one of Germany’s most ornate staircases and dozens of interconnecting rooms adorned with frescoes, priceless tapestries, sculptures and paintings. We moor in Würzburg overnight so there’s plenty of time to explore under your own steam too.
Day 8 : Rothenburg & Ochsenfurt
Location: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Ochsenfurt
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, experience something a bit different as we take a drive along the Romantic Road – aptly named to describe this route through some of the most spellbinding scenery in the world. Our journey takes us through a folkloric landscape, threaded by a procession of medieval towns, lofty castles and grand palaces. As you soak up the cinematic views, we’ll arrive at the glorious town of Rothenburg, crowning a hill with sensational views over the meandering river below. The quaint old town is cradled within immaculately preserved walls and there’ll be time to explore its pretty, cobbled lanes, lined with tall gables and pointy roofs. Our ship awaits a short drive away in Ochsenfurt and after lunch, spend the afternoon enjoying a guided tour. Wander through the old town, pausing to admire the town hall’s impressive mechanical clock and 13th-century church with its vibrant interior. You’ll be transported back in time as you stroll amongst the romantic, timber-framed houses and ancient ramparts. We return to the ship for dinner where another superb menu awaits and set sail towards Bamberg.
Day 9 : Bamberg
Location: Bamberg
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy a morning of scenic sailing, taking a spot in the lounge or up on deck as a kaleidoscope of glorious vistas slip past.Â
This afternoon we moor in Bamberg, undoubtedly one of Europe’s prettiest small towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Planned by Emperor Heinrich II in the 11th century as a Franconian capital, it sits on seven lush green hills, reminiscent of Rome – a city whose grandeur it endeavoured to equal. Discover its history and architectural highlights on our informative tour led by a local guide, taking in the exquisite old town and exceptional multi-spired cathedral. Perhaps the most intriguing landmark is Bamberg’s town hall, which sits on an island in the middle of the burbling river, flanked by bridges on either side. From here you can also see ‘Little Venice’ – a picturesque cluster of fishermen’s houses built along the waterfront, mostly dating from the Middle Ages.
This evening promises another highlight, with a magnificent dinner hosted by the Captain, followed by a performance of traditional Bavarian music on board. Leaving Bamberg, we join the Main-Danube canal as we cruise to our final stop, historic Nuremberg.
Day 10 : Nuremberg
Location: Nuremberg
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy a relaxing final morning of cruising as we glide towards the Bavarian city of Nuremberg. Intriguing for its association with the Second World War, as the site of many pre-war Nazi rallies and later, the war crimes trials. What is less known however is that this historic city captivates visitors by its cobbled streets with classic half-timbered houses, an enchanting castle – rebuilt after the war – plus a plethora of historic landmarks. These include the Church of Saint Lawrence, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the intricate Church of Our Lady with its working mechanical clock dating from 1506. It overlooks the bustling Hauptmarkt, an elegant square renowned for its intricate fountain resembling a Gothic church tower. Discover all these and more on our insightful city tour before there’s some time to explore at your own pace. Amid all this splendour, spare a moment to taste some of Nuremberg’s prized gingerbread or take some home as a delicious souvenir.Â
After a fascinating day, return to the ship for our last dinner, a splendid finale to this memorable holiday.
Day 11 : Return Home
Location: Nuremberg
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart the ship after breakfast for your onward journey or return home.
Ship Details
MS George Eliot
Ship Overview
The five-star MS George Eliot – named after one of the leading English novelists of the 19th century – is 110 metres of fine Swiss engineering and craftsmanship. As with all Riviera Travel cruise ships, MS George Eliot was built to the highest specifications and strict safety regulations by Scylla AG, world-renowned builders of the most modern cruisers in Europe.
Guests are welcomed in the elegant lobby with its gleaming marble floor, well-lit by sophisticated lighting. Thoughtful design is on tasteful display throughout the ship – sustainable hardwood furniture, intricate wrought-iron work, and polished copper and brass are beautifully complemented by soft leather and sumptuous Italian fabrics.
MS George Eliot offers the convivial ambience and personal service of a luxury boutique hotel. With 36 staff serving just 132 guests, the experience is far more intimate and enjoyable.
There are 70 luxuriously appointed suites and cabins, which all feature an en-suite bathroom with shower, individually controlled air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and facilities for making tea and coffee. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship.
Ship Details
Ship Name:
MS George Eliot
Adults Only Areas:
kids allowed
Ship Children Facilities:
none
Ship Nursery:
none
Smoking Areas:
some
Ship Size:
boutique
Ship Style:
luxury
Ship Type:
river
Ship Currency:
EUR
Ship Language:
en-GB
Ship Capacity:
132
Ship Crew Count:
36
Number of Decks:
4
Number of Cabins:
70
Ship Launch Year:
2018
Ship Length (Meters):
110 M
Ship Width (Meters):
12 M
Ship Speed (Knots):
13 Kn
Deck Plans
Diamond Deck
BistroTravel DeskReceptionShopPanorama LoungeBarLibraryDiamond Deck CabinDeluxe Balcony SuiteSuperior Suite
Emerald Deck
Wellness CentreEmerald Deck CabinSuperior Suite
Ruby Deck
RestaurantRuby Deck CabinSuperior Suite
Sun Deck
Sun Loungers & ChairsSplash PoolPutting Green
Cabins
There are 70 luxuriously appointed suites and cabins, which all feature an en-suite bathroom with shower, individually controlled air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and facilities for making tea and coffee. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship.
Deluxe Balcony Cabin (Grade DBS )
For the ultimate in space and river cruise luxury, the spacious Deluxe Balcony Suite offers a generous living area with chairs and table, plus soft cotton bathrobes and slippers. There are floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors that open out on to a small balcony with a table for two.There are four Deluxe Balcony Suites on the Diamond Deck (upper deck).Size: 23.5 sq.m / 253 sq.ft.Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a smart handset* with maps, translator and currency converter, unlimited internet use, L’Occitane en Provence toiletries, a bottle of chilled Prosecco on arrival, a platter of fresh seasonal fruits during the cruise and an aperitif each evening, with our compliments. *Smart handsets will be available on 2022 holiday departures.
Superior Suite (Grade RDS EDS DDS )
Superior Suites on the Diamond and Ruby Decks benefit from a generous living area, plus floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open up to create a French balcony for guests to enjoy panoramic river views.There are two Superior Suites on the Diamond Deck (upper deck).There are two Superior Suites the Ruby Deck (middle deck).Superior Suites on the Emerald Deck benefit from a generous living area and smaller fixed windows.There are two Superior Suites the Emerald Deck (lower deck).Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a smart handset* with maps, translator and currency converter, unlimited internet use, L’Occitane en Provence toiletries, a bottle of chilled Prosecco on arrival, a platter of fresh seasonal fruits during the cruise and an aperitif each evening, with our compliments. *Smart handsets will be available on 2022 holiday departures.
Standard Cabin (Diamond and Ruby) (Grade DD RD )
Standard Cabins on the Diamond and Ruby Deck feature floor-to-ceiling glass doors that slide away to create a French balcony to enjoy panoramic river views.There are 22 Standard Cabins on the Diamond Deck (upper deck).There are 28 Standard Cabins on the Ruby Deck (middle deck).Indulge in the luxury of ?Riviera Plus?when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.
Standard Cabin (Emerald) (Grade SED )
Standard Cabins on the Emerald Deck have smaller fixed windows – some are available for sole occupancy with no supplement.There are 10 Standard Cabins on the Emerald Deck (lower deck).
Superior Suite (Grade RDS EDS DDS SEDS )
Superior Suites on the Diamond and Ruby Deck benefit from a generous living area, plus floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open up to create a French balcony for guests to enjoy panoramic river views.Superior Suites on the Emerald Deck benefit from a generous living area and smaller fixed windows.There are two Superior Suites on the Diamond Deck (upper deck).There are two Superior Suites the Ruby Deck (middle deck).There are two Superior Suites the Emerald Deck (lower deck).Indulge in the luxury of? Riviera Plus?when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.
Deluxe Balcony Suite (Grade DBS )
For the ultimate in space and river cruise luxury, the spacious Deluxe Balcony Suite offers a generous living area with chairs and table, plus soft cotton bathrobes and slippers. There are floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors that open out on to a small balcony with a table for two.There are four Deluxe Balcony Suites on the Diamond Deck (upper deck).Indulge in the luxury of?Riviera Plus?when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.
Standard Cabin (Grade DD ED RD )
Standard Cabins on the Diamond and Ruby Decks feature floor-to-ceiling glass doors that slide away to create a French balcony to enjoy panoramic river views.There are 22 Standard Cabins on the Diamond Deck (upper deck).There are 28 Standard Cabins on the Ruby Deck (middle deck).Standard Cabins on the Emerald Deck have smaller fixed windows – some are available for sole occupancy with no supplement.There are 10 Standard Cabins on the Emerald Deck (lower deck).Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a smart handset* with maps, translator and currency converter, unlimited internet use, L’Occitane en Provence toiletries, a bottle of chilled Prosecco on arrival, a platter of fresh seasonal fruits during the cruise and an aperitif each evening, with our compliments. *Smart handsets will be available on 2022 holiday departures.
Dining
The main restaurant is on the Ruby Deck, with tables laid for up to six guests, serving buffet breakfast, buffet lunch and dinner
Bistro
The Bistro is on the Diamond Deck, with panoramic windows and al fresco seating, serving early-bird breakfast, light lunch and dinner
Main Restaurant
The spacious main restaurant offers an intimate yet relaxed fine dining experience with informal free seating. Guests are spoilt for choice with a hearty range of buffets at breakfast and lunch, and sumptuous four-course dinners executed with silver service.
Entertainment
Observation lounge and bar on the Diamond Deck with panoramic windows for breathtaking views.
Sun Deck with shaded sitting area plus comfortable outdoor chairs and sun loungers.
Bistro
Perhaps escape to the bistro at the rear of the ship and enjoy a quiet read on the terrace. Should you have any queries, stop by the reception desk in the lobby, or let a crew member at the travel desk help you with your travel arrangements.
Panoramic Observation Lounge & Bar
The lobby, observation lounge and bar, bistro and boutique are located on the Diamond Deck.At the heart of the ship is the elegant panoramic observation lounge, where guests can enjoy marvellous views through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Take a seat on a leather armchair or modern settee, while the charming bar staff prepares your drink. During the evenings, the ship pianist entertains with a relaxing repertoire.
Sun Deck
Crowning MS George Eliot is the Sun Deck, the ideal spot for taking in unhindered river views. There is a shaded seating area with plenty of comfortable outdoor chairs and sun loungers, as well as a putting green and splash pool.
The Sun Deck
Crowning MS George Eliot is the sun deck, the ideal spot for taking in unhindered river views. There is a shaded seating area with plenty of comfortable outdoor chairs and sun loungers, as well as deck games such as giant chess. Cool off in the splash pool and enjoy a full bar service.
Enrichment
Excursions
On our river cruises we love to take you right into the heart of each town or city you visit along the way, and during your cruise local guides will offer a variety of guided walking tours, panoramic coach tours and/or visits to museums and local cultural favourites such as a wine tasting in Burgundy and a train journey through the Swiss mountains. You will have a good mix of touring and free time to learn about the history and the little quirks of each place, with plenty of time to explore at your own leisure. Please check the itinerary of the cruise for more specific details.
Kids and Teens
Please Note: There are no children's facilities on board.
Health & Fitness
There is a Wellness Centre on board MS George Eliot, located on the Emerald Deck.
Hairdressers
Book an appointment at the hairdresser’s, which offers manicures and pedicures for a small additional fee.
Sun Deck & Splash Pool
Crowning MS George Eliot is the Sun Deck, the ideal spot for taking in unhindered river views. There is a shaded seating area with plenty of comfortable outdoor chairs and sun loungers, as well as a putting green and splash pool.
Wellness Centre
The wellness centre and hair salon are located on the Emerald Deck. The wellness centre features a spa, which guests can reserve for private use to take a sauna or unwind in the steam room. Book an appointment at the hairdresser’s, which offers manicures and pedicures for a small additional fee.
Gratuities
Tips are not charged at a set percentage and are not included in the holiday cost, as we understand that giving a gratuity should be entirely at your discretion.
As a guideline we would recommend giving €8-12 per person per day should you feel that is appropriate. Usually, an envelope is left in your cabin on the final evening, for you to drop off at reception, if you choose to, the following morning. The tips are divided equally between the crew.
Should you also wish to give a gratuity directly to your Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge, this is also at your discretion.
Useful Information
Age Restrictions
The minimum age limit is 12 years old at the date of departure. We reserve the right to limit the number of children on any particular cruise. Any minor must be accompanied by and share a cabin with an adult aged 21 or over. If the adult is not the minor’s parent, a ‘Parental Consent Guardianship Form’ must be signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to sailing.
Air Conditioning
Our ships are fully air-conditioned throughout. Each cabin has individual air-conditioning and heating controls.
Dietary Requirements
If you have made a special request, they will do their utmost to see that your wishes are carried out. However, they cannot guarantee that your requests will be met.
Disabled Facilities
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us or call us on 01283 688 518 to discuss these concerns.MooringDue to the popularity of river cruising at some mooring places, or where our ship is moored alongside another vessel, access to the ship may be via the sun deck and require the navigation of steps so passengers must be able to walk on and off the ship themselves, without the use of crutches or other aids, as gangplanks can be positioned at a steep angle.On boardOur ships are not adapted for wheelchair access; if you are intending to take a wheelchair or mobility scooter with you, it is essential that you please contact us to let us know. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be used on excursions however cannot be used on board the ships due to safety reasons and must not be left in corridors, the lounge or restaurant or any other public areas, but must be stored at reception.River cruises operate with a smaller crew than ocean cruises and do not have the crew available to personally attend to passengers with reduced mobility; therefore, a travelling companion would need to be able to help with any physical needs.Whilst most of our ships have a lift on board, it does not operate to all decks.River cruising on European rivers offers the opportunity to take in the scenery from the comfort of the ship. If you are unable to do some of the shore excursions, your river cruise can still be enjoyable and worthwhile, so please contact us with any concerns or questions you may have.Shore ExcursionsFor our river cruises which include an extension and feature a hotel stay, the hotels we use have been chosen due to their location and standard, the facilities offered can differ, it is therefore important that we make the appropriate enquiries with our suppliers on your behalf to ensure any special needs or requests can be catered for.AccommodationFor our river cruises which include an extension and feature a hotel stay, the hotels we use have been chosen due to their location and standard, the facilities offered can differ, it is therefore important that we make the appropriate enquiries with our suppliers on your behalf to ensure any special needs or requests can be catered for.Overseas Transport ArrangementsAll of our tours involve coach travel. The coaches we use have not been adapted for wheelchair access.Air TravelWe are able to arrange airport assistance, from the check-in desk to the plane, for anyone with reduced mobility. This is a free service which must be arranged with the airline prior to travel. If you would like us to arrange this assistance for you it needs to be pre-booked more than 48 hours before your flight departs.EurostarIf you have reduced mobility and are travelling by Eurostar to your cruise, please contact us. Should you need to travel in your own wheelchair, Eurostar does have specially adapted wheelchair spaces which need to be pre-booked. If you would like assistance at St. Pancras, we can provide you with information and contact details for Eurostar Assist, although we cannot reserve this service for you directly.
Dress Code
There is no requirement to bring formal dress; smart/casual is acceptable for both day and evening as there is no dress code enforced. However men are requested not to wear shorts for dinner or vest tops at any time in the dining room. Men may wish to wear a jacket and tie for dinner. The Captain’s Dinner offers the opportunity, should you wish, for more special attire.
Drinks Packages
We offer a selection of drinks packages available to purchase and the price is dependent on the length of the cruise, so please check each tour page for more details. This includes the following with lunch and dinner: draught beer; non-alcoholic beer; soft drinks; juices; red, white and rose house wines; and wine recommendations from the menu. The drinks package must be added to your booking for all passengers in a cabin prior to departure and you can do this by calling the reservations team.If you choose not to purchase a drinks package, there is a vast selection of drinks on board each ship available for individual purchase.
Laundry Service
A limited laundry service is available on board, except on the day of disembarkation. A dry cleaning service is not available.
Medical Facilities
If you have any concerns about your health whilst on tour, please see your Cruise Director or Concierge. They will be able to advise you about chemists and availability of doctors, etc. In an emergency you could always phone our emergency number as issued on your itinerary. There are no on-board medical personnel, although specific crew members will have basic first aid training. However, the ship can stop at any time to transfer any passenger requiring emergency medical attention to local medical facilities.
Onboard Lifts
On the MS Emily Brontë, MS Oscar Wilde, MS Thomas Hardy, MS Robert Burns, MS William Wordsworth, MS George Eliot, MS Douro Elegance and MS Douro Splendour there is a lift between all three internal decks but not the sun deck. All other ships have lifts, but these do not operate to the lower deck or the sun deck; with the exception of the MS Swiss Ruby which has no lift.
Smoking and E-Cigarette Policy
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted anywhere on board except for designated areas on the sun deck.More and more countries in Europe are adopting a stricter legislation on smoking in public places. Smoking is not allowed on any public transport and there may be other restrictions in hotels, bars and restaurants.
Special Dietary Requirements
In the morning a full breakfast is served which includes healthy options and your choice of eggs made to order. For lunch enjoy salads from the buffet, soup and a choice of main courses, including local dishes, plus dessert. The four course a la carte dinners include a selection of international and regional specialities. We cater for most dietary requirements, please ensure you advise our sales team when making the booking.
What's Included
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Accommodation
10 nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite
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Airport Transfers at Destination
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Fully Guided
The Services of a Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge
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International Travel
Return scheduled flights from a selection of regional airports
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Meals
All meals on board, including welcome cocktails and the Captain’s Dinner
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Five-star service from an English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides
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Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
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Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi (connection speeds may vary)
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuity
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Insurance
Check out our Q&As
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Yes
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
As detailed in the itinerary
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Are flights included in this tour?
Return scheduled flights from a selection of regional airports
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
For cruises, the minimum age limit is 12 years old at the date of departure. We reserve the right to limit the number of children on any particular cruise.
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No
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Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
Yes
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For almost 40 years
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I have reduced mobility; can I still travel?
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns
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Do I require travel insurance?
It is a condition of booking that you carry suitable travel insurance.
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What is my luggage allowance?
You will receive details of your luggage allowance with your final travel documents, which are sent approximately 10 days prior to your date of departure.
Reviews of this Operator
Dates & Availability
Tuesday - Friday
Jun 25, 2024 - Jul 05, 2024Friday - Monday
Aug 16, 2024 - Aug 26, 2024Monday - Thursday
Oct 07, 2024 - Oct 17, 2024Saturday - Tuesday
May 17, 2025 - May 27, 2025Tuesday - Friday
Jun 24, 2025 - Jul 04, 2025Friday - Monday
Aug 15, 2025 - Aug 25, 2025Monday - Thursday
Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 16, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Riviera Travel requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 101 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of riviera travel charges.
Up to 101 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 100 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.
(Operator terms may apply)
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