13 DAYS • 25 MEALS Begin your vacation with four nights in spectacularly situated Lausanne, Switzerland to discover the surrounding beauty and nearby sites. A highlight is sure to be the rail journey through the Swiss Alps aboard the Golden Pass as you travel from Montreaux to Gstaad. Embark the cruise vessel in Basel and enjoy all the scenic beauty this cruise offers while traveling along the romantic Rhine River through four countries. Colorful, picturesque towns line the shores, castles sit atop the vineyard-covered hills, and new sights await around every bend. Explore the charming towns and bustling cities on included shore excursions throughout the cruise. This cruise and the unique rail journey are sure to provide you with a memorable trip for years to come!
Jewels of the Rhine & Golden Pass Rail Journey
Day 1: Depart the USA
Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Geneva, Switzerland.
Day 2: Geneva – Lausanne, Switzerland
Welcome to Switzerland! You will be met at the airport and transferred by coach to the beautiful city of Lausanne. Flights should arrive by 3:00pm. The remainder of the day is at leisure to begin exploring your new surroundings. Enjoy an included dinner this evening at the hotel. Meal: D
Day 3: Lausanne
Begin the day with a panoramic tour of the city, known around the world for its spectacular setting, and home of the International Olympic Committee and Museum. This afternoon, visit Château de Chillon, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval castles, on the shores of Lake Geneva. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, discover the history of this 13th-century fortress. Learn about the château’s association with famous authors and artists; the counts and dukes who inhabited it as well as the prisoners who occupied the jail; see period furnishings, art treasures and frescoes. The beauty of the area continues to amaze during a cruise on Lake Geneva from the harbor in Montreux. Relax onboard as the spectacular scenery unfolds while sailing back to Lausanne before returning to the hotel. Meal: B
Day 4: Lausanne / Golden Pass
Today may be a highlight of your time in Switzerland as you experience a unique rail journey and mountain adventure. Depart by coach to Montreux where it’s ‘all aboard’ the Golden Pass for an unforgettable panoramic train ride through the scenic landscapes of the Alps. Disembark the train in Gstaad where the coach is waiting to take you to Col du Pillon for the Glacier 3000 mountain adventure. Ascend via arial cable car to an altitude of approximately 9850’ above sea level where you are met with astounding panoramic views, including the Matterhorn and Jungfrau. Walk across the world’s first suspension bridge connecting two mountain summits, if you dare! Return to the hotel in Lausanne this afternoon. Meal: B
Day 5: Lausanne
The day is left free of planned activities for your independent exploration. If you prefer, join an optional excursion to visit the village of Gruyère (famous for cheese-making) and Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory. Meal: B
DiscoverMORE: Visit to Gruyère and Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory (additional expense)
Day 6: Lausanne - Huningue, France
After breakfast, depart Lausanne and travel by coach to Huningue for embarkation of the Emerald Cruises Star-Ship and start of the cruise along the Rhine River. Settle into your stateroom and enjoy your first meal onboard at dinner this evening. Meals: B, D
Day 7: Breisach, Germany
As part of the EmeraldPLUS program, visit the city of Freiburg. Considered the ‘capital of the Black Forest’, Freiburg has lovely sights that will leave you amazed. You also have the opportunity to sample true Black Forest delicacies from the lively market in the city center near the main cathedral. If you’re feeling more active, join the guided bike tour in Breisach. Enjoy local entertainment onboard this evening. Meals: B, L, D
EmeraldPLUS: Guided tour of Freiburg
EmeraldACTIVE: Bike tour in Breisach
DiscoverMORE: Guided tour of Colmar (additional expense)
Day 8: Strasbourg, France
Arrive in Strasbourg, the capital city of the Alsace Region in France. The guided walking tour takes you along narrow lanes and across footbridges as you discover the Grande Île, the historical city center and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its medieval black and white timber-framed buildings, picturesque le Petite France, old tanning houses, canals and river locks, the city’s star attraction is the ornate cathedral, dominating the main square. This afternoon, the city is yours to explore at leisure. Meals: B, L, D
DiscoverMORE: Baden Baden Spa experience (additional expense)
Day 9: Mannheim / Heidelberg, Germany
Relax onboard as the vessel cruises along the Rhine River to Mannheim, docking site for Heidelberg. Travel by coach to Heidelberg, home of the oldest university in Germany. The guided walking tour visits the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, with fantastic views overlooking the Neckar River, and takes you through the cobblestoned-streets of the medieval city below. Alternatively, hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg. Local entertainment is provided onboard this evening. Meals: B, L, D
EmeraldACTIVE: Hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg
Day 10: Koblenz
Begin the day sailing through the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Rhine Gorge. Pass countless medieval castles and vineyards lining the shores of this section of the river, with photo opportunities around every bend. See the infamous Lorelei statue and Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, built on an island in the middle of the river as a medieval toll station. Continue cruising to the 2000-year-old town of Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Enjoy a walking tour through the streets of the city as your guide points out historic monuments and buildings. See the ‘German Corner’ monument marking the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. This evening, attend a private concert as part of the EmeraldPLUS program. Meals: B, L, D
DiscoverMORE: Moselle & Cochem (Reichsburg) Castle Visit (additional expense)
EmeraldPLUS: Private Evening Concert
Day 11: Cologne > Düsseldorf
This morning, you’ll will arrive in Cologne and have the chance to know one of Germany’s oldest cities and get up close with the famous post card worthy Cathedral. After lunch, join a walking tour of Düsseldorf, a vibrant city renowned for its stylish boutiques and charming Old Town. Stroll along the picturesque Rhine River, admire the stunning architecture and discover hidden gems off-the-beaten path. Immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere, indulge in the delicious local cuisine, and marvel at the contrast of Düsseldorf’s ancient and modern charms. Meals: B, L, D
DiscoverMORE: Cologne Beer Experience (additional expense)
Day 12: Amsterdam, the Netherlands
This morning, discover the charm of Alkmaar, a picturesque Dutch town just a short distance from Amsterdam. Explore its historic center, lined with charming canals and medieval buildings. Alkmaar is famous for its centuries-old cheese market where traditional cheesemakers showcase their craft and engage in lively auctions. Immerse yourself in the local culture in this typical charming town. Alternatively, embark on a bike tour through the Dutch countryside. Meals: B, L, D
EmeraldACTIVE: Guided bike tour to Waterland
DiscoverMORE: Private hidden Gems tour of Amsterdam (additional expense)
DiscoverMORE: Dutch Delights (additional expense)
Day 13: Amsterdam / USA
Bid ‘auf wiedersehen’ to Europe and return home with memories of life-enriching experiences from your European adventure and cruise along the Rhine River. Meal: B
Itinerary is subject to change.
EXCEPTIONAL INCLUSIONS
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25 Meals: 11 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 8 dinners
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Airport transfers on tour dates when air is provided by Mayflower Cruises & Tours
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Visit four countries
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Four-night hotel stay and touring in Lausanne
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Visit to Château de Chillon on Lake Geneva
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Cruise on Lake Geneva
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Scenic journey aboard the Golden Pass Railway
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Glacier 3000 Mountain Adventure
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Seven-nights in a suite or stateroom of your choice onboard the vessel
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First-class service by an English-speaking crew
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Onboard Activity Manager will support all EmeraldACTIVE excursions and host daily onboard wellness activities, games, classes and evening entertainment
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All gratuities included
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Shore excursions with English-speaking local guides
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Personal listening device for shore excursions
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Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites
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All meals included onboard with a variety of international cuisine
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Complimentary regional wines, beer and soft drinks with onboard lunches and dinners
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Complimentary bottled water in your stateroom
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Complimentary WiFi onboard
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Complimentary bicycles onboard for use ashore
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All port charges included
CRUISE & HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS
Days 2 through 5 – Movenpick Hotel or similar, Lausanne, Switzerland
Days 6 through 12 – Aboard an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
Post-cruise hotel stays available in Amsterdam. Call for details.

- Sun Deck with Deck Chairs
- Navigation Bridge
- Sky Barbeque
- Golf Putting Green
- Games Area
- Retractable Glass Roof
- Walking Track
- Daytime Pool / Evening Cinema
- The Terrace
- Horizon Bar and Lounge
- Elevator
- Reception
- Wellness Area
- Fitness Area
- Reflections Restaurant
May 24, 2026 (Geneva > Amsterdam) Priced from $6,155
FREE AIRFARE from anywhere in the contiguous United States.
Emerald Stateroom (Cat. E) – Riviera Deck
$6,155 per person twin / Single room add $4,619
Emerald Stateroom (Cat. D) – Riviera Deck
$6,509 per person twin / Single room add $4,885
Panorama Balcony Suite (Cat. C) – Vista Deck
$7,259 per person twin / Single room add $5,445
Panorama Balcony Suite (Cat. B) – Vista Deck
$7,465 per person twin / Single room add $5,599
Panorama Balcony Suite (Cat. A) – Horizon Deck
$7,609 per person twin / Single room add $5,079
Grand Balcony Suite (Cat. S) – Horizon Deck
$8,359 per person twin
Owner’s One Bedroom Suite (Cat. SA) – Horizon Deck
$9,395 per person twin
Call for air schedules from your city to Geneva, Switzerland, returning from Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
June 7, 2026 (Geneva > Amsterdam) Priced from $6,375
FREE AIRFARE from anywhere in the contiguous United States.
Emerald Stateroom (Cat. E) – Riviera Deck
$6,375 per person twin / Single room add $4,785
Emerald Stateroom (Cat. D) – Riviera Deck
$6,729 per person twin / Single room add $5,049
Panorama Balcony Suite (Cat. C) – Vista Deck
$7,479 per person twin / Single room add $5,609
Panorama Balcony Suite (Cat. B) – Vista Deck
$7,689 per person twin / Single room add $5,769
Panorama Balcony Suite (Cat. A) – Horizon Deck
$7,829 per person twin / Single room add $5,875
Grand Balcony Suite (Cat. S) – Horizon Deck
$8,579 per person twin
Owner’s One Bedroom Suite (Cat. SA) – Horizon Deck
$9,615 per person twin
Call for air schedules from your city to Geneva, Switzerland, returning from Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
