EMERALD CRUISES — RHINE RIVER

Tulip Time on the Rhine

Amsterdam to Lucerne with Tulip Gardens

"Sailing the Rhine in tulip season is something I truly never tire of — the fields are breathtaking, Keukenhof is unlike anywhere else on earth, and the whole journey feels like spring has been arranged just for you." — Tracey

Save $1,400 pp for River Cruises -

Book by August 31, 2026

Route Overview
Amsterdam to Lucerne — Sail the Rhine at tulip time
Five nights in town — Amsterdam, Cologne, Koblenz, Strasbourg & Lucerne
Emerald Star Ship – Only 182 Guests
Sail the romantic Rhine River in spring aboard an award-winning Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. Begin in Amsterdam with a visit to the legendary Keukenhof Gardens — the 'Garden of Europe' — where seven million flower bulbs burst into bloom across beautifully manicured grounds. Cruise through the Dutch countryside past iconic windmills and glowing tulip fields before exploring Cologne and ancient Koblenz with expert local guides. Visit the magnificent Schwetzingen Palace and gardens, soak up the beauty of Strasbourg's UNESCO World Heritage old town, and discover two cities divided by the Rhine in Breisach and Neuf-Brisach. Your journey concludes with two nights in the cosmopolitan lakeside city of Lucerne, set against the breathtaking Swiss Alps.

DAY BY DAY

Your complete itinerary — 11 days, four countries & two overnight city stays

Click the â–ľ arrow on any day to see full details, shore excursions, and included meals

1Day

Depart Home

Home airport

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Your spring European adventure begins today as you fly to Amsterdam. Fields of tulips and the beautiful Rhine await. Tulip Time Rhine route map
2Day

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Netherlands · Embarkation · Overnight

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Dinner includedAirport transfer included
Welcome to Amsterdam — one of Europe's most enchanting cities, where 700 years of history unfold along a magnificent network of canals. You'll be met at the airport and transferred directly to your elegant Star-Ship. Settle in, explore the ship's wonderful amenities, or take your first stroll along the waterfront. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a lovely dinner onboard. Meals: D
3Day

Amsterdam — Keukenhof Gardens

Netherlands · Full day

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Breakfast · Lunch · DinnerKeukenhof Gardens includedWelcome Gala Dinner
This morning brings one of the true highlights of the entire journey — a visit to the legendary Keukenhof Gardens, the 'Garden of Europe.' Seven million flower bulbs burst into bloom across perfectly manicured pathways, creating a breathtaking tapestry of color that must be seen to be believed. Tulip fields in bloom Return to the ship and cruise gently through the Dutch countryside, past iconic windmills and glowing tulip fields, as the ship makes its way toward the Rhine. This evening, a festive welcome reception and gala dinner set a wonderful tone for the days ahead. Meals: B, L, D
4Day

Cologne, Germany

Germany

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Breakfast · Lunch · DinnerGuided walking tour includedBotanical Gardens visit includedLocal entertainment onboard
Cologne rewards every visitor with the sheer scale of its history. Your guided walking tour focuses on the remarkable Roman roots of this ancient city, weaving through the atmospheric Old Town before arriving at the soaring UNESCO World Heritage Gothic cathedral — begun in 1248 and still breathtaking after nearly 800 years. A visit to Cologne's Botanical Gardens provides a gentle, colorful contrast and a lovely interlude before returning to the ship for local entertainment this evening. Meals: B, L, D
5Day

Koblenz, Germany

Germany · Rhine Gorge sailing

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Breakfast · Lunch · DinnerGuided walking tour includedCable car to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
Few moments on the Rhine match the drama of arriving in Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle rivers converge in a spectacle that has captivated travelers for millennia. Your walking tour puts you right at the heart of it — standing at the famous 'German Corner' monument where the two great rivers meet, before visiting the graceful Church of Our Lady. The cable car crossing to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress high above the river delivers views that are simply unforgettable. This afternoon's sail through the Rhine Gorge past the Lorelei and ancient castle-crowned hilltops is the perfect finale. Meals: B, L, D

Additional Activities & Experiences
Optional add-on— Moselle & Cochem (Reichsburg) Castle Visit (additional expense)

**The included Koblenz tour and the Optional Add-On operate simultaneously — only one may be selected.
6Day

Ludwigshafen / Schwetzingen

Germany

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Breakfast · Lunch · DinnerSchwetzingen Palace & Gardens included
Today brings a true hidden gem — Schwetzingen Palace, one of Europe's most elegant royal retreats. The palace gardens are simply magnificent: a masterpiece of design preserved exactly as they were centuries ago, adorned with more than 100 sculptures throughout the sweeping grounds. It is a wonderfully relaxed and memorable morning. Meals: B, L, D

Additional Activities & Experiences
Active Option Guided vineyard hike in Bad-Dürkheim (included — replaces palace tour)
Included experience Schwetzingen Palace & Gardens
7Day

Strasbourg, France

France · Alsace

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Breakfast · Lunch · DinnerGuided city tour included
Strasbourg is a city that genuinely stops you in your tracks. Half French, half Alsatian, and entirely captivating — its UNESCO World Heritage city center, the Grande Île, feels like stepping into a storybook. Your guided tour winds through centuries-old timber-framed buildings, across canals, and into the shadow of the spectacular Gothic cathedral before setting you free to discover the irresistible La Petite France neighborhood on your own terms. Meals: B, L, D
8Day

Breisach & Neuf-Breisach

Germany · France

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Breakfast · Lunch · DinnerGuided city tour included
Today's experience is unlike any other on the river — a visit to two cities literally divided by the Rhine. Breisach on the German side and Neuf-Breisach on the French side tell a fascinating story of history, borders, and resilience. A guided tour takes in the main highlights of both, including the remarkable UNESCO World Heritage fortress that overlooks Neuf-Breisach from above. Meals: B, L, D

Additional Activities & Experiences
Active Option Guided bike tour in Breisach (included — replaces city tour)
Included experience A tale of two cities divided by the Rhine
9Day

Basel to Lucerne

Switzerland · Hotel stay begins

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Breakfast includedCoach transfer includedGuided walking tour included
After breakfast, disembark in Basel and transition from river to mountains as a comfortable coach carries you into Switzerland. Lucerne greets you with a setting of extraordinary beauty — a shimmering lake, snow-capped peaks, and a perfectly preserved medieval old town. Your included walking tour crosses the famous 14th-century Chapel Bridge and passes the elegant Town Hall, the Alps forming a picture-perfect backdrop at every turn. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Meals: B
10Day

Lucerne

Switzerland · All day and overnight

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Breakfast · DinnerFarewell dinner included
Wake up to one of Europe's finest views and spend the day entirely as you please. Lucerne's old town is made for unhurried exploration — charming lanes, waterfront promenades, excellent cafés, and some of Switzerland's best boutique shopping. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a wonderful included farewell dinner at the hotel. Meals: B, D

Additional Activities & Experiences
Optional add-on— Mt. Pilatus — a spectacular alpine excursion high above Lucerne (additional expense)
11Day

Lucerne to Home

Switzerland · Flight home from Zurich

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Breakfast includedAirport transfer included
Bid a fond 'auf wiedersehen' to Europe and head home with wonderful memories of tulips in bloom, magnificent cities, and the beauty of the Rhine in spring. Meals: B

Have a Question or Ready to Reserve Your Cabin?

Rick and Tracey answer every enquiry personally — usually within a few hours

Email Rick & Tracey to Book

— or —

We're cruise specialists, not a call center — you'll always speak with Rick or Tracey directly

Special Group Discount Pricing From:
$5,639
Per person
  • Inclusive luxury journey with a wealth of amenities
  • All prices before promotions shown above
Contact Rick & Tracey to book
2027 DEPARTURES
Mar 26 Mar 31* Apr 9 Apr 11 Apr 16* Apr 21* Apr 25
* Operates Lucerne to Amsterdam
Tulip Time Rhine Map
Click to enlarge
WHAT'S INCLUDED
âś” Spacious outside staterooms
âś” Exceptional dining with a regional flair
âś” Award-winning luxury cabins
âś” Two nights in Lucerne
âś” Wines, beers & soft drinks
âś” Shore excursions with active options
âś” Indoor pool & Gym
âś” Bicycles onboard for use ashore
âś” Personal listening device
âś” Gratuities, taxes & Wi-Fi ($400 value)
WHY BOOK WITH RICK & TRACEY?
âś” Personal service from first call to final travel documents
âś” Expert advice on the right cruise, ship and cabin for you
âś” Rick & Tracey have personally cruised 10+ river voyages across Europe, the Amazon and beyond
âś” Rivers sailed include the Danube, Rhine, Douro, RhĂ´ne, SaĂ´ne, Moselle, Nile and Amazon
✔ Rick & Tracey have visited all seven continents — at least twice
âś” Access to exclusive offers and added value not available to the public
✔ We're available before, during and after your trip — always a real person
Rick and Tracey
Rick & Tracey
Your Travel Experts
✔ Special exclusive group pricing · No fees, no markups!

SPECIAL GROUP PRICING & CABINS

Inclusive pricing prior to any promotional discounts · Singles available

Contact Rick & Tracey for single rates

Save $1,400 each off prices below
Book by August 31

Cat D / E

Picture Window Stateroom

Riviera Deck

2027 - Price Before Discount$5,639

Inclusive pricing prior to any promotional discounts

Cabin Features

Large panoramic picture window
Approx. 160 sq ft · two twin or one large bed
Stylish en-suite bathroom with upscale amenities
Climate control · flat-screen TV
Indulgent toiletries, hair dryer & bathrobes
Safe, umbrella & walking sticks
WiFi & daily water bottle per person
Gratuities & port charges (approx. $400 value pp)

Cat B / C

Panorama Balcony Suite

Vista Deck · Middle Deck

2027 - Price Before Discount$6,549

Inclusive pricing prior to any promotional discounts

Cabin Features

Floor-to-ceiling panorama balcony window
Approx. 170 sq ft · two twin or one large bed
Stylish en-suite bathroom with upscale amenities
Climate control · flat-screen TV
Indulgent toiletries, hair dryer & bathrobes
Safe, umbrella & walking sticks
WiFi & daily water bottle per person
Gratuities & port charges (approx. $400 value pp)

Cat A

MOST POPULAR

Panorama Balcony Suite

Horizon Deck · Upper Deck · Prime Views

2027 - Price Before Discount$7,019

Inclusive pricing prior to any promotional discounts

Cabin Features

Floor-to-ceiling panorama balcony window
Approx. 170 sq ft · two twin or one large bed
Stylish en-suite bathroom with upscale amenities
Climate control · flat-screen TV
Indulgent toiletries, hair dryer & bathrobes
Safe, umbrella & walking sticks
WiFi & daily water bottle per person
Gratuities & port charges (approx. $400 value pp)

Cat S

Grand Balcony Suite

Horizon Deck · Upper Deck · Extra Spacious

2027 - Price Before Discount$7,515

Inclusive pricing prior to any promotional discounts

Cabin Features

Full-width panorama balcony window
Approx. 210 sq ft · two twin or one large bed
Stylish en-suite bathroom with upscale amenities
Climate control · flat-screen TV · lounge area
Indulgent toiletries, hair dryer & bathrobes
Safe, umbrella & walking sticks
WiFi & daily water bottle per person
Gratuities & port charges (approx. $400 value pp)

Cat SA

Owner's One Bedroom Suite

Horizon Deck · Upper Deck · Ship's Largest Suite

2027 - Price Before Discount$8,519

Inclusive pricing prior to any promotional discounts

Cabin Features

Full-width panorama balcony window
Approx. 300 sq ft · separate living room
Private bedroom · king bed
Stylish en-suite bathroom with upscale amenities
Indulgent toiletries, hair dryer & bathrobes
Safe, umbrella & walking sticks
WiFi & daily water bottle per person
Gratuities & port charges (approx. $400 value pp)
Panorama Balcony Suite · Emerald Star-Ship

Panorama Balcony Suite   Click to enlarge ↗

Grand Balcony Suite · Emerald Star-Ship

Grand Balcony Suite   Click to enlarge ↗

Prices are per person based on double occupancy and are subject to change. Itinerary is subject to change and may operate in reverse order. We reserve the right to correct errors. Single supplement available — contact Rick & Tracey for details.

Ship & Deck Plan

Emerald Luxury Star-Ship

Award-winning river cruising · Maximum 182 guests · Built for discovery and comfort

Only 182 Guests Indoor Heated Pool Sky DeckCinema Wellness Spa & Gym Active Excursions Available Terrace Alfresco Bar
Emerald Star-Ship Deck Plan
Emerald Star-Ship · Deck Plan  Click to enlarge ↗

What's on board

Dining & Drinks

Reflections Restaurant · inspired regional cuisine
Sheltered alfresco dining at the front of the ship
Horizon Bar · cocktails & river views
All meals, wines & soft drinks included with lunch and dinner

Wellness & Leisure

Indoor heated swimming pool
Wellness spa, fitness centre & library
Open Sky Deck for scenic cruising
Cinema & extra-special included excursions and events

Activities & Service

Active touring options such as biking & hiking
Personal listening devices while touring
Onboard cultural talks & lectures
All gratuities & port charges included (a $400 pp value)
Delectable Cuisine and Beverages
Delectable Cuisine & Beverages · Click to enlarge ↗
Indoor heated pool
Indoor Heated Pool · River View · Click to enlarge ↗
Horizon Bar & Lounge
Horizon Bar & Lounge · Click to enlarge ↗

Videos

Tulip Time Cruise

Between Lucerne and Amsterdam

Tulip Time · Emerald River Cruise

Incredible Tulip Time Scenes

Emerald River Cruise · Netherlands

Budapest Highlights

Budapest Highlights

UNESCO World Heritage · Pearl of the Danube

Prague & ÄŚeskĂ˝ Krumlov

Prague & ÄŚeskĂ˝ Krumlov

City of a Hundred Spires · UNESCO gem

Emerald Star-Ship Experience

Emerald Star-Ship Experience

River Cruise Life on Board

River Cruise Life on Board

Have a Question or Ready to Reserve Your Cabin?

Rick and Tracey answer every enquiry personally — usually within a few hours

Email Rick & Tracey to Book

— or —

We're cruise specialists, not a call center — you'll always speak with Rick or Tracey directly