Wines of the Rhine & Moselle

Your wine-country adventure begins today as you board your overnight flight to Frankfurt. The storybook villages, legendary vineyards, and river valleys of the Rhine and Moselle await.

Welcome to Germany! You'll be met at Frankfurt Airport and transferred to your award-winning Emerald Cruises Star-Ship in Mainz, where your friendly captain and crew are waiting to welcome you onboard. Settle into your stateroom, and this evening, join your fellow travelers for your first dinner onboard. Please plan your flight to arrive in Frankfurt before 3:30 PM. Meals: D

Your first port of call is Rüdesheim, a delightful small town and the gateway to the Rhine Valley's storied wine culture. With its blend of medieval architecture and lively atmosphere, Rüdesheim is celebrated for its fine wines — especially Riesling and Sekt, Germany's sparkling wine — and its winemaking traditions date back more than a thousand years. Today includes a special visit to the renowned Schloss Johannisberg winery. Meals: B, L, D

Founded around 3,000 BC, the charming town of Bernkastel sits on the banks of the Moselle, with a beautifully preserved medieval Old Town and buildings dating back to 1416. It is a major center of Riesling production and the birthplace of the philosopher Nikolaus von Kues. Discover Bernkastel-Kues from a new perspective on a scenic vineyard hike: begin in the charming old town, pass through the historic Marktplatz, then climb gently into the vineyards for panoramic views over the river and the famous Bernkasteler Doctor vineyard, followed by a wine tasting. Meals: B, L, D

Step into the rich heritage of Trier, Germany's oldest city, where the Romans introduced winemaking more than 2,000 years ago. Your guided tour explores its remarkable Roman legacy and charming old town, passing iconic landmarks including the Porta Nigra, the Cathedral, and the Main Market Square. The tour ends with a visit to Germany's oldest wine cellar, a historic underground treasure where you'll experience the region's long winemaking tradition firsthand. Meals: B, L, D

Welcome to Cochem, the “Pearl of the Moselle,” celebrated for its Riesling wines, its well-preserved Old Town, and its striking medieval architecture and half-timbered houses — all set against beautiful river scenery. Today, enjoy an included Tastes of Moselle experience, a delicious introduction to the flavors of this lovely valley. Meals: B, L, D

Located where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet, Koblenz is one of Germany's oldest cities, steeped in history and full of fascinating landmarks. Explore its historic old town on a relaxed walking tour through narrow streets and lively squares, then end the experience in a traditional wine tavern with a glass of regional wine — the perfect way to savor Koblenz at a slower, more flavorful pace. Meals: B, L, D

Welcome back to Mainz, a city with a stunning Old Town of medieval market squares and well-preserved half-timbered houses, crowned by its magnificent sandstone cathedral. Explore at your leisure, or join an optional excursion to Eberbach Abbey — founded in 1136 by St. Bernard of Clairvaux, once home to Germany's largest medieval vineyard, and a filming location for “The Name of the Rose” — for a Riesling tasting at one of Europe's best-preserved medieval monasteries. This evening, celebrate your final night onboard. Meals: B, L, D