Christmas Markets on the Rhine
- calendar_today 16 Dec 2026
- bedtime 7 nights
- directions_boat Emerald Destiny
- location_on Depart from Amsterdam
- Outside price from $4,339*/person
- Suite price from $5,629*/person
7 Night Luxury Festive River Cruise with Bonus Exclusive Savings of $2,100 per stateroom*
Cruise through the heart of Europe’s finest cities, many of whom host large traditional Christmas markets. There’s nothing quite like taking a Rhine River cruise at Christmas time, as you’ll be able to take advantage of the hundreds of stalls all selling ideal Christmas presents for the folks back home.
INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE
-
7 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship from Amsterdam to Basel or vice versa
-
Earn & redeem points on all travel* with our new loyalty program, World360 Rewards
-
Earlybird Savings up to $1,600 per couple included*
-
Exclusive Cruiseabout savings of $500 per couple included
-
Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board
-
Guided visit to the Christmas market at Ravenna Viaduct
-
Walking tour of Duesseldorf with Christmas markets visit Cologne Christmas markets & beer experience
-
Orientation Walk of Koblenz with Christmas markets visit Guided tour of Heidelberg with Christmas markets visit
-
Guided tour of Strasbourg with Christmas markets visit
-
Guided tour of Breisach with Christmas markets visit
-
Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
-
All tipping and gratuities
-
Port taxes and charges
YOUR ITINERARY
Welcome to Amsterdam, a postcard-worthy destination of picturesque canals, quintessential cafés and innovative galleries that showcase contemporary art and the works of world-renowned artists, such as Van Gogh and Rembrandt.
You’ll be met at the airport by a member of our friendly team and transferred to your contemporary Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. After boarding, you’ll enjoy some free time to explore the narrow-cobbled streets and gabled houses of the Dutch capital at your leisure.
This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.
Inclusions: Dinner
...Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ capital, known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system and narrow houses with gabled facades, legacies of the city’s 17th-century Golden Age. Its Museum District houses the Van Gogh Museum, works by Rembrandt and Vermeer at the Rijksmuseum, and modern art at the Stedelijk. Cycling is key to the city’s character, and there are numerous bike paths
...Today you will have the chance to visit Duesseldorf and its many Christmas markets, each having its unique name and personality – such as the Fairytale Market, the Handwerker (hand maker) Market and the Schadowmarket where any present wish could easily be fulfilled and more. All of that with a Christmas scent of roasted almonds and hot mulled wine floating in the air. Afterwards we sail towards Cologne, where you’ll have the opportunity to wander the markets at your leisure, perhaps visiting the ornate stalls beneath the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, where you can drink traditional glühwein out of beautifully decorated mugs.
Included Excursion
Walking tour of Duesseldorf with Christmas Market visit
Included Excursion
Dusseldorf city tour with Christmas Markets
DiscoverMORE
German Beer Experience (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
...Today, we’ll take you into the heart of Koblenz, an ancient city pulled from the pages of a German fairy tale. Enjoy the picturesque backdrop of vineyards and snow-topped mountain ranges as your local guide takes you through open cobbled squares and down narrow streets. Feel inspired by our insightful EmeraldPLUS lecture where you will learn more about Christmas traditions in Europe.
Included Excursion
Orientation walk of Koblenz & Christmas market visit
EmeraldPLUS
Christmas traditions in Europe (lecture on board)
DiscoverMORE
Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
...Your guided tour of Heidelberg’s rich history includes a visit to the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, which overlooks the Rhine River and a red-roofed skyline. Some of the most successful painters of the Romantic era drew inspiration from Heidelberg Castle, including British artist William Turner, who depicted images of the ruins in several of his paintings. Afterwards, stroll down the cobbled streets of the Old Town, touching on the Church of the Holy Spirit and the oldest university in Germany.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Heidelberg & Christmas market visit
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
...Heidelberg is a town on the Neckar River in southwestern Germany. It’s known for venerable Heidelberg University, founded in the 14th century. Gothic Heiliggeistkirche church towers over the cafe-lined Marktplatz, a town square in the Altstadt (Old Town). The red-sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle, a noted example of Renaissance architecture, stand on Königstuhl hill.
...This morning, we will dock in Kehl, and you will be transferred by coach across the river to Strasbourg, the storied capital of France’s Alsace region. Your guided tour of Strasbourg will include the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grande Île, the historical centre of the city, known for its medieval half-timbered buildings, old tanning houses, Baroque sandstone buildings, and charming canal system. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to visit one of its most charming Christmas markets to enjoy traditional Alsatian Christmas treats and to shop for presents and stocking-fillers.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Strasbourg with Christmas market visit
DiscoverMORE
Baden Baden Spa Experience (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
...Strasbourg is the capital city of the Grand Est region, formerly Alsace, in northeastern France. It’s also the formal seat of the European Parliament and sits near the German border, with culture and architecture blending German and French influences. Its Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame features daily shows from its astronomical clock and sweeping views of the Rhine River from partway up its 142m spire.
...Today, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Rhine town of Breisach. Entrenched between two countries, it’s also known as the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest region. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive through the Black Forest Highlands on your way to the Hofgut Sternen complex located at the foothill of Ravenna Gorge, a place where history and tradition merge. It was here that in 1770 Marie Antoinette stopped with 52 beautifully decorated carriages on the way to her wedding to King Louis XVI.
As part of your EmeraldPLUS programme, you’ll also have the chance to see the postcard-worthy Christmas market situated underneath the 40-metre-high Ravenna Viaduct. Be amazed by the magical aroma of Black Forest specialties and unique handcrafted regional products sold there.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Breisach & Christmas Market Visit
EmeraldPLUS
Guided visit to Christmas Market at Ravenna Viaduct
DiscoverMORE
Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
...After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow guests and your Star-Ship as you are transferred to the airport, taking memories of quintessential German villages and the magic of Christmas with you.
This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.
Please book your flight to depart out of Zurich after 11:30 AM.
Inclusions: Breakfast.
...YOUR SHIP - The Emerald Destiny
Navigating the rivers Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle; the Emerald Star, Sky, Sun, Dawn and Destiny can guide you through some of Europe’s most magical stretches of water and help you explore many of the continent’s most arresting and enchanting cities. The five sister vessels, boasting a modest capacity of 182 guests apiece, are all blessed with a selection of wonderful amenities and features.
At the very heart of every Star-Ship in the Emerald Waterways fleet is the Horizon Bar & Lounge. A contemporary, chic social space; the lounge is equipped with a comprehensively-stocked bar, skilled bartenders, help-yourself hot drinks facilities and a generous offering of plush seating and sofas. The Horizon Bar & Lounge is an ever-popular after-dinner retreat for guests looking to make new friends and share the day’s events with friends of old.
Dining aboard the five sister ships throughout a stay on the beautiful rivers of Europe provides an endless array of palate-pleasing sensations. From the Reflections Restaurant which offers a collection of highlight dinners during any given itinerary, to the chance to dine under the barmy European sky thanks to the Sun Deck’s Sky Barbecue; there are gastronomic offerings to suit every taste and every appetite.
The Sun Deck of the ships also boasts the wonderful retractable glass roof which provides seasonal protection for the pool, cinema and Riverview Lounge below. Whether you wish to undertake a few lengths before breakfast in the heated pool or enjoy a Hollywood classic in the cinema, this area of the ship is primed for relaxation when you’ve got a few upcoming hours of river navigation.
The Emerald Star, Sky, Sun, Dawn and Destiny all benefit from 72 generously-proportioned suites and 20 staterooms. Book the Emerald Panorama Balcony Suites, found on the Vista and Horizon Decks, and you’ll enjoy unparalleled views from the spacious private balconies – a truly invigorating start to another day on Europe’s beautiful waterways.
Navigating the rivers Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle; the Emerald Star, Sky, Sun, Dawn and Destiny can guide you through some of Europe’s most magical stretches of water and help you explore many of the continent’s most arresting and enchanting cities. The five sister vessels, boasting a modest capacity of 182 guests apiece, are all blessed with a selection of wonderful amenities and features.
At the very heart of every Star-Ship in the Emerald Waterways fleet is the Horizon Bar & Lounge. A contemporary, chic social space; the lounge is equipped with a comprehensively-stocked bar, skilled bartenders, help-yourself hot drinks facilities and a generous offering of plush seating and sofas. The Horizon Bar & Lounge is an ever-popular after-dinner retreat for guests looking to make new friends and share the day’s events with friends of old.
Dining aboard the five sister ships throughout a stay on the beautiful rivers of Europe provides an endless array of palate-pleasing sensations. From the Reflections Restaurant which offers a collection of highlight dinners during any given itinerary, to the chance to dine under the barmy European sky thanks to the Sun Deck’s Sky Barbecue; there are gastronomic offerings to suit every taste and every appetite.
The Sun Deck of the ships also boasts the wonderful retractable glass roof which provides seasonal protection for the pool, cinema and Riverview Lounge below. Whether you wish to undertake a few lengths before breakfast in the heated pool or enjoy a Hollywood classic in the cinema, this area of the ship is primed for relaxation when you’ve got a few upcoming hours of river navigation.
The Emerald Star, Sky, Sun, Dawn and Destiny all benefit from 72 generously-proportioned suites and 20 staterooms. Book the Emerald Panorama Balcony Suites, found on the Vista and Horizon Decks, and you’ll enjoy unparalleled views from the spacious private balconies – a truly invigorating start to another day on Europe’s beautiful waterways.
Gym
On-Board Bikes
Running Track
Horizon Bar & Lounge
Reflections Restaurant
Riverview Lounge
Sky Barbecue
Hairdresser
Lift
Description
Navigating the rivers Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle; the Emerald Star, Sky, Sun, Dawn and Destiny can guide you through some of Europe’s most magical stretches of water and help you explore many of the continent’s most arresting and enchanting cities. The five sister vessels, boasting a modest capacity of 182 guests apiece, are all blessed with a selection of wonderful amenities and features.
At the very heart of every Star-Ship in the Emerald Waterways fleet is the Horizon Bar & Lounge. A contemporary, chic social space; the lounge is equipped with a comprehensively-stocked bar, skilled bartenders, help-yourself hot drinks facilities and a generous offering of plush seating and sofas. The Horizon Bar & Lounge is an ever-popular after-dinner retreat for guests looking to make new friends and share the day’s events with friends of old.
Dining aboard the five sister ships throughout a stay on the beautiful rivers of Europe provides an endless array of palate-pleasing sensations. From the Reflections Restaurant which offers a collection of highlight dinners during any given itinerary, to the chance to dine under the barmy European sky thanks to the Sun Deck’s Sky Barbecue; there are gastronomic offerings to suit every taste and every appetite.
The Sun Deck of the ships also boasts the wonderful retractable glass roof which provides seasonal protection for the pool, cinema and Riverview Lounge below. Whether you wish to undertake a few lengths before breakfast in the heated pool or enjoy a Hollywood classic in the cinema, this area of the ship is primed for relaxation when you’ve got a few upcoming hours of river navigation.
The Emerald Star, Sky, Sun, Dawn and Destiny all benefit from 72 generously-proportioned suites and 20 staterooms. Book the Emerald Panorama Balcony Suites, found on the Vista and Horizon Decks, and you’ll enjoy unparalleled views from the spacious private balconies – a truly invigorating start to another day on Europe’s beautiful waterways.
Recreational
Gym
On-Board Bikes
Running Track
Food and Drink
Horizon Bar & Lounge
Reflections Restaurant
Riverview Lounge
Sky Barbecue
Relaxation
Hairdresser
Other
Lift
Launched
2016
Length
443
Capacity
182
AVAILABLE STATEROOMS
Click the tabs to view the different staterooms with their category
![Emerald Stateroom – [E]](https://www.cruiseabout.com.au/volume/images/original/1481286322.jpg)
Emerald Stateroom – [E]
![Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite – [C]](https://www.cruiseabout.com.au/volume/images/original/1597840769.jpg)
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite – [C]
Outside from $4,339*
![Emerald Stateroom – [D]](https://www.cruiseabout.com.au/volume/images/original/1481286318.jpg)
Emerald Stateroom – [D]
Emerald Stateroom – [E]
![Single Stateroom – [ES]](https://www.cruiseabout.com.au/volume/images/original/1486716410.jpg)
Single Stateroom – [ES]
Suite from $5,629*
![Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite – [A]](https://www.cruiseabout.com.au/volume/images/original/1597840834.jpg)
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite – [A]
![Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite – [B]](https://www.cruiseabout.com.au/volume/images/original/1597840800.jpg)
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite – [B]
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite – [C]
![Owner’s One Bedroom Suite – [SA]](https://www.cruiseabout.com.au/volume/images/original/1597840880.jpg)
Owner’s One Bedroom Suite – [SA]
![Emerald Grand Balcony Suite – [S]](https://www.cruiseabout.com.au/volume/images/original/1481286326.jpg)
Emerald Grand Balcony Suite – [S]
ALTERNATIVE DATES
View our alternative dates and durations below for this cruise. Prices based on twinshare cabin.
-
DateTripCruise ShipNightsPrice per person
-
24th Nov ‘26Christmas Markets on the Rhine from BaselEmerald Destiny- 7Nights7
-
8th Dec ‘26Christmas Markets on the Rhine from BaselEmerald Destiny- 7Nights7
-
15th Dec ‘26Christmas Markets on the Rhine from BaselEmerald Luna- 7Nights7
-
15th Dec ‘26Christmas Markets on the RhineEmerald Destiny- 7Nights7
-
16th Dec ‘26Christmas Markets on the Rhine from AmsterdamEmerald Astra- 7Nights7
Important Notice
The following product terms and conditions apply in addition to our Booking Terms and Conditions (available on our website) and terms and conditions of the relevant travel service provider. Prices quoted are valid for sale until 31 January 2026 for travel during the period specified (if applicable) unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. All prices are per person, twin share (unless otherwise stated), subject to availability and may be withdrawn or varied without notice. Some categories may have obstructed views. Airfare (including internal flights) is not included unless otherwise stated and, if included, is economy class unless otherwise stated. Airfares require full payment in order to ticket. Components of the total price including local payments, “resort fees”, “national park fees”, “trip kitties” and food funds (if applicable) may be payable direct to the supplier on arrival or to your travel consultant prior to your departure. Where applicable, these payments are included in the total price quoted. Gratuities are not included unless otherwise stated. The following product terms and conditions apply in addition to our Booking Terms and Conditions (available on our website) and terms and conditions of the relevant travel service provider. All prices are per person, twin share (unless otherwise stated), subject to availability and may be withdrawn or varied without notice. Some categories may have obstructed views. Airfare (including internal flights) is not included unless otherwise stated and, if included, is economy class unless otherwise stated. Airfares require full payment in order to ticket. Components of the total price including local payments, “resort fees”, “national park fees”, “trip kitties” and food funds (if applicable) may be payable direct to the supplier on arrival or to your travel consultant prior to your departure. Where applicable, these payments are included in the total price quoted. Gratuities are not included unless otherwise stated. Prices shown are fully inclusive of taxes, levies and government charges current at the time of publication. Additional supplier conditions and travel restrictions may apply. Prices shown are for payments made by cash in store or by BPAY. Payments made in store by credit card will incur a surcharge (see Booking Terms and Conditions for further details). Prices quoted are accurate as of 22 December 2025 and may be higher depending on date of purchase and date of travel. Cruiseabout cannot guarantee that any particular product will still be available at the following prices, or for your exact dates of travel. At the time of making your booking, prices may differ to the price displayed on the website. Terms and exclusions apply. Member tier determines benefit access. Some earn exclusions apply (incl service, change/cancellation & merchant fees, gift card purchases and bookings with brand credit). Some products redeemable in store only and min and max point redemption values apply. Ask in store or visit https://rewards.cruiseabout.com.au/world360-rewards for full details. Please contact your Cruiseabout Travel Advisor to obtain the latest up to date information regarding applicable prices, fees and charges, taxes, availability, blackout dates (such as school holidays), seasonal surcharges and other terms and conditions which may apply. MUST PAY IN FULL 10 MONTHS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE. If booking inside of 10 months prior, payment is required within 30 days. Discount available on all cabins. Combinable with Welcome Home Vouchers, Information Session Vouchers and Loyalty Benefits. Offer is not combinable with any other offers. View our full Terms and Conditions.