Group Tour Operator for River cruises in Europe
Enchanting Christmas Markets on the Rhine (CroisiEurope) – NEW RIVER CRUISE
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Germany - Rhine - La Moselle ©Haubtmann
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Siegfrieds Mechanisches Musikkabinett
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Rheingau wine region – Drosselgasse in Rüdesheim ©Deutsches Weininstitut GmbH (DWI), GNTB
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Drosselgasse, Rüdesheim ©Rüdesheim Tourist AG - Marlis Steinmetz
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Overlooking Mainz Cathedral ©DZT, Christof Herdt, GNTB
Discover the magical ambience of the festive season along the Rhine on a relaxing cruise
Visit the magical Christmas Markets of the Rhine Valley and experience the tastes and smells of local specialities that fill the air surrounding traditional wooden chalets selling artisan gifts. For authentic German and French experiences visit traditional markets in Rūdesheim, Mainz and Strasbourg.
Our ship is operated by one of the leading river cruise companies ‘CroisiEurope’ who operate a 50+ fleet of standard and premium river and canal vessels with a minimum 4* standard of comfort, facilities and catering.
Dates
30 November; 04 & 08 December 2026
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Depart the UK
Take the ferry across to Dover or Calais and continue towards the Reims area for an overnight stay. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.
Day 2
Travel to Strasbourg
Drive south towards Strasbourg arriving in time for embarkation from 17.00 hours. After checking into our cabins enjoy a welcome cocktail with the Captain and crew before dinner. This evening there will be a celebration of the Alsatian festive butter cookies, known as ‘bredeles’. whilst the ship sails through the night.
Day 3
Romantic Rhine – Rüdesheim
This morning the ship will sail along the Rhine Valley, passing the legendary Rock of the Lorelei, following the twists and turns overlooked by castles and vineyards. Delicious ‘bredeles’ will be available in the ship’s lounge.
On arrival in Rüdesheim, a picturesque village lined with narrow, cobblestone streets and half-timbered homes, there will be a tour of the town by a local tourist train and a visit of Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet, showcasing 350 self-playing, mechanical music instruments dating from the 18th to the 20th centuries. Wander through the wonderful Christmas Market of Nations with traditional wooden chalets displaying artisan objects, great gift ideas, and delicious local specialities; and of course, pretzels! The town is also home to one of the largest nativity scenes in Europe.
Return to the ship by strolling down the famous ‘Drosselgasse’, lined with numerous cafés and bars.
There will be more time to visit the Drosselgasse after dinner and the possibility to try the renowned ‘Rüdesheimer Kaffee’.
Day 4
Rüdesheim – Mainz – Gambsheim
The ship departs early morning, sailing to Mainz. Take a walking tour of the city to see many of its remarkably restored sites including a visit to the magnificent 1,000-year-old Saint-Martin’s Cathedral. Stroll down the picturesque streets of the old city to the Gutenberg Museum, which houses two copies of the Gutenberg Bible, the first major book printed with movable type in the West. Enjoy some free time to explore the colourful local Christmas market near the cathedral, surrounded by splendid Renaissance-style buildings. Germany is known for its decorative wooden Christmas carousels, and a larger than life one can be found at the market in Mainz surrounded by traditional chalets selling handcrafts, souvenirs, and delicious goodies.
The afternoon is spent cruising to Gambsheim with onboard entertainment recounting Christmas traditions followed by a Gala Evening. The ship will sail through the night.
Day 5
Gambsheim – Strasbourg
From Gambsheim, take an included excursion by coach to Wingen-sur-Moder for a visit to the Musée Lalique to learn about crystalware-genius René Lalique and his successors. Lalique became one of the greatest names of his time, both as a jeweller and a master glassmaker. His instantly recognizable style was a major influence in the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements. Discover the company’s wide range of impressive crystal and glass designs, pieces of jewellery, tableware, lights, and vases. Continue, by coach, to Strasbourg where you can rejoin the ship and enjoy a glass of mulled wine as you embark.
The rest of the day is at leisure to explore Strasbourg, visit the Christmas market and admire the lights around the city near the cathedral, the Place Kléber, Carré d’Or, and Place Gutenberg.
There is an authentic Alsatian dinner this evening, followed by a Christmas Markets themed quiz.
Day 6
Depart Strasbourg
Disembark and make the return journey, stopping overnight once again in the Reims area. Dinner will be included at the hotel this evening.
Day 7
Return to the UK
Depart after breakfast and drive to Calais or Dunkerque for the ferry across to the UK.
MS Beethoven (or similar standard ship)
Named after the famous German virtuoso, the MS Beethoven sails on the Rhine and Danube rivers. Cruise passengers will discover the many wonders of both romantic rivers. Completely renovated in 2010, the MS Beethoven is a standard ship that measures 110m long and 11m wide and accommodates 180 passengers in 90 cabins on 3 decks. Single occupancy cabins can be requested subject to availability. The size of a cabin is between 11.50m2 to 13m2, offering amenities and providing guests with all the comforts they need during their stay.
The refined decoration and the elegant and friendly atmosphere are in perfect harmony with its environment. Located at the main deck, the restaurant, where all meals are served during the cruise, offers fine cuisine in a refined setting, where wide windows allow you to fully enjoy the panorama. Situated on the middle deck is the lounge / bar with a dance floor, while you can relax in a cosy atmosphere in the piano-bar on the upper deck. Comfortable sun loungers are provided on the sun deck, the ideal place to relax and admire the surrounding landscapes.
Cabin information/facilities (CroisiEurope)
All cabins are located above the water level and offer panoramic views of the landscape. They are equipped with private toilet, shower, washbasin and towels. Cabins are comfortable and include Satellite TV, hairdryer, safe and storage space. Depending on the boat, cabins have twin beds, a large bed or 2 separable beds. Voltage on board in 220V. All cabins are air conditioned and have independent thermostat controlled heating and air conditioning. The size and configuration of cabins vary from boat to boat. Some boats have cabins which are specifically equipped for people with reduced mobility (please ask for further details). There is free Wi-Fi throughout the ship.
MS Beethoven (or similar standard ship)
| Departure date | 7 days / 6 nights | Single Supplement |
| 30 November; 04 & 08 December 2026 | From £1,039.00 per person (based on a twin/double main deck cabin) | From £405.00 per person (based on a single main deck cabin) |
All dates are subject to availability on request. Register now for 2027.
Deposit and Payment Guidelines
A non-refundable deposit will be due upon confirmation with staged payments prior to departure. Further details upon request.
