The Authentic Cruise Company

Itinerary

Day 1: Basel
Day 2: Lucerne
Day 3: Strasbourg
Day 4: Speyer
Day 5: Rüdesheim
Day 6: Koblenz
Day 7: Bernkastel-Kues
Day 8: Trier
Day 9: Cochem
Day 10: Cologne
Day 11: Düsseldorf
Day 12: Cuijk
Day 13: Maastricht
Day 14: Antwerp
Day 15: Brussel (Bruxelles)
Day 1: Basel

Basel is a city in northwestern Switzerland on the Swiss, French and German borders. It is located on the bend of the River Rhine and benefits from a Mediterranean climate. It is the third most populated city in Switzerland and has been the commercial hub for Swiss arts and culture since the Renaissance. In 1967 the people of Basel voted to acquire two paintings by Picasso, who was so moved by the Basel people that he donated 3 paintings and a study to the city’s Kunstmuseum (Museum of Fine Arts). Visit the Augusta Raurica, one of the largest Roman archaeology parks in Switzerland, and enjoy a river crossings over the River Rhine by non-motorised ferries. During the summer months, time is spent outdoors, either swimming in the River Rhine, dining al fresco, enjoying open air concerts, cinema, street parties and festivals. Basel is home to over 20 restaurants that have won GaultMillau or Michelin awards, and boasts Switzerland’s largest collection of theatre shows, including modern contemporary dance, touring and puppetry theatre.

Day programme:

Arrive at EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.

Day 2: Lucerne

Day programme:

A fantastic cultural hub in Switzerland, Basel is the perfect blend of history and modernity, with an Old Town as charming as any in Europe, an array of public art and architecture to marvel at, excellent cuisine, and more. See this city on foot with a local guide or take this time to dive deeper into Switzerland with a visit to Mount Pilatus.

Day 3: Strasbourg

Day programme:

Strasbourg is invariably described as quaint, with its cobbled lanes, half-timbered homes, giant stork nests, and impossible-to-resist pastry shops. You can take a stroll through town with a local guide today, or alternatively, join us on a day trip to the blissful spa town of Baden-Baden.

Day 4: Speyer

Speyer is a town located in southwest Germany situated beside the river Rhine. Originally founded by the Romans, it is one of the oldest settlements in Germany and is situated in the popular wine growing region of the Palatinate. A key attraction of Speyer is the Historical Museum of the Palatinate, which is one of the most celebrated culture-history museums in Germany. It features five permanent collections including Prehistory, Roman Times, Cathedral Treasury, Modern Era and Wine Museum. Not far from the museum, visitors will find the Imperial Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is considered the largest preserved Romanesque church in Europe. Originally constructed by Konrad II, this magnificent and looming building was intended to demonstrate the Lord’s religio-political claim to power against the papacy. Speyer has been producing wine since its Roman beginnings and wine tasting, festivals and events are popular all year round. The town is popular for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling as well as guided walking tours of the town.

Day programme:

Speyer—“spire” in English—is well named, since the four red towers of the Romanesque cathedral dominate the Old Town. It’s the largest of its kind in the world and an icon of Speyer’s characteristic beauty. The city also sits a little ways off the Pfalz wine route, where many of the country’s best wine grapes are cultivated.

Day 5: Rüdesheim

Day programme:

Rüdesheim, like many cities along the Rhine, dates back to Roman times, when the Rhine was the northern border of the empire. Today, Rüdesheim is famous for its beauty and its entertaining alley of shops and wine bars called the Drosselgasse.

Day 6: Koblenz

Located in the West of the country, Koblenz is one of the oldest cities in Germany. It is situated on both banks of the river Rhine, at its confluence with the Moselle River. The beginnings of Koblenz can be traced back to its military beginnings around 8 BC. The city is rich in its history and heritage and is easily explored on foot. Take the cable car crossing over the river Rhine for spectacular aerial views or enjoy the city from the one thousand year old fortress, Ehrenbreitstein. The upper middle Rhine Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its unique landscape can be enjoyed and discovered through the interactive multimedia journey at the Romanticum. Historical and architectural sites of interest include Stolzenfels Castle, the Electoral Palace of Koblenz and Old Town. From the romantic winding streets and small squares of Old Town, stroll through the alleyways from the Church of the Holy Virgin to the St Kastor Basilica and enjoy the picturesque buildings and squares along the way. Koblenz is also very popular for its Riesling and strong Spatburgunder wines since the Romans introduced it two thousand years ago.

Day programme:

Get to know Koblenz, a historic town with a colorful past and eclectic architecture, and enjoy a visit to the stunningly medieval Marksburg Castle. As you come upon picture-perfect Koblenz, you’ll sail past Deutsches Eck (German Corner) with its historic monument to Kaiser Wilhelm I.

Day 7: Bernkastel-Kues

Day programme:

Bernkastel sits peacefully in the Moselle Valley and is as romantic and picture-perfect as it gets. Explore by foot its scenic streets, taverns, and vineyards, and enjoy a tasting of exceptional regional Rieslings. Aside from the medieval marketplace, a must-see is the Graach Gate, the last remaining town gate of Bernkastel-Kues. Its original purpose was that of protection, helping to ward off foreign aggression in the 1300s, but now it’s a museum of local history and a beloved landmark. If a bike is your transportation of choice, cycle along the dreamy paths of the Middle Moselle.

Day 8: Trier

Day programme:

Trier is no stranger to famous landmarks, stunning cathedrals, natural beauty, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and architectural treasures. See Trier’s Roman heritage and Gallic charm as you stroll to some of the city’s most notable spots. Marvel at the stone Roman gate, Porta Nigra, the Karl Marx house, Imperial Baths, and more. Alternatively, you can choose to visit the small neighboring country of Luxembourg. Experience a healthy dose of history with a visit to the expansive Luxembourg American War Cemetery and Memorial, where General George S. Patton is buried.

Day 9: Cochem

Day programme:

Perhaps one of Germany’s most colorful cities, Cochem feels just like a storybook with its dramatic castle, impressive landscapes, and pastel-colored shops, restaurants, and buildings lining the banks of the Moselle. Perched high above on a cliff sits the brilliant Cochem Castle, also known as Reichsburg Cochem.

Day 10: Cologne

Cologne is a city in western Germany located across the Rhine river. It is the oldest in Germany, dating back 2000 years and is considered the region’s cultural hub. The city is known for its iconic landmark of the twin-spired Cologne Cathedral set against the reconstructed Old Town buildings. When in Old Town, visit the historic Old Town Hall and the Roman Church Great St Martin, or take time out and sit at one of the traditional breweries and enjoy the scenery around you. Historical sites such as the Roman Dionysus mosaic and the medieval Overstolzenhaus are worth a visit too. Another iconic sight in Cologne is at Hohenzollern Bridge. Here, local and tourist couples affix padlocks to the railings of the bridge and swear their loyalty to each other, they then throw the key into the Rhein to ensure everlasting love. Cologne is home to over 30 stages providing cabaret, free ensembles, theatre and dance and also celebrates its openly gay culture.

Day programme:

Enjoy a delightful tour of Cologne’s Old Town, where three medieval gates remain standing, as does the old city hall with its stunning Renaissance façade. Wander through the historical center and take in its charming atmosphere and narrow alleyways flanked by old houses.

Day 11: Düsseldorf

Day programme:

Take a stroll through town with a local guide.

Day 12: Cuijk

Day programme:

Step inside a historic grain windmill for a taste of Dutch country life.

Day 13: Maastricht

Day programme:

Your first stop in The Netherlands—Maastricht—is a city with more than 1,670 national heritage sites, some of which can be seen on your Old Town walking tour. Not only that, it’s also known as one of the most beautiful and romantic cities of Holland and beloved for its convivial lifestyle and historic center, which has long played a strategic role in European politics.

Day 14: Antwerp

Explore Antwerp, Belgium’s second city. Known for its diamond cutting industry, fashion and the many great artists that lived in its vicinity, Antwerp is a city focused on art and culture.

Day programme:

Today is all about Belgian food. Whether you choose to explore the highlights of the city on foot, bike through the outskirts of town in search of delicious treats, or partake in an add-on cooking class experience, you’ll have the chance to try some excellent local bites.

Day 15: Brussel (Bruxelles)

Day programme:

Disembark the ship in Brussels. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Brussels International Airport for your flight home.

Royal Suite
Suite
Signature French Balcony
Signature French Balcony (202)
Deluxe French Balcony
French Balcony
Royal Suite

  • Luxurious riverview suite (506 sq ft – 47 sq m) with a spacious living room
  • King-sized bed (convertible to 2 singles), fine custom linens, walk-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center
  • Large bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, comfortable bathrobes and slippers, double sink vanity, and rain shower
  • Additional amenities and service include: in-suite butler service; packing and unpacking assistance; in-room breakfast; daily fruit and cookie plate, and an elegant evening snack; espresso machine and fine teas; fully stocked mini bar; bottle of wine upon arrival; shoe shine; and free laundry service
  • Note that amenities may differ from those of a Uniworld company-owned ship
Suite

  • Luxurious riverview suite (253 sq ft – 23.5 sq m)
  • King-sized bed (convertible to 2 singles), fine custom linens, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center
  • Large bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, comfortable bathrobes and slippers, double sink vanity, and rain shower
  • Additional amenities and services include in-suite butler service, packing and unpacking assistance, in-room breakfast, daily fruit and cookie plate and an elegant evening snack, espresso machine and fine teas, fully stocked mini bar, bottle of wine upon request, shoeshine, and free laundry service
  • Note that amenities may differ from those of a Uniworld company-owned ship
Signature French Balcony

  • Luxurious riverview stateroom (253 sq ft – 23.5 sq m). *Please note that stateroom 202 is 237 sq ft (22 sq m), 16 sq ft smaller than the other Signature French Balcony staterooms
  • King-sized bed (convertible to 2 singles), fine custom linens, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, espresso machine, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center
  • Bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, rain shower, comfortable bathrobes, and slippers
  • Note that amenities may differ from those of a Uniworld company-owned ship
Signature French Balcony (202)

  • Luxurious riverview stateroom (237 sq ft, 22 sq m; stateroom is 16 sq ft, 1.5 sq m smaller than the other Signature French Balcony staterooms)
  • King-sized bed (convertible to 2 singles), fine custom linens, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, espresso machine, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center
  • Bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, rain shower, comfortable bathrobes, and slippers
  • Note that amenities may differ from those of a Uniworld company-owned ship
Deluxe French Balcony

  • Luxurious riverview stateroom (188 sq ft – 17.5 sq m)
  • King-sized bed (convertible to 2 singles), fine custom linens, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, espresso machine, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center
  • Bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, rain shower, comfortable bathrobes, and slippers
  • Note that amenities may differ from those of a Uniworld company-owned ship
French Balcony

  • Luxurious riverview stateroom (188 sq ft – 17.5 sq m)
  • King-sized bed (convertible to 2 singles), fine custom linens, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, espresso machine, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center
  • Bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, rain shower, comfortable bathrobes, and slippers
  • Note that amenities may differ from those of a Uniworld company-owned ship. 
Restaurant
Vintage Room
Bistro
Restaurant

The Restaurant can be found on the Main Deck.

Vintage Room

The Vintage Room can be found on the Rhine Deck.

Bistro

The Bistro can be found on the Rhine Deck.

Included Excursions
Private Experiences
Masterpiece Collection
Curated Services
Included Excursions

VILLAGE DAY

Get an in-depth look into the quaint destinations we visit and the local people who bring them to life.

LET’S GO

These active excursions feature walking, hiking, cycling, kayaking and golfing activities.

DO AS THE LOCALS DO

Experience life like a local, from riding the subway to stopping into a café for a local treat.

NIGHTS OUT

Private after-hours tours of popular attractions and fun local nightlife experiences.

Private Experiences

From visiting a museum without the crowds to an after-hours tour of a famous landmark, these included, once-in-a-lifetime experiences are arranged privately for Uniworld guests.

Masterpiece Collection

Tasting cheese with a cheese affineur in Rüdesheim or cruising through the streets of Bordeaux in a retro sidecar–if going above and beyond is what you’re after, you’ll be sure to enjoy our selection of Masterpiece Collection optional experiences, available for an additional cost.

Curated Services

Guests looking to treat themselves and their loved ones to a private, extraordinary experience can arrange a Curated Service. These experiences can be booked onboard, are often accompanied with a private car and/or guide, are fully customizable, and provide guests with an opportunity to create an exceptionally special moment just for them.

Lounge
Vista Bar
Swimming Pool
Lounge

The Lounge can be found on the Rhine Deck.

Vista Bar

Vista Bar can be found on the Sun Deck.

Swimming Pool

The Swimming Pool can be found on the Rhine Deck.

Gym
Gym

The Gym can be found on the Moselle Deck.

Laundry
Wi-Fi
Smoking Policy
Dress Code
Age Restrictions
Dietary Requirements
Disabled Facilities
Laundry

Most ships have either a self-serve laundrette (with ironing board) or laundry service for an additional fee. Please contact info@uniworld.com to find out what services your ship offers. No dry cleaning services are available on any ship.

Wi-Fi

Select ships offer complimentary Wi-Fi access. Please view your ship’s specific information page on our website or email us at info@uniworld.com to find out if Wi-Fi is available onboard. Service may be briefly interrupted in remote areas, while sailing, or when moving through locks, and the speed will likely be slower than what you are used to back home.

Smoking Policy

For the comfort of all our guests, smoking is only permitted on the sun decks of our ships. Smoking is not permitted on motorcoaches. This policy applies to all forms of smoking materials including vapor e-cigarettes.

We also ask guests to refrain from smoking on shore excursions/tours, especially since many historical sites and other tourist attractions are now smoke-free as well.

Dress Code

It’s best to pack for a range of weather conditions, depending on the season and regions visited. Wearing layers will allow you to easily adjust to temperature changes. Limiting your wardrobe to a simple mix-and-match color scheme will keep your bags to a minimum.

We recommend wearing comfortable, smart-casual clothing both onshore and onboard. We also suggest sturdy walking shoes, as you will do a significant amount of walking on shore excursions, often over cobblestones or uneven terrain. A sun hat, rain gear, and a coat or wrap for chilly evenings are useful items to have. For dining ashore, concerts, special events onboard, etc., men may want to bring a sports jacket and women a cocktail dress or pantsuit. Neckties are optional. Please note that shorts are not allowed at dinner aboard the ship.

Age Restrictions

In our experience, most young children—especially those under 4—are simply not yet old enough to enjoy river cruising. We make no special arrangements for little ones and offer few kid-friendly activities onboard or onshore. Please note: Our Generations program departures include programs and services designed for families traveling with children. Adults accompanying children are responsible for their safety and behavior onboard and onshore.

Europe, Asia, India, and Egypt: Guests should be 4 years of age or older. Guests who are less than 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and booked in a cabin with someone who is 21 years of age or older.

Peru: Guests must be 7 years of age or older. Guests under 21 must be booked in a cabin with someone who is 25 years of age or older, or traveling with a parent or guardian who is booked in a connecting suite. Some excursions may not be suitable for young children.

Dietary Requirements

Kindly inform us in advance if you have specific dietary requests (e.g., low-fat, low-calorie, gluten-free, sugar-free, vegetarian, etc.). This information can be provided to us when completing your Passenger Information Form. We have a “Travelling Lite” menu for guests seeking more health-conscious options, as well as light lunches, vegetarian options, and generous buffets that offer something for everyone. We will do our very best to accommodate your needs given the resources available to us.

Disabled Facilities

Uniworld strives to provide a safe, enjoyable, and memorable travel experience for all passengers. The Company welcomes passengers with special needs or disabilities. However, please note the following:

Passengers are required to advise the Company, in advance, of any physical, medical, or other special needs that require accommodation.

All guests must ensure they are medically and physically fit for travel. The Company may impose safety requirements necessary for the safe operation of the tour. The Company may also exclude an individual from participating in a tour or an activity if that individual’s participation poses a direct threat to health or safety.

The Company does not provide personal devices (such as wheelchairs, hearing aids or prescription eye glasses) or services of a personal nature (such as pushing a wheelchair or assistance in eating, toileting or dressing). A companion capable of providing such assistance must accompany any passenger who requires services of a personal nature.

The Company does not employ medical personnel. Any necessary medical attention will be provided by a local facility at the passenger’s expense. The Company is not responsible or liable for any losses or costs incurred as a result of medical services obtained while on tour, or for the quality of the care or services received. Passengers should be aware some tours include rough terrain, extensive walking over cobblestone streets, uneven pavement, steps and locations which may not be easily accessible or accessible by wheelchair.

During the tour, the Company may make arrangements with carriers, hotels and other independent suppliers to provide travel services. These parties are independent entities over which the Company has no control. Accommodations on international tours may differ from those in the united kingdom. The Company cannot guarantee disability access or accommodations for passengers travelling on international tours. The Company may, in its sole discretion, decline the booking of any passenger or remove any passenger who cannot comply or refuses to comply with the Company’s terms and conditions. The Company is not responsible for any costs incurred in the event a passenger is removed from a tour. Passengers agree not to hold the Company or any of its related entities liable for any actions taken under these terms and conditions.

Sun Deck
Rhine Deck
Main Deck
Moselle Deck
Sun Deck
  • Sun Roof
  • Canopy
  • Vista Bar
  • Skylight
Rhine Deck
  • Swimming Pool
  • Bistro
  • Vintage Room
  • Lounge
  • Stage
  • Wheelhouse
  • Suite
  • Royal Suite
  • Deluxe French Balcony
  • Elevator
Main Deck
  • Reception
  • Lobby
  • Pantry
  • Restaurant
  • Signature French Balcony
  • French Balcony
  • Elevator
Moselle Deck
  • Guest Laundry
  • Fitness Center
  • Serenity River Spa
  • Stairs

Get in touch with our team to start planning

Call and speak to a member of our experienced team today on +44 (0)1491 528 988 or email info@authenticcruises.co.uk.

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