Rhine River Northbound All-Inclusive Riverside Luxury Cruise: Basel to Amsterdam with Butler Service
Glide along the romantic Rhine and through the storybook landscapes of Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands with this Luxury Escapes’ exclusive Riverside Luxury Cruises package. Sailing from Basel, discover the cultural riches of Switzerland and delve into the medieval splendour of Kehl and Speyer in Germany. Traverse the captivating landscapes of Rudesheim and Koblenz, and when you reach the Netherlands, spend a full day exploring the fairytale town of Arnhem and strolling Amsterdam’s countless canals and bridges.
While onboard, your private butler will attend to your every need, a rich selection of premium spirits and fine wines will cheer you throughout the journey – along with a stocked minibar to quench your thirst – and the dedicated crew provides all assistance you may require. Indulge with fine dining inspired by local, seasonal cuisine, keep fit with a swimming pool and state-of-the-art fitness centre and revitilse in the lavish spa.
Your journey takes you to: Basel – Kehl – Speyer – Mannheim – Rudesheim – Koblenz – Andernach – Cologne – Arnhem – Amsterdam.
Riverside Luxury Cruises Riverside Debussy – Unparalleled luxury on the Rhine River
Discover Europe’s finest in all-inclusive decadence like never before. Whether savouring haute Rhine-style mussels and freshly made Alsatian Kougelhof, cocooned in Waterside Restaurant’s royal blue velvet armchairs, or noshing on freshly grilled scampi paired with local Riesling at Vista Upper Deck’s open-air bar, rest assured the only finger you’ll ever raise is for the next round.
The Itinerary – Immerse yourself in Europe’s most beautiful cities
Sail through the scenic Middle Rhine Valley to Koblenz, and wander among cobblestone alleyways and Gothic architecture in Cologne. End your journey among the canals of lively Amsterdam and do like the Dutch, seeing Amsterdam by bike, or taking in the impressive paintings of the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. With your choice of curated excursions offered in every port – and a personal butler to prepare you for each day ahead – Riverside Luxury Cruises ensures you’ll be falling in love with the Rhine in no time.
Dining
- Bistro
- Vista Upper Deck
- Waterside Restaurant
- Vintage Room
- Pantry & 24-hour in-room dining
- Coffee and tea station
Entertainment
- Fitness centre
- Bicycles
- Jogging track
- Counter-current pool
- Jacuzzi
- Spa
- Finnish sauna
- Steam bath
- Salon
- Library
Other services
- Butler service
- Laundry service
- Elevator
- Wi-Fi
Surcharges may apply to select facilities and services
Your cruise begins in Basel, Switzerland and ends in Amsterdam, Netherlands, with roundtrip airport transfers.
Your cruise departs Basel, Switzerland at 7pm on Day 1 and disembarks in Amsterdam, Netherlands at 10am on Day 8. Please ensure you arrive in time for boarding.
Roundtrip flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. Please do NOT book your flights until your cruise is confirmed.
Arrival transfers from Basel Airport (BSL) to the ship are included on the first day only. Departure transfers from the ship to Amsterdam Airport (AMS) are included on the last day only. Please ensure your flights arrive in time for embarkation.
A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visas Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.
Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.
Day 1: Basel, Switzerland
Adventure awaits! Your journey begins in Basel, Switzerland, a cultural and artistic powerhouse renowned for its galleries, theatres and museums. Upon arrival at EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport (BSL), transfer to the Port of Basel, where you’ll be invited to settle into your stylish cabin aboard the Riverside Debussy ahead of your 7pm embarkation.
Spend the remainder of your day exploring the luxurious ship, from the sophisticated onboard restaurants to the state-of-the-art gymnasium, day spa and rooftop decks. As evening approaches, enjoy a memorable meal before settling in for a restful first night.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 2: Kehl, Germany
Enjoy the views as you glide into the spectacular Gothic city of Kehl, a showcase of medieval architecture. After savouring a lavish breakfast onboard, head into the charming city centre to uncover the elegance of the canals, lined with ancient buildings. Flock with the rest of the architecture enthusiasts to get a glimpse of the striking Saint Stephen’s Church, which stands as a testament to the city’s medieval past.
Continue to explore at your own pace. Cross the famed Europa Bridge to explore Kehl’s French neighbour, Strasbourg, or wander the streets, stopping at a cafe for a fresh cup of coffee and a fluffy local pastry.
Return to the ship to indulge in an afternoon wine on deck, enjoying views of the river and the city.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 3: Speyer – Mannheim
Today, you will arrive in Speyer, Germany – a city of unparalleled beauty and charm. This hidden gem on the Rhine showcases a rich tapestry of history and culture. Its UNESCO-listed Speyer Cathedral, a marvel of Romanesque architecture, stands as a testament to the city’s medieval heritage. Delve into centuries past at the Historical Museum of the Palatinate and stroll the atmospheric Altstadt.
Glide into Mannheim this afternoon, renowned for its dynamic blend of cultural heritage and modern innovation. Discover the vibrant art scene at Kunsthalle Mannheim, explore the lush Luisenpark and immerse yourself in the harmonious notes of the National Theatre, before returning to your luxurious vessel for a sumptuous dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 4: Rudesheim – Koblenz – Andernach
Discover the captivating allure of Rudesheim, best known for its thriving gastronomic scene and the impressive Niederwald Monument. Spend a few hours at leisure discovering the historic buildings, winding cobblestone streets and surrounding vineyards before returning to the Riverside Bach. Then, experience the most spectacular scenery on the Rhine as you traverse the famous Middle Rhine Valley en route to Koblenz.
Arrive in the town of Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers in Germany. This enchanting city beckons with its historic charm, impressive fortresses and scenic riverside promenades, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
The remainder of the day is spent in Andernach, boasting around 2,000 years of history within its Old Town. At its centre is the 56-metre-tall Round Tower, one of the largest medieval defence towers in all of Germany. Wander through the old castle ruins, stop by an 18th-century hospital and learn the ancient tales of this historic town at the city museum before returning to the ship for some tapas at the Bistro.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 5: Cologne
Wake to the gentle lapping of the water and the colourful valley slopes sliding effortlessly past your stateroom window as you sail towards the enchanting city of Cologne. Upon arrival, venture out for a tour of its Old Town. Meander through the narrow cobbled lanes lined with beautiful traditional houses before reaching the Domplatte, home to the towering Cologne Cathedral. Head inside this Gothic building to see the Three Kings Shrine, or ask your guide for tips on where to wander next.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 6: Arnhem, Netherlands
This morning, cruise to the historic city of Arnhem, nestled on the banks of the Rhine River in the eastern Netherlands. The city looks to be straight from a fairytale, with Dutch terrace houses and historic landmarks, including the spectacular John Frost Bridge, perfectly placed on the riverbank. Immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere of the city by visiting the Netherlands Open Air Museum or by venturing to the nearby forests and hills to soak in the breathtaking nature.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 7: Amsterdam
Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast before venturing ashore to experience this lively city. Spend your day wandering through the picture-perfect cobblestone streets, lined with quintessential examples of Gothic architecture. Stroll over the countless bridges that straddle the canals and explore the city’s rich history with a trip to the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. Travel through the city like a local by hiring a bike and heading out to the vast green parks, before uncovering the iconic nightlife and returning to the comfort of your cabin.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 8: Amsterdam
It’s time to say farewell to the Riverside Debussy. After breakfast, take your transfer to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) for your onward travel.
Meals: Breakfast
IMPORTANT: Purchasing this deal does not complete your booking. A member of the Cruise Team will process your booking and email the cruise line confirmation to your chosen email address. You will then be required to complete your online check-in and print your e-ticket and baggage tags; you will also be able to add drink packages, specialty dining, shore excursions, spa treatments etc.
This Cruise package is valid for the following departure dates:
- High Season
- 16 April 2025
- 7 May 2025
- 4 June 2025
- Low Season
- 2 July 2025
- 30 July 2025
- 13 August 2025
IMPORTANT: Please allow for travelling time. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive in Basel, Switzerland on time for your cruise.
Booking Process
- Select which package option you would like, taking care to choose the correct cabin option
- Click on the green ‘Check Availability’ tab
- Using the plus or minus adjust the number of people you would like to book then click the ‘View Available Dates & Prices’ tab
- Click the blue ‘Select’ button then the green ‘Review & Payment’ tab at the bottom right of the screen
- Fill out your preferred payment method and click the green ‘Pay Securely Now’ tab
- Once your order is complete, you will receive your Luxury Escapes automated booking summary email (this is not your cruise confirmation). The Cruise Concierge team will process your booking and email the cruise line confirmation to your chosen email address.
- Should you require assistance with your cruise, please contact our Cruise Concierge team at cruises@luxuryescapes.com who will be happy to assist with any of your queries and who will support you right up until you return from your journey
IMPORTANT: The Twin-Room Package is valid for ONE PERSON (based on twin room). You must purchase TWO PACKAGES.
Solo Traveller Surcharge: Solo travellers must pay a surcharge and packages are subject to availability. Please contact Luxury Escapes to enquire.
Please note that packages cannot be split.
AMENDMENTS & CHANGES
Name Change or Corrections
- Name corrections may incur a fee.
- Name changes are not permitted.
48-Hour Change of Mind ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee:
- All cruise bookings have a 48-hour ‘Change of Mind Guarantee’ where any monies paid (less unrecoverable costs) within 48 hours of the initial purchase date will be refunded – no questions asked.
- Bookings outside the 48-hour ‘Change of Mind’ window will be non-refundable and non-changeable. Cancellations outside of the 48-hour ‘Change of Mind’ period will not be provided, except as required by Australian Consumer Law, your local law or as otherwise provided for in the Fine Print.
Cabin Sizes and Bedding Configuration
This cruise includes the following cabin types:
- Melody Suite: 17sqm, king bed (convertible into twin beds), panoramic balcony window
- Symphony Suite: 18sqm, king bed (convertible into twin beds), walk-in closet, panoramic balcony window
- Seahorse Suite: 22sqm, king bed (convertible into twin beds), walk-in closet, panoramic balcony window
IMPORTANT:
- Some cabins may have obstructed views and/or porthole window.
- Maximum room capacity is one adult for solo travellers, two adults for twin-share cabins/suites/staterooms or four people for quad-share cabins.
- Wheelchair accessible cabins are not available. They are on application only prior to purchase. Surcharges may apply.
- Please contact the Luxury Escapes sales team on sales@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
Inclusions
- Passage on a seven-night all-inclusive cruise aboard the Riverside Debussy
- All-inclusive dine-around access to three white-glove service restaurants, with menus inspired by regional produce
- 20 meals included – seven breakfasts, six lunches and seven dinners
- Daily afternoon tea, plus unlimited cakes, waffles and ice cream
- All-inclusive premium drinks package including premium wines, spirits and Taittinger champagne
- 24-hour butler service with complimentary in-suite dining and minibar
- Your choice of handpicked off-shore excursions in each port
- All port taxes, service charges and onboard entertainment
- Roundtrip airport transfers to and from the cruise ship
- Gratuities for onboard personnel
Exclusions
- Roundtrip flights
- Visas
- Single supplement
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- City taxes or resort fees may apply and are payable directly to the hotel on arrival
Onboard Dining
- Dining on board is open seating.
- Included dining is available from the following restaurants: Waterside Restaurant, Bistro and Vista Upper Deck BBQ Grill.
- Dining at Vintage Room incurs a surcharge.
Itinerary
- In the event of strikes, lockouts, riots, weather conditions or mechanical difficulties, or for any other reason, any scheduled sailing or port of call may be subject to change.
- Some itineraries may include tender ports.
Age Restrictions
- Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied, in the same or connecting cabin, by a parent or other responsible adult over the age of 21 for the duration of the voyage.
- Infants under three months cannot be accommodated onboard.
- Please note there are no child-minding facilities onboard.
- Guests who will have entered their 24th week of pregnancy or later at any time during the cruise cannot be accommodated due to safety concerns. Pregnant guests under 24 weeks must provide a doctor’s letter upon request confirming fitness to travel and estimated due date.
Travel Insurance
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Luxury Escapes recommends purchasing travel insurance as soon as possible after purchasing this package.
Passports & Visas
- A visa may be required. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they’re holding a current visa for the countries they’re visiting. If the traveller is on a non-Australian passport, a valid re-entry visa may be required.
- Important: Please start arranging your visa at least 6-8 weeks prior to departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours and processing time.
- A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers (including children and infants).
Health & Vaccinations
- Travellers are advised to check recommended vaccinations with their local health professional at least 45 days prior to departure, as some vaccinations require 30 days or more to be effective.
- Proof of vaccination is not usually required unless you are coming from an infected area.
- Proof of Yellow Fever vaccinations is required for entry into some countries, in particular in Africa. Please check with your health professional that you hold the appropriate vaccination entry requirements for your destination.
- Guests may be required to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 from our ground operator prior to embarkation. Please contact the Luxury Escapes Cruises Concierge team on cruises@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
- Important: The hotel, transportation and/or destination you are travelling to may have health, insurance and vaccination requirements in place. Please ensure you stay up to date with any requirements prior to your departure.
Timings
- Timing provided on the itinerary is based on current schedules provided by Riverside Luxury Cruises and can change at any time without notice.
Currency On Board and Tipping
- The currency on board is EUR.
- Service charges (gratuities) for onboard personnel are included in your package.
Fitness Requirements
- Travellers should have a good level of physical fitness and mobility and must be able to negotiate uneven surfaces and climb stairs.
- Disability access is limited during the cruise, please consider this when making your booking.
- Travellers acknowledge that they are required to have a good level of health and fitness to undertake any activities in this package. Further, travellers acknowledge and agree that neither Luxury Escapes nor the third-party provider will be able to provide medical or other assistance in the event that they are unable to complete any aspect of the tour as a result of their health or physical condition (nor is Luxury Escapes liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury or death arising from such).
Shore Excursions
- Excursions described in the itinerary are subject to change before the time of your cruise, though similar ones will be offered to you. A representative from Riverside will be in touch prior to your trip to confirm the excursions available and to schedule you for the ones you wish to take.
- Please note shore excursions cannot be confirmed until after booking. Shore excursions are subject to availability.
Surcharges
Any prices quoted exclude specific costs/measures which may be introduced at a later stage as a result of Government changes due to COVID-19 health and safety restrictions. Our trusted third-party suppliers will inform guests of these changes as soon as possible.
Deposits
The deposit amount is 25% and the final payment date is due 110 days prior to embarkation. Please note: other deposit options may be available on your package which differ from the above and which will be outlined in the ‘fine print’ and payment section of the specific package.
PLEASE NOTE: We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.
Cruise itineraries are not guaranteed and are subject to change. While the cruise line will make all reasonable efforts to provide a cruise in accordance with the published schedules and itineraries, factors such as weather, mechanical difficulties or other unforeseen circumstances may affect scheduled itineraries.
Package inclusions are correct at the time of purchase. Refer to your booking summary email for details.
Please note this cruise is operated by Riverside Luxury Cruises, one of our trusted partners. You will be contacted post-purchase with further details.