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Discover Europe Differently: Join Me on a Rhine River Cruise – Summer 2026!

  • Meredith Peters
  • 5 days ago
  • 3 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Ready for an unforgettable European adventure—with castles, culture, and comfort all in one seamless trip?Join me July 25–August 1, 2026 for a Rhine River Cruise with Avalon Waterways, sailing from Amsterdam to Basel on one of Europe’s most iconic rivers.


This isn’t your average cruise. It’s relaxed luxury meets immersive exploration—perfect for travelers who want meaningful experiences without the stress of planning every detail.



Avalon River Cruise Ship Sailing down the river
Avalon River Cruise Ship

Why Choose This 2026 Rhine River Cruise from Amsterdam to Basel?


We’ll cruise through The Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland, stopping in storybook towns and vibrant cities like Cologne, Rüdesheim, Strasbourg, and more. Imagine:


  • Sampling Riesling wines in sun-drenched vineyards

  • Watching castles drift by from your bed with a river-facing panoramic window

  • Strolling cobblestone streets in medieval villages

  • Biking through countryside OR joining a guided food tour—your choice!


There’s something for every travel style—whether you want to hike, bike, sip, or simply soak in the scenery.





Why Avalon Waterways?


I personally sailed with Avalon Waterways, and it was the perfect balance of upscale comfort and freedom to explore. Their “Active & Discovery” cruises offer multiple included excursions each day, and you choose what fits you best:

  • Join a hands-on cooking class

  • Explore the Black Forest on foot

  • Sit back for a guided wine tasting

  • Or take a quiet morning to journal or sip coffee on the Sky Deck


There’s no rushing, no pressure, and no rigid schedule—just options that let you experience Europe your way.


Who Is This River Cruise Perfect For?


This cruise is designed for curious, open-minded travelers who appreciate a balance of:

Cologne Cathedral, Cologne, Germany
Cologne, Germany

  • Cultural immersion – think art, architecture, food, and local life

  • Relaxed luxury – top-notch service, spacious staterooms, and gourmet meals

  • Flexible adventure – whether that’s hiking a hilltop castle or people-watching with a croissant in hand








While Avalon technically allows guests ages 8 and up, this itinerary is truly geared toward adult travelers—perfect for couples, solo travelers, best friends, or small groups of grown-up travel buddies.


If you want a travel experience that balances adventure, comfort, and cultural richness—this is it.


Itinerary: July 25, 2026-August 1, 2026

Day 1: Embarkation (5:30 PM) - Amsterdam, Holland

Day 2: Amsterdam

Day 3: Dusseldorf, Germany

Day 4: Koblenz - Rhine Gorge

Day 5: Koblenz. Excursions to Heidelberg

Day 6: Kehl. Excursions to Strasbourg, France

Day 7: Breisach, Germany. Excursion to the Black Forest

Day 8: Disembarkation (8:00 AM) - Basel


Early Booking Bonus


Book your stateroom by September 1, 2025, and you’ll receive an exclusive $1,200 per person discount on your sailing price.


Yes, that’s per person. This is a seriously good deal—and perfect for anyone who's been dreaming of a Europe river cruise.


Get My Exclusive River Cruise Prep Guide


Once you’re booked, you’ll get my River Cruise Prep Guide—full of:

  • Smart packing tips for summer in Europe

  • What to expect onboard

  • And how to make the most of every port stop


If you’ve been thinking about a Rhine River cruise, this is your sign to say yes. The itinerary, the ship, the timing—it’s all just right.


Want first dibs when booking opens? Join the interest list here


Let’s float through Europe together—one castle, one cobblestone street, and one glass of wine at a time.


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