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Zurich - Lucerne & Christmas Markets on the Rhine on Emerald Sky

From Zurich, Switzerland to Amsterdam, Netherlands
Length: 11 Days - Departs: Thu, Dec 11, 2025
Operator
Departure
Dec 11, 2025
Arrival
Dec 21, 2025

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Spring Savings Sale, 2-For-1 Fares + Free Airfare

Mention Promo Code: PT3365
Promotion Image

Spring Savings Sale, 2-For-1 Fares + Free Airfare

Spring Savings Sale, 2-For-1 Fares + Free Airfare

Promotion Details
Celebrate the return of spring with incredible offers on unforgettable journeys along Europe’s most iconic rivers. From the castles along the Rhine to the café-lined streets of Budapest, every journey offers curated excursions, modern luxury, and lasting memories. For a limited time, enjoy 2-for-1 Fares, Free Airfare, and a Complimentary Upgrade—plus, on select 2025 sailings, your Drinks Package is included. Plus as always, receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. (Not all itineraries quality, contact your Travel Consultant for applicable sailings).
Must Book By Sun, Apr 27, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Available for new bookings only made between April 14-27, 2025 on 2025 Emerald River Cruise departures. 2-for-1 Fares: 2-for-1 Fares are displayed as a per-person rate in a double occupancy cabin. Fares are based on full fare pricing and may not have resulted in a sale. Offer applies to cruise pricing only; does not apply on land extensions, air, or any other add-ons.

Complimentary Upgrade: Complimentarty upgrade from category C to A on select sailings. Book into the cabin you would like, discount applied after booking. Combinable with 2-for-1 fares, Pay in full offers, complimentary drinks package and Non refundable fare. Not combinable with any other offer.

Complimentary Platinum Beverage Package: Select 2025 dates only. Available to guests 18 years or only. Packages are applicable throughout the entire public areas and lounges only. Wines and Spirits from Chairman's list excluded from all packages. The minibar is excluded from packages. No cash value. Combinable with 2-for-1 fares, pay-in-full offers, complimentary cabin upgrade and Non refundable fare. Not combinable with any other offer.

Free air when you pay in full: Free air offers available when you pay in full based on suite category. Free premium economy air is available on S, RA, and SA suite categories with a max value of $2,500pp. For Southeast Asia, free premium economy is available for the S and SA categories with a max value of $4,000pp. Free economy air is available on other cabin categories with a max value of $1,500pp. Air offers available when you pay in full 10 months prior to departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers, or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. All flights will be booked on Emerald Cruises choice of airline and routing and are subject to availability. Savings options are available in lieu of airfare with same payment terms. For S, RA, and SA suites receive $1,500pp savings ($3,000 per suite) when you pay in full within 30 days of booking or 90 days prior to departure; whichever is soonest. Other cabin categories receive $1,000pp savings ($2,000 per suite).

Non-Refundable Savings: Bonus savings of up to $300pp on select departures when you select non-refundable payment terms. When booking, please reference code NONREF. Full payment must be received within 48 hours of booking to receive these offers. Once booked, fare is 100% non-refundable however is combinable with the Flexible Booking Plan which allows funds to be moved to a new sailing once in circumstance that your plans have changed. Savings vary by departure. Combinable with 2-for-1 Fares, Flash Sale offer, Flexible Booking Plan and Pay in Full offers; not combinable with any other offers.

Single Supplement: Free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment required. Single supplement is applied to the 2-for-1 Fares; single guest pays one guest fare. Free single supplement is not combinable with any other offers. Other dates may have a 45% single supplement; can be converted to a 25% supplement when paid in full within 30 days of booking or 90 days prior to departure, whichever is soonest. Single supplement offers not applicable on S, RA, or SA categories. Not combinable with any other offers. Offer is capacity controlled.

Complimentary Flexible Booking Plan: We understand you may need to adjust your plans, so we’re offering the flexibility to change your travel arrangements or re-book for a more suitable time if needed. Our Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date, or cancel your journey, until 90 days prior to departure, less third-party fees. We will provide you with a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, which is valid for 24 months. Offer is valued at $125pp. No substitutions; no cash value.

All offers are inventory controlled and may be extended, cancelled, or withdrawn at any time without notice. Emerald Cruises reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares and promotions at any time. Port charges are included in the price shown. For the most up-to-date pricing, availability and offers, please visit emerald-cruises.com or contact your Professional Travel Advisor. Offers applicable for residents of the 50 United States of America & Washington D.C. For complete terms and conditions visit emeraldcruises.com.

Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Mention Promo Code: PT3528
Promotion Image

Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Promotion Details
Take advantage of this exclusive offer and enjoy savings of $500 per couple ($250 per person) on 8+ day river cruises. Plus as always receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. (Blackout dates may apply; contact your Travel Consultant for more details)
Must Book By Wed, Apr 30, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Affordable Tours exclusive offer is available for new bookings only made between April 1-30 2025 on 8+ day itineraries across 2025 & 2026 river departures. Exclusive offers are combinable with 2-for-1 fares, pay-in-full offers, Emerald exclusive savings, Flash sales, Military discounts, Show Vouchers, Key Account offers, and Loyalty offers unless otherwise specified. Not combinable with groups. Not combinable with any other offers. All offers are inventory controlled and may be extended, cancelled or withdrawn at any time without notice. Scenic group reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares and promotions at any time. For the most up-to-date pricing, availability and offers, please call your Professional Travel Advisor. Offers applicable for legal residents of the 50 United States of America & Washington D.C.

$300 Military Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT3378
Promotion Image

$300 Military Savings

$300 Military Savings

Promotion Details
We are honored to recognize the selfless service of those who have served our nation. As a token of our appreciation, enjoy this exclusive savings of $300 per suite to all US military personnel, veterans, and their families.
Must Book By Wed, Dec 31, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

US military personnel, veterans, and their families take an additional $300 off per cabin on Emerald Cruises River with proof of current or past military status. This offer is combinable with 2-for-1 savings, pay-in-full offers, key account exclusives, Flash sales, Scenic Select, and Emerald Cruises. Combinable with groups. Not combinable with any other offers. Taxes & port charges are included in the price. Offer available to residents of the 50 United States only. Offer ends December 31, 2025. Offers may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Visit scenicusa.com for complete terms and conditions.


River Cruise Itinerary

  1. Day 1
    Zurich
    Thu, Dec 11, 2025

    You will be transferred from the airport to the city of Zurich, one of the most beloved cities in Switzerland. After settling to your hotel, you will be able to explore the city at leisure, perhaps taking in its delightful lakeside setting or strolling around its multiples small Christmas stalls and markets. Included is a restful one-night stay in Zurich.

  2. Day 2
    Zurich - Lucerne
    Fri, Dec 12, 2025

    This morning, enjoy a walking tour of Zurich before you are transferred to Lucerne, an area known for its spectacular natural setting. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore the city which becomes even more charming during the Christmas season! Get yourself immersed into the many lights and handicrafts which decorate the old town and end the day at the small Christmas markets where mulled wine and other typical Christmas treats are yours to enjoy.

    Included Excursion
    A guided tour of Zurich


    Meals: Breakfast
  3. Day 3
    Lucerne
    Sat, Dec 13, 2025

    The awe-inspiring natural beauty enveloping Lucerne is a true delight, and yours to discover today during a guided tour of this small city. Lucerne effortlessly reflects what most people imagine when they think of a Swiss city, with a backdrop of snow-capped mountain ranges and tree-lined boulevards cutting through the city centre. Enjoy learning about the history of Lucerne as you visit the well-preserved medieval Altstadt, Chapel Bridge and the octagonal Water Tower.

    Included Excursion
    A guided tour of Lucerne

    DiscoverMORE
    Train & cable car ride to Rigi – Weggis (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast
  4. Day 4
    Lucerne - Huningue/Basel
    Sun, Dec 14, 2025

    After breakfast, journey by coach to Huningue/Basel. When you arrive, you will be able to board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.


    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  5. Day 5
    Breisach
    Mon, Dec 15, 2025

    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, we will take you to the 'Capital of the Black Forest', Freiburg. This city has lovely sights that will amaze you with postcard worthy Christmas Markets.

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Breisach & Christmas Market Visit in Freiburg


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  6. Day 6
    Kehl – Strasbourg
    Tue, Dec 16, 2025

    This morning, we’ll dock in Kehl, and you’ll 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’ll have the opportunity to visit one of its most charming Christmas markets, where you can enjoy traditional German Christmas treats and shop for presents and stocking-fillers. 

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Strasbourg


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  7. Day 7
    Heidelberg (Mannheim)
    Wed, Dec 17, 2025

    Your guided tour of Heidelberg’s rich history includes 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

    DiscoverMORE
    Rudesheim with specialty coffee (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  8. Day 8
    Koblenz
    Thu, Dec 18, 2025

    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. Your tour will include the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers at the German Corner and idyllic panoramic views of the Rhine.

    Included Excursion
    Walking tour of Koblenz

    DiscoverMORE
    Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  9. Day 9
    Cologne
    Fri, Dec 19, 2025

    Seven idyllic Christmas markets effortlessly transform the postcard-worthy city of Cologne into a winter wonderland over the Christmas period. Following your guided tour of the city, you’ll have the opportunity to explore 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
    Guided tour of Cologne's Old Town

    EmeraldPLUS
    Christmas traditions in Europe lecture


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  10. Day 10
    Amsterdam 
    Sat, Dec 20, 2025

    Board a glass-top canal boat for a tour down the Dutch capital’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system, passing historic merchant houses that reflect the bygone era of the Dutch Golden Age, a time when the Dutch empire was considered one of the most influential in the world. Throughout the city, you’ll explore the delightful Christmas stalls, each surrounded by people in their finest knitwear drinking hot mugs of mulled wine and enjoying traditional festive foods. 

    Included Excursion
    Canal cruise

    DiscoverMORE
    Private hidden Gems tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast
  11. Day 11
    Amsterdam
    Sun, Dec 21, 2025

    After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow guests and 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.


    Meals: Breakfast

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Ship Information

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Cabins

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Life on Board

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Questions & Answers
  Ask A Question

Question: Will the day-by-day itinerary change?

Yes, the river cruise itineraries may change due to reasons such as inclement weather or unforeseen events. Your safety is the number one concern aboard and all precautions necessary will be taken in order to ensure passenger safety, including changing itineraries. Please note that when itineraries do change, the ship staff will do their best to substitute any missed port with an alternative destination.

Question: In what language is the river cruise conducted?

The river cruise will be conducted in English only.

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
4.8
Accommodations
5
Itinerary
4.6
Professional Staff
5
Repeat with Operator
4.6
Value for Money
5

Ratings based off 5 reviews - currently showing 3 reviews with comments only

The staff and crew of the ship was fantastic. Christmas Markets are not to be missed.

Was great, food was good, cabin small but nice, excursions were good.

Emerald provided a very memorable experience. Everything went according to plan. There were many activity options to pick from. The food and drink and staff were excellent. I liked the pool and bikes which gave us additional activities to enjoy, which Viking Cruises did not offer when I went on a previous river boat cruise with them 3 years ago.

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AffordableTours.com is a travel agent for Emerald. Brochure Price is based on the itinerary's highest brochure price. Our price reflects our base price for the same departure as Brochure Price. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time. All prices are USD per person and based on double occupancy. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. All prices change frequently and our website prices are not guaranteed until a deposit has been received by us. The prices on our website are intended to serve as a guide only and may not accurately reflect current prices. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents. Please call us toll free at 1-800-342-0019 to confirm current prices and availability. Prices listed are per person, cruise only, and based on double occupancy.

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