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Jewels of the Rhine & London on Emerald Astra

From Zurich, Switzerland to London, England
Length: 11 Days - Departs: Sat, Jun 27, 2026
Operator
Departure
Jun 27, 2026
Arrival
Jul 07, 2026

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All the River Operators Offers & More:

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Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Mention Promo Code: PT3528
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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 All offers are inventory controlled and may be extended, cancelled or withdrawn at any time without notice.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.

Up to $200 Group Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT3278
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Up to $200 Group Savings

Up to $200 Group Savings

Promotion Details
Don't miss out on this incredible group savings to reserve your 2026 river cruise with Emerald Cruises. Reserve your 2026 river cruise and receive up to $200 per person group savings. Hurry as space is limited. Plus as always, receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. Whether you're planning a family reunion or a friends getaway, there's never been a better time to explore the world together. Contact your travel consultant for more details.
Must Book By Mon, Jun 30, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Available for new group agreements between April 1, 2025 - June 30, 2025. Book a new group and receive Group Savings of $200 per person on 2026 river destinations on Emerald Cruises. Group savings are available for the life of the agreement based on availability and standard review dates. Combinable with current offers, Emerald Exclusive, loyalty savings, and future travel credits. Flash Sale offers are excluded. Group policies and benefits are subject to change at any time. Refer to Emerald Cruises Guide to Group Benefits for amenity selections. All offers are inventory-controlled and may be extended, canceled, or withdrawn without notice. Emerald Cruises reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any fares and promotions at any time. Offers applicable for residents of the 50 United States of America & Washington D.C. For complete terms and conditions, visit emeraldcruises.com.

$300 Military Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT3378
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$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 - Basel
    Sat, Jun 27, 2026

    Welcome to Basel. On arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.

    Please book your flight to arrive into Zurich prior to 01:00 PM.


    Meals: Dinner
  2. Day 2
    Breisach
    Sun, Jun 28, 2026

    Today, as part of your incredible EmeraldPLUS programme, you will visit the city of Freiburg. Considered the 'Capital of the Black Forest', Freiburg has lovely sights that will amaze you. You’ll also have the opportunity to sample authentic Black Forest delicacies. If you're feeling more active, you can choose to join a guided bike tour in Breisach.

    EmeraldPLUS
    Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided bike tour in Breisach

    DiscoverMORE
    Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  3. Day 3
    Kehl - Strasbourg
    Mon, Jun 29, 2026

    This morning, you'll arrive in Kehl and disembark your Star-Ship, then be transferred by coach to the picturesque town of Strasbourg. Here, an enthralling medieval past is yours to discover, including quaint cobblestone squares framed by wellpreserved, half-timbered houses. During your included excursion, you’ll also have the opportunity to discover the heart of Alsace in Strasbourg and embark on a culinary journey where you’ll discover typical flavours of this region. Tonight, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’re invited to join an exclusive private concert in a historical venue.

    Included Excursion
    Flavours of Alsace

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    Baden Baden Spa experience (extra expense)

    EmeraldPLUS
    Private Evening Concert on the Rhine


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  4. Day 4
    Germersheim
    Tue, Jun 30, 2026

    Relax on board this morning as you sail towards Germersheim, following the meandering Rhine River and passing the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar. Travel by coach to Heidelberg, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about how it became a UNESCO City of Literature, having inspired the likes of Mark Twain and William Turner with its historical setting.
    Your guided tour of the town will allow you to find your own inspiration among its delightful landmarks, including Heidelberg Castle, one of the most impressive Renaissance.

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Heidelberg

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  5. Day 5
    Koblenz
    Wed, Jul 01, 2026

    This morning enjoy sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Here, romantic castles sit atop tree-covered canyons and half-timbered medieval villages appear suspended in time.

    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, passing façades adorned with boxes of spring-blooming flowers. You’ll also have the chance to see the point at which two of Europe’s great rivers meet at the German Corner and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, one of the largest preserved fortresses in Europe.

    Included Excursion
    Orientation Walk of Koblenz

    DiscoverMORE
    Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  6. Day 6
    Cologne – Duesseldorf
    Thu, Jul 02, 2026

    This morning, you’ll will arrive in Cologne and have the chance to know one of Germany's oldest cities and get up close with the famous post card worthy Cathedral. After lunch, join a walking tour of Düsseldorf, a vibrant city renowned for its stylish boutiques and charming Old Town. Stroll along the picturesque Rhine River, admire the stunning architecture and discover hidden gems off-the-beaten path. Immerse yourself in the city's lively atmosphere, indulge in the delicious local cuisine, and marvel at the contrast of Düsseldorf’s ancient and modern charms.

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Cologne Old Town

    Included Excursion
    Walking tour of Duesseldorf

    DiscoverMORE
    Cologne Beer Experience (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  7. Day 7
    Amsterdam
    Fri, Jul 03, 2026

    This morning, discover the charm of Alkmaar, a picturesque Dutch town just a short distance from Amsterdam. Explore its historic center, lined with charming canals and medieval buildings. Alkmaar is famous for its centuries-old cheese market where traditional cheesemakers showcase their craft and engage in lively auctions. Immerse yourself in the local culture in this typical charming town. Alternatively, embark on a bike tour through the Dutch countryside.

    Included Excursion
    Excursion to Alkmaar

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided bike tour to Waterland

    DiscoverMORE
    Private hidden Gems tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)

    DiscoverMORE
    Dutch Delights (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  8. Day 8
    Amsterdam - London
    Sat, Jul 04, 2026

    After your marvelous cruise, you’ll be transferred to Amsterdam Centraal station and take the train bound for London St. Pancras station. Upon arrival in London,  you’ll be transferred to your hotel for an exciting 3-night stay in Great Britain’s historic capital. Once you’ve settled in, take time to explore this enthralling multicultural metropolis at your own pace. Immerse yourself in London’s vibrant atmosphere, wander through its history-drenched streets, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the River Thames or through its beautiful urban parks.


    Meals: Breakfast
  9. Day 9
    London
    Sun, Jul 05, 2026

    Join a guided city tour to discover some of London’s most iconic and historical landmarks, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace, the official royal residence. Experience the buzz of the West End, home to the world-famous theatre district, take in the sights of Trafalgar Square, and witness the traditional Changing of the Guard, all the while soaking up the capital’s storied heritage.

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of London

    DiscoverMORE
    Afternoon tea (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast
  10. Day 10
    London
    Mon, Jul 06, 2026

    Today is yours to leisurely explore the rest of London at your own pace.  You might consider taking in the panoramic views across the city from the iconic London Eye, a visit to the esteemed British Museum, or strolling through the verdant urban landscape of Hyde Park. You could also check out the striking street art in Shoreditch, or enjoy a show at one of the many renowned theatres in the West End.

    DiscoverMORE
    Guided Tour of Camden and Borough Market (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast
  11. Day 11
    London
    Tue, Jul 07, 2026

    This morning after breakfast, you’ll be transferred from your London hotel to St. Pancras station, where you’ll join the train bound for The Netherlands and Amsterdam Centraal station. Upon arrival in this delightful Dutch city, you’ll then embark on your luxury European cruise, taking with you memories of impressive London landmarks, captivating royal heritage and traditional  English afternoon tea.

    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

Countries Visited

England, France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland

Rivers Visited

Rhine

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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.

Emerald Tours Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
4.4
Accommodations
4.3
Itinerary
4.4
Professional Staff
4.7
Repeat with Operator
4.3
Value for Money
4.3

Ratings based off 65 reviews about Emerald Tours - currently showing 15 reviews with comments only

Fabulous experience! As usual I was extremely nervous about traveling and all of the things that “could” go wrong. Everything that AffordableTours.com promised was executed without a hitch! It was a wonderful trip and incredible service from AffordableTours.com and their team members. Thank you!

Generally this was a very pleasant Emerald cruise. Just seemed a little off to what we've experienced on previous cruises with the same company.

Unfortunately because of the high water level in Rhine we got off the ship from Wazburg and continued the trip by land. Not as comfortable and convenient as when we were on the ship but the staff of Emerald gave the best accommodation they could get.

Great cruise. Congenial group. The weather cooperated. Food excellent. Service efficient and polite.

We had a great cruise with no issues whatsoever.

We had an outstanding trip down the Danube on Emerald Waterways. The food was amazing, the service was absolutely top-notch, the places we stopped (Passau, Linz and Cesky Krumlov, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest) were all wonderful in their own way. The options provided by Emerald (active vs. included, and the add-on activities) were just right. Our Cruise Director and the Activity Manager were very knowledgeable and attentive throughout our trip. As alway, Affordable Tours helped us book, and provided great follow-up care when we needed it. 

first emerald waterway tour was excellent ! excellent and unique excursions included plus good optional tours offered loved the Vespa ride, ox cart and rickshaw ride Hoi Ann and Halong bay are highlights emerald staff very welcoming to us

Emerald was awesome. It offered us cultural experience that was unusual and authentic. We felt like we got to know the countries we visited. We are looking to book with Emerald again in Europe. Local and tour Director was the best

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

Although this is my first river cruise, so I cannot compare with other companies, I was very happy with Emerald with a few exceptions. They advertise that it is all inclusive and do offer several free tour options at each port, but that also sell Discovery options that are more money. We did 4 of those which increased the cost for 2 by $600. If you like to workout, forget the gym, which had one rowing machine, an exercise bike and some dumbbells with enough room for 3 people at most. The staff were all great, the food was very good and the itinerary was excellent. They have a small swimming pool and late night activities. Good diversity with most people from US, Canada, Australia and new Zealand.

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

This trip was wonderful, with only 160 passengers we were treated royally. Everyone on board the ship worked with only one thing in mind to please the customers.

We were fortunate the trip went as planned. A lock was damaged and the ship we were scheduled for was unavailable. Emerald provided a different ship and we completed our full itinerary. Great job Emerald. The trip wonderful. Great staff, tours and food. Our Affordable agent Allyson fulfilled all our needs efficiently providing excellent customer care.

Derek was very thorough and easy to work with. Our trip was what we expected.

Great river cruise, the operator Emerald Waterways did not disappoint. On board service was exceptional and the tours were very good. Only thought would be that having a little more free time during site visits would have made the excursions good to great.

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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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