10 DAYS • 22 MEALS

Cruise legendary rivers and retrace the routes of history. Pass by magnificent castles, quaint villages and sloping vineyards. Mayflower blends classic land touring with elegant river cruising, creating the most relaxing way to experience the heart of Europe!

From Basel in Switzerland, cruise through Germany and to The Netherlands. As the Rhine River meanders its course, marvel at some of the world’s most dramatic river scenery and explore charming historic towns and villages and admire centuries-old architecture. You will cruise the beautiful Mosel River with its steep valleys rich in vineyards producing some of the finest wines in the world. Many a European “Master” has taken such scenic beauty and transformed the tapestries to canvas. For seven days, all meals are included as well as complimentary wine during dinner. Mayflower Tours expert staff on board will assist you in selecting specially crafted optional excursions which will make your cruise experience even more enjoyable.

Lucerne, Switzerland - The Historic
Center of the “True” Switzerland
Once a simple fishermen's village, this picturesque town, whose name means “Alpine Splendor” is surrounded by mountains and meadows. Your walking tour highlights the city’s landmark, the famous 14th-century Chapel Bridge that crosses the Ruess River with its paintings of heroic town events. See the 17th-century Renaissance Town Hall, old squares and Lion Monument. As you walk along the cobbled streets, delectable chocolates, candied fruit cookies and fine Swiss timepieces will tempt you.

Basel - Switzerland’s Second Largest City
Tradition-conscious, open-minded and full of contrasts, Basel is regarded as one of Switzerland's centres for art, music and architecture. See old Market Square with its brightly colored Town Hall, charming streets with 18th-century houses and spired Minster. Enjoy lunch on your own and try traditional Swiss cuisine, accompanied by the local ale. In Basel, you’ll board our exclusively chartered river vessel the MS Switzerland II to begin your memorable river cruise.

Strasbourg - Capital of the Alsace Region
Between France and Germany lies lovely Strasbourg, with its monumental cathedral featuring carvings as delicate as any piece of lacework. Strasbourg is one of Europe’s most attractive cities. Culturally influenced by both countries and the seat of the European Parliament, your included city tour features the fascinating Old Quarter, “La Petite France” with its typical Alsatian half-timbered houses and famous astronomical clock as well as the magnificent Gothic Cathedral.

You may choose to join an optional excursion to the Black Forest. Then, on to Baden-Baden, the “Summer Capital of Europe” famous for its luxurious spas, hot springs and casino.
Another optional excursion to Heidelberg unveils its red-walled 16th-century Castle. With its picture-postcard houses and maze of roofs, Heidelberg represents the essence of German Romanticism. Enjoy free time before returning to the ship.

Rudesheim - One of the Rhine’s Most Delightful Towns
Nature and history have left a rich heritage here in the wine-growing Rheingau region whose origins date back to pre-Roman times. The inescapable romanticism of the Rhine, the historic palaces and ancient castles, excellent riesling and pinot noir wines, together with Rüdesheim's famous hospitality and conviviality give the town a very distinctive atmosphere. Home to three medieval castles, Rudesheim provides a fascinating look through German history. See Market Square and aristocratic mansions. Stop in a beer hall or wine tavern on lively Drosselgasse Street, filled with music and song, and sample the best of genuine Rhine hospitality.

Cochem - Cozy Wine Taverns
Along the beautiful Mosel River, countless vineyards of alternating greens and squares of grapevines unfold before your eyes. Cochem, rated one of the prettiest villages along the Mosel, is best known for its fortified gates, pastel-colored or half-timbered buildings and Baroque towers, and vintages of Mosel Riesling wine. Enjoy an a guided tour of the 19th-century Reichsburg Castle with its many spires and walls that stand out against the green trees.

Cologne - One of Germany’s oldest cities
When you visit 2,000 year old Cologne Germany, the largest city in Germany during the Middle Ages, you're sure to be enchanted by the blend of Romanesque churches, simple post-war buildings, and classic modern architecture. Visit the magnificent cathedral, the largest in Germany, which took 600 years to construct and serves as the symbol of the city. See the Shrine of the Three Magi, a masterpiece of goldsmith artistry. Then take a drive around this beautiful city, where perfumed water was first created and cologne gets its name.

Amsterdam, Holland – The “Venice of the North”
With its winding tree-shaded canals, ornately gabled 16th-century townhouses, hundreds of bridges and tulips everywhere, Amsterdam is a garden of earthly delights. Like the diamonds that make it famous, Amsterdam shines with works of the world’s greatest artists.

Join us for an optional excursion to Keukenhof, also called the “Garden of Europe.” Known throughout the world for its open-air flower exhibition only two months a year, admire flowers at the height of tulip season.

MS Switzerland II - Your Floating Hotel
The 110- passenger fully air-conditioned MS Switzerland II is a delightful river cruise ship with an elegant touch. The interior is decorated with wood and brass furnishings and its warm colors and comfortable furniture offer a very inviting atmosphere.

Unpack only once during your seven-night cruise.
All cabins onboard are spacious and offer excellent outside views and convert from a sitting room by day to a bedroom at night. Each first-class cabin is fully equipped with comfortable furnishings which include private bathroom with shower, hair dryer, radio, color television, mini-bar, individual heating/air conditioning controls, safe and telephone.

All Meals Included on Board
Three meals daily are served graciously at one leisurely single seating in the exquisite dining room. While enjoying a fine variety of culinary delights, you can enjoy the splendid views of the passing Rhine and Mosel scenic landscapes through the large picture windows. Enjoy complimentary house wine at dinner each evening and complimentary coffee or tea which is available throughout the day.

Ample Public Spaces
The classic and inviting Panorama lounge furnished with large sofas and a cozy bar has floor to ceiling windows which guarantee gorgeous views of the passing river scenery. It is one of the many ideal places where passengers may choose to enjoy this unique river cruise. A piano player will entertain thus enhancing the classic environment and the relaxed atmosphere. Also enjoy the open sundeck where one can enjoy panoramic views of the ever changing scenery.