City walking tours, visits to sites, game drives, and easy hikes, with options each day for more physical activities such as hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, or biking.
Service Level
Premium
City walking tours, visits to sites, game drives, and easy hikes, with options each day for more physical activities such as hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, or biking.
Book by December 31, 2019 and receive Business Class Air for $1,995 per person (No cash value) on select departures of select river cruise itineraries. Offer is subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, and may not be combined with other promotions.
Book by December 31, 2019 and receive free round-trip economy airfare between the U.S. and Europe on select 2020 departures.
On 11+ day itineraries receive free round-trip premium economy airfare between the U.S. and Europe or Egypt on select 2020 departures.
Offer is subject to availability and valid for new bookings only, and may not be combined with other promotions. Free roundtrip economy air available with a maximum value of $1,200 per person. Free roundtrip premium economy air available on 11+ day europe and Egypt sailings with a maximum value of $2,000 per person. Please call for details.
SHOW DETAILS
In the company of a National Geographic expert, discover historical treasures along the Rhine, from the architectural marvels of Cologne to Strasbourg’s enchanting half-timbered old town.
Enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes visit to the Neanderthal Museum in Mettmann; and explore Grube Messel, the famed fossil site of a National Geographic magazine feature and where “Idaâ€â€”the world’s most complete primate fossil—was found.
With the spectacular Rhine Gorge as your backdrop, hone your camera skills alongside a National Geographic photographer on the ship’s sundeck.
Enjoy a private concert in Mannheim Palace, an architectural gem near Heidelberg.
A National Geographic expert and photographer will accompany each departure to share insights and a rare behind-the-scenes perspective. Listed here are the experts that will be joining departures of this trip.
Award-winning travel and editorial photographer Susan Seubert has photographed more than 30 feature stories for National Geographic Traveler. Her subjects range from Canada to the Caribbean and Texas to Thailand and beyond. Susan’s work has been recognized by Columbia University’s Alfred Eisenstadt Award and most recently by the North American Travel Journalists Association for excellence in photography. She lectures regularly about her work at such institutions as Harvard University and the Portland Art Museum. Based in Portland, Oregon and Maui, Hawaii, Susan travels throughout the world shooting a variety of subjects and capturing a sense of place through her wide-ranging imagery. Susan’s in-depth knowledge of digital technologies and her multimedia skills keep her at the cutting edge of visual storytelling. Born and raised in Indiana, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts from the Pacific Northwest College of Art and hasn’t set down her camera since.
DEPARTURES WITH THIS EXPERT
Jul 15-22, 2020 – Scenic Pearl
Oct 18-25, 2021
Susan Seubert
Photographer
Award-winning travel and editorial photographer Susan Seubert has photographed more than 30 feature stories for National Geographic Traveler. Her subjects range from Canada to the Caribbean and Texas to Thailand and beyond. Susan’s work has been recognized by Columbia University’s Alfred Eisenstadt Award and most recently by the North American Travel Journalists Association for excellence in photography. She lectures regularly about her work at such institutions as Harvard University and the Portland Art Museum. Based in Portland, Oregon and Maui, Hawaii, Susan travels throughout the world shooting a variety of subjects and capturing a sense of place through her wide-ranging imagery. Susan’s in-depth knowledge of digital technologies and her multimedia skills keep her at the cutting edge of visual storytelling. Born and raised in Indiana, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts from the Pacific Northwest College of Art and hasn’t set down her camera since.
DEPARTURES WITH THIS EXPERT
Jul 15-22, 2020 – Scenic Pearl
Oct 18-25, 2021
Itinerary
One of Europe’s most legendary rivers, the Rhine meanders through a storied landscape dotted with castles, vineyards, and medieval towns. On an 8-day cruise, journey to four countries linked by this fabled waterway, discovering their intertwined histories and cultures. Set out from Switzerland to encounter Strasbourg’s charming half-timbered houses, glide along Amsterdam’s iconic canals in the Netherlands, and marvel at Germany’s magnificent castles and cathedrals from Heidelberg to Cologne. Pass through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—a UNESCO World Heritage site of stunning natural beauty—and take in panoramic views while biking along the river. As we sail these storied waterways, enjoy the freedom and flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your interests, choosing from a variety of available excursions at each port of call—and benefit from the insights provided by the National Geographic Expert and the National Geographic photographer who accompany us on the journey.
OPEN ALL DAYS
DAY 1: ZÜRICH, SWITZERLAND/BASEL
Arrive in Zürich and transfer to our ship in Basel this afternoon. Settle into your spacious suite, or head to the sundeck for your first al fresco cocktail hour overlooking the river. This evening, set sail on the Rhine.
Meals Included: Dinner
Accommodations: Scenic Pearl for the entire voyage
DAY 2: STRASBOURG, FRANCE/MITTELBERGHEIM/BLACK FOREST, GERMANY
Having switched allegiances between France and Germany several times, Strasbourg is a fascinating cultural amalgam. Today you’ll have the option to explore the city on a guided tour of its half-timbered old town, or to venture beyond the riverbank, deeper into either France or Germany. Travelers who fancy a day in the French countryside will visit charming Mittelbergheim to sip Alsatian wines at a local winstub, while the more active excursion to Germany is focused on the traditional past time of hiking on a wanderweg through the coniferous Black Forest.
Switzerland Extension Pre-Trip, 5 Days Graced with sparkling lakes, rolling meadows, and the majestic Alps, Switzerland abounds with breathtaking scenery. Spend time exploring Zürich, the country’s pleasant and posh financial hub; then venture to the picturesque lakeside towns of Lucerne and Montreux. Enjoy visits to charming Alpine hamlets, and take in views of Switzerland’s incomparable mountain peaks on a scenic train ride across the countryside.
DAY 1: ZÜRICH, SWITZERLAND/BASEL
Arrive in Zürich and transfer to our ship in Basel this afternoon. Settle into your spacious suite, or head to the sundeck for your first al fresco cocktail hour overlooking the river. This evening, set sail on the Rhine.
Meals Included: Dinner
Accommodations: Scenic Pearl for the entire voyage
DAY 2: STRASBOURG, FRANCE/MITTELBERGHEIM/BLACK FOREST, GERMANY
Having switched allegiances between France and Germany several times, Strasbourg is a fascinating cultural amalgam. Today you’ll have the option to explore the city on a guided tour of its half-timbered old town, or to venture beyond the riverbank, deeper into either France or Germany. Travelers who fancy a day in the French countryside will visit charming Mittelbergheim to sip Alsatian wines at a local winstub, while the more active excursion to Germany is focused on the traditional past time of hiking on a wanderweg through the coniferous Black Forest.
DAY 3: HEIDELBERG/GRUBE MESSEL
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DAY 4: RÜDESHEIM AM RHEIN
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DAY 5: KOBLENZ/COCHEM
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DAY 6: COLOGNE/METTMANN
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DAY 7: AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
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DAY 8: AMSTERDAM
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Switzerland Extension Pre-Trip, 5 Days Graced with sparkling lakes, rolling meadows, and the majestic Alps, Switzerland abounds with breathtaking scenery. Spend time exploring Zürich, the country’s pleasant and posh financial hub; then venture to the picturesque lakeside towns of Lucerne and Montreux. Enjoy visits to charming Alpine hamlets, and take in views of Switzerland’s incomparable mountain peaks on a scenic train ride across the countryside.
Switzerland Extension Pre-Trip, 5 Days Graced with sparkling lakes, rolling meadows, and the majestic Alps, Switzerland abounds with breathtaking scenery. Spend time exploring Zürich, the country’s pleasant and posh financial hub; then venture to the picturesque lakeside towns of Lucerne and Montreux. Enjoy visits to charming Alpine hamlets, and take in views of Switzerland’s incomparable mountain peaks on a scenic train ride across the countryside.
What to Expect
This trip has an activity rating of light/moderate and suits a range of interests and abilities. Travelers should be physically fit and comfortable walking or standing for extended periods, navigating uneven or slippery terrain, and climbing stairs without handrails. Choose from a variety of excursions, from short walking tours to options for extended hiking and biking. This cruise is operated in partnership with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours.
Accommodations
This is an all-inclusive experience aboard a world-class river ship featuring fine dining, exceptional amenities, and butler service.
Expedition Team
A National Geographic expert and a National Geographic photographer will accompany the entire trip, and local experts will join us along the way.
The Scenic Pearl provides the highest standard of luxury and comfort in river cruising, with fully renovated accommodations and upscale amenities. This elegant ship is designed to smoothly navigate passage along Europe’s storied waterways. Exceptional service is ensured with a one-to-three staff-to-guest ratio.
Capacity:Â 167 guests in 84 outward-facing suites Registry:Â Malta Overall Length:Â 445 feet
Public Areas:Â The ship is outfitted with four decks, each offering numerous open spaces for dining, entertainment, and relaxation. A spacious rooftop sun deck features a walking track and an outdoor lounge with comfortable seating. Floor-to-ceiling windows in multiple shared areas ensure spectacular river views throughout the ship. The main lounge is equipped with board games and a comprehensive library. There is a wellness center offering a gym, plunge pool, and massage treatments.
Suites:Â All cabins face outward and have spacious bedrooms and en suite bathrooms. Amenities include an HD TV, computer, mini-bar, and complimentary high speed Wi-Fi. Many suites have large private balconies that can be converted into all-weather sun lounges.
Special Features:Â A fitness center, a wellness center with salt therapy lounge, a plunge pool, massage rooms, a full service salon, and a gift shop. A National Geographic expert and photographer will accompany every voyage.
The Scenic Pearl provides the highest standard of luxury and comfort in river cruising, with fully renovated accommodations and upscale amenities. This elegant ship is designed to smoothly navigate passage along Europe’s storied waterways. Exceptional service is ensured with a one-to-three staff-to-guest ratio.
Award-winning travel and editorial photographer Susan Seubert has photographed more than 30 feature stories for National Geographic Traveler. Her subjects range from Canada to the Caribbean and Texas to Thailand and beyond. Susan’s work has been recognized by Columbia University’s Alfred Eisenstadt Award and most recently by the North American Travel Journalists Association for excellence in photography. She lectures regularly about her work at such institutions as Harvard University and the Portland Art Museum. Based in Portland, Oregon and Maui, Hawaii, Susan travels throughout the world shooting a variety of subjects and capturing a sense of place through her wide-ranging imagery. Susan’s in-depth knowledge of digital technologies and her multimedia skills keep her at the cutting edge of visual storytelling. Born and raised in Indiana, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts from the Pacific Northwest College of Art and hasn’t set down her camera since.
DEPARTURES WITH THIS EXPERT
Jul 15-22, 2020 – Scenic Pearl
Oct 18-25, 2021
Susan Seubert
Photographer
Award-winning travel and editorial photographer Susan Seubert has photographed more than 30 feature stories for National Geographic Traveler. Her subjects range from Canada to the Caribbean and Texas to Thailand and beyond. Susan’s work has been recognized by Columbia University’s Alfred Eisenstadt Award and most recently by the North American Travel Journalists Association for excellence in photography. She lectures regularly about her work at such institutions as Harvard University and the Portland Art Museum. Based in Portland, Oregon and Maui, Hawaii, Susan travels throughout the world shooting a variety of subjects and capturing a sense of place through her wide-ranging imagery. Susan’s in-depth knowledge of digital technologies and her multimedia skills keep her at the cutting edge of visual storytelling. Born and raised in Indiana, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts from the Pacific Northwest College of Art and hasn’t set down her camera since.
DEPARTURES WITH THIS EXPERT
Jul 15-22, 2020 – Scenic Pearl
Oct 18-25, 2021
EXTENSIONS
Switzerland Extension
Pre-trip Extension: Jul 11-15, 2020
Double Occupancy from $2,100 per person
Single Occupancy from $3,100 per person
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