Trip Overview

SPECIAL OFFERS

2020 River Cruise Business Class Airfare Offer

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.

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2020 River Cruises: Free Airfare Offer

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.

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  • 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 “Ida”—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.

Experts on this Trip

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.


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
  • DAY 2: STRASBOURG, FRANCE/MITTELBERGHEIM/BLACK FOREST, GERMANY
  • DAY 3: HEIDELBERG/GRUBE MESSEL
  • DAY 4: RÜDESHEIM AM RHEIN
  • DAY 5: KOBLENZ/COCHEM
  • DAY 6: COLOGNE/METTMANN
  • DAY 7: AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
  • DAY 8: AMSTERDAM

Extensions


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.


Accommodations

Scenic Pearl Capacity 167 Guests


Prices & Dates


  • WHAT’S INCLUDED

    • Transfers upon arrival and departure
    • Accommodation aboard a world-class ship operated by Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
    • All meals, from dinner on the first night to breakfast on the final morning
    • Daily activities and excursions as indicated in the itinerary
    • Alcoholic beverages
    • All gratuities
  • WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

    • Airfare to and from destination
    • Trip cancellation insurance or any other travel insurance
    • Visas

Videos


FROM OUR TRAVELERS

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Adventures

Rhine River Cruise: Amsterdam to Basel Copy

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Adventures

Rhine River Cruise: Amsterdam to Basel

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