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Day 1 : UK - Cologne (Germany)
Travel from Leeds train station to London St Pancras and take the Eurostar to Brussels. You'll then be transferred to Cologne to embark your ship.
Day 2 : Cochem
This morning cruise through the Rhine Gorge, whilst enjoying a leisurely breakfast in the ship's restaurant. Enjoy an invigorating stroll along the sun deck, taking in the stunning views of picture postcard villages and timber framed houses. After lunch, arrive in Cochem, which was once the centre of the Moselle wine trade. You will have time to wander in the town before stepping back on board for dinner.
Day 3 : Trier - Bernkastel
Today drive to Trier, one of the most fascinating cities in Germany which was once home to Karl Marx. It has one of the best amphitheatres, roman baths and bridges, and the fortified gate of Porta Nigra which towers above the surrounding medieval buildings. Learn about the city on a guided tour. Rejoin the ship in Bernkastel.
Day 4 : Bernkastel
In the morning you are free to explore Bernkastel and its delightful cobbled market square surrounded by half-timbered houses. In the afternoon, you will slip your mooring and cruise back downstream.
Day 5 : Koblenz – Boppard
Visit 2000 year-old Koblenz and enjoy a guided walk to the main monuments and through the historic centre with its delightful squares, restored houses and hidden alleyways. Rejoin the ship for lunch whilst cruising to Boppard, known as the 'Pearl of the Rhine'. The picturesque village has cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and well-preserved Roman town walls.
Day 6 : Rudesheim
This morning's cruise is a highlight as you journey through the natural beauty of the Rhine Gorge, past riverside castles and wine-producing villages. This afternoon stop at Rudesheim, one of the most famous Rhine wine towns with crooked houses and terraced vineyards. Visit the Asbach brandy distillery or perhaps take a trip on the gondola for spectacular views across the river. Especially worth a visit is the superb Mechanical Instrument Museum.
Day 7 : Cologne
Rejoining the Rhine this morning, cruise to the heart of Cologne and moor in the shadow of the magnificent Gothic Cathedral. This magnificent building took 600 years to build and has the most intricate stained glass in Europe. This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of the city before free time to explore at leisure. Sample regional specialities at the Captain's Dinner this evening.
Day 8 : Cologne - UK
This morning disembark your ship and transfer to Brussels where you'll board the Eurostar to London St Pancras, before continuing on to Leeds train station.
The Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary to suit wind and weather conditions.