From the Rhine to the Dutch Waterways: Mainz to Amsterdam

Travel to Mainz and embark Spirit of the Rhine.

Depart Mainz, 1700.
Arrive Rüdesheim, 2000.

Mainz is known for its medieval market squares, half-timbered houses, Romanesque sandstone cathedral and St Stephen’s church, which features stained glass windows by renowned artist Marc Chagall. Behind the cathedral in Gutenbergplatz square is a statue of the father of modern printing Johannes Gutenberg, who was born in Mainz in the 14th century.

Depart Rüdesheim, 1400.
Scenic Cruise, Middle Rhine Gorge.
Arrive Boppard, 1800.

The popular wine town of Rüdesheim has a traditional old town of half-timbered houses and is backed by terraced vineyards. Among its main attractions is a long narrow street, the Drosselgasse, which is lined on both sides with traditional wine taverns and overlooked by the glockenspiel tower with its hourly chimes.

This afternoon, cruise through the UNESCO-listed scenery of the Middle Rhine Gorge, passing the fabled Lorelei Rock en route to Boppard where Spirit of the Rhine will moor overnight.

Depart Boppard, 1300.
Arrive Cologne, 2100.

The waterfront of this classic Rhineland wine town is overlooked by the twin towers of St Severus Church and vineyards. There are extensive Roman remains, medieval fortifications and half-timbered buildings.

Enjoy an included guided walking tour here this morning.

Depart 1800.

Founded by the Romans, Cologne has long been an important trading centre and was once home to the composers Schumann and Mendelssohn. The city’s main attraction is the twin-spired Gothic cathedral which dominates the skyline. There are also baroque palaces, medieval churches and a 16th-century City Hall. The cobbled streets of the medieval Old Town are home to characteristic churches and guilds.

Continue sailing this evening and overnight. There will be a complimentary shuttle service into the city dependant on the distance of the ship’s berth.

Arrive Nijmegen, 0800. Depart 1300.
Arrive Rotterdam, 2100.

Located on the Waal River, historic Nijmegen can trace its roots back to Roman times. One of the city’s museums, the Valkhof Museum, is situated on the site of an old Roman encampment. Other attractions include the De Waagh and the original market weigh house, in the city centre, where the cobbled streets are also home to a number of street cafes and the distinctive tower of St Stephen’s church.

Depart 1900.

The city of Rotterdam was restored following bombing during World War Two and is now home to an array of modern architecture. This morning an included excursion explores the city by coach, stopping at the historic Delfshaven district with its traditional gabled buildings, the Cube Houses, which are built at an angle across a bridge, and at the vibrant Markthal, a combined indoor food market and apartment block – all of which are explored on foot, with some steps. There are a number of sculptures in the city too including works by Picasso, De Koning and Gabo.

Sail overnight.

Arrive 0800.

Amsterdam, capital of the Netherlands, started life as a fishing village in the 13th century. Among the most interesting sights are the Royal Palace on Dam Square, the floating flower market, the Central Railway Station, which is built on thousands of wooden piles, and the grand 19th-century Rijksmuseum.

This morning you can join an included cruise along Amsterdam’s canals to the city centre with its historic bridges and gabled houses. See the famous Skinny Bridge, the Montelbaanstoren tower and the Jewish Quarter.

Disembark Spirit of the Rhine after breakfast and begin your return journey.