DAY 1: UK - Cologne.
Fly to Cologne where you will be met and transferred to your cruise ship, Prinses Christina, for embarkation. (D)

DAY 2: Cologne - Andernach.
Set sail early this morning and cruise towards the pretty town of Andernach, one of the oldest towns in Germany and renowned for its impressive 13th-century 'Liebfrauen' Church and famous 'Rhine Boulevard'. Enjoy free time to explore, perhaps visiting the delightful medieval fortifications that surround the town, including the castle ruins and keep, the Round Tower and the old town wall with its well-preserved gates and towers. There will also be the opportunity to join an optional afternoon excursion to the pretty Ahrtal wine-making region. (B, L, D)

DAY 3: Andernach - Cochem.
Today your ship cruises on the picturesque Moselle River, spectacularly set at the heart of the Moselle Valley wine-growing region, and sails along peaceful bends framed by lush vineyards growing the region's famous Riesling grape. Enjoy a stop in the enchanting medieval town of Cochem, overlooked by the colossal, 11th-century Reichsburg Castle, perched high on a hill above the town and one of the most beautiful castles in the region, and enjoy an included wine tasting excursion.
Note: On 5 Jun departure, the locks on the Moselle will be closed and the visit to Cochem will be conducted by coach. (B, L, D)

DAY 4: Cochem - Boppard.
Enjoy breakfast on board your ship as you sail back along the Moselle to join the Rhine, passing some of the region's most stunning landscapes, picturesque villages and countless terraced vineyards on the way. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the ancient and charming town of Boppard, set in the beautiful Lorelei Valley against a spectacular backdrop of the Hunsruck Mountains. (B, L, D)

DAY 5: Boppard - Rüdesheim.
This morning, cruise to Rüdesheim and en route, marvel at some of the Rhine Valley's most famous landmarks including the 130 metre high Lorelei rock, named after the Rhine Maiden sirens who were once thought to have lured sailors to their death here with their haunting singing, and the Mäuseturm, an ancient customs post now used as a beacon tower for shipping. This afternoon, you are free to explore Rüdesheim, a picturebook Rhine Valley wine town overlooked by the great ivy-crowned towers of ruined Ehrenfels Castle, and perhaps stroll along the charming paved Drosselgasse, which is lined with inviting shops and convivial wine taverns. (B, L, D)

DAY 6: Rüdesheim - Koblenz.
Today, your ship sails the most beautiful part of the Middle Rhine from Rüdesheim to Koblenz, arriving in the early afternoon. The historic city of Koblenz is located on the convergence of three mountain ranges and two rivers with the 'Deutsches Eck', a colossal monument to Wilhelm I, proudly marking the place where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers meet. The city dates back to Roman times and is a centre of the German wine trade. Your tour director will provide you with more information on the afternoon's optional excursions. (B, L, D)

DAY 7: Koblenz - Cologne.
Sailing further north, you'll pass Remagen, famous as the site of a World War II battle for the town's bridge, en route to Königswinter, an elegant resort at the foot of the Sieben Gebirge Mountains. After lunch, you'll cruise past the ancient city of Bonn, birthplace of Beethoven, to the city and port of Cologne, for an overnight stay. Set on the left bank of the mighty Rhine River, Cologne dates back to Roman times and is one of Germany's largest and liveliest cities and the capital of the Rhineland. Renowned for its architectural splendour, its river skyline is dwarfed by the soaring twin steeples of its spectacular Gothic cathedral, a vast Gothic church with a breathtaking interior. Enjoy free time to explore this historic city at leisure, perhaps visiting the charismatic old town, sampling a much-loved 'Kölsch' local beer in a traditional tavern or buying some 'Eau de Cologne'. (B, L, D)

DAY 8: Cologne - UK.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B)