Day 2. As we sleep to the rhythmic, soothing, drifting of water lapping to the movement of our ship, we wake to we find ourselves moored in Breisach, Germany. 

A choice of breakfast, suitable to all tastes.The options for today are the Black Forest or a vineyard tour. We went to the Black Forest. A drive of about an hour that took us through some wonderful countryside. Farms and old villages. Our guide was more than capable of full filling our enquiring minds. Our destination was to an old setting of what farm houses and farmyards were like 400 years ago. Churches and schools, examples of horticulture, butter making, bread making and styles of clothing and dress. It’s a full day trip with lunch included.

 

Day 3. Strasbourg, in France. A guided bus trip takes us into the heart of the city. A city that is headquarters of the Council of Europe and also The European Court of Human Rights. The experience of a guided tour in such a city is an eye opener. The formation of The European Economic Community and the introduction of the Euro. Free time in the afternoon allowed us to stroll the city, visit stores, cafes or visit the massive cathedral with the amazing clock. The cruise ship has a shuttle bus laid on for the return to the ship. 7pm is dinner. Prior to this each evening, from 6pm to 7pm is happy hour, with the ship’s cruise director giving us an update on the following days program. 

 

Day 4. Rudesheim, Germany. A day of choice. Take a hike to the Niederwald Monument as we wander through the picturesque vineyards. A Cable-Car Ride to this Monument saves to leg work. There’s also a Mechanical Music Museum that’s worth a visit. Cruising through the Rhine Gorge in the afternoon with its countless Castles, we are regaled with stories of some romantic shenanigans that seem to good too be true. In the village of Boppard we enjoy a cup of German coffee, sweetened by a sample of German liquor. 

 

Day 5. Frankfurt. An industrial city with an air of culture influenced by its financial headquarters. A sightseeing tour with a visit to the Einhard Basilica. Free time for you to have a therapeutic shopping experience. Today we cruise early. The number of locks that we go through is enlightening, a wonder of engineering from yesteryears considering the equipment, tools and instruments that were at their disposal.

 

Day 6. You know that when you are on a holiday or vacation, one has to refuel your energy. That’s what we did today. Choose a book from the library, stretch out on the Sky Deck. There’s tea or coffee and cookies available all day on board. With Avalon, modern ships have floor-ceiling windows with beds facing the views, if the weather is unsuitable outside take the book indoors.

 

Day 7. Wurzburg. The Pearl of the Romantic Road. Towering fortresses, the Bishops Residence. A Rothenburg excursion to the fairy-tale wonderland that has inspired artists through the ages. As the trip nears the end, this night is the gala dinner. Performers come in, all staff and crew are there to say their goodbyes and thank everyone for our efforts to make their work easier and more enjoyable. 

 

Day 8. Bamberg. The City of the Seven Hills. Each of the hills crowned by a church in dedication to a particular family of distinction in an area. Climbing and walking the city with its seven hills is not for the faint hearted. However, the beautiful Romanesque Cathedral is certainly worth the walk. The old town with houses dating back to the mid-sixteen hundreds have to be witnessed. Timber framed structures, filled with a type of concrete filler are a builder's paradise. At foundation, there is at least 2 feet or 24 inches of a space yet as close as 8 inches at wall plate level. Stopping at the old market place for a coffee or drink or maybe wander into the little trinket stores, all having a character of their own. Returning to the ship in time for a final dinner. Packing for the morning.

 

Day 9. It’s day nine and after breakfast we disembark in Nuremberg saying farewell to a splendid cruise. The airport awaits 30 minutes away for those taking flights home are further afield. Others stay on board for Amsterdam perhaps. A fond memory lingers with us of a time well spent.

 

Always included.

Complimentary regional wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner.

Onboard meals.

Included sightseeing expert local guides.

Complimentary bicycles for use on shore.

Onboard entertainment.

Complimentary Wi-Fi