Cruising the Rhine
The adventure began in the skies, flying from Newcastle via Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Passport control there was refreshingly smooth—always a pleasant surprise—and soon I was onward to Frankfurt, Germany, ready to step aboard my river chariot. Having cleared passport control in Amsterdam, once I disembarked in Frankfurt, I was straight out into arrivals within about 10-minutes!
Emerald Cruises knows how to craft an experience that feels both personal and luxurious. The Emerald Sun itself is a sleek vessel, gliding gracefully along the waterways and offering panoramic views from nearly every corner. Crossing numerous locks along the journey added a charming rhythm—each one a small engineering marvel and a moment to pause and admire. The skill the captain’s of these ships demonstrate when entering a lock alongside another vessel is something else!
One of the highlights was a day trip to Strasbourg, France—a city that seems stitched together from fairy tales. The timber-framed buildings of La Petite France, the soaring spires of the Gothic cathedral, and the gentle canals weaving through the old town made for a picture-perfect excursion. Strolling through cobblestone streets, I felt the pulse of Franco-German history and culture all around me. As part of the EmeraldPLUS experience, your excursions are included and at each stop, you will have a local guide with you to help you explore.
Our second excursion was to Freiburg, nestled on the edge of Germany’s famed Black Forest. It’s a city that feels earthy and effortlessly cool—eco-conscious, rich in history, and blessed with sunny charm. The medieval architecture, Bächle water streams trickling through the streets, and a warm local atmosphere made it a morning to remember. With markets operating each morning (apart from Sunday) be sure to take some time to wander through Munsterplatz in the Old Town – I can highly recommend trying a selection of the local sausages. Three nights passed quickly; the quiet glamour of the ship, the immersive excursions, and the chance to unwind with good company and great drinks—all made this short river cruise a full-bodied experience of its own. From traversing locks to sipping wine as castles drifted by, the Emerald Sun voyage reminded me that sometimes, less time can mean more meaning.
If I have managed to whet your appetite with river cruising, please get in touch and we can make your next getaway a smooth sailing on one of the many beautiful rivers around the world!
