Rachel Shoemaker

Louisa White Travel LLC

Castles along the Rhine

Aug 28, 2025 to Sep 4, 2025
Basel, Switzerland to Amsterdam, Netherlands
 
Join us on Uniworld's stunning S.S. Antoinette to cruise the Rhine, August 28th to September 4th, 2025!
Basel to Amsterdam
 
 
 
Cruise along the Rhine—Germany on one side, France on the other. On this cruise you will discover Alsace, whose dual French and German heritage has given it fabulous food and a winemaking tradition that goes back to the Romans. Marvel at castles that were once mighty fortresses and get an insider’s look at the impressive Rheinstein Castle. Visit historic cities, including ancient Cologne and picturesque Strasbourg; stroll through the fairytale town of Rüdesheim; and taste delightful white wines in the villages where the grapes are grown.
 
Optional extensions include a pre-cruise visit to Lake Lucerne and post-cruise stay in Amsterdam.
 
 


 
 

What's included in this trip:

  • Accommodations in a double or single occupancy room
  • Triple occupancy is NOT available on this ship
       
 
What's not included:
  1. Travel insurance 
  2. Airfare 
  3. Souvenirs and items of a personal nature
  4. Meals, activities, and experiences not outlined in the itinerary

 

How to book:

  • Select the stateroom type you want. 
  • Submit your passenger information form and credit card authorization through the Book Now link.  
  • Both travelers must fill this out separately before the room can be booked.   
  • Once both travelers have submitted your form, I will put your room on hold. If there are any price changes, I will let you know before making your deposit. 
  • Final payment will be due April 29th 2025. 

 

 
 

Itinerary:

Day 1 (Embarkation): Basel
 
 
Today, your flight from the US arrives in Basel. Nestled at the crossroads of Switzerland, France, and Germany, Basel enchants visitors with its rich blend of medieval architecture, vibrant arts scene, and the picturesque Rhine River flowing through its heart. This cultural gem is home to the renowned Art Basel fair, stunning historical landmarks like the Basel Minster, and a delightful array of museums and galleries.  Upon arrival at the ship, you will be warmly welcomed aboard and shown to your stateroom.
 
Important note: Uniworld's airport services and transfers to the ship will take place on the Switzerland side of the airport. Be sure to enter Customs on the Switzerland side as guests are not able to return to the Switzerland side after they have exited the airport from the France side. 
 
 
Day 2: Breisach
 
 
This morning, enjoy leisure time as you sail the scenic Upper Rhine to Breisach. Breisach, known as the gateway to the Alsatian Wine Road, offers a delightful introduction to the celebrated Route des Vins, where wine lovers can immerse themselves in the region's renowned viticulture. On today's featured excursion through charming Alsatian villages, you'll encounter an old stone well in Kayersberg bearing the whimsical inscription, "Drink with moderation old and subtil wine...and leave the water to the side." Though the remains of a 12th-century castle speak to Kaysersberg’s strategic importance in the Middle Ages, today it is an idyllic village nestled among vineyards. Join a local guide for a one-hour walking tour, passing storybook medieval houses with steeply pitched roofs and a gorgeous Gothic cathedral that was begun by a 12th-century Holy Roman emperor. In modern days, the village is best known as the birthplace of Albert Schweitzer. During your tour of this enchanting village indulge in a tasting of an Alsatian specialty, Kugelhopf, a delicious yeast-based cake traditionally baked in a circular, Bundt mold. Then it is on to Eguishem. The road from Kaysersberg to Eguishem provides quintessential wine road scenery: lush foothills, famous vineyards, castle ruins, and quaint villages. You'll arrive in a town so pretty it is regularly ranked amongst the most beautiful in France. Walk its cobbled streets to admire timber-framed buildings painted in every color of the rainbow.
A special Captain's Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.  
 
 
Day 3: Kehl (for Strasbourg)  
 
1 Day in Strasbourg: The Perfect Strasbourg Itinerary - Road Affair
 
 
Kehl, directly across the river from Strasbourg, is where your ship will dock today before you explore Strasbourg. In the company of an insightful local expert, see how Strasbourg enchants visitors with its historic cobbled lanes, picturesque half-timbered homes, and the delightful sight of giant stork nests gracing the rooftops. The town’s irresistible pastry shops, brimming with mouthwatering Alsatian treats, will undoubtedly win your heart and leave you longing for more. On today's featured excursion, you will see that Strasbourg is both cross-cultural and bilingual. Old and new, French and German all blend together in this wonderful city, which is also considered the legislative and democratic capital of the European Union. Get a glimpse of Strasbourg's grand political role as we drive by the European Parliament and the Council of Europe, where the European Court of Human Rights sits. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to continue exploring Strasbourg or take advantage of Uniworld's bicycles to explore the banks of the river. 
 
 
Day 4: Mannheim (for Speyer)
 
The Speyer Cathedral & the Symbols Hidden in Plain Sight - Road Trips ...
 
 
Speyer's Old Town captivates with its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming streets, and vibrant market squares, offering a glimpse into centuries past. Dominating the skyline, the majestic Speyer Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as one of Germany's most important Romanesque buildings, inviting visitors to step back in time and marvel at its grandiose beauty. Today's featured excursions offer a delightful array of choices to suit every interest. For those with a taste for the unique, embark on a Private Doktorenhof Vinegar Estate Visit and Tasting, where you'll delve into the art of crafting exquisite artisanal vinegars and savor an array of their distinct flavors. If motorsports are more to your taste, visit Hockenheim, the legendary home of the German Grand Prix, for a thrilling behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic racetrack. Meanwhile, those seeking a more tranquil experience can explore Germersheim's Secret Garden & Collections. Here, you’ll wander through enchanting botanical gardens filled with hidden floral treasures, accompanied by fascinating historical artifacts. Each of these excursions provides a memorable way to immerse yourself in the diverse wonders of the region. 
 
 
Day 5: Rüdesheim & Boppard
 
 
Visiting Rüdesheim and Boppard promises a day filled with enchanting experiences and scenic delights. Today’s featured excursions begin with a visit to the historic Castle Vollrads, where you'll indulge in a wine tasting that highlights the region's prolific winemaking heritage. For those with a spirit of adventure, lace up your sturdy shoes and embark on a hike up to the Gedeonseck. The trail is steep, but the reward at the top is unparalleled – breathtaking views of the Rhine River Valley and its iconic, picture-perfect riverbend below. This blend of cultural, historical, and natural beauty will make your visit to Rüdesheim and Boppard unforgettable.  As the day turns to night, enjoy a magical evening at Rheinstein Castle, an experience that will transport you back in time with its medieval grandeur. Owned for over 700 years by the same family, today, it is lovingly taken care of by the Hecher family, who are pleased to invite you in to hear their stories about the castle and admire it’s well-kept interiors. 
 
 
Day 6: Boppard & Koblenz
 
 
Discover the charm of Koblenz, a historic town renowned for its rich past and eclectic architecture. One of the highlights of your visit will be the medieval splendor of Marksburg Castle, a fortress that stands proudly over the Rhine. As you approach the picture-perfect town of Koblenz, you’ll sail past the iconic Deutsches Eck (German Corner) with its imposing monument to Kaiser Wilhelm I, a tribute to German unity. Today, one of our featured excursions invites you to explore the scenic landscape on our custom Uniworld bicycles. Guided along 12.5 miles of picturesque paths, you'll pedal through the Rhine promenade in Koblenz, making your way towards the impressive castles of Stolzenfels and Lahneck, providing incredible vantage points. Shortly after, enjoy yet another stunning view of Marksburg Castle. Your journey continues through the charming fishing village of Spay before we pause for a well-deserved 30-minute break at a local beer garden, where you can savor a refreshing beverage if you wish. After this delightful respite, we’ll cycle back along the serene Rhine Cycle Path, returning to our ship with unforgettable memories of a day well spent in Koblenz.
 
 
Day 7: Cologne
 
7 Stunning Churches of Europe ...
 
On our last stop before Amsterdam, discover beautiful Cologne. History buffs will revel in the opportunity to explore Cologne’s Old Town, guided by an expert who will lead you around some of the city's most iconic sites. As the largest city on the Rhine, Cologne boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture. Your tour will take you past the old fish market, City Hall with its Renaissance façade, and the old Jewish mikvah (a bath used for ritual cleansing). Meander through the narrow, cobbled lanes of Old Town, lined with traditional houses in every color and a plethora of restaurants and pubs. One of the city’s 12 Romanesque churches provides a castle-like backdrop to this quaint, riverside quarter of Cologne. Your local expert will guide you to the Domplatte, the square where the magnificent Cologne Cathedral stands. Should you wish, you can head inside this Gothic marvel on your own to see the Shrine of the Magi and the beautiful stained-glass windows. If you prefer, ask your guide for tips on what else to explore. Whether delving into architectural wonders, savoring local flavors, or soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Cologne’s Old Town has something for everyone, with your local expert ready to reveal all the best spots. 
In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
 
 
Day 8: Amsterdam (Disembarkation)
 
A perfect weekend in Amsterdam - Lonely Planet
 
As your enchanting river cruise draws to a close, you'll disembark the ship in the vibrant city of Amsterdam. For those whose cruise packages include a group departure transfer, or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be seamlessly transported to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol for your flight home. However, the magic doesn't have to end there. Why not extend your adventure with our optional post-cruise Amsterdam extension? Immerse yourself further in the rich culture and dynamic atmosphere of this iconic city, renowned for its winding canals, historic architecture, and world-class museums. Whether you're exploring the masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum or enjoying a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, Amsterdam offers countless delights to enrich your journey.
 
 
 
Optional Extensions: 
 
Amsterdam Post Cruise Extension
End your trip with a three-day adventure in the Netherlands’ beloved capital city. Explore amazing Amsterdam and discover its legacy of history, art and architecture.
 
See day to day details under 'Extra Options' below
 

INCLUDED IN YOUR 3-DAY STAY:

  • 2 nights at the Hilton Amsterdam Hotel (or similar)
  • Breakfast daily and all service charges, taxes, and porterage
  • Amsterdam canals and famous Rijksmuseum
  • English-speaking expert
  • All transfers
 
 

Amsterdam

 

Lake Lucerne Pre-Cruise Extension
Your Castles along the Rhine cruise will give you a brief and charming sample of Swiss culture with a stop in Basel—extend your time in Switzerland before or after your cruise with 2 nights in the pretty lake town of Lucerne to immerse yourself in the center of Swiss life.

See day to day details under 'Extra Options' below

INCLUDED IN YOUR 3-DAY STAY:

  • 2 nights at the Mandarin Oriental Palace, Lucerne (or similar)
  • Breakfast daily and all service charges, taxes, and porterage
  • Lucerne City Walk with Boat Ride
  • English-speaking expert
  • All transfers
 

Cancellation policy:

We hope nothing will come between you and your Uniworld vacation. Should you need to cancel your booking or any portion of it, your cancellation must be received in writing. It will be effective on the date of receipt. These cancellation fees are in addition to any cancellation fees that might be levied by your travel agent. There is no refund for unused services or for unused portions of the trip.

If you purchased a travel protection plan from Uniworld, you are eligible for a refund of your plan cost during the free look period, which is 10 days from the time you purchase the plan, provided: you are within 10 days of plan purchase, you have not started your trip, and you have not filed a claim. For complete details and descriptions of Uniworld travel protection plans please visit Travel Protection on Uniworld.com.

 

Cancellation Notice Received Before Cruise/Tour Start Date                    Cancellation Charges Per Person
120 days or more                                                                                                                       $250 per person for cruise/tour
119 – 90 days                                                                                                                               25% of the fare**
89 – 60 days                                                                                                                                  50% of the fare**
59 – 30 days                                                                                                                                  75% of the fare**
Less than 30 days                                                                                                                      100% of the fare**

**Fare is defined as the cost of any cruise, or land, element purchased from Uniworld. Port charges are refunded if cancellation is received prior to departure.
NO-SHOWS are subject to 100% penalty, applicable to bookings for all sailing regions.
If air is cancelled one hundred and nineteen (119) days prior to departure or less, the full price of your air is non-refundable. Please see Air Cancellations for details.

Click here for Uniworld's full 2025 Terms & Conditions

Click here for Louisa White Travel's Terms & Conditions

Available Packages

Grande Suite - Limited Availability Remaining
Available until April 29, 2025

$11,999.00
Deposit: $1,200.00 per person

Book now
All fares are per guest in US dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
 
Luxurious riverview grand suite (391 sq ft - 36.3 sq m) with a spacious living room, handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat and flat-screen TV with infotainment center. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmers, comfortable bathrobes and slippers, separate rain shower and tub, backlit magnifying mirror, heated mirrors and a secluded toilet and bidet area. Additional amenities and service include: in-suite butler service; packing and unpacking assistance; in-room breakfast; daily fruit and cookie plate, and an elegant evening snack; Nespresso coffee machine and fine teas; fully stocked mini bar; bottle of wine upon arrival; shoe shine; and free laundry service
 
Grand Suite S.S. Antoinette
 
  • All fares are per guest in US dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
  • Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice.
  • Availability of all stateroom categories cannot be guaranteed.
  • Single Supplement applies for single accommodation.
  • Itineraries, hotels, and vessels may change, and substitute visits to other sites may occur during your trip due to water level fluctuations and other uncontrollable factors.
  • The order of sightseeing and docking ports are subject to change according to port authority assignments.
  • Prices include additional port charges of $230 per person.

Suite - Limited Availability Remaining
Available until April 29, 2025

Starting At: $8,429.00
Deposit: $843.00 per person

Book now
All fares are per guest in US dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
 
Luxurious riverview suite (294 sq ft - 27.3 sq m) with enclosed balcony with floor-to-ceiling windows (note: Suites 402 and 403 have been stunningly redesigned and no longer have an enclosed balcony) with a spacious living room, handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat and flat-screen TV with infotainment center. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmers, comfortable bathrobes and slippers, separate rain shower and tub, backlit magnifying mirror, heated mirrors and a secluded toilet and bidet area. Additional amenities and service include: in-suite butler service; packing and unpacking assistance; in-room breakfast; daily fruit and cookie plate, and an elegant evening snack; Nespresso coffee machine and fine teas; fully stocked mini bar; bottle of wine upon arrival; shoe shine; and free laundry service
 
Suite 403 S.S. Antoinette
 
  • All fares are per guest in US dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
  • Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice.
  • Availability of all stateroom categories cannot be guaranteed.
  • Single Supplement applies for single accommodation.
  • Itineraries, hotels, and vessels may change, and substitute visits to other sites may occur during your trip due to water level fluctuations and other uncontrollable factors.
  • The order of sightseeing and docking ports are subject to change according to port authority assignments.
  • Prices include additional port charges of $230 per person.

Deluxe Balcony
Available until April 29, 2025

Starting At: $6,125.00
Deposit: $613.00 per person

Book now
All fares are per guest in US dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
 
Luxurious riverview stateroom (196 sq ft - 18.2 sq m) with enclosed balcony with floor-to-ceiling windows. Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, heated mirror, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers
 
Deluxe Balcony stateroom S.S. Antoinette
 
  • All fares are per guest in US dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
  • Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice.
  • Availability of all stateroom categories cannot be guaranteed.
  • Single Supplement applies for single accommodation.
  • Itineraries, hotels, and vessels may change, and substitute visits to other sites may occur during your trip due to water level fluctuations and other uncontrollable factors.
  • The order of sightseeing and docking ports are subject to change according to port authority assignments.
  • Prices include additional port charges of $230 per person.

French Balcony
Available until April 29, 2025

Starting At: $5,729.00
Deposit: $573.00 per person

Book now
All fares are per guest in US dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
 
Luxurious riverview stateroom (196 sq ft - 18.2 sq m) with a French Balcony. Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, heated mirror, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers
 
French Balcony stateroom S.S. Antoinette
 
  • All fares are per guest in US dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
  • Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice.
  • Availability of all stateroom categories cannot be guaranteed.
  • Single Supplement applies for single accommodation.
  • Itineraries, hotels, and vessels may change, and substitute visits to other sites may occur during your trip due to water level fluctuations and other uncontrollable factors.
  • The order of sightseeing and docking ports are subject to change according to port authority assignments.
  • Prices include additional port charges of $230 per person.

Classic
Available until April 29, 2025

Starting At: $4,625.00
Deposit: $463.00 per person

Book now
All fares are per guest in US dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
 
Luxurious riverview stateroom (163 sq ft - 15.1 sq m) with handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, heated mirror, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers
Note: Windows in these staterooms are situated at the water line
 
Classic stateroom S.S. Antoinette
 
  • All fares are per guest in US dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
  • Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice.
  • Availability of all stateroom categories cannot be guaranteed.
  • Single Supplement applies for single accommodation.
  • Itineraries, hotels, and vessels may change, and substitute visits to other sites may occur during your trip due to water level fluctuations and other uncontrollable factors.
  • The order of sightseeing and docking ports are subject to change according to port authority assignments.
  • Prices include additional port charges of $230 per person.

Extra Options

Lake Lucerne Pre-Cruise Extension
Available until April 29, 2025

$1,799.00
Deposit: $179.90

Your Castles along the Rhine cruise will give you a brief and charming sample of Swiss culture with a stop in Basel—extend your time in Switzerland before or after your cruise with 2 nights in the pretty lake town of Lucerne to immerse yourself in the center of Swiss life.

Pricing is per person based on double occupancy. For solo guests, there is a single supplement from $899. 

INCLUDED IN YOUR 3-DAY STAY:

  • 2 nights at the Mandarin Oriental Palace, Lucerne (or similar)
  • Breakfast daily and all service charges, taxes, and porterage
  • Lucerne City Walk with Boat Ride
  • English-speaking expert
  • All transfers
 

Day 1: Lake Lucerne
After arriving at the Zurich Airport and clearing customs, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the hotel. There you will check in, drop off your bags, and, if you wish, go out and explore the city on your own. Your Uniworld local host can offer suggestions for your leisure time.

Day 2: Lake Lucerne
FEATURED EXCURSION: Lucerne City walk with boat ride
Meet your local guide for a stroll through the picturesque—and perfectly preserved—Old Town. Bloom-filled flower boxes line both Chapel Bridge, with its iconic medieval tower, and Mill Bridge, which spans the Reuss River just before it empties into the lake. Wine Market Square, with its frescoed palace façades and central fountain, the town hall, and the medieval ramparts—nine of its original towers remain—make up the heart of the district. A bit farther afield you’ll find the Lion Monument, which commemorates the hundreds of Swiss Guards who died in 1792 defending Louis XVI during the French Revolution.

See Lucerne from a completely different point of view as you cross Lake Lucerne by boat; a scenic one-hour ride between your hotel in the mountains and the city. Picturesque onion-domed churches and historic palaces cast their reflection on the water while the snow-capped Alps tower in the distance. It’s an idyllic scene.

For those who love embracing nature—and really, who doesn’t? —the Swiss mountains are beyond compare. Breathtaking views, walking paths, charming flowers and greenery in the warmer months and snow in the wintertime are par for the course, but each mountain has its own special qualities as well. The Stanserhorn is no exception. Peaking at 6,227 ft above sea level, the Stanserhorn offers a gorgeous trip up the mountain via an energy efficient funicular railway that dates back to 1893. The historic path climbs midway up the mountain, and from there we’ll hop on a Cabrio—the world’s first open-air cable car—to soar all the way to the top of the mountain.

Sustainability has been top-of-mind in preserving this beautiful slice of nature. The energy used here is 100% Swiss water power and the drinking water is collected from rainfall, treated to perfect quality by UV filtration. While out and about here, you may catch one of the Stanserhorn Rangers, who are eager to share their knowledge on the flora and fauna of the alps.

This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience supports Global Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, and Global Goal 15: Life on Land.

Day 3: Lake Lucerne
Today after breakfast, you will be transferred to the ship to begin your journey.

 

Amsterdam Post-Cruise Extension
Available until April 29, 2025

$999.00
Deposit: $99.90

End your trip with a three-day adventure in the Netherlands’ beloved capital city. Explore amazing Amsterdam and discover its legacy of history, art and architecture.

Pricing is per person based on double occupancy. For solo guests, there is a single supplement from $379. 

INCLUDED IN YOUR 3-DAY STAY:

  • 2 nights at the Hilton Amsterdam Hotel (or similar)
  • Breakfast daily and all service charges, taxes, and porterage
  • Amsterdam canals and famous Rijksmuseum
  • English-speaking expert
  • All transfers
 

Day 1: Amsterdam
FEATURED EXCURSION: The Famous Rijksmuseum & Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Start your morning with a tour of the Rijksmuseum. You’ll walk to the famous museum, where an expert guide will help you navigate the largest and most renowned collection of Dutch and Flemish art and artifacts in the world, now arranged to reveal the history of Dutch art. After your guided tour, you’ll have some time to explore the museum on your own.

Additionally, your tour manager will provide a canal cruise ticket for you to use at your own leisure. Amsterdam is called the Venice of the North for a reason: canals crisscross the heart of the old city, and bridges link approximately 90 islands. As the principal city in a newly independent Holland, Amsterdam was a boom town in the early 17th century, rapidly outgrowing its medieval walls. The city’s fathers responded by demolishing most of the old city and building anew, creating Europe’s first planned city. That “new” district is now 400 years old, and as you glide along the main canals, you’ll pass stately merchants’ houses-built centuries ago. But the canals are not merely scenic; they are essential thoroughfares—people take water buses to work and live in houseboats along the banks—so a canal cruise gives you a look at the busy modern city too.

Day 2: Amsterdam
How do you choose among Amsterdam’s sights and delights? You could ramble through the Jordaan district, not far from the Anne Frank house. It has always attracted artists—Rembrandt himself is buried at the West Church here. Today you’ll find charming and unique little shops, just like in the nearby Nine Streets neighborhood. Enjoy the street performers on Leidseplein Square or check out the huge and lively Albert Cuyp Market, home to a vast array of international foodstuffs. Visit the unique former Jewish Quarter where the Portuguese synagogue seems virtually untouched since the 17th century. Next door is the former Ashkenazi synagogue complex. Nowadays, it hosts the biggest Jewish Historical Museum outside Israel. Call upon your guide’s deep local knowledge for recommendations; they will be happy to suggest sights and destinations that will delight you.

Day 3: Amsterdam
You have sampled culinary delights and experienced the best that Amsterdam has to offer. Now it’s time to check out of the hotel and be transferred to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport for your trip home. Your Uniworld adventure may be over, but we know you’ll enjoy the memories you’ve made for years to come.