Explore authentic towns and villages with hidden gems, such as Alken and its castle, or stroll in Boppard along one of the most beautiful riverbanks of The Rhine. Relax and admire the passing scenery as your ship sails along these majestic rivers.
Day 1: Kent and overnight stay
Join your coach as we head to Kent, where we overnight in a hotel convenient for our Channel crossing tomorrow.
If you prefer, you can self-drive to the hotel (Parking available for the duration of your cruise)
Day 2: Join MS Mona Lisa in Cochem
We board an early ferry to France, followed by a leisurely drive to Germany. We’ll arrive at Cochem late afternoon and join the ship. After settling into your cabin, meet the crew over a welcome cocktail.
Day 3: Cochem and Alken
This morning you can join a guided walking tour of the attractive small town of Cochem or explore on your own.
Nestled along a gentle bend of the Moselle, Cochem is one of Germany’s most charming and picturesque riverside towns. Its half-timbered houses, cobbled lanes, and bustling market square create an irresistible fairy-tale atmosphere, while the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills provide a serene backdrop.
Later, the ship sails along the Moselle towards Alken, one of the oldest Moselle villages, with origins dating back to the Celtic and Roman times.
Alken is a peaceful and characterful village that invites you to stroll at a relaxed pace. Enjoy a glass of locally produced Riesling in one of its welcoming wine taverns, visit the historic parish church of St. Michael, or follow the riverside promenade for tranquil views across the vineyards or join an optional excursion to Thurant Castle.
During dinner this evening the ship sets sail towards Koblenz, where we overnight.
Day 4: Boppard and Rüdesheim
Nestled on one of the Rhine’s most beautiful sweeping bends, Boppard is a vibrant riverside town where history, scenery, and relaxed charm blend effortlessly. Known as the “Pearl of the Rhine,” it boasts a rich heritage dating back to Roman times, with remnants of ancient fortifications still visible in its atmospheric old quarter.
Enjoy your time at leisure in Boppard or join an excursion to discover more of the town.
The ship then continues cruising towards Rüdesheim through the romantic Rhine Valley, passing the legendary Lorelei Rock.
Rüdesheim is one of the region’s most beloved towns—full of character, charm and offering rich cultural experiences, including the fascinating Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet, home to an extraordinary collection of self-playing musical instruments, and the welcoming riverside promenade, perfect for leisurely strolls.
Enjoy your free time in Rüdesheim or join an optional excursion on board a tourist train for a tasting of the famous wines of the region, followed by a guided tour of the Museum of Mechanical Musical Instruments.
This evening, why not discover the famous Drosselgasse, a narrow, cobbled, pedestrianised lane filled with quaint shops, souvenirs and musical performances!
Day 5: Mainz
Mainz is a vibrant city that blends history, culture, and modern life. The crown jewel of the city is the Mainz Cathedral, a stunning Romanesque structure that has stood for nearly a thousand years. Mainz is also famed for its Gutenberg Museum, The city’s riverside promenade and bustling market squares create a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Enjoy free time in Mainz or Join the optional guided tour of Mainz and the Gutenberg Museum.
Tonight – our last evening on board we enjoy a Gala dinner and Mona Lisa cruises through the night to Strasbourg.
Day 6: Disembark in Strasbourg
After breakfast. Your coach will be waiting to take you to your overnight hotel in the Ghent area of Belgium.
Day 7: We leave for our Channel crossing back to the UK and then continue home via Kent.
*CroisiEurope optional excursions can be purchased from GBTours or on board (subject to availability).
Price per person (based on 2 sharing) includes: 2 overnight hotels half board basis, 4 nights’ full-board cruise including drinks package. Single supplement applies.
Points to Note:
- All passengers are required to have travel insurance cover for this holiday
- Passport required (less than 10 years old from date of travel and at least 6 months left from return date)
- For information regarding the new border checks and travel authorisation requirements when travelling outside of the UK, please visit https://www.gbtours.com/information-for-travel-in-europe
- Please be aware that historic towns and sites on this tour may not suitable for persons with mobility issues
- No lift on ship – steps between decks
- Overnight hotels are often motel-style and may be a lower star rating than the main holiday hotel and may not have a lift
- Like all river cruising - the published itinerary may be changed, or elements omitted at short notice due to weather conditions affecting water levels. In the event, prior notice will be given if time allows
- Outward and return journey (UK) may start by mini-bus and join main coach
- Vessel operated by CroisiEurope whose Cancellation Terms apply – see website https://www.gbtours.com/terms-and-conditions