Tulips & Chocolate, Rhine Riverboat Cruise

April 12 – 19, 2009
Avalon Waterways' Avalon Tapestry

Take in the beauty of medieval Europe as you sail the breathtaking Rhine River from Amsterdam to Basel. You'll cruise aboard an Avalon riverboat, known for its luxurious accommodations, over-the-top amenities, and all-inclusive excursions.

Your Experience

Join 168 women aboard the luxurious Avalon Tapestry as you wind your way along the beautiful and romantic Rhine River. Experienced local guides will take you on sightseeing tours of some of Europe's most historic cities, where you'll be surrounded by the women of Olivia while you take in the local culture, savor local food and wine and experience the romantic sites of these historic cities. You can also choose from a few optional outings in Alsace, Heidelberg, and experience the Black Forest. On board, you'll enjoy interactive presentations with area experts, wine tastings, premiere Olivia entertainment, and more.

Your Activities

On this luxurious river tour, your seven-night cruise begins in colorful Amsterdam where you can experience the rich and fascinating history of Holland's sophisticated capital and visit the Tulip Flowerfields of Keukenhof Garden. Take a canal boat tour past the city's stately homes and 16th-century merchant houses and see the works of famous Dutch masters in world-renowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh.

Then cruise to Cologne for a guided tour where the river skyline is dominated by the soaring twin spires of its magnificent Gothic cathedral. Visit the Germano-Roman Museum and try a Kölsch in one of the many taverns, and shop for a bottle of 4711, the original "eau de cologne." Stop for a visit of Coblenz, situated on the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, before sailing through the dramatic Rhine Gorge to Rüdesheim. On the border of France and Germany, you'll enjoy guided sightseeing in Strasbourg as well as excursions to Heidelberg to visit the red-walled castle of Student Prince fame. You'll visit the romantic Le Petite France district and take an optional excursion to the Alsace wine region. Pop into the Black Forest to see the unrivalled natural beauty. We'll end our tour in Basel, where you'll stroll the Old Town to grab a coffee and some chocolate from the Confiserie Bucheli Cafe,, or a kiss beneath the gleaming gilded spire of the Late-Gothic Renaissance Rathaus!

Your Ship - Avalon Tapestry
Built in 2006, the Avalon Tapestry features spacious and gracious interior designs. The lounge and restaurant, located in the front of the vessel, give unimpeded views on three sides of the passing river landscape. The Sky Deck is a vast area for sunning, taking your pictures, or just relaxing! The public rooms are elegant, and the dining room is extra spacious, and all interior rooms of the ships are non-smoking. The cuisine and wines on board will surpass your expectations. Avalon Tapestry features the Silent Drive System (SDS), allowing for a quieter cruise experience than traditional small ships. All staterooms feature large closets, individual climate control, a telephone, a color satellite TV, a radio, a minibar, a safe, a hair dryer, and modern bathrooms with shower. Beds may be configured as two twins or one queen. All staterooms are outside and those on Royal and Sapphire Decks have floor to ceiling sliding glass doors. Internet access is available.

Your Entertainment

Olivia always provides a unique and exciting line-up of big name artists in a variety of venues—from your favorite stars to fresh new talent! We will provide two fantastic entertainers on this cruise.