Christmas Markets Rhine Cruise

Leaving your local area very early this morning, you'll journey by coach to the Channel for your crossing to Calais. That evening you'll arrive in Boppard, the picturesque 'pearl of the Rhine', with its great Roman fort and its beautiful historic quarter. Board Olympia in time to enjoy a buffet dinner, and the warmth and welcome of your first night.

Early risers will be awake to see Olympia begin her journey, passing fairytale castles and beneath the legendary Lorelei (where sirens were said to lure unsuspecting sailors to their end), to alight at Rudesheim.

Here the famous Drosselgasse - lined with Weinstuben (wine taverns) and restaurants - bustles with life. Spend the afternoon soaking up the atmosphere of Rudesheim's famous Christmas market, which features Europe's largest Nativity Scene, then perhaps join our late-afternoon optional excursion to an early evening wine tasting and to see the remarkable collection of musical instruments that are found in Siegfried's Musikkabinett.

Around lunchtime, Olympia will arrive in Koblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Step ashore to take in the atmosphere as you wander the stalls of the town's own Christmas Market, pausing to watch the skaters on the market's rink.

Alternatively, join our optional excursion to Cochem. Situated alongside the Moselle River, this pretty town of quaint cottages and winding streets hosts an excellent Christmas market in its beautiful medieval square.

Later, enjoy a final evening aboard Olympia, perhaps taking part in a quiz, or simply enjoying a performance by the on-board pianist.

After an early breakfast, bid auf wiedersehen to Olympia and this captivating part of the world as you begin your coach journey home, arriving back in the local area in the late evening.