Cruised the River Queen on the Main River December 8-16, 2012, from Frankfurt to Nurnberg stopping along the way at other Christmas markets in Wertheim, Wurzburg, Rothenberg and Bamberg. On arrival from the Frankfurt Airport we were taken to the lounge where a light buffet lunch was available and where we waited until mid-afternoon when cabins were ready. At check-in (by category of cabin) our photo was taken (for passenger security we were told) and we got our cabin door card with our name on it. For every excursion we left this card at Reception and picked up our tour group number and audio receiver.

Each stop had an included orientation walking tour through the old town center plus additional-charge optional excursions (all well-worth the prices): to an abbey, a brewery, Aschfeld a fortified town and, to Room 600 memorial in Nurnberg's Palace of Justice where WWII war crimes trials were held and to the Nazi party Rally Grounds and Documentation Center (museum).

However in four of the six cities visited -- Wurtzburg, Rothenberg, Bamberg, and Nurnberg -- the dock was so far from the old town Christmas Markets that we were shuttled to and fro by bus from the ship. Rothenberg was an included day trip from Kitzingen but, again, a great experience. The Quietvox portable audio headset system was used on all shore excursions so guides did not have to shout and we could all hear what was being said. Orientation walking tours included a "gentle walking" group for those who dislike steep hills, stairs and icy footing. There were guest speakers in the bar/lounge who talked about German Christmas traditions, glass blowing and, special holiday breads/cookies (the latter with samples!). Read more