This was our first river cruise, but having done 4 big ship cruises in recent years and with an ever increasing bucket list of European cities we want to visit, a cruise down the Rhine seemed an ideal way to spend a week. We had a great week on the Emerald Sun; the crew were wonderful, attentive and friendly in all departments, but not intrusive; the food was very good with a great choice on the menu for each dinner; really liked having a different red or white wine being served with dinner each night.

The ship was very comfortable, the large main lounge is the centre for evening entertainment and seemed large enough to accommodate all guests without feeling crowded. There is a (small) cinema onboard but we never went to it so cannot comment on this feature. Our cabin was light and airy, but the bathroom was somewhat cramped; that said the extra inches in the main part of the cabin is more use over the course of the holiday.

Our only complaint was not being aware that sun deck would not be open whilst on the Main because of so many low bridges. All the Guides in the ports we visited were excellent, and the split between guided element and free time was just about right. Each night the cruise Director gave a short briefing before dinner regarding the next day's ports and explained the various options. A local map with points of interest and local information was available from reception at each port, which made it easy to find your own way around after the guided tours. Read more