This was a family trip - my two brothers and their wives also came with me and my husband. We decided on this trip largely because the Rhine river, the various ports of call, and the timing was something all six of us could agree upon. Took a 10-day cruise with the first day being a free day in Amsterdam and the last a day in Basal.
We found this to be a great way for all of us to get together. We could chat and enjoy ourselves, while we left all the arrangements to the professionals.
From the moment we booked the cruise, we received close attention from the company. They were very helpful in giving pre-trip information about how/what to pack, language issues, money matters (currencies and credit card use), value added taxes, and what to expect in terms of any additional on-board charges. As soon as we stepped off the plane in Amsterdam on Oct 3rd, right until we went to the airport in Basal to return home on Oct 13, every aspect of the trip was well-coordinated, right on time and efficient.
As expected small - that's the way aboard ships. But the room was well planned and comfortably outfitted.
Our cabin attendant was very friendly and seemed to be able to read our minds about anything we might need.
Wi-Fi was available most of the time
This was the tour included with the cruise - once again the guide was both charming and informative.
This was a tour included with the cruise - the castle guide was excellent. Her knowledge of life, war, customs of the time was impressive and extensive.
The city to.ur with our Concierge Svetlana was fun and interesting
This was a short stay - but the informal afternoon walk through Speyer, led by our Concierge Svetlana was interesting and fun.
The included city tour was good and the addition of the free shuttle from the ship to city center was very convenient. Allowing us to spend additional time in the city and return to the ship on our own schedule.
This was the only disappointing excursion either included or optional during the entire cruise. The tour guide seemed woefully ill-prepared. Fortunately, the Alps never disappoint even if the guide does.
We took the shore excursion which was the included with the cruise. Once again the tour guide was excellent - an American student, history major, in the University of Heidelberg. Once again, the guide was amusing and VERY knowledgeable.