Emerald Liberte was a slightly smaller ship to those that Emerald have on the Rhine and Danube - but still had the covered swimming pool at the back end of Horizon Deck and the relaxing area around it. My favourite place on these ships and one reason I prefer Emerald. The schedule also included a tour to Beaune from Chalon-sur-Saone, with a visit to its amazing Hospices de Beaune. Not offered on many other cruises on the Rhone.

The use of electric bikes was also a bonus. I took full advantage while alongside and not 'on tour' to 'explore more'.

The multi-national crew were easy to get to know. Kudo's to the Restaurant Manager who noticed my disappointment at the selection of preserves on the breakfast buffet. He was quick to recognise that I might have preferred marmalade (any ship that has Brits as passengers should offer marmalade at breakfast) and personally made sure that I had a small dish of marmalade every morning. Read more