River Cruise: Frankfurt to Basel

Our adventure begins in Frankfurt, a dynamic city where historic charm meets modern energy along the Main River. From medieval old-town streets to sleek skyline views and lively riverside promenades, Frankfurt offers the perfect blend of culture and atmosphere to kick off our journey. Whether you explore museums, sip apple wine in a local tavern, or stroll along the river, it’s an ideal starting point for the days ahead.

It’s here that our adventure together officially begins. Boarding opens at noon, giving you time to settle into your floating home before we kick things off in style at 4:00pm. Unpack, enjoy your first drink on board, and watch the city pass by as excitement builds.

Our first evening together sets the tone aboard our stunning, modern ship, brand new and launching in 2026. You’ll meet your fellow travelers, your Detours trip leaders, and the attentive onboard crew who will be with us throughout the journey.  You'll also be entertained by a fabulous evening performance to kick things off right before setting sail for our next stop in Mainz.

After sailing overnight, we’ll wake up in Mainz, one of Germany’s oldest cities and a place where Roman history, half-timbered buildings, and riverside charm come together beautifully. With a relaxed pace and a welcoming feel, Mainz is the perfect first stop to ease into life along the Rhine.

The day begins with a guided city tour, offering an insider’s look at Mainz’s rich past, lively old town, and picturesque streets. Afterward, the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace.  Linger in a café along the market square, stroll the riverfront, or pop into one of the city’s many wine bars showcasing the region’s famous Rieslings.

With our ship docked nearby, it’s easy to come and go as you please, returning to our comfortable home on the river whenever you’re ready to relax, refresh, and enjoy another effortless evening on board.

By morning, the landscape shifts and we find ourselves in Heidelberg, one of Germany’s most romantic and photogenic cities. Framed by forested hills and the Neckar River, Heidelberg is known for its beautifully preserved old town, historic university, and the iconic castle ruins overlooking the city, a setting that feels timeless and effortlessly charming.

Today is an independent explorer day, designed to let you experience Heidelberg your own way. Set out on a self-guided wander through the Altstadt, linger in riverside cafés, or make your way up to the castle for panoramic views. Prefer company? Your Detours trip leaders will also be heading out, offering a relaxed, social way to explore together without a formal schedule.

With our ship docked close by, you have the freedom to dip in and out throughout the day, returning to your floating home whenever you’re ready to relax and recharge before the next stretch of our journey.

The following day brings us to Baden-Baden, an elegant spa town nestled at the edge of the Black Forest and known for its refined atmosphere and timeless charm. With grand architecture, leafy parks, and a long tradition of wellness and culture, Baden-Baden feels effortlessly polished and wonderfully relaxed.

The day begins with an included guided city tour, offering insight into the town’s storied past, from its Roman bathing roots to its days as a playground for European high society. You’ll stroll through manicured gardens, historic streets, and along the river, soaking in the beauty that has drawn visitors here for centuries.

After the tour, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps unwind at a café, explore the town’s shops, or indulge in Baden-Baden’s famous spa culture. With our ship close at hand, you can return whenever you like and ease into another comfortable evening on board as we continue our journey south.

Our journey continues into France with a stop in Strasbourg, a city where French and German influences blend seamlessly into a culture all its own. With its half-timbered houses, winding canals, and storybook streets, Strasbourg is one of the most charming cities in the Alsace region.

Today includes a guided city tour, offering a deeper look into Strasbourg’s layered history and unique identity. You’ll explore the picturesque Petite France district, stroll past grand squares and historic buildings, and learn how this crossroads of Europe has shaped the city’s architecture, cuisine, and character.

Following the tour, enjoy free time to explore further at your own pace. Wander along the canals, linger over a leisurely lunch, or browse local shops before returning to the ship, where another relaxed evening awaits as we continue sailing along the Rhine.

Our next stop is Breisach, a small yet striking town perched above the Rhine and surrounded by rolling vineyards. With its relaxed pace and postcard-worthy views, Breisach offers a quieter, more local perspective on life along the river and serves as a gateway to Germany’s celebrated wine country.

Today is an independent explorer day, giving you the freedom to shape the experience however you like. Wander through the compact old town, make your way up to the cathedral for sweeping views across the Rhine into France, or simply settle into a café with a glass of local wine and watch the world go by. Your Detours trip leaders will also be heading out, making it easy to join a casual group exploration if you’d prefer company.

With the ship docked nearby, you can come and go throughout the day, returning whenever you’re ready to relax, recharge, and enjoy one of our final evenings on board before reaching Basel.

Our journey comes to a close in Basel, a vibrant Swiss city set at the meeting point of Switzerland, France, and Germany. Known for its beautiful old town, riverside setting, and world-class museums, Basel offers a fitting and elegant finale to our Rhine adventure.

After a final breakfast on board, it’s time to say goodbye to our floating home and to one another. Disembarkation will take place by 10:00am. For those continuing their travels by train, an included group transfer to Basel’s central station is available. Alternatively, you’re welcome to make your own onward arrangements and continue exploring Switzerland or beyond at your own pace.

While the cruise officially ends here, the memories, friendships, and experiences gathered along the river will stay with you long after you step ashore.