Rhine Cruises from Amsterdam

What our customers ask about Rhine Cruises from Amsterdam

• What's the typical duration of Amsterdam Rhine river cruises starting in Amsterdam?

  Rhine river cruises departing from Amsterdam last between 7 to 15 days with most travelers choosing 8 to 10-day journeys. The Avalon View offers 8-day routes from Amsterdam to Basel along the Rhine Valley. More extensive options include 15-day voyages on vessels like the Avalon Imagery II which adds ports in Belgium and the Netherlands. Recent travelers often note that 8 days provides enough time to experience key Rhine destinations while beginning and ending in Amsterdam's rich cultural setting.

• What are the best hotels to stay at before or after an Amsterdam Rhine cruise?

  The area around Amsterdam Centraal Station and the IJ River where cruise ships dock has several well-located hotels. The Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam set in a historic shipping house provides waterfront accommodations close to departure points. The NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace stands steps from Centraal Station making it practical for cruise access. Both properties put guests within walking distance of departure points while offering easy access to Amsterdam's main attractions.

• What is the best time of year to start an Amsterdam Rhine cruise?

  The main sailing season spans April through October with each period offering distinct experiences. Spring cruises in April and May coincide with Keukenhof Gardens' tulip displays near Amsterdam. Summer months from June through August bring warmer temperatures ideal for exploring Amsterdam's waterways and Rhine Valley ports. Travelers often choose spring departures to combine tulip viewing with Rhine Valley exploration or summer dates for the best outdoor sightseeing weather.

• What are the typical embarkation points for Rhine cruises starting in Amsterdam?

  Rhine cruise ships in Amsterdam mainly use terminals along the IJ River behind Centraal Station including the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam and Amsterdam Cruise Port. Most vessels dock at either De Ruijterkade or Veemkade piers. These points are accessible by taxi or public transit from anywhere in central Amsterdam with clear signage directing passengers to their specific vessel.

• What unique day trips are available from Amsterdam before starting the Rhine cruise?

  The region around Amsterdam offers several distinctive excursions before Rhine cruises begin. Travelers can visit the windmills of Zaanse Schans the fishing community of Volendam or Alkmaar's cheese market. Keukenhof Gardens draws visitors from March through May during tulip season. The historic city of Haarlem located just 15 minutes away by train provides another popular pre-cruise destination.

• How many cities do Rhine river cruises typically visit after departing Amsterdam?

  After leaving Amsterdam Rhine river cruises generally stop at 6 to 8 major destinations. Standard ports include Cologne with its Gothic cathedral Koblenz at the Rhine and Moselle confluence Rudesheim known for wine production and Strasbourg in France. Week-long trips concentrate on main attractions while 15-day journeys extend to places like Basel and Lucerne. Ships like the MS Crucevita balance visits between large cities and smaller medieval towns along the route.