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Enchanting Rhine River cruise scenery on a hosted voyage with Reese Family TravelMeet your Travel Hosts

Basel to Amsterdam Rhine River Cruise Itinerary Guide

Planning a Rhine River cruise from Basel to Amsterdam? This European river cruise itinerary takes you through medieval castles, vineyard-covered hills, charming German villages, and vibrant cities along the Rhine River. Below, you’ll find what to expect each day — along with insights to help you plan the perfect Rhine River experience.

Day 1 – Basel, Switzerland

Embark your river cruise and settle into your stateroom before enjoying a welcome dinner onboard.

Day 2 – Strasbourg, France

Explore the charming Alsatian capital with guided walking tours and optional bike excursions.

Day 3 – Speyer or Heidelberg, Germany

Visit historic cathedrals or explore the romantic university town of Heidelberg.

Day 4 – Rüdesheim & Rhine Gorge

Sail through the legendary Rhine Gorge, lined with medieval castles and vineyard-covered hills.

Day 5 – Cologne, Germany

Discover Cologne Cathedral and stroll through one of Germany’s most vibrant riverfront cities.

Day 6 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Enjoy canal-side charm, museums, and optional excursions before disembarkation.

Rhine River Cruise vs Ocean Cruise: Which Is Right for You?

Many travelers who have cruised the ocean are curious how a Rhine River cruise compares. While ocean cruises often feature larger ships, sea days, and extensive onboard entertainment, Rhine River cruises offer a more intimate experience with ships averaging around 150 guests. Instead of docking at large ports and tendering ashore, river cruise ships sail directly into the heart of cities and charming villages along the Rhine.

On a European river cruise from Basel to Amsterdam, daily guided excursions are typically included, wine and beer are served with meals, and every stateroom has a view. For couples and empty nesters seeking cultural immersion, scenic sailing, and a relaxed pace without crowds, a Rhine River cruise offers a very different — and often more enriching — experience.
  • Smaller ships (150 guests)

  • Dock in city centers

  • Included excursions

  • No sea days
Jason and Jen Reese of Reese Family Travel in Portugal, hosting thoughtfully planned European travel experiences

Hosted Rhine River Cruises with
Reese Family Travel

At Reese Family Travel, we host thoughtfully planned Rhine River cruises designed for couples and empty nesters who value connection, comfort, and meaningful European travel experiences. Sailing from Basel to Amsterdam, our hosted voyages combine curated excursions, seamless planning, and personal support every step of the way.


Whether you choose to travel on our 2027 hosted sailing or prefer a different departure date, we’re here to help you plan the perfect Rhine River cruise experience.

Interested in experiencing this Rhine River itinerary with us in 2027?
 Scroll below for hosted voyage details.

Porto Portugal along the Douro River featured on an AmaWaterways river cruise
Jason and Jen Reese enjoying a sunset along the river during an AmaWaterways hosted cruise
Jen Reese enjoying wine onboard an AmaWaterways river cruise along the Douro River in Portugal

Upcoming Hosted Voyages

Join Jason and Jen Reese on carefully selected hosted voyages designed for connection, comfort, and memorable shared experiences.
From intimate river cruises to select ocean sailings, each journey is thoughtfully chosen and personally hosted.
✔ Curated itinerary with meaningful local highlights
✔ Shared experiences with like-minded travelers
✔ Personal Support from Reese Family Travel hosts

What Is a European River Cruise Like?

If you're curious about what the river cruise experience is really like, I recorded a YouTube overview that explains what travelers can expect onboard.

Watch: What Is A European River Cruise Like?

You’ll discover:

  • What makes Rhine River cruising different from ocean cruising

  • What’s included on an AmaWaterways river cruise

  • How our hosted experience adds extra value and connection

Even if the 2027 hosted sailing doesn’t fit your schedule, you can still learn what the European river cruise experience is like in our short guide.

Read: what is a european river cruise like?

AmaWaterways river cruise sailing the Rhine River in Germany during fall foliage

Enchanting Rhine River Cruise

October 24–31, 2027

7 Nights | Basel to Amsterdam | AmaWaterways | AmaStella

Hosted River Cruise experience by Jason & Jen Reese

Sail through the heart of Europe along the Rhine River, visiting charming towns, historic cities, and iconic landmarks. Enjoy a relaxed, immersive journey with added support, curated experiences, and the camaraderie of traveling together.

view the interactive trip itinerary & Group Booking Page 

Don't See The Right Hosted Voyage Yet? 

You can also create your own group river cruise with support every step of the way.

AmaWaterways river cruise sailing the Rhine River in Germany during fall foliage

Have a Group in Mind?

You Pick The Date:

Hosted by You! Bring along your friends and family. Wine Groups, Family Reunions, Golf Groups...the possibilities are endless.

If you already have a group in mind — friends, family, or an organization — you can also create your own group river cruise with Reese Family Travel supporting you every step of the way. 

I’ll take care of the planning, logistics, and details, so you can focus on enjoying the experience with your group.
Perfect for friends, family, wine clubs, and milestone celebrations.
Create your own group 

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Ready to Join Us on the Rhine in 2027?
Explore upcoming hosted journeys and discover what makes traveling with Reese Family Travel a more personal and meaningful experience.

View our Enchanting rhine hosted Voyage Details