Flights
Flights are currently possible from Heathrow, Stansted, Manchester & Edinburgh airports subject to availability at time of booking the flights, and a supplement may apply. Alternative UK departure airports may become available, we will look at all options when you book.
• Flights include 1 checked in bag (usually no more than 20kgs) and 1 carry on bag per person – weight/size subject to airline rules.
• Flight duration around 2 hours.
• Transfer time Cologne Airport to ship around 30 mins each way subject to traffic.
Please call us on 01895 83 33 33 to discuss your flight requirements.
Rhine Christmas Markets Party River Cruise
5 days by Rail or Air, December 4th 2024, from £999 per person
Itinerary
Day 1: UK to Cologne
Depart London St Pancras in the morning on Eurostar to Brussels, arriving in just over 2 hours. Continue by coach to Cologne and the MS Otello. Alternatively travel to and from Cologne by air from regional UK airports – see flight information and options. Time to settle into your cabin before dinner, free drinks and entertainment on board. Overnight in Cologne.
Day 2: Cologne to Andernach
Free day in Cologne to explore on your own or join our optional walking tour followed by time to enjoy the world famous Christmas Markets. Early evening we set sail from Cologne to Andernach where the ship will dock overnight. Free drinks, dinner and entertainment on board. Overnight in Andernach.
Day 3: Andernach to Rüdesheim
This morning we sail through the Middle Rhine passing countless castles, fortresses and sleepy hamlets in the narrowest and deepest part of the river, marked by the legendary Lorelei Rock, arriving in Rüdesheim early-afternoon. You will be free to explore on your own, to visit Rudesheim Christmas Market of All Nations and the the famous Drosselgasse – a unique cobbled lane just 144 metres long, packed with bars, restaurants and live music a perfect place to enjoy a delicious Rüdesheimer Kaffee made with local Asbach brandy. Free drinks, dinner and entertainment on board. Overnight in Rüdesheim.
Day 4: Rüdesheim to Koblenz
During breakfast we set sail through the Lorelei Valley to Koblenz arriving mid morning. You will be free to explore on your own and visit the Christmas Market located in the old town. Alternatively join our optional walking tour of the town followed by free time. The ship departs Koblenz early evening. Free drinks, dinner and entertainment on board.
Day 5: Cologne to UK
After Breakfast we disembark and transfer by coach to Brussels where we take the Eurostar to London St Pancras arriving during the afternoon. Or transfer to Cologne airport for your flight back to the UK.
Note: Order of itinerary and Christmas Markets subject to change depending on local conditions. Christmas Markets in Germany tend to open at around midday and close late.
Optional Excursions
• Cologne guided walk 2hrs £19pp
• Koblenz guided walk 2hrs £19pp
Excursions must be booked prior to departure. Pre-book both for £30pp, saving £8pp. Both operate subject to minimum numbers.
Entertainment
Nancy Ann Lee is best known as “Little Miss Sixties” where she has received rave reviews for being one of the liveliest tributes to the 60s divas including Lulu whose songs make a huge contribution to the show. Remember Shout, Relight My Fire, Teardrops, The Man Who Sold the World, To Sir With Love and more.
Multi-talented Keith Slater has been a professional musician since 1981 and sings hits from the 60s to present day. He has performed with well known artistes Malcolm Stent, Don Maclean and in award winning bands Inheritance and Vivo.
Accommodation
MS Otello
GN Holidays & Voyages is chartering the four-star MS Carmen & MS Otello for four exclusive cruises in 2024. The Carmen and her sister ship Otello, were built in 1995, completely renovated in 2017 by former owners Uniworld and further updated by present owners in 2023. They are identical in size and space and can accommodate up to 126 guests in a variety of well-equipped, en-suite cabins with hotel style beds.
The impressive Reception on the Upper deck gives access to the welcoming lounge and bar, with bar stools, easy chairs, booth style seating, a dance floor and state of the art entertainment equipment. The Sun deck has sun loungers, chairs and a panoramic, conservatory style bar so you can enjoy 360 degree views no matter the weather.
The restaurant features large picture windows and is light and airy with modern decor, furnishings and a relaxed, informal atmosphere. Diners can enjoy generous buffet breakfasts, three course lunches and four course dinners.
Facilities – Wifi is available throughout the ship, there is a coffee station available to guests 24/7 and a shop on board.
Ship’s stats – Length: 110 metres • Breadth: 11.40 metres • Max passenger Capacity: 126 • Passengers decks: 3
Decks & Cabins
On the Upper deck you’ll find the reception, lounge and bar, plus *French Balcony suites, doubles and single (with double bed) cabins.
On the main deck is the restaurant and coffee station, plus standard double and single (with double bed) cabins – all with picture window.
There is a stair lift between the upper deck reception and the main deck.
Cabins all have a double hotel style bed, TV, Wifi, safe, hair dryer, individually controlled heating and cooling system, shower and WC.
*’French Balcony’ is a sliding patio door with a railing at waist height placed directly behind the glass – there isn’t a separate space/balcony you can walk out onto.
Please note: When docking ships can be moored side by side so views from the cabin may be obscured.
What Our Customers Say
Just to say how much we all enjoyed the Danube Fortunes Cruise. Our first holiday with you and our first river cruise, won't be the last. We've recommended your company to friends. Read more “‘Fortunes’ River Cruise”
Swiss Pearl is the best GN cruise we've been on - would certainly book a holiday on her again. Excellent crew, amazing food quality. Drinks inclusive was great - helps towards planning a more relaxed holiday. Read more “Swiss Pearl”
We have had a wonderful 4 day stay onboard the "Swiss Pearl". Everything has been great, with Sheena and Gareth looking after us. the ship's crew and GN Voyages staff have been marvellous in providing all we need for a very enjoyable holiday. Read more “Swiss Pearl”
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