FAIRPORT CONVENTION RHINE RIVER CRUISE
21 - 28 JUNE 2022
Who knows where the Rhine goes?
Well, in this case, it meanders through 50 years of folk-rock history, taking in the spectacular scenery along one of the most attractive rivers in Europe, on an exclusive cruise hosted by none other than Fairport Convention. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to enjoy ‘up close and personal’ the many and varied talents of Simon, Peggy, Gerry, Chris and Ric, and they are as excited as we are about the five evenings of on-board entertainment being planned.
Enjoy an unforgettable Music filled seven night cruise from Amsterdam to Basel. How about a Beatles singalong, or even getting up to do a Beatles karaoke with Fairport as your backing band? Wouldn’t that be a video to impress friends and embarrass the grand children! Peggy is threatening to tell a few tales which couldn’t be included in his book ‘Off the Pegg’, and Gerry might teach you how to play the cajon, whilst Ric and Chris are planning solo and duo sets. And…. who could have expected this …. a couple of band members would like to demonstrate their abilities in performing magic tricks and stand-up comedy!
There will be songs old and new from the Fairports of course, but so much more as well aboard one of the award-winning silver ships of the Amadeus Fleet ~ The MS Amadeus Queen. Your luxurious floating home from home. With only 150 guests on board, you really don't want to miss this once in a lifetime opportunity....
On this magical Rhine river cruise, you will explore the one of the most attractive rivers in Europe aboard your luxurious floating boutique hotel, the Amadeus Queen. With only 150 guests on board, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity for fans to enjoy, ‘up close and personal’, the songs and music of Fairport Convention and Special Guests.
If you're not ready to book but have further questions then please feel free to email us at info@harmonyvoyages.co.uk and we'll be happy to help
- Large, outside river-view staterooms, most with French balconies or walk-out balconies
- Free-flowing red & white wines from Europe’s famous wine regions, beer & soft drinks
with every lunch and dinner onboard - Gourmet dining onboard
- Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner and Captain’s Gala Dinner
- Services of an experienced English-speaking onboard Cruise Director
- 24 hour coffee station
- All onboard entertainment including talks, cooking demonstrations, musical performances and nightly piano music
- Bottled water in every stateroom
- In-stateroom infotainment center
- Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard
- Complimentary use of onboard bicycles
- Complimentary state-of-the-art audio headsets for optional excursions
- All local taxes & port charges include
Day 1 - EMBARKATION AMSTERDAM
This afternoon, board the ship and settle into your cabin. During the evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail, followed by a specially prepared welcome dinner, meet your fellow sailors and relax in the lounge. The ship is moored overnight in Amsterdam.
Day 2 – AMSTERDAM - UTRECHT
This morning is all about choices with a variety of optional excursions. Choose to spend the morning exploring Amsterdam with a relaxing canal cruise and a visit to the flower market or venture out into the surrounding countryside to the picturesque towns of Volendam and Edam with a tasting of delicious Dutch cheese, meeting the ship again in the town of Utrecht. Other choices include a morning visit to the Famous Floriade Garden Show which takes place once every 10 years, or perhaps an excursion to Haarlem and the Cathedral of St. Bavo. This afternoon, we continue with a cruise on the Ijsselmeer, one of the largest inland freshwater lakes in Holland. Depart Amsterdam 08:30 Arrive Utrecht 12:30 Depart 13:00 After dinner join Fairport in the lounge for the first of five concerts on board.
Today's Excursions
Amsterdam with canal trip and flower market
Founded as a small fishing village in the late 12th century, Amsterdam became one of the most important ports in the world during the Dutch Golden Age as a result of its innovative developments in trade. Today, the city has one of the largest historic centres in Europe, with about 7,500 registered historic buildings. The street pattern is largely unchanged since the 19th century and the centre consists of 90 islands, linked by 400 bridges. On the city tour through the Dutch metropolis, you will see the Royal Palace, numerous canals and the Museum Quarter. The tour is by coach, with a stop to stroll along the flower market. As there is no better way to see the city than cruising on the water, the tour will end by a canal cruise boat trip.
Duration: approx. 4 hours
Walking grade:LEVEL 3
The excursion by bus is followed by a longer walk. You may need to climb several stairs.
Holland Waterland with Volendam, Edam and cheese tasting
Take a drive through the Dutch Polder landscape to the old fishing village of Volendam, built on the shore of the former Zuiderzee. The Volendam houses are built very close together, forming the typical neighbourhoods of Volendam. Take a stroll through the old village and see people still dressed in traditional costumes. Board your coach and drive out of Volendam and into the countryside to visit a local cheese farm. Here, you will learn how Dutch cheese is made and sample the local product. On your way back to your ship, you will enjoy a short walk through the quaint village of Edam, famous for its cheese. Given its narrow streets, continue through the village on foot and see the Carillon tower, once part of a church that was destroyed in the 19th century. Walk to the cheese weighing house and the Dam with its 18th century town hall.
Duration: approx. 4.5 hours
Walking grade: LEVEL 3: The excursion by bus is followed by a longer walk. You may need to climb several stairs.
Haarlem - Art, history and Dutch lifestyle
Haarlem is just a short drive outside Amsterdam. Once a major North Sea trading port surrounded by defensive walls, it retains its medieval character with picturesque cobblestone streets and gabled houses. With spectacular monuments dating back nearly 800 years, it's no wonder so many great artists of the Golden Age wanted to capture its beauty and atmosphere. Not only is it home to some of the best museums and world-famous artwork in the Netherlands, but it is also regularly voted one of the best shopping cities in the country. Walk with your guide through the old historic center of Haarlem with its beautiful "hofjes" (almshouses built around leafy courtyards). Visit the Cathedral of St. Bavo, located on the Great Market in the middle of Haarlem. The church was built by Catholics in 1245 and still dominates the Haarlem skyline. The main eye-catcher in the church is the impressive organ by Christian Müller of Lower Saxony. The organ dates back to 1738 and is the most reproduced instrument in the world. After visiting the church, you can enjoy some free time to explore the centre on your own before returning to Amsterdam.
Duration: approx. 4 hours
Walking grade: LEVEL 4: Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs
Visit to the Floriade Garden show
Starting April 14, 2022, Almere will host the World Horticultural Expo Floriade Expo 2022 for six months. The Floriade Park will be an experience of green and sustainable technology. New green technologies for food, energy and health will be researched and applied in this living laboratory. Inspiring gardens, workshops and exhibitions alternate with impressive attractions, surprising tastings, art and culture. Floriade Expo 2022 will inspire you to live a greener, healthier life. A visit to Floriade is more than about enjoying beauty and greenery, it provides the platform for Dutch horticulture - in collaboration with over 400 national and international participants - to showcase creative green solutions that make our cities more fun, liveable and sustainable: 'Growing Green Cities'.
Duration: approx. 4.5 hours
Walking grade: LEVEL 5: Considerable walk with longer distances. This may include uneven surfaces and some stairs.
Day 3 - COLOGNE
After lunch, view our arrival into the beautiful city of Cologne. Every year visitors from all over the world are drawn to the historical city and its 2000-year history. Explore the historic Old Town, visit the famous twin-spired Cologne Cathedral, or perhaps sample some of the famous Kölsch beer brewed in Cologne. There are many medieval houses, bridges, and gates that will delight the historian in you, while the more modern skyscrapers that tower overhead are sure to impress. Arrive Cologne 08:00 Depart 22:00.
Today's Excursions
Cologne – historic capital of the Rhineland with Kölsch tasting
The cathedral city’s full history dates back over 2,000 years, traces of which can be seen everywhere in the Rhine region. During the walking tour, explore the area around the cathedral all the way to the old town. As you travel through the narrow, cobbled streets, and the lively squares such as the Alter Markt or the Heumarkt, you really get a feel for life in Cologne from yesterday and today. Since its completion in 1880, the Cologne Cathedral with its two 515ft high towers has been the city's landmark, as well as the most famous architectural monument and most frequently visited sight in Germany. As your excursion concludes, we invite you to enjoy a glass of typical Kölsch (beer), which is the number one beer in Cologne and large parts of the Rhineland.
Duration: approx. 2.5 hours
Visit to the Chocolate Museum (Cologne)
Prepare to be transported on a journey through the 5000-year cultural history of chocolate. This impressive 43,000 square foot museum features the most comprehensive display of the history of cocoa and chocolate in the world. During the tour, you will learn everything about the long journey of the cultivation and harvesting of the cocoa beans in the plantations of the tropics, to the finished chocolate product. In the cultural history section "Brown Gold - Sweet Seduction", explore the cult drink of the Mayans and Aztecs in ancient America, through the luxury drink of the aristocracy in the Baroque era, to the sweet rich drink we enjoy today. In a small tasting session, sample how the taste of cocoa develops on its way to becoming a chocolate bar. Duration: approx. 2 hours Walking grade:LEVEL 4: Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
Siebengebirge and Drachenfels castle ruins
From Cologne travel by coach southward to the picturesque wine town Königswinter. From there, we head towards Germany’s first nature reserve, called Siebengebirge (Seven Mountains). On the summit you will find the Hotel “Petersberg” where many historical political discussions, such as the Afghanistan conference in 2001, took place. You can reach the summit with Germany’s oldest rack railway or on foot, where you can explore the remains of Castle “Drachenfels” (Dragon Rock) and enjoy the wonderful views into the valley “Rheintal”. In the 19th century a bizarre museum was built about halfway up the Drachenfels, where, besides other expeditions, the history of the Nibelungen is presented.
Duration:approx. 4 hours
Walking grade: Level 3: The excursion by bus is followed by a longer walk. You may need to climb several stairs.
Day 4 - COCHEM
Today we take a special trip down the romantic Moselle river, the largest tributary of the Rhine, and anchor at the old town of Cochem. The scenery in the Moselle Valley has been dominated by vineyards for millennia. Cochem itself has narrow streets, twisting alleys and medieval town gates, churches and walls. Discover the beauty of Cochem and perhaps sample some of the Riesling wines produced in this region. Arrive Cochem 14:00 Depart 21:45 This evening after dinner enjoy another night of entertainment with Fairport in the lounge as we set off towards Koblenz.
Today's Excursions
Cochem walking tour with visit to the Reichsburg
Located along the beautiful Moselle wine valley, the harmonious triad of unique Moselle landscape, millennia-old wine culture and history makes Cochem a popular destination. Discover the town with its narrow, winding streets during a city tour. Next visit the Reichsburg castle with its imposing complex which dominates the area landscape due to its size and its location on a rugged rock high above the town. Enjoy the impressive view from the castle of the Moselle valley with its dreamy mixed forests and vineyards, as well as the old town. Inside the castle you will find a collection of Renaissance and Baroque furniture, as well as other treasures, carefully collected by the Ravené family who owned the castle until 1978, when it was turned over to the town of Cochem, for all to enjoy.
Duration: approx. 3 hours
Walking grade: LEVEL 4: Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
Wine tasting of typical Moselle wines in a local winery
Visit one of the wineries located directly in the town of Cochem and learn more about viticulture and wine cellar management. The Moselle region is famous for its top wines with the most traditional grape variety being the Riesling, which is also called "the queen of white wines" and is grown directly on the sunny slopes of Cochem. During the excursion you can taste different Moselle wines and learn more about the wine making process. Duration:approx. 1.5 hours
Walking grade
Level 4: Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
Day 5 - KOBLENZ to RUDESHEIM
This morning we arrive in Koblenz, ideally situated at the confluence of the Rhine and the Moselle rivers. The Romans, the Franks, the Holy Roman Empire, the French, and the Germans have all had a hand in this strategic city’s 2000-year history. St. Castor Basilica, the Church of our Beloved Lady, and the Emperor Kaiser Wilhelm’s memorial at the German Corner, are just a few of the sites which reflect the history of the area. This afternoon enjoy your time on deck as we cruise the most beautiful section of the river - the legendary Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Late this afternoon, we arrive Rüdesheim, a winemaking town in the Rhine Gorge. Discover the region’s rich history of wine making - perhaps visit the local museum - a great place to start. Back onboard your crew awaits with a delicious dinner followed by entertainment in the lounge. Arrive Koblenz 06:00 Depart 11:00 Arrive Rudeshiem 17:00 Depart 22:00
Today's Excursions
Koblenz walking tour
Discover one of the most pedestrian-friendly and oldest towns in Germany, with over 2,000 years of history. On our guided walk through the romantic streets between the St. Castor Basilica and the Liebfrauenkirche (the Church of our Beloved Lady) you will discover the most important sights of Koblenz and the town’s landmark, the Schängel Fountain at the town hall. This tour would not be complete without a visit to the Memorial of Emperor Wilhelm at the famous German Corner where the rivers Rhine and Moselle meet. See the cable car that hovers over the Rhine, built as an attraction and ecologically friendly traffic facility for the Federal Horticultural Show in 2011. This is Germany’s first 3-rope cable car with a transport capacity of 7600 people per hour. Duration:approx. 2 hours
Walking grade
Level 4: Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
Excursion Pricing:
Koblenz walking tour £21
Rüdesheim with Music Cabinet Museum £29
Heidelberg Castle and Christmas market £56
Speyer walking tour with Christmas market £25
Wintry Alsace and Obernai £68
Strasbourg with visit to Christmas market £66
Total Price £265
Package booking discount 15% £225
Rüdesheim walking tour including music cabinet museum
The unique Winzerexpress train takes you from the dock of the ship to the “Siegfried Mechanical Music Cabinet” for a musical adventure with historical self-playing instruments. Thereafter, a guided tour leads you through the picturesque town. Explore the heart of the old town of Rüdesheim – the Drosselgasse – where wine houses and garden taverns invite you to linger. Immerse yourself in the history of the city and visit the Eagle Tower, a part of the city wall, and the fortifications from the 15th century.
Duration: approx. 2 hrs / Walking Grade: 4
Excursion Pricing:
Koblenz walking tour £21
Rüdesheim with Music Cabinet Museum £29
Heidelberg Castle and Christmas market £56
Speyer walking tour with Christmas market £25
Wintry Alsace and Obernai £68
Strasbourg with visit to Christmas market £66
Total Price £265
Package booking discount 15% £225
Visit to a vineyard with tasting & Drosselgasse in Rüdesheim
Enjoy an unforgettable train ride on the "Winzerexpress" through the vineyards of Rüdesheim and discover the beauty of the Rhine Valley. Visit a typical winery and taste the different wines of the region. Afterwards, stroll along the famous 'Drosselgasse', which is a narrow cobblestone street, first mentioned in the 15th century as an alley used by the Rhine boatmen to reach their homes. Here you can still find numerous half-timbered wine houses, restaurants and shops. Immerse yourself in the history of the village before returning to the ship on the "Winzerexpress".
Duration: approx. 2 hours
Walking grade: LEVEL 4: Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
Day 6 - MANNHEIM to SPEYER
After breakfast, explore the bustling metropolis of Mannheim. This unique city has many sights to see including the University of Mannheim, the National Theater Mannheim, and St. Sebastian’s Church. Nearby Heidelberg is another old university city which is also a worthwhile visit. This afternoon’s call is at Speyer, a city known for its Cathedral where eight Roman Emperors and German Kings are interred. The Old Town Gate, Memorial Church, and Transportation Museum are all highlights of this beautiful city. Another amazing dining experience awaits you back on board followed by more quality entertainment in the lounge. Arrive Mannheim 06:00 Depart 13:00 Arrive Speyer 15:30 Depart 19:30.
Today's Excursions
Heidelberg with visit to the castle
A comfortable coach will take you to Heidelberg, the world-famous University City on the Neckar River. The town is one of the few German cities with a widely preserved baroque Old Town. Heidelberg was discovered quite early by romantics to use for diverse literature, songs and paintings. The tour through Heidelberg begins with a visit to the castle. The formerly splendid residence made of red sandstone is now a ruin, maybe the most beautiful ruin in all of Germany. The castle tour leads also into the castle garden. From the Grand Terrace enjoy a wonderful view of the city and the Neckar River. The tour continues with a stroll through the enchanting old town, to the Karl-Theodor Bridge, the late-gothic Church of the Holy Spirit and the town hall.
Duration: approx. 4.5 hours
Walking grade: LEVEL 3: The excursion by bus is followed by a longer walk. You may need to climb several stairs.
Speyer walking tour with visit to the Imperial Dome
Speyer, the time-honoured imperial city on the Rhine, looks back on a rich and eventful past. Historic testimonies of ecclesiastical architecture, impressive facades of different building epochs, winding alleys and romantic squares characterize the face of the city today. During the city tour, enjoy a short guided visit to the Romanesque Imperial cathedral with its striking twin-towered portal and visit the beautiful baroque Church of the Holy Spirit. Pass by the Old Gate of Speyer and visit the medieval Judenhof, one of the most important Jewish medieval sites in Germany. View the remains of the Jewish courtyard, which was the central area of the Jewish quarter and consisted of the synagogues, and a ritual bath (Mikveh).
Duration: approx. 2.5 hours
Walking grade: LEVEL 4: Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
Day 7 - STRASBOURG
This morning we arrive in the dynamic capital of Alsace. This beautiful city’s sights include the famous cathedral Strasbourg Münster and the Petite France quarter, a former mill and tanner district that still maintains its medieval charm. Half-timbered houses, the Ponts Couverts, the Palais de Rohan, the Council of Europe are among the wonders that Strasbourg holds in store for you. The Grand Island, the city centre, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is connected to the rest of the city by 22 stone bridges. After lunch onboard, take in the sites of the romantic Rhine as we move towards Switzerland, our destination. Arrive Strasbourg 07:30 Depart 13:00.
Today's Excursions
Strasbourg with Canal Boat Tour
Enjoy a tour of discovery through the beautiful city of Strasbourg. After a short coach trip through the city, the tour continues with a walk through the lovely, historic old part of the town and includes a visit to the famous cathedral Straßburger Münster (not possible on Sundays and public holidays). During a boat cruise on the river, discover the famous quarter, “Petite France”. This former mill and tanner district still preserves its medieval charm. Some of the beautiful, half-timbered houses on the banks of the river Ill are up to 500 years old. You will enjoy Strasbourg’s half-timbered houses, the Ponts Couverts, the Palais de Rohan, the Council of Europe.
Freiburg with visit to the market
Depart Strasburg and travel overland to the jewel of the German Black Forest, Freiburg, which offers the perfect combination of city experience and nature, as well as culinary delights. In 2020, Freiburg celebrated its 900th anniversary of being a "Freie Burg" or 'Free Castle' market and town granted by Duke Konrad and his brother Berthold III. During the excursion, experience the centuries of Freiburg's history along with the famous 'Freiburger Bächle', or open stream system which has been flowing along the streets with crystal clear water since the middle ages. Walk through secluded alleys, across beautiful squares, past historic facades to the impressive Freiburg Cathedral, with it's beautiful 380 foot tower and one of the city's landmarks. Finally, experience the traditional Freiburg Minster Market where a wide selection of local products will tantalize the senses.
Duration: approx.: 4 hours
Walking grade: Level 3: The excursion by bus is followed by a longer walk. You may need to climb several stairs.
Day 8 - BASEL
This morning, after your final delicious breakfast on board we say farewell and wish you bon voyage. Transfers to the airport will commence after breakfast. For those, leaving later in the day you will be permitted to leave your luggage onboard whilst you explore the city. Or if you are planning a day or two in Basel, taxis can be arranged by the crew for you to your chosen hotel Arrive Basel – 09:00.
Prices are per person and do not include flights. Please contact us if you require assistance with your travel arrangements.
Please note: a deposit of £200pp is required to secure your booking.
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Q: Are flights included?
A: No, you are responsible for your own travel arrangements to and from the ship. However, we are happy to assist with booking flights on your behalf. Please contact us for details if you require assistance.
Q: Can I book airport hotels & parking with you?
A: Yes, please see the link to our supplier partner Holiday Extras who provide airport hotels, parking, fast track, lounges as well as comprehensive holiday insurance: https://www.holidayextras.com/harmonyvoyages/parking.html
Q: Which airport do I need to fly into / home from?
A: Your airport of arrival is Amsterdam, returning from Basel.
Q: Are airport transfers included?
A: Transfers are included from Amsterdam Airport to the ship on 21 June and from the ship to Basel Airport on 28 June. If you are spending time in Basel pre-cruise or Amsterdam post cruise your transfer will be a chargeable extra if required. The crew will be happy to assist with taxis from the ship to your Hotel on disembarkation day if required.
Q: What time can I board the ship on Embarkation day?
A: You can normally board from 1pm but your stateroom may not be available until after 3pm. You will be able to enjoy the ship’s facilities until your room is ready to be occupied.
Q: What time is disembarkation from?
A: As the ship has a quick turnaround, you will be required to vacate your cabin after breakfast on the day of departure. If you have a late flight or transfer you may be able to store your luggage on board until later in the day, depending on the ship’s itinerary. The crew on board will be happy to assist.
Q: Is there WiFi on board?
A: Yes, WiFi is provided in all public areas of the ship. However, during the trip the signal may be weaker in certain sections of the route.
Q: Is there an elevator on board?
A: All AMADEUS ships have a guest elevator, which operates between the Mozart and Haydn decks. The sun deck is not accessible by elevator.
Q: What is the dress code on board?
A: We want to you feel comfortable on board, the dress code is casual during the day and in the evening smart casual. Think what would I wear for a meal out in a restaurant at home?
Q: What is the electrical current on board?
A: The voltage in hotels and onboard ship is 230V, European standard. To use any electrical product that is not dual voltage (e.g. from the US, Canada, Australia or the UK), you will need a plug adaptor and some devices will require an electrical converter. Many electronic devices have built-in electrical converters, however, please check the manufacturer’s specifications for details. A two-pole adaptor is also available at reception. Mooring and Docking Local river authorities allocate docking space around ship arrivals and departures in port. Occasionally port conditions require ships to tie up alongside each other, in which case guests may be required to walk through another ship to access their own ship. This is part of the river cruise experience and is perfectly normal and beyond our control. Guests may experience obstructed views from staterooms when the ship is docked.
Q: What is the currency on board the ship?
A: The currency on board all AMADEUS ships is EURO. However, you may also settle your account in (GBP) Sterling or (USD) American Dollars.
Q: What about gratuities?
A: Gratuities for the ship’s staff and crew are not included in your cruise price. Whilst gratuities are a matter of personal choice, we are often asked what the suggested amount would be - EUR 11.00 per person per day.
Alternately you may wish to tip onboard in cash or add a gratuity to your onboard account.
Gratuities for drivers and guides for optional excursions are not included in the excursion price. A suggested amount is 1-2 EUR per person for half day excursion & 2-3 EUR per person for the full day excursion given directly to the guide and driver.
What to pack: The following items are essential for any destination: sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and maybe an umbrella. It is recommended that you bring duplicates of prescription eyewear, copies of prescriptions for any medications (generic equivalents are usually easier to obtain), copies of credit card information, and copies of your passport information pages. An adaptor/transformer may be necessary (the on-board power supply is 230V AC/50 Hz) if you bring any electronic devices with you.
Clothing: Comfortable, casual clothing is appropriate both onshore and onboard and we suggest lightweight clothing that can be layered. Shorts are appropriate for most tours; however long pants may be required for inside visits on some excursions. Your cruise manager will advise when and if this is required. You may find a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during your time ashore. We recommend comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support. Sturdy sandals are another good option. Don’t forget to pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket (preferably hooded) or even a heavier-weight wind-breaker for cooler temperatures. Also, keep in mind that the ship, coaches and other venues visited on our itinerary are air conditioned and may be quite cool. We recommend you that you pack a lightweight sweater or long sleeve shirts and carry them with you on excursions.