Emerald Cruises has announced new river Europe river cruise itineraries and a longer river cruise season for 2026, which will span from February through to December, giving guests a wider choice of seasons and experiences throughout the year.
The new additions for 2026 follow the news that Emerald Cruises will be launching a new river cruise ship, Emerald Astra, in 2026, adding to its fleet of six Star-Ships sailing on the Rhine, Moselle and Danube rivers.
Guests looking ahead to 2026 can select their preferred itinerary, sailing date and cabin grade and book 2026 cruises at 2025 prices*, with savings of up to 20% and return flights from London or up to 16 regional airports included.
New Rhine sailing, including Black Forest tastings and the return of a classic Moselle itinerary
On the all-new eight-day Serenity of the Rhine, based on the popular Jewels of the Rhine sailing, guests will discover Europe without the crowds and feel the cosy atmosphere of the continent in March and November. In Freiburg, guests will enjoy tastings of authentic Black Forest delicacies after a guided tour through the charming ‘Capital of the Black Forest.’
There will be a panoramic tour of Strasbourg and its UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town on a foray into France before a tour of the university town of Heidelberg, which inspired the writings of Mark Twain. Entering Riesling country, guests will visit the wineries of Koblenz before an onboard cooking demonstration using local ingredients.
The tour finishes in Amsterdam, with a Dutch clog painting class on board or a glass-top canal tour. Prices for the eight-day Serenity of the Rhine start from itinerary £1,945 per person, including return flights from all major UK airports, transfers, meals, Wi-Fi, and select excursions based on an 11 March 2026 departure.
On the re-introduced eight-day Legendary Rhine & Moselle sailing, guests will discover one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Guests will relish a visit to the picturesque Rheingau wine region and the world’s first Riesling winery, surrounded by stunning vineyards.
A guided tour of Trier, a delightful city founded by the Romans and often referred to as the ‘Rome of the North’, awaits. Guests will discover Cochem, known as the ‘Pearl of the Moselle,’ where an EmeraldPLUS experience will take guests on a journey through time at the majestic Imperial Castle, overlooking the Moselle River valley.
Finally, guests will explore Koblenz, a city brimming with fascinating landmarks, concluding with a visit to a traditional beer garden – the perfect spot to experience the local German way of life.
The eight-day Legendary Rhine & Moselle prices start from £1,695 per person, including return flights from all major UK airports, transfers, meals, Wi-Fi, and select excursions based on a 17 August 2026 departure.
Emerald Astra to launch in 2026
Emerald Astra will mark the next evolution of Emerald Cruises’ award-winning river fleet. Designed to mirror the sleek elegance of the line’s luxury yachts, the ship features a modern, grey-tinted glass exterior and will welcome 180 guests. From ancient Greek and Latin origins, ‘Astra’ translates as ‘Star,’ and Emerald Astra promises to be a shining star among our stylish Star-Ships – the seventh to sail the Rhine, Main and Danube.
The updated design focuses on both style and functionality, offering guests’ favourite amenities such as the indoor pool, which transforms into an evening cinema, dining available at Reflections Restaurant or the choice of breakfast and lunch at The Terrace venue, and a Sun Deck dedicated to relaxation and panoramic views.
All interiors have also been enhanced with a sleek, contemporary design, ensuring a sophisticated and spacious atmosphere for travellers on Europe’s rivers.
For more information about Emerald Cruises, visit emeraldcruises.co.uk or contact your local travel agent.