Switzerland, France and Germany provide the perfect backdrop for this true connoisseur's Christmas Markets' cruise. Each day will be like unwrapping one beautiful gift after another all in a wonderful setting of the inescapable romantic spirit of the Rhine.

Basel, Switzerland, is located exactly at the corners of three countries, Germany, France and Switzerland. Holiday festivities take place in this perfect traditional Swiss atmosphere of the historic Old Town. Christmas ornaments, tasty baked goods, bratwurst and spiced gluhwein are plentiful and provide the ideal starting place for your cruise. A visit to Strasbourg will mesmerize you. This charming town clustered along narrow, winding lanes and quaint canals appears to have been lifted out of the pages of a Grimm's fairy tale. It's hard to believe, but this town becomes even more alive during the holidays with one of the oldest and largest Christmas Markets in France. As you sail the Rhine, especially the 40 miles along the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you are in a winter wonderland with ancient fortresses, medieval castles and half-timbered villages.

The legacy of Germany's holiday traditions lives on

Germany, where many of our signature holiday traditions began-Christmas trees, nutcrackers, gingerbread, candy canes and the legend of St. Nick-is certain to warm your heart and lift your spirits. Stroll through the romantic ruins of Heidelberg Castle and the city's Christmas Market spanning five squares. You'll be awed as you browse through the Christmas Market in Cologne located in front of the grand cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through the streets of Mainz with over 2,000 years of history and home to Gutenberg's printing press, and enjoy Siegfried's Mechanical Museum with its unique collection of self-playing music instruments while in Rudesheim.

This cruise offers so much! The personality of each country shines even more brightly at this time of the year with its special holiday traditions. We invite you to share in the joy of the Christmas season and enter into a special festive mood as you sail along the Rhine through three wonderful countries.

Who will enjoy this cruise: Shoppers looking for unique and handcrafted gifts, as well as Christmas enthusiasts looking for origins of many traditions, including Christmas trees, nutcrackers, gingerbread, candy canes and St. Nick!