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- Christmas Markets on the Rhine
Christmas Markets on the Rhine, 2 December 2026
7 nights
Emerald Star
2 Dec '26Cruise overview
Itinerary
Basel
Welcome to Switzerland and the start of your Christmas cruise journey. You’ll be met at the airport by a member of the Emerald Cruises team and transferred to your contemporary Star-Ship in Basel, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.
Please book your flight to arrive into Basel prior to 03:00 PM.
Basel is a city in northwestern Switzerland on the Swiss, French and German borders. It is located on the bend of the River Rhine and benefits from a Mediterranean climate. It is the third most populated city in Switzerland and has been the commercial hub for Swiss arts and culture since the Renaissance. In 1967 the people of Basel voted to acquire two paintings by Picasso, who was so moved by the Basel people that he donated 3 paintings and a study to the city’s Kunstmuseum (Museum of Fine Arts). Visit the Augusta Raurica, one of the largest Roman archaeology parks in Switzerland, and enjoy a river crossings over the River Rhine by non-motorised ferries. During the summer months, time is spent outdoors, either swimming in the River Rhine, dining al fresco, enjoying open air concerts, cinema, street parties and festivals. Basel is home to over 20 restaurants that have won GaultMillau or Michelin awards, and boasts Switzerland’s largest collection of theatre shows, including modern contemporary dance, touring and puppetry theatre.
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Breisach
Kehl
Mannheim
Koblenz
Cologne
Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Owner's One-bedroom Suite
The most luxurious accommodation onboard, this elegant suite features a separate bedroom and living area, walk-in wardrobe, large balcony and generous bathroom. Enjoy included extras, exclusive amenities and exceptional space throughout your cruise.
Amenities
- Queen or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Desk
- Free Mini Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Coffee Machine
- Pillow Menu Available
- Telephone
Owner's One-bedroom Suite
The most luxurious accommodation onboard, this elegant suite features a separate bedroom and living area, walk-in wardrobe, large balcony and generous bathroom. Enjoy included extras, exclusive amenities and exceptional space throughout your cruise.
- Queen or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Desk
- Free Mini Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Coffee Machine
- Pillow Menu Available
- Telephone
Grand Balcony Suite
Spacious and refined, the Grand Balcony Suite offers an extended private balcony, separate seating area, plush bedding and a larger bathroom. Guests enjoy extra touches and upgraded amenities for an elevated onboard experience.
- Coffee machine
- Pillow menu
- Bathrobe and slippers
- And complimentary laundry service
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
A signature Emerald design, this suite features a floor-to-ceiling window that drops down at the touch of a button to create an indoor balcony. Enjoy a spacious layout, seating area and contemporary styling with constant connection to the scenery.
- Queen or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Desk
- Free Mini Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Telephone
Emerald Stateroom
Light and inviting, the Emerald Stateroom features a picture window framing beautiful river views, elegant décor, ample storage and a modern bathroom, creating a comfortable retreat after days spent exploring.
- Queen or Twin Configuration
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Desk
Emerald Single Stateroom
Designed for solo travellers, this cosy and well-appointed stateroom includes a large picture window, comfortable bed, modern bathroom and thoughtful storage, offering a private and relaxing space throughout your river journey.
- One Single Bed
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Desk
- Free Mini Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Telephone
Sun Deck
Open-air deck with walking track, putting green, and shaded seating.
Horizon Deck
Includes Horizon Lounge & Bar, The Terrace, and the pool-cinema.
Vista Deck
Features Panorama Balcony Suites, the Reflections Restaurant, and reception area.
Riviera Deck
Home to Riverview Staterooms, wellness area, and fitness facilities.
Ship features
Emerald Star combines contemporary design with innovative features, creating a welcoming atmosphere that perfectly suits Europe’s iconic rivers.
- All-suite and stateroom accommodation for 180 guests
- Reflections Restaurant with European and regional menus
- Panoramic Horizon Lounge & Bar with floor-to-ceiling windows
- Heated indoor pool that converts into a cinema at night
- Spacious Sun Deck with putting green and walking track
- Fitness room and wellness area offering massage treatments
- EmeraldACTIVE and DiscoverMORE excursion options
- Complimentary bicycles for exploring in port
- Inclusive fares with drinks and gratuities included
- Energy-efficient Star-Ship design with solar panels
Accommodation
Accommodation
Emerald Star’s suites and staterooms are bright, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed. Panorama Balcony Suites feature drop-down windows that bring the scenery inside, while the Owner’s Suite adds a private living area and balcony. All rooms include complimentary WiFi, bottled water, a flat-screen TV, and luxury bathroom products, ensuring a seamless blend of comfort and convenience.
Dining
Dining
Dining aboard Emerald Star is inspired by Europe’s diverse culinary regions. The Reflections Restaurant serves locally sourced dishes alongside international classics, while The Terrace provides a relaxed space for light bites, coffee, or afternoon tea. Complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks accompany lunch and dinner for a true all-inclusive experience.
Amenities
Amenities
Emerald Star offers spacious public areas designed for relaxation and sociability. Guests can unwind in the Horizon Lounge, take a dip in the indoor pool, or enjoy the open-air Sun Deck with its walking track and putting green. Additional facilities include a small gym, a wellness area, a hair salon, and a boutique shop.
Wellness
Wellness
Emerald Star offers spacious public areas designed for relaxation and sociability. Guests can unwind in the Horizon Lounge, take a dip in the indoor pool, or enjoy the open-air Sun Deck with its walking track and putting green. Additional facilities include a small gym, a wellness area, a hair salon, and a boutique shop.
Entertainment
Entertainment
Evenings aboard Emerald Star are easy-going and elegant. Enjoy live music in the Horizon Lounge, regional wine tastings, and cultural performances, or catch a film in the pool-cinema. Enrichment activities such as cooking demonstrations and port briefings bring each destination to life.
Families
Families
Emerald Star is designed for adults and couples seeking a peaceful, immersive river cruise experience. Children aged 12 and above are welcome, though there are no dedicated family facilities onboard.