Upcoming notable news from Emerald River Cruises has been unveiled ahead of the 2026 season, including a return of the 8-day Rhine and Moselle itinerary, an extended river cruise season and an expanded city stay program.
Here are the details from Emerald:
Moselle Rediscovered: A Classic Itinerary Returns
New for 2026, Emerald Cruises reintroduces their eight-day Legendary Rhine & Moselle itinerary.
Guests will have the opportunity to explore the scenic Rheingau wine region, including a tasting at the world’s first Riesling winery and enjoy a guided tour of Trier, a Roman-era city known as the Rome of the North. There are also stops in Cochem, the Pearl of the Moselle, (featuring an EmeraldPLUS experience at the historic Imperial Castle) and in Koblenz, rich in cultural landmarks and of course, a traditional German beer garden – the perfect spot to experience the local German way of life.
Expanded City Stay Extensions
Emerald Cruises is introducing new City Stay extensions, giving guests the opportunity to enhance their journey with pre- and post-cruise experiences that align with their itinerary. Coming in 2026 , 2-, 3-, and 4-night City Stays in London, Barcelona, Munich, Lausanne, Brussels and others, depending on the itinerary.
Extended River Cruise Season
Emerald Cruises’ 2026 season will run from February through December, giving guests more flexibility to choose from a variety of travel styles and seasonal experiences throughout the year. Early-season departures in February and March, as well as later sailings in November, are now available on popular itineraries. The shoulder season offers guests a more relaxed experience, with fewer crowds, prime docking locations and attractive prices.
Introducing Emerald Astra
The extended 2026 season comes alongside the exciting news that Emerald Cruises will debut a brand-new river ship, Emerald Astra, in 2026. This addition will expand the fleet to seven Star-Ships sailing across the Rhine, Moselle, and Danube rivers.
Launch Savings Event
Fares start at $3,695 per person with Emerald Cruises’ Best Available Offer. Save an extra $250 per person when booked by June 30, 2025. Plus, with the Launch Savings Event, guests can also save up to an extra $2,000 per couple by adding a City Stay to their cruise when booked by June 30, 2025.
Travel advisors can now order the latest Emerald River Cruises brochure (or view it online) to showcase what the cruise line has in store for next year.
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