A Moselle river cruise so luxurious you won’t want to leave

There’s a certain bend in the Moselle River that really epitomises the beauty of cruising Europe’s waterways.

The famous Moselle River loop is a wonder of nature that provides a stunning example of how water meanders in its own way, creating a spectacular peninsula in the middle of the German countryside.

The vine-covered hills provide great views. But none can compete with your own look-out on the decks of the Crystal Bach.

The Moselle River is said to be one of the most scenic destinations in Europe. It has inspired the likes of Dutch painters Vermeer, van Gogh and Rembrandt with its rolling hills, soft afternoon light and luscious green vineyards.

See, feel, smell and taste the Moselle

A river cruise is one of the most immersive ways to see, feel, smell and taste of this region, and the Crystal River Cruises’ Enchanted Moselle itinerary lets you drink it all in at a giant gulp.

Part of the Crystal mantra is ensuring that guests have a unique experience. The luxury line offers a number of  included shore excursions for the epicurean to the culture connoisseur.

An example of an optional gourmet experience includes dinner at Bolenius in Amsterdam, a Michelin-starred restaurant created by chef Luc Kusters, for instance, has a focus on local ingredients. Chef Kusters has created dishes as part of the New Amsterdam movement. His unique menu includes beetroot baked in clay, dressed with morels and crumbled sourdough bread, main courses like lamb shoulder cooked in hay and served on a hot plate. Truly memorable cuisine you’ll dine out long after your reservation.

The Moselle’s cool climate makes it one of the best regions for wine. It’s luscious, fruity and full of flavour.

Be personally hosted by the owner of Schlagkamp Winery, located about thirty minutes from Cochem, and delight in a tasting of fine wines during an engaging visit. Schlagkamp Winery, family owned for 11 generations and still growing its own grapes. The owner himself will welcome you and be on hand during your wine tasting to offer insights and explanations about each vintage. Learn about the wines’ type, taste and production, and about the characteristics and history of viticulture in the Mosel region.

On a late night stay in Bernkastel, Crystal River Cruises hosts an exclusive concert in the grand Baroque Hall in Kloster Machern, a shore excursion that is part of the Crystal Signature Event series. The La Finesse string quartet performs a repertoire of classical music with a modern twist in the Medieval Cistercian monastery.

An overnight stop at Trier, Germany’s oldest city, and once the key capital of the Roman Empire. Dotted throughout the city are ancient Roman ruins like the Porta Nigra gate, the ruins of Roman baths and amphitheatre. Nestled in the hills is the 12th-century Eltz Castle which has belonged to the Eltz family for 33 generations.

Absorbing all this grandeur, it’s easy to forget your ship. Aboard the Crystal Bach, guests sail in a luxurious setting of plush velvet settees, specialty crafted ornaments, hand-blown glass chandeliers and gold gilded cornices.

The service is impeccable and carefully thought out. Every suite is assigned a butler who will answer every beck and call, and they’ll surprise you with hors d’oeuvres and an eerie ability to predict your needs before you know them yourself.

Of course, they restock the bar fridges with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, Nespresso pods and bottles of water. But that’s only a small part of the job.

The chefs onboard prepare meals using the local ingredients, reflective of the country that the ship visits. The Michelin-inspired cuisine includes soup de poisson, sliced Zurichoise veal tenderloins and Black Forest cake with praline.

It’s an itinerary and ship that will leave a lasting impression, and guests will forge memories that will last a lifetime. From the delectable food and wine you’ll eat and drink, to the awe-inspiring scenery you will see, there is no other way to see the Moselle than on a Crystal River Cruise.

Enchanting Moselle

10 NIGHTS ABOARD CRYSTAL BACH
SAILINGS IN 2019: MAY 28, JUN 21, JUL 29, OCT 17, NOV 24
Fares available from US$5,585 per person*.

EXPLORE VOYAGES

Call Your Preferred Travel Advisor or Crystal on 1300 059 262 (Local Call Australia) or +61 2 8074 6500.

T&Cs: *Fares are cruise-only, per person, in US dollars, based on double occupancy, apply to new bookings only, and include taxes, fees and port charges. Fare quoted applies to category S2 on voyage RBA191124-10 (24NOV departure). Solo Traveller Fares available on request. Optional dining in the Vintage Room attracts an additional fee. All offers may not be combinable with other promotions, apply to first two full-fare guests in stateroom or suite, are capacity-controlled, subject to availability and may be withdrawn or changed at any time without notice. All fares, itineraries, programs, policies and shore excursions are subject to change and correct at time of printing. Restrictions apply. For complete Terms & Conditions, visit crystalcruises.com/legal. ©2019 Crystal Cruises, LLC. Ships’ registry: Malta