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Rhine River Cruises

Uncork new discoveries as you raise a glass of Riesling on our acclaimed Rhine River cruises through Switzerland, Germany and The Netherlands. See how the Rhine, Main and Moselle river systems unfold to create a spellbinding display of storybook villages, Dutch windmills, German vineyards and splendid UNESCO Sites.

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Grand European Tour

NEW! Rhine & Main Explorer

Cities of Light

Paris to the Swiss Alps

NEW! Lyon, Provence & the Rhineland

Holland & Belgium

Tulips & Windmills

European Sojourn

NEW! Treasures of the Rhine

Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle

Christmas on the Main & Moselle

Christmas on the Rhine

Rhine & Viking Shores & Fjords

Rhine & Moselle Discovery

A Tale of Three Rivers

Highlights of rhine river cruises.

A Rhine River cruise takes you into the heart of Middle Europe, where stately castles, fairytale villages and cultural centers have long been witnesses to history. The river’s banks are brimming with historic treasures, natural beauty and vibrant capitals. Here are a few highlights Viking reveals to you:

• Amsterdam’s charming canals and gabled houses
• Windmills of Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Cologne’s Gothic Dom
• Rüdesheim’s wine-growing region
• Marksburg Castle, perched above scenic Braubach
• Multicultural Strasbourg
• Breathtaking views of the legendary Black Forest
• The distinct French-German culture of Alsace
• Mythical Lorelei Rock at the Middle Rhine Gorge
• Stunning Heidelberg, inspiration to writers and philosophers

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Rhine River Cruises

The Rhine starts its journey in Switzerland's Alps and passes through iconic cities in France (including Strasbourg), Germany (Dusseldorf and Cologne) and the Netherlands . A European river cruise along the Rhine will reveal the best of Western Europe , from its unique scenery, to the exquisite cuisine on offer.

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250+ rhine river cruises with 862 reviews.

Classic Rhine cruise (Amsterdam-Basel) MS Crucevita

Crew, Cruise Director, everybody was friendly. Many different countries/languages and all were catered for. Marvellous, small ship, not as many trimmings ( most which are not required) - importantly, we had fun - great trip - Thank you

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

Sehr schön, tolle Gruppenreise, viele verschiedene Reiseeinheiten buchbar. Gutes Essen, Service war gut, Unterkunft angepasst und schöne Unterhaltung. Auch als Alleinreisender durchführbar.

Classic Rhine cruise (Basel-Amsterdam) MS Crucevita

It was fantastic... Staff very friendly and correct. Worth repeating..well then a different river.

Romantic Rhine (Northbound) 2024

Fine dining filled by fine dancing

The Romantic Rhine Valley and the Rock of Lorelei (port-to-port cruise)

This was our first time and overall we enjoyed the exparience. However, we felt everything was too organised. The food was beautifully cooked and presented but there was just too much at each meal. There was no choice of main course and not enough green vegetables and salads.

Rhine Experience Amsterdam & Rotterdam 2024

The romantic Rhine Valley and the rock of the Lorelei (port-to-port cruise)

Fabulous trip, loved it. Fantastic good and staff. Would highly recommend

Captivating Rhine 2024 Start Amsterdam, End Basel

Splendours of Europe (Start Amsterdam, End Budapest)

The program in the Emerald ship was magnificently planned and discussed. The local music during the cruise was so informative. Long live the music from the Netherlands and Germany through Austria and Slovakya to Hungary! Just for the music, dances and songs I will do the cruise again!

Castles along the Rhine (2024) (Amsterdam to Basel SS Victoria, 2024)

Splendours of Europe (Start Budapest, End Amsterdam)

Castles along the Rhine (2024) (Basel to Amsterdam River Queen, 2024)

Very nice trip. Your were OK with a few standouts like the vinegar tasting. Wish there had been more lectures and cultures talks. The one about modern German attitudes was particularly fascinating.

Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps 2024 Start Amsterdam, End Basel

Switzerland´s Best

Southern Rhine Experience 2024

Reviews of rhine cruises.

Great company to cruise with. Ship carries 110 passengers. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner each day. Plenty of stops to sightsee. The castles along the Rhine make trip a very enjoyable cruise. All staff were great.

It was a great cruise. The food was amazing, the crew was really helpful, and the tours and tour guides were great. The only thing to imporve on if the WiFi which only worked half the time.

The cruise was beautiful and very scenic especially the loreley strip. The restaurant staff were extremely friendly and warm. Special mention of Ida, Kenan and Sugana . The rest of the crew were very accommodating too. The tour leader Jessica and Jordi was super and helpful although we were the only few English speakers she made us feel included. On the whole it was a very beautiful experience although the rooms are a bit old design and the boat is not a very new but the staff were phenomenal .

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Popular Cruise Ships

• Scenic Opal from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Scenic Crystal from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Avalon Tranquility II from Avalon Waterways
• Avalon Imagery II from Avalon Waterways
• Emerald Sky from Emerald Cruises
• Emerald Sun from Emerald Cruises
• Scenic Jasper from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Emerald Dawn from Emerald Cruises
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• Scenic Pearl from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Avalon Panorama from Avalon Waterways
• AmaPrima from AmaWaterways

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International Versions

• Deutsch: Rhein Flusskreuzfahrten
• Français: Croisières fluviales Rhin
• Español: Cruceros fluviales por el Rin
• Nederlands: Riviercruises op de Rijn

Rhine River Cruises

Our recommended Rhine river cruises are the best way to explore the mighty Rhine. Sail from the clear lakes and towering mountains of Switzerland to the fairytale castles and terraced vineyards of the Rhine Valley. Journey from Amsterdam to Basel through the scenic Middle Rhine and past the famous Lorelei Rock, or choose an itinerary that explores the pretty meandering River Moselle.

Moor in the heart of picturesque riverside towns like lively Rudesheim , and visit historic cities such as Cologne and Strasbourg , as you voyage through Switzerland, Germany, France and Holland to the North Sea. See the highlights of each port on guided excursions accompanied by local guides, or simply step ashore to explore on your own.

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About Rhine River Cruises

Highlights of the rhine river, river rhine ports, rhine cruise reviews, cruise collection 2024/ 2025.

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From Amsterdam , voyage upstream through colourful Dutch waterways and rich farmland to Cologne with its Old Town and great Gothic Cathedral. Continue to Koblenz where the Rhine meets the Moselle, and on to the ancient fortress town of Boppard.

Pass the famous Lorelei Rock on the way to the wine country town of Rudesheim with its lively Drosselgrasse street of restaurants and taverns. At Mainz the River Main leaves the Rhine which continues south, allowing a tour to romantic Heidelberg, the oldest university town in Germany.

Sail on up the upper Rhine to Strasbourg, a cosmopolitan city on the French-German border with a soaring cathedral and colourful half-timbered buildings, and Basel, Switzerland's second largest city. Some itineraries spend a couple of days in Switzerland with visits to Lucerne and the dramatic Bernese Oberland.

The River Moselle is smaller and more intimate, meandering from Koblenz through woods and vineyards for over 160 miles. Travel past hills dotted with romantic castles, and through wine villages such as Cochem, Bernkastel and Piesport to Trier, founded by the Romans 2000 years ago.

Here are a few highlights of a cruise along the Rhine:

• Amsterdam’s elegant architecture and famous canals
• Bamberg’s brightly-coloured fishermen’s houses in Little Venice
• The timber-framed houses of Bernkastel surrounding the medieval square
• Cologne’s Old Town, dominated by the impressive cathedral
• Heidelberg, a favourite of writers and philosophers
• German Corner in Koblenz, where the River Moselle flows into the Rhine
• The Printing Museum in Mainz, birthplace of Johann Gutenberg
• Rüdesheim’s wine-growing region
• See the fairytale Petite France district of Strasbourg
• The spectacular Rhine Gorge with the legendary Lorelei Rock

We would like to thank every one of you most sincerely for our wonderful cruise down the Rhine. it was, and is an unforgettable experience for George and me, which we will undoubtedly remember forever. I am so glad that I suggested that this was the sort of holiday, at our age we could sit back and just enjoy, After booking we had a couple of friends round and were extolling the services of Blue Water, our agents, they promptly went home and booked for the cruise for themselves ...two weeks before us just checking you out !!! they loved it and assured us that we would enjoy every minute. We did ...Door to door without a hitch! You are to be congratulated on all the members of the crew, from Captain Igor to our cabin boy, a smile and a hand and then another smile, a special mention must be made of Patrik the on board tour manager, and our favourite matre de at the Portobello. Food, wine, entertainment, trips ashore, how could we possibly find fault, Well done Scenic Jewel ..... With our thanks for an Exceptional holiday.

We had an unforgettable cruise seeing the Rivers and Castles of Europe on the AMADOLCE, the cruise exceeded our expectations and thankyou to the team at Blue Water for making this happen for us with no problems encountered especially seeing we travelled from Australia to experience it. They were very efficient in keeping us informed along the way. Truly a trip to remember and the sun even appeared when we started the Rhine Gorge section with all the castles, so we all scrambled up to the fantastic sundeck to take in the picture postcard views

The Christmas cruise on board Amacello visiting Christmas markets along the Rhine was my first river cruise and I could not fault it. The standard was incredibly high compared to ocean cruises I have done and I will certainly travel with Ama again. Why Ama?

It is an English speaking ship. Travelling single I did not want to find myself unable to communicate easily with everyone or it might have been a lonely Christmas, and I wanted to get the most from my excursions. Michelle at Bluewater had travelled with Ama, she highly recommended the company and she was right. Itinerary

Very well planned, we sailed through the more industrial stretches of the Rhine during the night and the scenic parts with their steep banks and beautiful castles in daylight. Every day we stopped at a different port of call with a choice of excursions and the option of taking a bike or just doing your own thing.The Christmas markets were in full swing, enhancing the already beautiful towns and villages. The local guides were very knowledgeable and we had headsets and earpieces so it wasnt necessary to hang onto their coat tails walking around. We were small groups of under 20 giving time to ask questions and advice, and always with free time before we had to return to the ship.

On Board Cabin: Luxurious, modern with sliding doors to a french balcony giving great views and making it very light. Plenty of storage, the case fitted under the bed, flat screen tv with free internet. Compact modern bathroom and shower with body jets etc and quality toiletries. Robes, slippers and even umbrellas provided. Excellent unobtrusive cabin service. Very quiet, I dont know if I had quiet neighbours or the insulation was great but whatever, it worked. Dining Where to start! I could not praise the food highly enough, it was top quality, beautifully presented and the open seating meant you could join friends on tables seating from 2 to 8. Breakfast offered the full buffet experience with the best variety I have ever seen. From champagne, smoked salmon and bagels to a full English and a vast array of breads, rolls and pastries all cooked freshly on board. Not to mention cereals, fruit, cheese etc. Lunch and dinner were waiter service multi course affairs with a wide choice of menu reflecting the food of the area you were passing through. However, there were always alternatives of grilled salmon, chicken or entrecote steak. At dinner decent quality wine was included and your glass was constantly topped up, they were generous. At lunch, an alternative was to eat in the lounge where a selection of soup, salads, pasta, cheese and biscuits and a dessert were available for self service. Fruit and biscuits were always available in baskets in the lounge beside the tea and coffee station which was always open. Then there was mid morning snacks, afternoon tea with delicious gateaux and an evening buffet at 10.30! One person I met was coeliac and they always brought her a menu indicating gluten free items. Its a blessing I went on shore to walk some of it off. Ambience Customer service is paramount, nothing fazes them. My cruise itinerary had to be amended at the last minute because the Rhine was flooding and we were not allowed to sail as planned and had to divert half way through. This meant that on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Rolf, our cruise manager, was faced with having to find a fleet of coaches and local guides to take us on our excursions instead of us sailing there. He had very little notice so it must have been really challenging, but he did it and they were excellent. On top of which some passengers, faced with an hours coach trip, changed their minds about which excursions they wanted to do. Reception staff handled all of this with smiles, no tension or irritation visible at all. That can do attitude was prevalent throughout the ship, nothing was too much trouble and it made for very relaxed and happy passengers. We were even given 20 euros each to buy our lunch as well as a picnic bag because it was too long a journey to bring us back to the ship for lunch. Oh, and following every shore excursion we were welcomed back to the ship with glasses of gluhwein and it was much better quality than at the markets! General 122 passengers were onboard, a small enough number to make it really friendly. There is a quiet lounge at the back but it was rarely used, most people gathered in the forward loinge and there was plenty of comfortable seating. Entertainment was provided by a resident pianist who played in the afternoon and evening until about 10 when he livened things up and people danced. A classical trio came on board one afternoon, they were very good. Apart from that we helped decorate the Christmas trees, there was a 60s night and an 80s night, Santa bought us all presents, but it was quite informal and low key. A world away from the floor shows of some ocean cruises and all the better for it. I travelled solo and it suited me ideally. There were 10-12 of us and we usually ate together in the evenings. I made some good friends and we plan to meet up and maybe do another trip together. Because of the small number of passengers and everyone getting together in the lounge it is really friendly and I would certainly recommend it. Except for the thorny issue of single supplements (which were waived because I booked very late when there was an offer on). Dress is informal and casual though most of us brought something a bit smarter for the gala dinner and Christmas. Whilst it wasnt a cheap holiday the value for money was tremendous with 5 star dining including quality wines, teas, coffees and bottled water,my choice of shore excursions, all included. I found I didnt actually need much money on holiday as it was all paid up front. I had a few drinks from the bar in the evenings and their prices were ok and measures generous. I think Bellinis were 4.20 and cuba libre 5.50 euros. One great thing about river cruises is the lack of movement in the ship, no fear of seasickness here! And always something to look at on one bank or the other. Take binoculars, plenty of memory cards for the camera and a guide book to identify the castles and other landmarks coming up on the river.

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Rhine river cruises

Discover a world of fairy tale landscapes and historical backdrops along the Rhine River.

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Explore the delights of the Rhine River

Sail on a voyage of discovery on board a Rhine river cruise and unveil gems such as the Black Forest and the cultural Meccah of Amsterdam. A mesmerising route through mainland Europe, the Rhine offers an abundance of unique charm to lose yourself in.

Uncover the jewels of the Rhine

A world of experiences

Enlightening experiences await on your Rhine river cruise. Journey from the Netherlands and through the heart of Germany, along the eastern border of France and into the north of Switzerland, enjoying all the sights on the way.

Discover the Rhine River

Embrace and celebrate european flair.

Tasty sweets and hearty meats

Fairy tale landscapes

The beauty of nature

Featured Itineraries

Seek inspiration from our most popular itineraries to start planning your unforgettable voyage. Explore our latest Rhine river cruises offers  today.

Amsterdam to Bucharest - Discover the Rhine, Main & Danube

Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises

Holland & Belgium in Bloom

The Majestic Rhine

Jewels of the Rhine

Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards

Splendours of Europe

Jewels of the Rhine & Lucerne - Zurich

Berlin & The Majestic Rhine

Amsterdam & Jewels of the Rhine

Your guide to Europe river cruising

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Welcome to your river cruise along the Rhine

A river full of diversity and beauty.

Wine culture at the highest level

for Wine-Connoisseurs

Three-Rivers Cruise

from $ 2,549.00

• 4 countries

Find inspiration in the romantic, soul-stirring beauty of the fabled Rhine.

Cruise along the Rhine—Germany on one side, France on the other. Discover Alsace, whose dual French and German heritage has given it fabulous food and a winemaking tradition that goes back to the Romans. Marvel at castles that were once mighty fortresses and get an insider’s look at the impressive Rheinstein Castle. Visit historic cities, including ancient Cologne and picturesque Strasbourg; stroll through the fairytale town of Rüdesheim; and taste delightful white wines in the villages where the grapes are grown.

Generations Family Program (select sailings) : Share the enchantment of this region with the special young people in your life. These cruises not only feature unique, fun-filled adventures for families to enjoy together, they’re also packed with culturally and historically significant experiences designed to spark creativity and lifelong learning.

• Embark/Disembark
• Basel to Amsterdam (S.S. Antoinette)
• Amsterdam to Basel (S.S. Antoinette)

Optional Extension

Lake Lucerne Pre-Cruise Extension

Your Castles along the Rhine cruise will give you a brief and charming sample of Swiss culture with a stop in Basel—extend your time in Switzerland before or after your cruise with 2 nights in the pretty lake town of Lucerne to immerse yourself in the center of Swiss life.

• 2 nights at the Mandarin Oriental Palace, Lucerne (or similar)
• Breakfast daily and all service charges, taxes, and porterage
• Lucerne City Walk with Boat Ride
• English-speaking expert
• All transfers

Click here for full details.

Basel (Embark)

Arrive at EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.

Important Note: Uniworld's airport services and transfers to the ship will take place on the Switzerland side of the Basel-Mulhouse Airport. Be sure to enter Customs on the Switzerland side, as guests cannot return to the Switzerland side after they have exited the airport from the France side.

Breisach is your gateway to the Alsatian wine road and your launching point for an excursion along the celebrated Route des Vins, which hugs the foothills of the Vosges mountain range.

This morning, enjoy leisure time as you sail the scenic Upper Rhine to Breisach. 

A special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.

Featured Excursions

Alsatian villages.

An old stone well in Kaysersberg bears an inscription that warns against drinking water and urges the reader to “Drink with moderation old and subtil wine . . . and leave the water to the side.” What better words could guide you as you explore some delightful Alsatian wine villages?...

An old stone well in Kaysersberg bears an inscription that warns against drinking water and urges the reader to “Drink with moderation old and subtil wine . . . and leave the water to the side.” What better words could guide you as you explore some delightful Alsatian wine villages? Though the remains of a 12th-century castle speak to Kaysersberg’s strategic importance in the Middle Ages, today it is an idyllic village nestled among vineyards. Join a local guide for a one-hour walking tour, passing storybook medieval houses with steeply pitched roofs and a gorgeous Gothic cathedral that was begun by a 12th-century Holy Roman emperor. In modern days, the village is best known as the birthplace of Albert Schweitzer. During your tour of this enchanting village indulge in a tasting of an Alsatian specialty, Kugelhopf , a delicious yeast-based cake traditionally baked in a circular, Bundt mold. Then it is on to Eguishem. The road from Kaysersberg to Eguishem provides quintessential wine road scenery: lush foothills, famous vineyards, castle ruins, and quaint villages. You'll arrive in a town so pretty it is regularly ranked amongst the most beautiful in France. Walk its cobbled streets to admire timber-framed buildings painted in every color of the rainbow.

Note: Lunch today will be on your own.

All About Alsace

Step into a storybook today during a visit to the Alsatian town of Kayersberg. This tour pairs side-by-side with the adult’s “Alsatian Villages” excursion, with a dedicated family guide to share fun stories about Kayersberg’s history and culture just with the kids....

Step into a storybook today during a visit to the Alsatian town of Kayersberg. This tour pairs side-by-side with the adult’s “Alsatian Villages” excursion, with a dedicated family guide to share fun stories about Kayersberg’s history and culture just with the kids. Don’t miss a local favorite treat: Kugelhopf , a yummy Bundt cake traditional to Alsace.

The Generations tour will break for free time at the same time as the regular “Alsatian Villages” tour, so families can shop around and enjoy lunch together.

Only available on sailings that belong to the Generations Program .

Generations Only available on sailings that belong to the Generations Program .

Kehl (Strasbourg)

See Strasbourg on foot with an insightful local expert, where this historic town with its cobbled lanes, half-timbered homes, giant stork nests, and impossible-to-resist pastry shops will win your heart. Kehl, directly across the river from Strasbourg, will be your ship’s base while you explore the Alsatian capital. If you’re feeling adventurous, take advantage of Uniworld’s bicycles or Nordic walking sticks and explore the banks of the river.

You have the entire afternoon to see more of Strasbourg on your own.

Strasbourg Panoramic Tour with Cathedral and Old Town Walk

Controlled over the centuries by either France or Germany, Strasbourg is both cross-cultural and bilingual. Old and new, French and German all blend together in this wonderful city, which is also considered the legislative and democratic capital of the European Union. Get a glimpse of Strasbourg's...

Controlled over the centuries by either France or Germany, Strasbourg is both cross-cultural and bilingual. Old and new, French and German all blend together in this wonderful city, which is also considered the legislative and democratic capital of the European Union. Get a glimpse of Strasbourg's grand political role as we drive by the European Parliament and the Council of Europe, where the European Court of Human Rights sits. Then get a feel for the cultural side of the city on a walking tour through its enchanting streets.

Canals, Cobblestones, and Cathedrals

Spend your day in the “Crossroads of Europe,” Strasbourg, located halfway between Paris and Prague. See the Strasbourg Cathedral and admire its spectacular Gothic façade built in the Middle Ages. You might even venture to climb up the 332 steps to the top for splendid views among ...

Spend your day in the “Crossroads of Europe,” Strasbourg, located halfway between Paris and Prague. See the Strasbourg Cathedral and admire its spectacular Gothic façade built in the Middle Ages. You might even venture to climb up the 332 steps to the top for splendid views among the cathedral’s gargoyles. After your cathedral visit, you may choose to spend the rest of your day exploring, shopping, or enjoying a nice lunch in an Alsatian restaurant.

Masterpiece Collection Providing the most all-inclusive luxury to our guests is the heart and soul of our brand and that will never change. Yet sometimes our guests want something that goes even "above and beyond" our included experiences. In light of this, we now offer guests a curated selection of optional excursions, available for an additional charge.

Black forest natural beauty & living history.

Today, experience the myriad facets of the legendary Black Forest, famous for cuckoo clocks, cherry brandy and its extraordinary natural beauty. Join a guide for a walking tour of the Vogtsbauernhof outdoor museum, where farmhouses (some dating to the 17th century), sawmills, chapels and gardens show you how village people have lived and worked over the past 400 years. Enjoy a typical regional lunch and stop at the family-owned House of Black Forest Clocks, where you will learn how cuckoo clocks are made-and savor a slice of Black Forest cake, too. Following your Black Forest adventure, you will Reboard the Motorcoach and return to the ship.

*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.

Mannheim (Speyer)

Speyer—“spire” in English—is well named, since the four red towers of the Romanesque cathedral dominate the Old Town.

Featured Excursion

Submarines & space shuttles.

If you’re interested in automotive history, trains, or aeronautical technology, you’ll enjoy a stop at the Technik Museum, home to Europe’s largest space flight exhibition. Your family will want to get up close and personal with an original jumbo jet, submarine, and rescue...

If you’re interested in automotive history, trains, or aeronautical technology, you’ll enjoy a stop at the Technik Museum, home to Europe’s largest space flight exhibition. Your family will want to get up close and personal with an original jumbo jet, submarine, and rescue sea cruises. See the Russian space shuttle BURAN, an original moonstone, space suits, a Soyuz landing capsule, as well as locomotives, vintage cars, motorcycles, and thousands of other exhibits.

Choose between...

Private doktorenhof vinegar estate visit and tasting.

For a different spin on the Palatinate wine region, visit the Weinessiggut Doktorenhof estate for a special vinegar tasting. Yes, you read that right—a vinegar tasting. Founded by Georg Wiedemann some 30 years ago, Doktorenhof produces vinegars from premium wines, rather than inexpensive...

For a different spin on the Palatinate wine region, visit the Weinessiggut Doktorenhof estate for a special vinegar tasting. Yes, you read that right—a vinegar tasting. Founded by Georg Wiedemann some 30 years ago, Doktorenhof produces vinegars from premium wines, rather than inexpensive ones. Gewürztraminer, Sylvaner, Riesling, and Pinot Noir are aged with a century-old vinegar “mother,” as the bacteria that makes vinegar is known, and flavored with a variety of herbs and fruits. Most importantly, Wiedemann and his family run their farm and vineyards with the utmost care, tending to them with natural materials only.

The results make complex and elegant aperitifs, intended to be sipped from a specially designed long-stemmed glass between courses or after a meal. The atmospheric tasting room (think candles, cloaks, and choir music) is like no other you’ll ever experience. You’ll have plenty of time to explore their enticing gift shop, too.

This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience supports Global Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences support sustainable tourism, offering our guests opportunities to directly impact the communities we explore in a positive way.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences support sustainable tourism, offering our guests opportunities to directly impact the communities we explore in a positive way.

Formula 1 Racetrack

Drive to Hockenheim, home of the German Grand Prix. There, a guide will give you an insider’s tour of the ring, including the VIP area, the podium, and even the center of the track. The German Grand Prix has not been held here—or anywhere—since 2019, due to a lack of finances that ...

Drive to Hockenheim, home of the German Grand Prix. There, a guide will give you an insider’s tour of the ring, including the VIP area, the podium, and even the center of the track. The German Grand Prix has not been held here—or anywhere—since 2019, due to a lack of finances that is keeping the future of the German Grand Prix indefinitely in doubt. On tour in the Hockenheimring, however, you’ll immerse yourself in the history of Formula 1 racing in Germany from a perspective few fans have ever gotten to appreciate.

Please note that the site occasionally holds races and other events, in which case this experience will be unavailable.

Germersheim’s Hidden Gem

Drive out to the forest for a private tour at a unique old flour mill. Though the silos here are still used to store grain—and the delicious bread you’ll get to sample at the end of your visit is evidence of that—the mill itself is no longer active. Instead, it has been...

Drive out to the forest for a private tour at a unique old flour mill. Though the silos here are still used to store grain—and the delicious bread you’ll get to sample at the end of your visit is evidence of that—the mill itself is no longer active. Instead, it has been transformed into a beautiful little sanctuary by the owner. An avid world traveler and collector, the owner has filled the inside of the mill with mementos from his expeditions (not trinkets, either, but life-sized Buddha statues, gorgeous photography, and much more). The highlight though, is the award-winning garden he has curated.

Authentic Country Cooking with Vinegar

Learn the secrets of creative but easy cooking when you join a chef in his 300-year-old village home-one with a very modern kitchen-near Doktorenhof. Schnitzel and sauerkraut may include vinegar in their ingredients, but the four courses you help prepare for lunch today take vinegar in a whole new direction. You might use orange blossom vinegar to season prawns or cherry vinegar in chocolate tartlets. This is a friendly, hands-on experience with a chef who welcomes novices as well as experienced cooks into his kitchen. The menu will be determined by what's fresh and local, and your chef instructor is a master at pairing regional wines with regional foods. Sauté, sip, sample-and enjoy!

Romantic Heidelberg

A motorcoach carries you to Heidelberg, sometimes called the most romantic city in Germany. It is home to the nation's oldest university, a charming baroque Old Town lying along the banks of the Neckar River, and extraordinarily beautiful castle ruins overlooking the town. Your tour will take you to the castle, with its views of the red-tile roofs of the town below, the handsome Old Bridge and the wooded hillsides beyond, and then into Old Town, where you will see the late-Gothic Holy Spirit Church, the Student Prison and the longest pedestrian street in Germany.

Rüdesheim, Boppard

Experience Germany’s fabled Rhine River in the towns of Rüdesheim and Boppard. Enjoy a private tasting of estate-grown Rieslings at Castle Vollrads, take a stroll through beautiful Boppard, or hike through some of the most beautiful landscapes that line the Rhine.

This morning, you’ll cruise out of Rüdesheim and into the sublimely beautiful and romantic Upper Middle Rhine Valley.

Castle Vollrads Wine Tasting

Nestled in the rolling, vineyard-covered hills of the Rheingau, Castle Vollrads has a square tower that dates back to the 14th century, as does the moat. Just one family owned the castle for 700 years, until 1997, adding on to it and remodeling it over the centuries. While the interior of the...

Nestled in the rolling, vineyard-covered hills of the Rheingau, Castle Vollrads has a square tower that dates back to the 14th century, as does the moat. Just one family owned the castle for 700 years, until 1997, adding on to it and remodeling it over the centuries. While the interior of the castle is rarely open to the public, you will have the opportunity to step inside to see some of the elegantly appointed rooms, including the beautiful gold-embossed Flemish leather wall covering in the 17th-century dining room. Grapes have been grown here for more than a thousand years; records show that Castle Vollrads wines were first sold in 1211. These days the excellence of its Riesling is well known; it’s so well known, in fact, that Schloss Vollrads is one of the few German vineyards whose name stands alone on a wine label—no village name is required. Accompanied by a local wine expert, you will sample three wines in three different locations. There will also be time to wander through the grounds at your leisure.

Cable Car Climb to Niederwald Heights

Board an aerial tramway for a cable car trip up to the Niederwald Monument, and be treated to sweeping views of the Rhine River below. From there, you can choose either a half-hour hike through the breathtaking vineyards or you can hop back on the cable car and head into town.

Boppard Stroll with Ice Cream Stop

Take a quick walk into town with your ship's Family Hosts, stopping at a local ice cream shop for a delicious treat. If you're feeling up to the challenge, you can even attempt ordering the ice cream for yourself in German!

Boppard Village Stroll

Join the Cruise Manager on a walk through this attractive town with a long and surprising history; the Cruise Manager will point out its highlights and recommend a host of activities. Take a chairlift to the top of the hill for a great view of the valley and the river (you can hike the return...

Join the Cruise Manager on a walk through this attractive town with a long and surprising history; the Cruise Manager will point out its highlights and recommend a host of activities. Take a chairlift to the top of the hill for a great view of the valley and the river (you can hike the return route, if you’re up for it); enjoy a glass of wine at a local tavern and watch the water traffic on the river; or ride a bicycle along the Rhine promenade. You might also visit Saint Severus Church, whose twin towers dominate the waterfront, or explore the remains of a fourth-century Roman fort. If you’re interested in design and the decorative arts, stop by the Museum Boppard to see the exhibit on native son Michael Thonet, who developed the technique of bentwood furniture in the 1840s. His iconic, lightweight chairs are still popular in cafés throughout Europe. Or simply stroll beneath the trees along the city’s scenic riverside promenade, which is lined with the gorgeous villas of 19th-century entrepreneurs.

Let's Go: Rhine Hiking

Set out on a brisk hike up to the Gedeonseck for unparalleled views of the Rhine River Valley. You’ll want to bring good shoes for this steep hike up to the top, where you can look upon the picture-perfect riverbend below.

Take a break at the restaurant here if you would like to rest and ...

Take a break at the restaurant here if you would like to rest and have a bite on your own. Alternatively, you could join your guide on a brief walk to Vierseenblick, a spot where 4 stretches of the Rhine can be seen, each looking like an individual lake.

Conditions permitting, we’ll take the aerial cable car down to the bottom of the hill, so you can relax and enjoy the views a little while longer during the ride.

Boppard, Koblenz

Get to know Koblenz, a historic town with a colorful past and eclectic architecture, and enjoy a visit to the stunningly medieval Marksburg Castle. As you come upon picture-perfect Koblenz, you’ll sail past Deutsches Eck (German Corner) with its historic monument to Kaiser Wilhelm I.

Rheinstein Castle Visit

Of the dozens of castles perched above the Rhine River, Burg Rheinstein holds a special charm. The castle is over 700 years old, and feels every bit as medieval today as it did all those centuries ago—even the old drawbridge still works! Rheinstein changed hands over the years, coming under...

Of the dozens of castles perched above the Rhine River, Burg Rheinstein holds a special charm. The castle is over 700 years old, and feels every bit as medieval today as it did all those centuries ago—even the old drawbridge still works! Rheinstein changed hands over the years, coming under Prussian control during Prince Frederick’s reign, to which the castle owes its Romantic period refurbishments. Today, it is lovingly taken care of by the Hecher family, who are pleased to invite you in to hear their stories about the castle and admire it’s well-kept interiors. While you’re here, make sure to appreciate the view over the Rhine, it’s hard to beat!

The Four Lakes Cable Car

Boppard sits on the widest loop of the river Rhine, and if you find the right spot, this makes for one incredible view. Take a cable car up to the Vierseenblick , a vantage spot with a name that translates to “Four Lakes View.” Don’t be fooled by the name however, what you’re ...

Boppard sits on the widest loop of the river Rhine, and if you find the right spot, this makes for one incredible view. Take a cable car up to the Vierseenblick , a vantage spot with a name that translates to “Four Lakes View.” Don’t be fooled by the name however, what you’re actually seeing a wide curve of the Rhine River, broken up by rolling hills to create an illusion of four distinct lakes. You’ll have a bit of free time to appreciate this incredible sight before riding the cable car back down to Boppard.

Koblenz Walking Tour

Watch the waters of the Moselle meld with the Rhine’s as you stand on the spit of land called German Corner: It’s the perfect spot for a symbol of German unity, an equestrian statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I, who united the nation in the 19th century. (There’s another symbol of German...

Watch the waters of the Moselle meld with the Rhine’s as you stand on the spit of land called German Corner: It’s the perfect spot for a symbol of German unity, an equestrian statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I, who united the nation in the 19th century. (There’s another symbol of German unity here too: three panels of the Berlin Wall.) Behind it is Koblenz’s oldest church, St. Castor’s Basilica, first erected in the ninth century, and just one of the charming churches and squares you’ll encounter as you wander through Old Town. Like many Rhineland towns, Koblenz suffered at the hands of Louis XIV’s forces—that’s why you’ll see so many baroque features in the buildings you pass, since so many needed to be reconstructed after the French left. That’s also why the Church of Our Lady has twin onion domes. Despite their travails over the ages, though, Koblenz’s citizens kept their sense of humor: One example of it might catch you by surprise as you pass the fountain known as the Spitting Boy, which spits water without warning.

After the tour, you’ll have some free time to enjoy the Marktplatz (Market Square) and its bounty of shopping and wine bars.

Let’s Go: Bike Along the Rhine & Moselle

Hop on your custom Uniworld bicycle and follow your guide along 12.5 miles of scenic paths. Make your way through the Rhine promenade in Koblenz, head towards the castles of Stolzenfels and Lahneck for an incredible viewing point, and find another great view of the Marksburg shortly after....

Hop on your custom Uniworld bicycle and follow your guide along 12.5 miles of scenic paths. Make your way through the Rhine promenade in Koblenz, head towards the castles of Stolzenfels and Lahneck for an incredible viewing point, and find another great view of the Marksburg shortly after. You’ll see the beautiful fishing village of Spay before turning back towards Koblenz, where we’ll take a 30-minute break at a local beer garden. While we rest, you can purchase a refreshment if you’d like, and then we’ll bike back along the Rhine Cycle Path to return to the ship.

Climbing Forest Koblenz

Join your dedicated Family Host for an adventure at the Climbing Forest of Koblenz. As you're harnessed safely to ropes and nets, you'll climb an obstacle course through the trees while having fun in the great outdoors with your family members. Far above the ground, you'll enjoy fantastic views in...

Join your dedicated Family Host for an adventure at the Climbing Forest of Koblenz. As you're harnessed safely to ropes and nets, you'll climb an obstacle course through the trees while having fun in the great outdoors with your family members. Far above the ground, you'll enjoy fantastic views in this climbing haven.

History buffs will enjoy an expertly led tour through Cologne’s Old Town, where three medieval gates remain standing, as does the old city hall with its Renaissance façade. Wander through the city’s historical center and take in its charming atmosphere, narrow alleyways flanked by old houses, and countless breweries. No matter how you choose to explore Old Town, you’ll also have ample free time to explore on your own.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Cologne Walking Tour

Follow your guide around some of the most popular sites of Cologne, the largest city on the Rhine. You’ll pass the old fish market, City Hall with its Renaissance façade, and the old Jewish mikvah (a bath used for ritual cleansing).

Meander through the narrow, cobbled lanes of Old...

Meander through the narrow, cobbled lanes of Old Town, lined with traditional houses in every color and a plethora of restaurants and pubs. One of the city’s 12 Romanesque churches provides a castle-like backdrop to this quaint, riverside quarter of Cologne.

Your local expert will take you all the way to the Domplatte, the square where you’ll find the Cologne Cathedral. Should you wish, you can head inside this Gothic building on your own to see the Shrine of the Magi and the beautiful stained-glass windows. Otherwise, try asking your guide for tips on what to explore. Whatever your interests, our local expert knows all the best spots in town!

Gargoyles and Chocolate

What do gargoyles and chocolate have in common? Not much, except that the ones in Cologne are famous. Start with the gargoyles as your walking tour through Cologne takes you past the city’s iconic Gothic cathedral, where over 100 stone beasts stand guard. Then end your tour with a sweet...

What do gargoyles and chocolate have in common? Not much, except that the ones in Cologne are famous. Start with the gargoyles as your walking tour through Cologne takes you past the city’s iconic Gothic cathedral, where over 100 stone beasts stand guard. Then end your tour with a sweet treat as we stop at the local chocolate museum.

Amsterdam (Disembark)

Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol for your flight home. Alternatively, you may continue your adventure with our optional post-cruise Amsterdam extension.

Amsterdam Post-Cruise Extension

• 2 nights at the Hilton Amsterdam Hotel (or similar)
• Amsterdam canals and famous Rijksmuseum

Amsterdam Pre-Cruise Extension

Amsterdam (Embark)

Arrive at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.

Koblenz, Boppard

Get to know Koblenz, a historic town with a colorful past and eclectic architecture, and enjoy a visit to the stunningly medieval Marksburg Castle.

Marksburg Castle Visit

With its pale walls, slate-gray roof, and unusually slender towers and turrets, Marksburg looks as though it has been lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. But don’t be deceived: this is a powerful fortress, built to withstand attack. Marksburg’s defenses were so daunting that...

With its pale walls, slate-gray roof, and unusually slender towers and turrets, Marksburg looks as though it has been lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. But don’t be deceived: this is a powerful fortress, built to withstand attack. Marksburg’s defenses were so daunting that enemies generally chose to leave it alone. That’s why this is the only hill castle in Germany that has never been destroyed—a remarkable fact when you consider its 700-year-long history. Enter the fortress through a drawbridge gate and vaulted tunnel—just the first of the many defensive features you’ll encounter on your tour. Notice the “murder holes” in the walls; these would have let defenders pour boiling pitch on would-be invaders. Horsemen once thundered up the Riders’ Stairway, which was hewn into the bedrock, but you can take the steps at a more leisurely pace. Guides will show you the cannons of the Great Battery, once aimed at the Rhine River, and the castle kitchen with its enormous fireplace. You’ll tour the bedchamber, the great banquet hall, the armory, the stables, and, if you’re feeling brave, the torture chamber. Don’t miss the re-created medieval garden, with 150 plants used in the Middle Ages for curative (or magical) purposes.

Boppard, Rüdesheim

Experience Germany’s fabled Rhine River in beautiful Rüdesheim. Enjoy a private tasting of estate-grown Rieslings at Castle Vollrads or explore Rüdesheim and the impressive Niederwald monument.

Let’s Go: Vineyard Hike

Immerse yourselves in the vines today with a refreshing walk through the vineyards by Rüdesheim. Starting with a walk by the river, you’ll wind your way past the markets square and up through the Weinlehrpfad, the Wine Trail. Along the way, you’ll pass several historic buildings...

Immerse yourselves in the vines today with a refreshing walk through the vineyards by Rüdesheim. Starting with a walk by the river, you’ll wind your way past the markets square and up through the Weinlehrpfad, the Wine Trail. Along the way, you’ll pass several historic buildings and monuments, learning their stories from your guide as you go, enjoy a glass of wine made from the vines around you, and discover some beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Nahe river with its Roman Bridge.

Germersheim (Speyer)

A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.

Basel (Disembark)

Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg for your flight home (unless, of course, you’ve decided to extend your trip with the post-cruise extension to lovely Lake Lucerne).

Lake Lucerne Post-Cruise Extension

What's Included

• All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
• 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners
• Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
• Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners
• Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks and mineral water

• 6 days of excursions, including "Choice Is Yours" options, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
• Guided “Let's Go” program
• State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
• Use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks

Accommodations

• 7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the exquisite S.S. Antoinette , the regal River Queen or the elegant S.S. Victoria
• Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites have handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu of pillow options
• Free Internet and Wi-Fi access

Experiences

• 4 countries: France, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland
• 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
• Captivating onboard local entertainment
• Cultural enrichment, including a Signature Lecture
• Group Transfers are included on arrival and departure days (please see terms and conditions for transfer guidelines)
• Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour

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Rhine River Cruises

See inside a new ultra-luxury river cruise line that's charging up to $59,520 per person

• Newcomer Riverside Luxury Cruises wants to break into the growing river cruise market.
• The ultra-luxury cruise line  operates former Crystal ships in popular European rivers like the Danube.
• Riverside's 2024 cruises start at $1,055 per person for four days.

A new ultra-luxury cruise line wants to be the swankiest travel-by-river vacation option.

To do so, it's enticing cruisers with truffle-infused butter, $320-per-person dinners, and butlers that can be beckoned with a simple WhatsApp message.

Affluent travelers , meet Riverside Luxury Cruises.

The budding company first set sail in March 2023. With a year of service under its belt, its three ships are now sailing some of Europe's most popular rivers — starting at more than $260 per person per day.

Riverside is operated by Seaside Collection, a European hotelier.

The firm had its sights set on a river cruise venture since 2018, Jen Halboth, CEO of Riverside Luxury Cruises, told Business Insider.

Ironically, COVID-19 was the reason it got into the business.

Crystal Cruises declared bankruptcy in early 2022 amid the pandemic. Shortly after, Seaside purchased and updated five of the then-defunct cruise line's ships.

Three of these vessels now make up Riverside's fleet. The other two are being leased to competitor Uniworld River Cruises.

River cruising has become increasingly popular as wealthy travelers gravitate to ultra-luxury small-ship vacations.

River cruise ships are much smaller than their behemoth ocean-based counterparts, allowing Riverside to sail in waterways like Europe's Rhine, Rhone, Danube, Main, Moselle, and Saône rivers.

Along the way, guests can explore destinations many giant ships can't easily access — like Budapest, Hungary; Frankfurt, Germany; and Amsterdam — sometimes visiting more than one port in a day.

One of Riverside's shortest and cheapest 2024 voyages starts at $1,055 per person for a four-day Danube River cruise from Passau, Germany, to Vienna.

Alcohol and excursion packages can tack on an extra $75 to $175 per person per night.

Looking to ball out? The most expensive and longest itinerary is $59,521 per person for a three-river, 22-day cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest, Hungary, in the most expensive suite with the most inclusive package.

To compare, the cheapest 2024 voyage with all-inclusive luxury competitor Uniworld River Cruises starts at $2,000 per person for an eight-day Danube River sailing.

River cruisers tend to be over the age of 55.

But the new company is targeting guests 45 years old and older, specifically those who frequent luxury vacations but have yet to try a river cruise.

"New luxury travelers want to be pampered, get off and have an adventure, and come back and be taken care of," the cruise line's CEO said.

"Pampering” they will get.

Of Riverside's three ships, the 394-foot-long, 74-foot-wide Mozart can accommodate the most guests — up to 162, not including the 82 crew.

Yes, it's larger than Uniworld's ships, which range from 32 to 159 guests. But it's also significantly smaller than Royal Caribbean's new 9,950-person Icon of the Seas ocean vessel.

Like most cruise liners, Riverside's three ships have spas, buffets, and plush lounges and bars.

During the day, travelers can enjoy lunch at the open-air grill and relax to live music courtesy of Steinway and Bösendorfer pianos, no less.

At night, they can dine on a seven-course meal at the 295 euros ($320) per-person Vintage Room.

Riverside’s ships have up to 5 restaurants. Vintage Room is the only specialty option.

The cost to dine includes a wine pairing and plates like veal with truffle and chanterelle mushrooms and "surf and turf" with beef sirloin and scallops.

But don't expect a lackluster, rushed meal at the other complimentary options: "This is not a churn-and-burn," the company's CEO said of the ships' Waterside restaurants. "You come in for fine dining."

Infused, whipped butter is apparently one of Riverside's hottest commodities.

Sometimes, it has chiles. Other times, it's infused with citrus. If you're lucky, you'll get one with truffles.

"People were raving about our butter," Halboth said. "Everyone's waiting to see what butter they'll get at dinner each night."

Need to sleep off all that dairy? You're in luck. Every cabin has a king bed.

Riverside's suites range from 194 to 883 square-feet. These high-end cabins include butler service, stocked mini-bars, and espresso machines.

Some suites also have double-sink vanities and walk-in closets, a hallmark of an ultra-luxury cruise vessel .

Does Riverside’s more than $260 per person, per day fare seem reasonable now?

If yes, book soon. It'll only get more expensive from here.

These fares don't offset the amount Riverside is spending on amenities like the upscale food, according to Halboth. To make up for these expenditures, the cruise line plans to raise its prices gradually over the next two years.

The company's CEO said bookings have been 'a little lighter' since the start of 2024.

But the back half of the year is "filling up" thanks to Americans: About 70 to 80% of its guests are from North America, the company said.

Riverside will operate its Mozart, Ravel, and Debussy ships for three years as it 'hones the brand,' Halboth said.

The cruise line's two additional vessels would join its fleet in the next few years.

Given the growing popularity of river cruises , it's a good time for companies like Riverside to start expanding.

However, it could face plenty of incoming competition.

Jamie Loizou, the UK managing director of luxury river cruise line AmaWaterways, is forecasting 2024 as a "pivotal" year for the river cruise industry, noting that 15 new river-based vessels are expected to launch this year, Cruise Critic reported .

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