For rates, terms, and more, download the brochure. Because cruise pricing can be complex and varies by cabin type, we encourage you to download the brochure and refer to page 7 for a detailed overview of available options and rates.

The elegant MS River Crown, is a beautifully appointed 100‑passenger river vessel offering a perfect blend of comfort, scenic cruising, and enriching experiences aboard. Public spaces make the most of the passing landscape, with a lounge, bar, and restaurant on the Upper Deck featuring large panoramic windows—ideal for enjoying the views as you dine, relax, or listen to onboard lectures. Premium cabins feature French balconies, while deluxe cabins include a dedicated seating area for added comfort.

Visit the Maginot Line fortification near Strasbourg; strategically critical Allied Rhine River crossings; and Arnhem, where the unsuccessful Operation Market Garden unfolded with a chance to walk the Oversteek Bridge where American soldiers are honored.

Discover the enchanting timber-framed streets of Colmar and the storied waterways of Dordrecht—Holland’s oldest town, founded in 1008—where centuries of trade, art and daily life still echo along the canals.

Explore medieval cathedrals and Renaissance squares to modern design in Basel and Cologne, with visits to top collections like the Unterlinden Museum, Kröller-Müller Museum, and Mainz Gutenberg.

This departure brings together travelers from peer organizations, including MIT Alumni Travel, Harvard Alumni Travel, Princeton Seminary Expeditions, and National Trust Tours. Faculty from these institutions will present compelling lectures open to all onboard.

Depart home on an overnight flight to Basel Switzerland. Upon arrival on June 18, transfer to the elegant MS River Crown, your home for the journey ahead. Settle into your cabin and take time to explore the ship before gathering for a welcome reception followed by dinner on board as your voyage begins.

(Meals included: Reception, Dinner)

Start your day with a riveting onboard lecture series before arriving in the storybook medieval town of Colmar, known for its half-timbered houses, flower-lined canals, and Alsatian charm. Choose to visit the renowned Unterlinden Museum to view the extraordinary Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterpiece of Northern Renaissance art. Alternatively, opt to travel to Riquewihr, a beautifully preserved medieval village in the heart of Alsace and savor a tasting of Alsace’s celebrated wines.

(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Arrive this morning in Strasbourg, one of the most beautiful cities in France, for a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town. Wander its cobbled streets lined with colorful timber-framed houses and stop to admire the soaring spires of its magnificent cathedral. Cruise through the canals of the charming Petite France district in small local boats, passing historic mills, quaint bridges, and waterfront cafés. In the afternoon, choose between visiting Fort Schoenenbourg, a well-preserved Maginot Line fortification that provides fascinating insight into France’s defensive strategy during World War II, or enjoying free time to explore Strasbourg independently.

(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

The day begins with an engaging lecture on board before arriving in Heidelberg, a UNESCO City of Literature renowned for its romantic charm and intellectual legacy. Explore the dramatic Heidelberg Castle, perched high above the Neckar River with sweeping valley views, followed by a guided stroll through the atmospheric Old Town with the chance to sample local specialties showcasing the city’s rich culinary traditions. In the afternoon, choose between free time to explore Heidelberg at your own pace or visit Mainz for its rich Roman heritage, charming old town, Rhine riverfront setting, and the Gutenberg Museum, where one of history’s most revolutionary inventions changed the spread of knowledge forever.

(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Cruise through the UNESCO-protected Rhine Gorge this morning, one of the most scenic stretches of the Rhine, where steep vineyard-covered slopes, medieval castles, and picturesque villages unfold at every turn. This legendary passage has inspired poets, painters, and travelers for centuries. In the afternoon, choose between exploring Koblenz’s historic Old Town, strolling through inviting squares and narrow lanes to the “German Corner,” where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet beneath a monumental statue of Emperor Wilhelm I, or visiting Fort Ehrenbreitstein for its commanding hilltop position above the Rhine and its fascinating history as one of Europe’s great fortified strongholds.

(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Our lecture series continues this morning before arriving in Cologne, to explore the lively Old Town, known for its historic architecture, vibrant squares, and colorful buildings. Walk inside the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an extraordinary example of Gothic architecture. In the afternoon, continue exploring Cologne with three options: insight into the city’s World War II history by visiting the Netherlands American Cemetery and a former Gestapo headquarters; learn about Kölsch beer through a curated tasting with a local brewmaster; or spend free time browsing Cologne’s boutiques, cafés, and riverside promenades at your own pace. Enjoy the MS River Crown remaining in port this evening for an opportunity to dine ashore independently at a traditional German brauhaus.

(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Today, choose from three memorable excursions in Arnhem: 1) Airborne Museum to learn about Operation Market Garden, then walk across the historic Oversteek Bridge, a poignant site honoring the bravery of Allied paratroopers; 2) Kröller-Müller Art Museum, home to one of the largest Van Gogh collections in the world; or 3) a guided tour of Arnhem including the impressive Eusebius Church with its soaring tower and panoramic views of the city.

(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Arrive in Dordrecht, Holland’s oldest city, for a morning trip to the UNESCO-protected windmills of Kinderdijk, a remarkable group of 19 historic mills dating back to 1740 that highlight the Netherlands’ innovative approach to water management. Return to Dordrecht to explore this picturesque town with an old-world atmosphere, scenic canals, unique shops, and historic cottages. In the afternoon, relax as you cruise toward Rotterdam, where a farewell reception and dinner on board celebrate the conclusion of your journey.

(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Disembark this morning and transfer to Amsterdam Airport for your return flights home, or extend your journey with an optional three-night post-trip extension in the Netherlands.

(Meals included: Breakfast)

Extend your journey with an enriching three-night post-trip extension in the Netherlands, pairing Rotterdam’s bold contemporary spirit with the timeless beauty of Amsterdam. After disembarking the MS River Crown, explore Rotterdam, a dynamic city known for innovative architecture and a vibrant cultural scene, including a guided visit to FENIX, a major new international museum dedicated to migration and human stories. Continue to Amsterdam for a three-night stay in the Dutch capital, where canal-lined streets, gabled houses, lively squares, and centuries of maritime and artistic history create one of Europe’s most atmospheric settings. Discover the 17th-century historic center on foot, enjoy time at Museumplein, home to the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, and experience the city from the water on a scenic canal cruise. Ample free time is built in for independent exploration, while included meals at carefully selected restaurants highlight Amsterdam’s rich culinary scene.

June 17 - 26, 2027
To register, contact CAU Partner Criterion Travel
Phone: 888-328-2089 | Email: res@criteriontravel.com
Register online

April 1 - 12, 2027
CAU Study Tour featuring Professor Robert Raguso
In partnership with Criterion Travel
Exclusive to Cornell

CAU is your first choice for in-depth, lifelong learning with Cornell faculty in the classroom and around the globe. Our Select Tours feature faculty from peer institutions and are opportunities you don't want to miss!

We are committed to ensuring that CAU and Cornell Alumni Travel tours provide a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone. You can find the expectations that are applicable to all attendees of Cornell University alumni events, both on and off campus, by visiting this link.