Day 1: Arrival in Mainz and cruise to Rüdesheim
The Merlijn will be docked in the vibrant city of Mainz, where the crew eagerly awaits your arrival. As you step aboard, you'll be welcomed with a refreshing drink while receiving an introduction to the ship, the planned excursions, and the bicycles. At approximately 4:30 pm, the Merlijn will set sail towards Rüdesheim, where it will remain moored for the night. If time allows before boarding, consider exploring Mainz’s Old Town, the pride and charm of the city’s cultural scene.

Day 2: Rüdesheim - Oberwesel - Koblenz (25 mi. / 40 km)
At sunrise, the Merlijn will begin its journey to Oberwesel. Today’s adventure takes you through one of the most picturesque sections of the Rhine, famously known as the 'Romantic Rhine'. This stretch is adorned with captivating legends and crowned with grand castles. En route, you will pass the legendary Loreley Rock, named after the mythical siren whose enchanting song lured sailors to their fate. As evening approaches, the ship will anchor in Koblenz, where the majestic Rhine and Moselle rivers meet.

Day 3: Koblenz - Alken - Cochem (25 mi. / 40 km)
Enjoy a delightful breakfast as the Merlijn cruises along the scenic Moselle River, arriving in Alken, where your cycling adventure begins. Pedal your way to Moselkern before venturing into the lush Elztal Valley, where the magnificent Eltz Castle awaits. This well-preserved medieval fortress, perched high on a rocky peak, has miraculously never fallen to ruin. After exploring its storied halls, continue your ride towards the enchanting town of Cochem, where the Merlijn will be awaiting your return. Take time to discover Cochem’s iconic Reichsburg Castle or meander through its picturesque streets.

Day 4: Cochem - Zell - Traben-Trarbach (23 mi. or extend to 34 mi. / 36 km or extend to 55 km)
Following breakfast, embark on a scenic cycling journey, beginning in Cochem and leading to the storybook village of Beilstein. Renowned for its beautifully preserved medieval character, this charming settlement invites you to step back in time as you stroll through its historic streets. From there, follow the winding Moselle to Zell, famous for its celebrated 'Zeller Schwarze Katz' vineyard. Here, you can either rejoin the Merlijn for a leisurely cruise to Traben-Trarbach or extend your ride and cycle all the way there.

Day 5: Traben-Trarbach - Bernkastel Kues - Trier (24 mi. or extend to 31 mi. / 38 km or extend to 50 km)
Start your day with a relaxing breakfast cruise before setting off on a picturesque bike ride along the Moselle’s scenic banks. Your first destination is Bernkastel-Kues, a town steeped in history, home to Germany’s oldest marketplace. Continue your journey to Neumagen, where you can choose to board the Merlijn or extend your cycling route to Mehring.

Mehring holds a place of historical significance as it was here that the Romans, mesmerized by the region’s beauty, first settled over two millennia ago. Those who opt for the extended ride will rejoin the ship here before cruising towards Trier. The evening culminates in another exquisite onboard dinner, bringing a perfect close to the day’s adventures.

Day 6: Trier (36 mi. / 58 km)
Today’s itinerary offers a unique departure from the usual bike-and-barge experience as the Merlijn remains anchored in Trier, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its treasures.

For cycling enthusiasts, an exhilarating route awaits. Unlike previous days, this journey takes you away from the riverbanks and into breathtaking mountainous terrain, offering spectacular views and thrilling downhill trails. A bus will transport you to the mountain peaks, where you'll begin an unforgettable ride along a former railway line back to the Moselle.

For those preferring a more leisurely day, leave your bike aboard and explore Trier’s rich history, charming boutiques, and inviting cafés. Your guide will be on hand to offer recommendations and ensure you make the most of your visit.

Day 7: Trier - Saarburg (16 mi. or 31 mi. / 25 km or 50 km)
The morning offers another opportunity to delve into Trier’s fascinating past with a guided tour through its historical gems. Once a key city in the Western Roman Empire, Trier is home to impressive landmarks such as the formidable Porta Nigra.

In the afternoon, set out on a scenic cycling route to Saarburg. This charming town captivates visitors with its narrow lanes, half-timbered houses, and striking Baroque architecture. Quaint fishing cottages and historic mariners’ homes add to its allure. The renowned architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel once dubbed Saarburg ‘Little Venice’, a fitting name for its idyllic canals and charming bridges in the Buttermarkt district.

Day 8: Saarburg - Merzig (20 mi / 32 km)
After exploring Saarburg’s captivating streets and taking in panoramic views over the city and Saar Valley, embark on a scenic 15 km bike ride to the famous Saar Loop near Orscholz. This iconic river bend epitomizes the serene beauty of the Saarland region, where land and water intertwine harmoniously. From the Cloef viewpoint above, enjoy a breathtaking panorama that will surely leave a lasting impression.

Depending on the group’s preference and fitness level, you may either cycle or hike up to this stunning vantage point. Along the way, consider a stop in the delightful village of Mettlach, home to the renowned Villeroy & Boch. Upon arrival in Merzig, it’s time to bid farewell to the Merlijn. The evening concludes with a celebratory farewell dinner aboard, perhaps followed by a leisurely evening stroll to soak in the final moments of your journey.

Day 9: Departure from Merzig
Disembark after breakfast, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.

Day 1: Arrival in Merzig and cruise to Saarburg
Board the Merlijn in the afternoon as the journey begins. Savor a welcome beverage while meeting the crew and receiving an introduction to the route, along with a safety briefing. Following dinner, enjoy an evening walk through Saarburg, a picturesque town featuring winding streets, charming half-timbered houses, and a breathtaking view of the Saar Valley.

Day 2: Saarburg - Trier (19 - 22 mi. / 30 - 35 km)
Pedal along the Saar River, heading downstream to Trier, where the Saar merges with the Moselle at Konz. Join a guided exploration of Trier, taking in landmarks such as the imposing Porta Nigra - an ancient Roman city gate - and the historic Roman Baths.

Day 3: Trier (34 - 37 mi. / 55 - 60 km)
Spend a full day in Trier with two choices: embark on a cycling excursion through undulating landscapes, starting with a morning transfer into the hills before coasting along a scenic, gently descending bike route, or opt for a relaxed day discovering Trier’s rich past, browsing boutiques, and enjoying local cafés.

Day 4: Trier - Mehring - Bernkastel - Traben-Trarbach (25 - 28 mi. / 40 - 45 km)
Cruise to Mehring, where the day’s cycling adventure begins in a region cherished by the Romans for millennia. Pass through Neumagen-Drohn before reaching Bernkastel-Kues, home to beautifully preserved timber-framed houses encircling one of Europe’s oldest marketplaces. Conclude the day with a wine tasting at Storck Winery in Traben-Trarbach.

Day 5: Traben-Trarbach - Zell - Cochem (25 - 28 mi. / 40 - 45 mi. or extend to 40 - 43 mi. / 65 - 70 km)
For early risers, an optional extended morning ride is available before the main cycling route begins in Zell, famed for its Zeller Schwarze Katz vineyards. Ride along the Moselle, pausing in picturesque towns such as Alf, Sankt Aldegund (renowned for its wines, liqueurs, and regional mustards), Bremm, and Beilstein before reaching Cochem, where the Merlijn will be waiting.

Day 6: Cochem - Koblenz (25 - 28 mi. / 40 - 45 km) + Hike (2 mi. / 3 km)
Cycle from Cochem into the serene Eltztal Valley, where you'll leave your bike to embark on a hike to Eltz Castle, a remarkably well-preserved medieval stronghold. After touring the castle, resume biking towards Koblenz, where the Merlijn will be moored.

Day 7: Koblenz - Rüdesheim (19 - 22 mi. / 30 - 35 km)
Enjoy breakfast while gliding through the enchanting Middle Rhine, passing the storied Loreley Rock. Begin cycling in Oberwesel, tracing the Rhine Gorge to Bingen before taking a ferry across to Rüdesheim, famous for its lively Drosselgasse alley. A scenic cable car ride is available for those seeking panoramic views of the Rhine Valley.

Day 8: Rüdesheim - Mainz (22 - 25 mi. / 35 - 40 km)
Pedal along the Rhine, passing through Oestrich-Winkel and Eltville, both known for their vineyards and stunning riverside scenery. Stop to indulge in a classic Berliner pastry before reaching Mainz, the capital of Rhineland-Palatinate, where you’ll explore the Old Town’s grand Baroque churches and historic squares. Celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner onboard.

Day 9: Departure from Mainz
Following breakfast, disembark and continue your European adventure or travel home.

Day 1: Arrival in Mainz and cruise to Rüdesheim
Check in during the afternoon as the Merlijn makes its way toward Rüdesheim, where you’ll dock for the night. Sip a welcome drink while meeting the crew, followed by a safety briefing and a delightful dinner on board. Later, take an evening stroll through the picturesque town nestled along the Rhine.

Day 2: Rüdesheim - Koblenz (19-22 mi. / 30-35 km)
Embark on your first cycling adventure along the enchanting Rhine, passing historic fortresses, rolling vineyards, and the legendary Loreley Rock. In the afternoon, rejoin the Merlijn for a scenic sail to Koblenz, a charming city where the Moselle and Rhine rivers converge, and settle in for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Koblenz - Cochem (25-28 mi. / 40-45 km) + Hike (2 mi. / 3 km)
As you enjoy breakfast, cruise past the initial locks of the Moselle before beginning a ride through the lush Eltztal Valley. Take a short hike up to Eltz Castle, an impeccably preserved medieval stronghold. Continue cycling to Cochem, where you can explore Reichsburg Castle or wander through the town’s romantic alleys.

Day 4: Cochem - Zell - Traben-Trarbach (22-25 mi. / 35-40 km)
Pedal along the Moselle, pausing in Beilstein, a storybook village untouched by time. Ride onward to Zell, known for its famous Zeller Schwarze Katz wines, before boarding the Merlijn for an afternoon cruise. Cap off the day with an elegant wine tasting at the renowned Storck Winery.

Day 5: Traben-Trarbach - Trier (22-25 mi. / 35-40 km or extend to 31-34 mi. / 50-55 km)
Following a leisurely breakfast cruise, cycle along the Moselle, stopping in Bernkastel-Kues, home to Germany’s most historic marketplace. Choose to board early for a relaxing sail or extend your ride to Mehring, where the Romans first established settlements along the Moselle. Later, rejoin the Merlijn for a cruise to Trier and enjoy a gourmet dinner on board.

Day 6: Trier - Saarburg (19-22 mi. / 30-35 km)
Start the morning with a guided exploration of Trier, where you’ll discover the Porta Nigra and other impressive Roman relics. In the afternoon, cycle to Saarburg, a delightful town of timber-framed houses, elegant Baroque buildings, and vibrant fishing cottages, often dubbed ‘Little Venice’ for its scenic canals and bridges.

Day 7: Saarburg - Merzig (19-22 mi. / 30-35 km) + Hike (2 mi. / 3 km)
Begin the day cycling towards the breathtaking Saar Loop near Orscholz, the most iconic river bend in the Saarland region. Take a short hike or ride up to the Cloef viewpoint, where sweeping panoramas await. Continue onward to Mettlach, home to the historic headquarters of Villeroy & Boch, before reaching Merzig for a celebratory farewell dinner.

Day 8: Departure from Merzig
Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking. Whether continuing your European travels or heading to the airport, depart with cherished memories of your journey.

• 7 nights aboard the Merlijn
• Welcome drink
• 7 x breakfast buffet, 6 x packed lunches, and 6 x three-course dinner
• Unlimited coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water
• A selection of sodas, wines (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and beers on tap and from the bottle (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
• Supply of bedding, towels, facial tissues, hand soap, soap, shampoo, sewing kit, vanity kit, bathrobe, and slippers
• Daily cabin cleaning
• Tour guide and daily tour briefing
• 11-speed bicycle, which includes a waterproof pannier, towel
• Helmet with communication system
• Support vehicle on select days (2026 tours)
• Canal, bridge & harbor fees
• Ferry fees on cycle routes
• Entrance to the castle of Eltz
• Wine tasting session
• Guided city tour of Trier

• 8 nights aboard the Merlijn
• Welcome drink
• 8 x breakfast buffet, 7 x packed lunches, and 7 x three-course dinner
• Unlimited coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water
• A selection of sodas, wines (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and beers on tap and from the bottle (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
• Supply of bedding, towels, facial tissues, hand soap, soap, shampoo, sewing kit, vanity kit, bathrobe, and slippers
• Daily cabin cleaning
• Tour guide and daily tour briefing
• 11-speed bicycle, which includes a waterproof pannier, towel
• Helmet with communication system
• Support vehicle on select days (2026 tours)
• Canal, bridge & harbor fees
• Ferry fees on cycle routes
• Entrance to the castle of Eltz
• Wine tasting session
• Guided city tour of Trier