2025 Switzerland to Amsterdam Riverboat Cruise
RiverboatWaitlist

Switzerland to Amsterdam Riverboat Cruise

Apr 12, 2025  -  Apr 19, 2025
  • Basel
  • Breisach
  • Strasbourg
  • Heidelberg
  • Mainz
  • Resheim
  • Rhine Gorge
  • Koblenz
  • Cologne
  • Amsterdam
Cruise the Rhine River and explore four countries in seven days with Olivia!Book Your Perfect Trip

What's Included

  • Group transfer from the Zürich Airport Radisson Blu host hotel to the ship in Basel on April 12, 2025 for flights arriving before 10 am
  • Accommodations for 8 days/7 nights on the Avalon Vista, one of the finest riverboats on the Rhine
  • All meals while on board
  • Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; coffee, tea, and juices with all meals; beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Daily Happy Hour with included drinks (top shelf drinks additional cost)
  • Standard wifi in all cabins and public areas
  • Olivia entertainment and programming, as well as local entertainment
  • Included sightseeing tours in each port
  • Gratuities to ship crew and Avalon cruise director
  • Personalized Team Olivia assistance throughout
What's Included
  • What's Not Included
    • Airfare to Zürich and from Amsterdam
    • Transfer from the ship to the Amsterdam airport on April 19, 2025
    • Optional excursions
    • Alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and soft drinks (except where indicated)
    • Phone/fax
    • Travel insurance & personal incidentals

Itinerary

  • Day 1BaselDockSaturday, Apr 12, 20255:00 PM

    Welcome to Switzerland! Flights into Switzerland must arrive by 10 am to join the included group transfer to the ship from the Switzerland Airport at approximately 11 am. If arriving to Basel on your own, all guests must be on the ship by 5 pm. You may choose to take a guided optional excursion in Basel, or enjoy the open Market near the ship and explore on your own before check-in begins at 4 pm. Tonight we depart for Breisach. (-/-/D)

  • Day 2Breisach, Germany / Excursion to the Black ForestSunday, Apr 13, 2025

    German Winemaking and the Beautiful Black Forest

    Today is all about Discovery. Choose from two tour options. A full-day guided tour to the magical Black Forest to experience the Vogtsbauernohf open-air museum. You’ll also enjoy a visit to an authentic water mill and see a traditional butter-making demonstration. Or visit a local winery in Breisach, where you will learn about German winemaking and enjoy a wine tasting.
    (B/L/D)

  • Day 3Strasbourg, FranceMonday, Apr 14, 2025

    A Grand Cathedral and La Petite France

    Get active and discover Strasbourg by bike. Or choose Classic and join a city sightseeing tour, including Strasbourg’s gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District.
    You may also choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to the historic Maginot Line, the pre-WWII fortifications designed to protect the eastern border of France, or visit Alsace’s wine country today.
    Alternatively, take some free time in Strasbourg to visit a museum or stroll across the city center.
    (B/L/D)

  • Day 4Mainz and Heidelberg, GermanyTuesday, Apr 15, 2025

    Printing Halls, Castle Walls, and the World’s Biggest Wine Barrel

    Today choose from Active or Classic tours. If you’re up for an adventure, choose Active and hike up Philosopher’s Way for an inspiring view of the city below.
    Or choose one of two Classic offerings: a guided city walk, including a visit to the Gutenberg Museum to see the captivating history of printing, or a guided tour to Heidelberg Castle to see the ruins of the magnificent renaissance treasure towering above the city, and its famed Great Vat, the “World’s Largest Wine Barrel”.
    (B/L/D)

  • Day 5Rüdesheim and Rhine Gorge, and Koblenz, GermanyWednesday, Apr 16, 2025

    Eat, Drink and Be Merry in Wine Country

    Choose Active and hike through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim. With a Discovery tour, you’ll take a guided tour of the incredible Mechanical Music Museum, a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience. Enjoy a special Rüdesheim coffee, then explore Drosselgasse and pick up some souvenirs.

    En route to Koblenz, sail through the Rhine Gorge (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Take in the breathtaking views of ancient castles perched on cliffs 400 feet above the water, and pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei, where the mythological siren’s songs lured ill-fated sailors. Travel through 2,000 years of monumental history. Enjoy free time in Koblenz before a relaxing evening on board.
    (B/L/D)

  • Day 6Cologne, GermanyThursday, Apr 17, 2025

    Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland

    Choose from Active, Discovery, or Classic tours. With Active, bike ride like the locals in Cologne. With Discovery, take a guided walking tour of Cologne’s important Jewish Heritage sites. Or choose Classic and enjoy a guided walking tour of Cologne, with its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral. Spend free time over a glass of Kölsch pale lager, locally brewed for over 100 years.
    (B/L/D)

  • Day 7Amsterdam, HollandFriday, Apr 18, 2025

    Canals of Colorful Amsterdam

    Active
    - Start your day on an early morning walk in Amsterdam
    Classic
    - Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a guided canal cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam’s “Golden Age”. In the afternoon, choose a guided option excursion to Keukenhof gardens, with more than seven million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths, as well as other bulbs, planted each year. Or take some free time to explore Amsterdam’s colorful streets, canal houses, galleries, and shops.

    Overnight docking in Amsterdam.
    (B/L/D)

  • Day 8Amsterdam, HollandDisembarkSaturday, Apr 19, 2025

    Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
    (B/-/-)

Entertainment on Your Trip

Each evening when you return to the Avalon Vista, Olivia Artists and local performers will entertain you in the lounge with comedy and music, and a chance to gather at the end of your days of spectacular explorations as we cruise along the Rhine.  You will be joined by the uber-talented musician and funny gal, Lisa Koch for a night of belly laughs and song.  On other nights, American bilingual Latin-folk singer and songwriter, Gina Chavez will charm you. We know you will enjoy these shows!

Your Ship: Avalon Vista

Part of Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships, the Avalon Vista features two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform the living space into river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning to splendid passing scenery from your window-facing bed. Stretch out on your Comfort Collection bed and cruise with the world at your feet. Onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, a Fitness Center, complimentary wifi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro on the Sky Deck. Enjoy exceptional onboard cuisine, including Avalon Fresh® menu options, premium coffee, and spirits, and versatile FlexDining venues, including the casual Panorama Bistro, al fresco Sky Grill (weather permitting), or elegant glass-walled Dining Room. Make yourself at home in the Club lounge with a variety of coffees, teas, cold beverages, and pastries while settling in with your pick of books, cards, and board games. Relax and watch the world go by in the Observation Lounge for the perfect vantage point to enjoy beautiful vistas while cruising your way on the Avalon Vista!

Total Occupancy: 166

Your Ship: Avalon Vista
  • Ship Amenities
    • An entirely non-smoking interior
    • Lounge
    • Covered Observation Lounge
    • Beautiful bars and lounges
    • Sun deck with premium lounge chairs and shade awnings
    • Laundry service (not self-service; check pricing on board)
    • Fitness center
    • Panoramic windows throughout the ship
    • Elegant, contemporary design throughout
    • Elevator
    • Bikes, walking sticks, binoculars, daypacks
    • Maps for hiking, biking, and jogging routes
    • Included shore excursions with local guides, and all tipping to guides included
    • Headsets for shore excursions
    • Complimentary wifi
    • Space to relax & unwind
    • Premium coffees, cappuccinos, and lattes
    • Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate and premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
    • A lounge serving premium spirits (extra charge)
    • Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area, and premium lounges
    • Daily early- and late-riser breakfast
    • Full buffet breakfast with sparkling wine, with complimentary juices and made-to-order egg station*
    • Complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
    • Daily “Happy Hour” with complimentary alcoholic drinks as indicated on drink menu
    • Al fresco lunches on the Sky Bistro
    • Remarkable service throughout the cruise
    • English-speaking crew
  • Room Amenities

    172-300 sq. ft. Staterooms and Suites, some of the largest on the river

    • Most with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors
    • Comfort Collection BedsSM
    • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
    • Bathrobes & slippers
    • Premium L'Occitane bath products
    • Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels
    • Individual climate control and in-room safe
    • Full-size closet and mirror
    • Additional under-bed storage
    • Well-stocked mini-bar
    • Nonallergenic duvets and pillows
    • Filtered water replenished in bottles daily
    • And, much more
  • Dining & Drinks
    • Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
    • Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
    • Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
    • Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
    • Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
    • Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast
    • Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options, and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge
    • Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
    • Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées, and desserts or cheese
    • Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
    • Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy, and allergy-free selections
    • Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits*, cozy seating, panoramic windows, & dance floor
    • Cocktails* with a view on the Sky Deck
    • Specialty coffees, espresso drinks, and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day

      *Extra charge

Payment Plans

Two payment plan options are available when booking online or through a Travel Consultant:

1. Olivia Interest Free Payment Plans: Olivia payment plans must be paid in full six months or 180 days before your trip. If a reservation is made at the six-month mark or less, payment in full will be required unless otherwise noted.

2. Flex Pay Loans: Need to extend your payments over more time? Apply for a Flex Pay loan!

Cancellation Policy & Travel Insurance

Unexpected events can cause you to cancel your vacation. Because we are committed to this charter, we must strictly adhere to our cancellation policy as outlined in our Olivia Terms & Conditions. Transfer funds are nonrefundable and nontransferable from the point of sale forward.

Olivia recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your trip investment against the unexpected. Visit our Insurance page at olivia.com/travel-insurance for more information. For a travel insurance quote, more information or to purchase a protection plan, please call Olivia at 800-631-6277 and select option 1 for a Travel Consultant. You may also purchase insurance online after your checkout.

Cancellation Fees

  • 365 days or more prior to trip date: on or before 4/13/2024

    Cancellation Penalty: 50% of trip cost

  • 0-364 days prior to trip date: 4/14/2024-4/12/2025

    Cancellation Penalty: 100% of trip cost (no refund)

Vacation Stretchers

Pre-Cruise Vacation Stretcher Packages

Zürich, Switzerland:
April 9-12, 2025
April 10-12, 2025

3-night package—SOLD OUT
2-night package—SOLD OUT

Traveler Information

  • About Our Destination

    Being Gay in Europe

    Being LGBTQ+ is widely accepted in all of the countries we visit.

    Climate

    In spring, the weather in this part of Europe has ranged from a chilly and rainy 55° to a sunny, warm 80°! Plan to dress in layers and prepare for anything. Check www.weather.com for the most current weather.

    Currency

    Holland, Germany, and France use the Euro. Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc. Check www.xe.com for current rates.

    Languages

    The languages most commonly spoken in the countries we’ll visit are Dutch, German (and the Swiss German dialect), and French, but most people also speak English!

  • Before Your Trip

    Celebrations: Birthdays, Anniversaries, Honeymoons, and More

    If you will have a birthday or celebration during your vacation and have not already informed your Olivia Travel Consultant, please let us know as soon as possible, but no less than 90 days prior to the trip.

    You can register at Olivia Honeymoon Wishes for your honeymoon, anniversary, or other special celebration; browse through the selections and let your friends know just how easy it is for them to purchase a gift for you.

    Connect with Other Guests: Join the Facebook Group

    If you'd like to chat with people who are going on the trip, join 2026 Switzerland to Amsterdam Riverboat Cruise Facebook Group.

    Travel & Entry Requirements

    We’ve provided an easy tool to allow you to check the latest requirements and provisions for your travel plans: please click here. For specific entry requirements to your chosen destination, simply click on your arrival country under "Where to?" and enter your travel dates.

    Passports & Visas: All travelers will need a passport that is valid for six months after the last day of your trip. If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a visa.

    If you are not a U.S. citizen, please check with both your country’s consulate and the consulates of the other countries we will be visiting to ensure that you do not need an entry visa or other additional documentation.

    Important New Entry Requirements: The European Union is introducing the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) sometime in mid-2025. ETIAS is designed as an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals traveling from 60 countries, including the United States and Canada. This system is being implemented to enhance security and streamline the entry process for travelers visiting the European Union.

    US and Canadian citizens will be/are required to complete a digital application through the official ETIAS website or mobile application to enter the European Union. Starting sometime in 2025, if you are planning to visit one of the 30 EU countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, you will be required to complete a digital application through the official ETIAS website or mobile application. This requirement will apply to travelers who do not currently need a visa for entry into these countries.

    While this might be an additional step in your travel preparations, it is designed to improve your overall experience by reducing waiting times and enhancing security measures. You can fill out your applications at: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en once the site goes live. Please be aware that most ETIAS applications will incur a processing fee of 7 Euros.

    Specific Needs: Dietary, Medical, Mobility, and Other

    If you have any medical, mobility, dietary, or other special requirements that you haven't yet shared, please reach out to [email protected] as soon as possible. To verify if we can accommodate your needs, kindly do so at least 90 days before your trip.

    Vacation Stretchers

    Pre-Cruise Stretchers: Our Pre-Cruise Stretchers in Zurich are now sold out.

    Pre-Cruise Stretchers'

    Post-Cruise Stretchers: We will not be offering vacation stretchers in Amsterdam. If you wish to arrive early, the Doubletree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station is one of the best-located hotels. We also recommend the Movenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre, although it’s a little further away, but still walking distance from the city center and train station. We will offer post-cruise vacation stretchers in Zurich and will announce more details approximately 11 months prior to sailing.

    To assist with your post-trip plans, (air, hotel, transfers and more) we recommend our LGBTQ+ Travel agent, Debbie Gudis at Go Travel: (877) 777-5210 or (408) 364-7300.

    Vaccinations

    Please check with your local Public Health Department or personal physician regarding immunization requirements for all countries on your itinerary. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at: www.cdc.gov. Just click on “Traveler’s Health” followed by “Vaccinations.”

  • Travel and Arrival

    Air Travel

    Airports: You will need to fly into  Zürich Airport (ZRH) and out of Amsterdam-Schiphol International Airport (AMS). We encourage all guests to arrive at least one day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.

    Airfare Discounts

     Delta Airlines: The Delta Airlines discount code NM3S9 is good for up to 10% off and applies to flights into Zurich (ZRH) and out of Amsterdam (AMS). Dates of travel are Apr 4 to Apr 27, 2025. Airfare can be booked no earlier than 11 months before the trip. Click here to book online or call the Delta Meeting Network at (800) 328-1111 Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. (EST) and refer to Meeting Event Code NM3S9. Not all fares are eligible for use with this discount code. Fare rules will determine eligibility.

    United Airlines: The United Airlines discount code: Z Code: ZPTZ and Agreement code: 877055 are good for up to 10% off and applies to flights into Zurich (ZRH) and out of Amsterdam (AMS). Dates of travel are Apr 6, 2025 – Apr 25, 2025. Airfare can be booked no earlier than 11 months before the trip. This reservation can be completed by visiting united.com/meetings (enter the Meeting Code ZPTZ877055 in the Promotions and Certificates box). Or by calling the United Reservations Meetings Desk at (800) 426-1122 and providing the Z code and agreement code (a service fee will apply). You can also choose to book through your preferred travel agency and provide the discount program information. Discount level applicable based on 1st letter of published tariff fare purchased.

    Flight Arrival and Departure Times

    Arrival: Your flight into Zurich Airport (ZRH) should arrive by 10:00 am on April 12, 2025 to be eligible for the included group transfer from the airport to the ship in Basel. If your flight arrives after 10 am, you may need to arrange for your own taxi transfer to the airport, which can cost over 200 Euros.

    Departure: Your flight home can depart from the Amsterdam-Schiphol International Airport (AMS) at any time on April 19, 2025, as the ship will overnight in Amsterdam on April 18.

    Luggage Allowances

    The included group transfer from the Zurich Airport to the ship limits luggage to one piece per person, plus a carry-on. Airlines often restrict (or charge) for excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances. For ease of travel in Europe, we recommend bringing no more than one large piece and a smaller carry-on.

    Ship Embarkation

    Check-In: Official check-in will be available in the afternoon. If arriving to the ship on your own, you can board the ship, drop off your luggage, and enjoy the lounge with small snacks and coffee, tea, and water. You can also venture out on your own to enjoy Basel or choose an optional afternoon city tour. Suites and staterooms will be available to access after 4 pm.

    Port Location: The riverboat will be docked in Basel at a location approximately 60–90 minutes from Zurich International Airport (ZUR). Exact location will be shared in your final trip documents, which will be sent 2–3 weeks prior to departure.

    Transfer to Your Riverboat: An included group transfer will be leaving from Zurich Airport Radison-Blu Hotel between 11:00 – 11:30 am on April 12. The hotel is just a short 5-minute walk from the airport. The exact departure time will be confirmed in final documents. Note that if you miss this transfer, a taxi may cost over 200 Euros!

  • During Your Trip

    Electricity

    The cabins have 110- and 220-volt electricity. Adapters should have 2 round prongs (type C). One USB outlet is also available.

    Entertainment & Programming

    We will bring two Olivia entertainers to perform on several evenings, as well as enjoy some of local entertainment along the way.

    River cruising is all about port destinations. Don’t expect the same ship-activity packed schedule you might find on a big ship or resort! On a typical day, following breakfast we will enjoy a walking tour of the new city we have arrived in, followed by lunch on board and either an optional extra walking (or other) tour or free time to explore. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a fun and informative lecture on the history of the area or take that well-deserved nap. It’s your vacation! In the evenings, we will be delighted by local entertainers or one of our two Olivia artists. After the shows, enjoy our riverboat version of “Club O,” with our talented staff taking turns being a “guest DJ” to provide dancing music in the main lounge. Or you may choose to get to bed early for your next full day!

    Excursions

    A walking and/or city tour is included in each of the ports visited. Optional tours, ranging in price from approximately €39 to €79 or more, may be booked on the Avalon website about 30 days prior to the trip or on board and will not conflict with your included tours.

    Gratuities

    Gratuities are provided to your Avalon cruise director, cabin steward, dining room steward, bus person, maître d’, reception, bar staff and other-behind-the-scenes crew members and are included in the cost of the cruise. Should you receive exceptional service and wish to tip more, this is completely at your discretion.
    Tipping is no longer included for the local guides and bus drivers on included tours and optional tours. We recommend the following as a guideline:
    Local guide: half day—2-3 Euros pp / full day—5 Euros pp
    Bus driver: half day—1 Euro pp / full day—2 Euros pp

    Internet and Email

    Complimentary wifi is included on board in public spaces and in your cabin for use on your personal digital devices (phone, laptop, or tablet computer). There is an onboard internet center with two desktop computers for guest use. Faxes can be sent from the reception desk for a charge.

    Laundry Services

    Laundry and pressing services are available; prices will be available onboard the ship. Dry-cleaning and self-service laundry facilities are not available.

    Medical Services

    The ship will be minutes away from hospitals when we are docked and will be close to local towns when we are cruising along the river. The ship does not have an onboard doctor.

    Money: On-Board Purchases

    The currency used on board is Euros (€). All purchases made on the ship will be charged to your onboard account, which you will create when you first check in. Cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted. Please check with the ship’s front office for further details.

    Phone

    Each cabin has a phone for calling other cabins and for making international and local calls. There is an additional fee to use this phone for international or local calls; cost is available on board. We suggest that you check with your cell phone provider for international service.

    Smoking Policy

    The interior of the Avalon Vista is entirely nonsmoking. Smoking is not permitted in your cabins or on cabin’s Open-AirSM balconies. A smoking area will be designated on an outdoor deck.

  • After Your Trip

    Transfers to the Airport

    We estimate a rideshare or taxi from the ship in Amsterdam to the Amsterdam-Schiphol International Airport (AMS) will cost approximately 60-75 Euros, depending on traffic.

    The ship will be happy to assist in arranging for a taxi at a specific time. Payment for the taxi can be made with the driver.

    Vacation Stretchers

    We are offering optional pre-trip Vacation Stretchers in Zurich. Information on these 1-, 2-, and 3-night Vacation Stretchers will be available 11-months prior to the trip. Please check our Vacation Stretcher tab for more information.

    In Zurich, you’ll venture out through the beautiful countryside to visit a cheese factory for lunch to try local specialties and can make your own delicious Swiss chocolate bar at a Swiss chocolate factory (tastings included)! You’ll travel to Mt. Titlis and take a tram up to the top for a beautiful 360° view of the Alps.

    We encourage all passengers to extend their trip with our pre-trip Vacation Stretchers to enjoy all that Zurich has to offer, as well as to avoid the stress of unexpected delays. Additional hotel-only, 1- and 2- night packages at our host hotel at the Zurich airport will also be offered for those who just want to come in a day or two early and rest before the included group transfer to the ship.

    Post-vacation stretchers will not be offered in Amsterdam, but we encourage you to extend your stay to further enjoy this LGBTQ+ friendly city. Recommended hotel –Doubletree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station: Excellent location, close to restaurants and old town, or perhaps you would rather enjoy a more quiet, upscale hotel on the canal at the Pulitzer Amsterdam, voted Best Hotel by readers of Travel & Leisure, or choose from other boutique hotels. Book early and directly through the hotels for the best pricing!

Personalized Programs on this Trip