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Cruising the Rhine: Legendary Landscapes, History & Art
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Princeton Seminary Expeditions is a premier travel program designed for anyone who wants to explore the world’s most remarkable destinations while engaging in deep theological learning and reflection.
Our thoughtfully curated itineraries transport you to places rich in theological significance, offering exclusive access to scholars, sacred sites, and unique cultural experiences.
Led by Princeton Seminary’s distinguished faculty, each small-group expedition offers a unique opportunity to explore history, culture, and faith through an immersive experience.
Princeton Seminary Expeditions combines intellectual rigor with the highest standard of comfort and hospitality. Enjoy world-class accommodations, private guided tours, and intimate discussions with leading scholars—all in a setting designed for deep reflection and renewal.
Led by Kenneth Appold, James Hastings Nichols Professor of Reformation History, Princeton Theological Seminary
Cruise the Rhine River, one of Europe’s most iconic waterways for 8-nights aboard the elegant MS River Crown, a spacious and well-designed vessel that just debuted a comprehensive refurbishment in early 2026 Accommodating just 100 guests, she offers a more personal, social, and less crowded experience than larger modern ships, an intimate river vessel accommodating just 100 guests.
From Basel to the Netherlands, each bend of the Rhine reveals a captivating scene. Cruise through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, where vineyard-covered hills rise above the river and centuries-old castles stand watch. Explore Strasbourg’s old town, Heidelberg Castle, and Cologne’s soaring Gothic cathedral. In Kinderdijk, historic windmills reflect Dutch ingenuity, while Colmar and Dordrecht invite you to stroll storybook streets and canals steeped in history.
Trace pivotal moments of European history at the Maginot Line, along key Rhine crossings, and in Arnhem, where Operation Market Garden unfolded. Art and culture come alive in celebrated museums and collections, paired with thoughtfully curated excursions designed for small groups and deeper engagement.
Along the way, savor regional flavors—sip Alsace wines, learn about Cologne’s Kölsch beer, and sample local specialties in lively markets and inviting town squares.
Enhance your travels with a two-night pre-trip in Zurich or a three-night post-trip in Amsterdam. With long summer days and a seamless mix of guided experiences and leisure, this voyage offers the perfect balance of discovery, culture, and relaxation.
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. Guests arriving in the morning will be transfered to a hotel in central Basel where they can store their luggage and enjoy free time in Basel until it is time to board the vessel later in the afternoon.
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. MS RIVER CROWN (R,D)
The day begins with a launch of the 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 between two enriching excursions: visit the renowned Unterlinden Museum to view the extraordinary Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterpiece of Northern Renaissance art, or travel to Riquewihr, a beautifully preserved medieval village in the heart of Alsace and savor a tasting of Alsace’s celebrated wines. MS RIVER CROWN (B,L,D)
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. MS RIVER CROWN (B,L,D)
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. MS RIVER CROWN (B,L,D)
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. MS RIVER CROWN (B,L,D)
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. Construction of this iconic landmark began in 1248 and continued for more than 600 years, resulting in its intricate façade, soaring spires, and the renowned Shrine of the Three Kings.
In the afternoon, continue exploring Cologne with three options: visit the Netherlands American Cemetery and a former Gestapo headquarters for insight into the city’s World War II history; 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 River Crown remaining in port this evening for an opportunity to dine ashore independently, a chance to dine at a traditional German brauhaus.MS RIVER CROWN (B,L,D)
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.MS RIVER CROWN (B,L,D)
Arrive in Dordecht, 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. MS RIVER CROWN (B,L,D)
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. (B)
Kenneth G. Appold is the James Hastings Nichols Professor of Reformation History at Princeton Theological Seminary. Appold earned his BA, MA, MPhil, and PhD from Yale University, and his Dr.theol.habil. from the Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg in Germany. Prior to coming to Princeton, he served as a research professor at the Institute for Ecumenical Research in Strasbourg, France, and taught church history at the Johannes-Gutenberg University of Mainz, Germany. His areas of interest include the history and legacy of the Reformation, intellectual and cultural history of the early modern period, and the global history of Christianity. He teaches courses on the European Reformation, Church-State relations, early modern Christianity in Africa and East Asia, and “Faith and Fashion”–a religious history of clothing. Author of numerous books and articles on early modern Christianity, his most recent publications include The Cambridge History of Reformation-Era Theology (co-edited with Nelson H. Minnich; Cambridge 2024), and Luther and the Peasants: Religion, Ritual, and the Revolt of 1525 (2025, with Oxford University Press). He is currently writing a book on the religious significance of bells.
We are delighted to charter the elegant MS River Crown, a beautifully appointed 100‑passenger river vessel that was built in 2008 and fully refurbished in the spring of 2026. With a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, the River Crown offers a perfect blend of comfort, scenic cruising, and enriching experiences aboard.
Public spaces are designed to 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. The ship also offers a spacious sun deck with plenty of seating, a putting green, and a giant chess board, as well as a wellness area with a sauna and fitness room equipped with a variety of exercise equipment. Complimentary Wi‑Fi is available in the cabins and public areas.
Accommodations are well planned and comfortable across three decks. Premium cabins feature French balconies with expansive views, while deluxe cabins include a dedicated seating area for added comfort. A limited number of suites on the Upper Deck offer enhanced space and both French balconies and private balconies. There are also single cabins with portholes on the Main Deck. All cabins include thoughtful amenities such as ample storage, a writing/dressing table, TV, safe, hairdryer, small refrigerator, and individually controlled air conditioning.
Cruising the Rhine is now booking, or email us to be the first to know when bookings open for this trip and other Princeton Seminary Expeditions!
Eight nights aboard the River Crown • Meals and excursions as specified in the itinerary including eight breakfasts, seven lunches, and eight dinners • Comprehensive program of briefings, lectures and presentations • Shared airport transfers on group arrival and departure dates • Baggage handling • Gratuities to porters, waitstaff, guides and drivers • Gratuities to shipboard personnel • Port charges • Entrance fees • Welcome and farewell wine receptions • House wine, beer, and soft drinks with all lunches and dinners on board River Crown • Professional tour managers throughout the program
U.S. domestic and international airfare • Passport/visa expenses • Medical expenses and immunizations • Private airport transfers or airport transfers outside of group arrival and departure dates • Travel and trip cancellation insurance • Excursions that deviate from the scheduled tour options • Airline baggage charges • Meals not specified in the itinerary; dishes and beverages not part of the included meals; liquor or soft drinks except as noted • Laundry or dry cleaning • Telephone, Internet and email charges • Room service • Other items of a personal nature
This is a moderately active but not strenuous program, suitable for travelers with average fitness. Participants must be in good health, comfortable being on their feet and walking for a couple of hours, sometimes with limited shade and no available seating. Daily programs involve walking up to one mile through city centers, historic sites, and in museums, where there may also be extended periods of standing. Participants will encounter uneven terrain, including dirt and cobblestoned paths, and must be able to walk at least 20 minutes up and down hills without stopping. All participants will be required to follow safety/sanitization protocols set forth by Princeton Seminary Expedition, and Criterion Travel, local staff, and host country laws. If the tour manager decides that a participant cannot visit a site safely or in a timely manner, their judgment will be final. Where possible, an alternate activity may be suggested; additional costs may apply.
U.S. domestic and international airfare is not included in the program rates. Valerie Wilson Travel, Inc., can help with airline arrangements for this trip and can be reached at 877-376-1754 or by e-mail at tourflights@vwti.com. You are also welcome to book your air transportation through your local travel agent, an online travel site, or the airline of your choice. Further information about making flight arrangements will be sent to confirmed participants.
Travel insurance for trip cancellation and interruption, medical problems, baggage loss and delay, etc., is highly recommended. Trip cancellation policies that apply to this expedition are included in this brochure. Information about travel insurance will be sent to confirmed participants.
This program welcomes up to 92 participants, including travelers from Princeton Seminary Expeditions, and co-sponsoring organizations such as Cornell’s Adult University, MIT Alumni Travel, National Trust Tours, and Harvard Alumni Travel.
Tour rates are based upon current fuel prices, currency values, taxes, tariffs, and a minimum number of participants. While we will do everything possible to maintain the listed rates, they are subject to change. If there are significant changes, details and costs will be advised prior to departure.
Complete Terms and Conditions including a Statement of Responsibility will be made available at time of registration, or in advance upon request. A signed “Terms & Conditions, Release from Liability, Assumption of Risk and Binding Arbitration Clause” is required from each applicant prior to participation on the tour.
Reserve your space online at https://account.criteriontravel.com/Booking/RefStart/PSE/270617_RRC/tour or return the completed reservation form with your $1,000 per person deposit to: Princeton Seminary Expeditions, Princeton Theological Seminary, P.O. Box 821, 64 Mercer St., Princeton, NJ 08542-0803. Balance of payment is due February 17, 2027. After February 17, 2027, full payment is due upon registration. Final payment may be made by check, wire transfer, or credit card (credit card payments will incur a processing fee of 2%).
Upon payment of the $1,000 per person deposit, all reservations are subject to the cancellation provisions set forth below and by which the passenger agrees to be bound. Cancellations shall not be in effect until they are received in writing and confirmed by Princeton Seminary Expedition. Deposits are refundable (less a $250 per person admin fee) if written notice of cancellation is received within 30 days of booking; after that, deposits are 100% nonrefundable. After the February 17, 2027 final payment deadline: All payments are 100% nonrefundable, regardless of booking date. Trip cancellation insurance is strongly recommended.
NOTE: Neither Princeton Seminary Expedition nor Criterion Travel, the tour operator, accepts liability for any airline cancellation penalties incurred with the purchase of non-refundable tickets.
The itinerary presented for this tour is subject to modification and change by Princeton Seminary Expedition and Criterion Travel, the tour operator. Every reasonable effortwill be made to operate the program as planned; however, should unforeseen world events and conditions require the itinerary to be altered, Princeton SeminaryExpedition and the tour operator reserve the right to do so for the safety and best interest of the group. Any extra expenses incurred in this situation are the responsibility of the participant.
California Seller of Travel Program CST #2088800-40
