At a glance
- Most cruises visiting the Moselle River also feature another European waterway, most commonly the Rhine; other options include sailing south from the Netherlands
- Wine is the primary focus of the Moselle region, and most cruise lines incorporate this into their excursion programme, visiting local vineyards and organising wine tastings along the route
- You can expect your days to be filled with sightseeing, relaxed vineyard walks, a lot of Riesling and a smattering of castles
- The Moselle River is one of the narrowest rivers with regular river cruise services, making it a top choice for cruisers who want to feel close to nature throughout the journey
What makes a cruise ‘the best’?
At World of Cruising, we know that everyone is looking for something different in their cruise experience. That’s why our ‘best for…’ guides aren’t one-size-fits-all. And there are enough options out there to suit all of us.
In this guide, we’ll focus on the best options for different preferences, giving you the ultimate in-depth guide to picking the best Moselle River cruise for you.
Best for all-inclusive luxury: Scenic
Why this cruise line?
Scenic’s ultra-luxury ‘Space-Ships’ host up to 163 guests for a charming and intimate river cruise experience. Everything is included in the fare, from flights to excursions, drinks, internet and even tips for the crew.
Designed for seasoned travellers who are accustomed to the finer things in life, they offer everything from refined suites (matched with luxury branded amenities in the bathroom) to up to five different dining options per ship, covering the full spectrum of dining styles.
Scenic is also the only river cruise line to offer a salt therapy lounge onboard its ships. Styled to emulate the environment of a salt cave, this revitalising spa lounge caps off an already refreshing journey.
What are the standout excursions?
The line’s Scenic Freechoice programme comes to the fore when heading off the ship. Every traveller has a different idea of what makes a perfect day ashore, and Scenic’s extensive list of excursions is designed for active, moderate or relaxed paces.
Exclusive to Scenic, one evening of your voyage will feature a private classical concert set in the striking Liebfrauenkirche in Trier.
How much does it cost?
At the time of writing, eight-day Rhine and Moselle cruises cost from £3,115 per person.
Browse offers: Scenic
Best for first-time river cruisers: VIVA Cruises
Why this cruise line?
If you’ve got your heart set on the Moselle for your very first river cruise, you might want to head out on a short trip to test the waters. We’re pretty sure you’ll love it and return for a longer cruise in the future.
VIVA Cruises’ three- and four-night short cruise options along the Moselle offer an excellent taste of what river cruising is all about, on one of Europe’s quieter (but undeniably more scenic) rivers.
VIVA Moments sails with up to 176 guests, with a range of cabins, including four swish balcony suites on the Diamond Deck. But really, you don’t need a private balcony to enjoy this cruise, as the communal decks have plenty of seating space and top views.
VIVA Moments’ four-night ‘Charming Moselle’ itinerary balances the romance of scenic sailing with the option of kayaking through the calm waters in Bernkastel-Kues.
What are the standout excursions?
The Moselle is known for its Riesling, so hop in a restored VW Bulli and enjoy a chauffeured drive through the stepped slopes of the Moselle Valley as your guide imparts their vast knowledge of the region’s wine traditions.
How much does it cost?
A short three-night cruise with VIVA Cruises starts at less than £500 per person. For a one-week Moselle highlights voyage, you’re looking at around £1,650 per person.
Browse offers: VIVA Cruises
Best for solo travellers: Avalon Waterways
Why this cruise line?
Avalon Waterways is great for independent yet sociable travellers. Known for their solo cabins and waived single supplements, Avalon Waterways invites guests to join social dinners and guided tours, giving solo travellers the ideal balance of private escape and shared experience.
From the moment you step onboard one of Avalon Waterway’s award-winning ships, you’re encouraged to ‘sail on your own, but never alone’.
What are the standout excursions?
Avalon Waterways’ excursions are typically capped at around 24 people to ensure that everyone on the tour can enjoy the experience to its maximum potential. From cycling through medieval villages to local-guided vineyard tours, there’s plenty of choice.
Avalon Waterways often runs special interest sailings – think wine appreciation, regional history or nature – which are perfect for connecting with fellow guests over a shared interest.
How much does it cost?
An eight-day journey from Amsterdam to Remich starts at £2,000, while 11-day Rhine and Moselle sailings tend to start at around £3,000.
Browse offers: Avalon Waterways
Best for adults-only cruises: TUI River Cruises
Why this cruise line?
TUI is a well-known household name in the UK, with a very reliable product. Their river cruise ships incorporate much of what the brand’s hotels and flights are so popular for: full board service, with all tips included.
Unlike some of the other all-inclusive brands sailing the Moselle, TUI keeps the price targeted at a mainstream market, though it adds a touch of luxury by guaranteeing that you won’t be bothered by other people’s children during the cruise – the TUI Aria (sailing the Moselle) is an adult-only ship.
TUI includes flights and transfers with your booking, so you’re getting plenty of luxury services without the luxury price tag. Where do the savings come in? The ship, while comfortable, is not adorned with all the luxury appointments that you’ll find on some of the pricier lines, and there are fewer dining options onboard – but there’s still plenty of choice, and we think it's well worth the additional savings.
What are the standout excursions?
Given your Moselle cruise is likely to centre around wine, you might enjoy heading out to a vineyard in Bernkastel-Kues to see how wine is made – by hand in most vineyards around here.
How much does it cost?
At the time of writing, a one-week Moselle cruise onboard TUI Aria costs approximately £1,250 per person. With TUI, it’s always a good idea to check if any active discount codes could knock even more off the price.
Browse offers: TUI River Cruises
Best for food and wine aficionados: Emerald Cruises
Why this cruise line?
If you judge a river cruise by its wine list (and honestly, who doesn’t?), Emerald Cruises is a top contender. Their Moselle itineraries are a steady parade of local Rieslings, regional cuisine and relaxed onboard dining that isn’t at all stuffy.
Meals are served with complimentary wine and beer, and the daily menu leans into what’s seasonal and regional.
You’ll also find plenty of space to unwind between meals – whether at the Horizon Bar & Lounge with a glass of something crisp or taking in the vineyard views from The Terrace before dinner. The tone on its ship is upscale, but unpretentious – just right.
What are the standout excursions?
Emerald Cruises leans into local flavour, quite literally. So, it only makes sense to head out on a visit to a traditional Bernkastel wine cellar to swirl, sniff and sip your way through the region’s Rieslings under the guidance of a passionate local vintner.
If you want to take an extra special deep dive into the region’s gastronomy, treat yourself to a DiscoverMORE excursion (for an added cost), where you can head out in port with a local chef for guided tastings and perhaps a delightful lunch tucked away in some exclusive private estate.
How much does it cost?
Step aboard an Emerald Cruises voyage along the Moselle and Rhine Rivers from £2,975 per person for an 11-day voyage, showcasing the region’s castles and vineyards.
Browse offers: Emerald Cruises
What else to know before you book:
The Moselle is a tributary of the Rhine, and many cruises have stops on both rivers. Check out our Rhine River guides for more information.
Plus, here’s what else to know about sailing the Moselle:
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