Travel Diary: A Festive Journey on the Rhine

Day 1 – Embarkation in Düsseldorf

We arrived in Düsseldorf in the afternoon, where the MS SE-MANON was already moored at the pier, festively decorated and waiting for its guests. Check-in was pleasantly straightforward, and the crew gave us a warm welcome. As soon as we boarded the ship, we noticed the lovely decorations: pine branches, fairy lights, and soft Christmas music immediately created a festive atmosphere – just the right mood for the winter magic in Holland and Belgium. After settling into our cabin, we had time to explore the ship – from the small wellness area to the bright panorama salon with its sweeping view of the Rhine. In the evening, the kitchen served a multi-course menu, accompanied by attentive service. Shortly afterwards, the ship set sail and glided slowly down the Rhine. Over a drink in the lounge, we watched the sparkling lights on the banks and enjoyed the special tranquility of this Advent journey – a successful start to our winter trip.

View of Düsseldorf's Rhine waterfront with wooden pier posts, historic church spire, modern glass tower, and colorful buildings along the promenade.

Modern meets history - Day 2 in Rotterdam

We arrived in Rotterdam in the early hours of the morning. As we docked, we were impressed by the modern skyline, which looked particularly clear in the winter light. After breakfast, we set off on a guided tour of the city. The guide knew how to bring Rotterdam's blend of innovation and history to life: futuristic cube houses, the imposing market hall, and the elegant Erasmus Bridge gave the city its distinctive character. We were particularly fascinated by Rotterdam's diversity—small cafés and bustling squares nestled between glass skyscrapers. Afterward, we had time to explore on our own. We strolled through the market hall, sampled freshly baked stroopwafels, and warmed up with a cappuccino. Back on board, coffee and cake awaited us, and as the ship set sail again in the afternoon, the sun bathed the harbor in golden light.

Rotterdam skyline at twilight with illuminated skyscrapers and the iconic white Erasmus Bridge spanning the Nieuwe Maas river.

Did you know?

In 1953, Rotterdam's Lijnbaan became Europe's first car-free shopping street. After reconstruction, the city thus sent a strong signal for modern, urban living. The concept was later adopted in many European cities, and even today, the Lijnbaan is still considered a symbol of Rotterdam's pioneering spirit.

Antwerp aglow with lights – Day 3

The next day took us to Antwerp, the charming city on the Scheldt. As we entered the harbor, we could already see the silhouette of the Cathedral of Our Lady towering over the old town. After a short transfer, the guided tour of the historic center began. We strolled past the ornately decorated guild houses, the Brabo fountain, and across the Grote Markt, where the smell of waffles and mulled wine hung in the air. We particularly remember the narrow Vlaeykensgang, a quiet alleyway between old brick walls – a place where time seems to stand still. Afterwards, we took the opportunity to take a short break in a cozy street café. In the afternoon, we returned on board. Over a cup of hot tea in the lounge, we looked out at the festively lit city, which slowly disappeared into the twilight.

The striking Antwerp Port House building at twilight, featuring a diamond-shaped glass structure on top of a historic brick base against a deep blue sky.

My recommendation for Antwerp:

After the city tour, it's worth taking a short break at the Grote Markt. The hot chocolate tastes particularly good in the cafés around the square—perfect for warming up and watching the hustle and bustle between the cathedral and the Brabo fountain.

Historical flair in Nijmegen – Day 4

In the morning, the MS SE-MANON reached Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands. Even from the sun deck, there was a beautiful view of the historic houses along the waterfront. The guided city tour started right at the ship and took us past churches, old market squares, and through Lange Hezelstraat—probably the oldest shopping street in the country. The mixture of history and lively present made the walk particularly appealing. After the tour, there was time for a stroll through the city center or a short break in a café. In the afternoon, the group split up: some visited the De Hemel brewery as part of an optional excursion, while we preferred to spend the afternoon relaxing on board. The festive gala dinner in the evening was the successful highlight of our trip.

Historic Grote Markt square in Nijmegen with colorful traditional Dutch buildings, Gothic church tower, and people walking across the plaza.

Return to Düsseldorf – Day 5

Overnight, the MS SE-MANON set course for Düsseldorf again. When we woke up in the morning, the Rhine lay still and foggy before us – a peaceful backdrop for our farewell. After breakfast, it was time to pack our suitcases and say goodbye to the crew, who had taken such good care of us on our winter river cruise over the past few days. Five days full of impressions, wintery cities, and wonderful encounters lay behind us. As we left the ship, we were left with a feeling of calm and gratitude – and anticipation for our next journey on the water.

Evening scene at a Christmas market with wooden stalls decorated with warm lights. Visitors walk between illuminated booths selling food and gifts.