The most pleasurable way to explore the romantic Rhine Valley is aboard the steamers or cruise vessels—like the Goethe, here in front of Rheinfels Castle in St Goar.

River cruise

Enjoy the scenery of the valley from the water, on board of one of the many boats that cruise the river.

Pfalzgrafenstein Castle in Kaub is a former toll castle built in the 14th century on a rocky island in the Rhine. A passenger ferry takes visitors to the castle. – © Werner Schwarz / Rhein-Touristik Tal der Loreley

A trip on the Rhine or along its riverbanks is always a journey through German and European history. – © Werner Schwarz

The white fleets offer the most pleasurable and impressive way to explore the romantic Rhine. There's a daily frequent service from March to October. – © Werner Schwarz / Rhein-Touristik Tal der Loreley

Pfalzgrafenstein Castle in Kaub is a former toll castle built in the 14th century on a rocky island in the Rhine. A passenger ferry takes visitors to the castle. – © Werner Schwarz / Rhein-Touristik Tal der Loreley

The Rhine would only be half as attractive if it weren't for the great mass of pleasure steamers, cruise vessels and ferries afloat on its waters. The white fleets are undisputedly the most pleasurable and impressive way to explore the romantic Rhine.

Gently, as if on a canvas, the views of castles, vineyard terraces and historical sites float past the eye of the beholder. A new vista around every bend, moments of excitement and anticipation which take many visitors back to their childhood days.

The Upper Middle Rhine Valley is unusually rich in evidence of its cultural heritage and as the scene of many historic events. – © Herbert Piel, Rhein-Touristik Tal der Loreley

The numerous stop-off points offer plenty of opportunities to break the journey and do some more exploring on land. Those who prefer spending a few pleasant hours on board will enjoy a front row seat and excellent hospitality.

Enjoy the food and the wine while you relax, dream and watch the world go by - in the words of the old German folk song: "that's why it's so beautiful down on the Rhine!"

Visit

River cruise

Hours

Boat rides operate according to a timetable from March to the end of October.