2-River Day-trip by boat from Koblenz to Alken

Taking a cruise through Germany’s Rhine and Moselle rivers offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and relaxing moments on the water. This 2.5-hour boat trip from Koblenz to Alken, operated by Personenschifffahrt MS Goldstück, promises an intimate look at the iconic river landscapes, castles, vineyards, and landmarks that define this part of Rhineland-Palatinate. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews, detailed itineraries, and the experience descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect.

What makes this trip stand out? For starters, the stunning views of the confluence of two major rivers, the Rhine and Moselle, are hard to beat. The cruise also offers a close-up look at the terraced vineyards of Winningen, along with notable landmarks like the Wasserburg von der Leyen and the impressive Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. And, of course, the $32 price tag for such a scenic adventure seems quite reasonable—especially considering the quality and depth of what’s included.

However, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks if you’re hungry, or plan to buy on board. The tour isn’t suitable for electric wheelchair users due to stairs, and dogs are allowed—so bring your brave furry friends! This experience is ideal for those who appreciate beautiful landscapes, cultural sights, and a relaxed pace aboard a well-organized cruise.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery of the Rhine and Moselle rivers combined in one relaxing trip
• Historic sights like castles, vineyards, and the Wasserburg von der Leyen
• Affordable price offering excellent value for a scenic 2.5-hour cruise
• Expert guides and well-organized itinerary enhance the experience
• Limited food options so plan accordingly
• Not suitable for electric wheelchairs or very young children

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Koblenz to Alken River Cruise

Setting the Scene: What this Tour Offers

This cruise provides a wonderful way to soak in the beauty of the Rhine-Moselle region without the hassle of driving or navigating through towns. Departing from Koblenz at 1:30 pm, you’ll glide along the Rhine River, crossing the Deutsches Eck—where the Rhine and Moselle meet—before heading downstream on the Moselle. The entire trip lasts approximately 2.5 hours, culminating in Alken around 4 pm, giving plenty of time to enjoy the views and take photos.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point in Koblenz: The journey begins at the Rhein landing stage, where the Personenschifffahrt MS Goldstück awaits. The boat is comfortable and equipped for a smooth ride, with seating that offers good visibility of the surroundings. This starting point is conveniently located near the Deutsches Eck, known for its striking 37-meter monument and the iconic statue marking where the two great rivers converge.

Crossing the German Corner: As you leave Koblenz, the boat rounds the Deutsches Eck, providing a fantastic water-level view of the landmark. Most reviews highlight this as a memorable photo opportunity, with the fortress Ehrenbreitstein visible from the water—a commanding presence on the opposite bank.

Passing Under the Cable Car: One of the unique aspects of this cruise is the underpass beneath the cable car connecting Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This adds a sense of adventure and gives a perspective that land-based visitors often miss.

Traveling Down the Moselle: Once on the Moselle, the scenery shifts to lush, terraced vineyards that cling to steep slopes—these are among the most picturesque vineyards in the region. You’ll see the vineyards of Winningen, renowned for their high-quality estates, which are visibly rewarded for their excellence through the steep gradients and well-maintained terraces.

Landmarks and Landings: As you cruise, you’ll pass by notable sights including the Wasserburg von der Leyen, a historic castle-like estate, and the towns of Gondorf and Kobern, each with their own castles and churches dotting the landscape. The cruise also passes under the A61 bridge—one of the highest bridges in Germany—offering another photo-worthy moment.

Passing Locks and Bridges: The cruise passes through the Lehmen lock, which is part of the region’s intricate lock system to manage water levels. Seeing the locks in action adds a layer of understanding about river navigation and the engineering marvels that keep these waterways navigable.

What Travelers Say

According to reviews, the views are consistently praised—many mention how the landscape is “amazing” and “every time” the scenery impresses. Reviewers note that the guides are knowledgeable, offering interesting facts about the landmarks, vineyards, and river engineering, which enriches the experience. One traveler shared, “We loved the way we could see the castles and vineyards from a different perspective—up close and relaxed.”

Another positive aspect is the view of the Wasserburg von der Leyen, which many find striking from the water. The vineyards of Winningen, known for their steep gradients, are particularly photogenic, and the cruise offers an unobstructed view of these celebrated wine-growing slopes.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Final Stretch and Arrival in Alken

The cruise concludes around 4 pm in Alken, a small but charming town on the Moselle. If you’re interested in extending your journey, the operator offers a drop-off in Oberfell upon request—an option worth considering if you want to explore further.

Practical Information for Travelers

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $32, this cruise covers a substantial amount of scenic and cultural highlights. The boat departs at 1:30 pm, and you’ll get to see the Deutsches Eck, the confluence of rivers, and the vineyards along the way. The cruise is very much a sightseeing journey, with no food or drinks included, so bringing snacks or small beverages is recommended—though you can purchase items onboard.

Meeting Point and Duration

The meeting point is at the Koblenz Rhine landing stage at the designated time. The trip lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that can be combined with other sightseeing or dining plans in Koblenz or Alken.

Accessibility and Considerations

Electric wheelchairs are not suitable due to stairs, and the tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues that can’t navigate stairs. Dogs are welcome, but travelers should be prepared for potential on-board noise, especially if their pets are nervous around crowds.

Booking and Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans change. You can reserve and pay later, which is handy if you’re still finalizing your trip schedule.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic experience with minimal hassle. It’s ideal for those interested in history, vineyards, architecture, and simply soaking in natural beauty from the comfort of a boat. Families with older children, photography enthusiasts, or couples seeking a peaceful afternoon will find plenty to enjoy.

It’s less suitable for those requiring full accessibility or with very young children who might struggle with the stairs or the limited duration.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This 2-River Day-trip from Koblenz to Alken offers excellent value for its price. The combination of stunning landscapes, notable landmarks, and the smooth organization of the cruise make it a standout way to experience the Rhine-Moselle region. The knowledgeable guides and the intimate setting allow for a more authentic, less rushed sightseeing experience.

While it’s straightforward and doesn’t include food or drinks, the scenery and cultural sights more than compensate. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy Germany’s famous river landscapes without committing a full day or dealing with complicated logistics.

If you love the idea of gliding past castles, vineyards, and historic sites with a glass of wine in hand, and want to see the region from a fresh perspective, this cruise is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is food and drinks included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you can buy items on board if you wish.

What time does the cruise start?
The cruise departs at 1:30 pm from Koblenz.

How long does the cruise last?
The trip lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Where does the cruise end?
It ends in Alken, with optional drop-off in Oberfell if requested.

Is this experience suitable for electric wheelchair users?
No, electric wheelchairs are not suitable due to stairs without lifts.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed, but be prepared for the possibility of noise or small spaces.

What are the main highlights of the cruise?
Highlights include crossing the Deutsches Eck, views of Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, passing vineyards of Winningen, and the high A61 bridge.

How is the scenery along the route?
The scenery is described as “amazing,” with vineyards, castles, churches, and stunning river landscapes.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This river cruise from Koblenz to Alken offers an accessible, affordable way to experience Germany’s iconic river views. Whether you’re into history, wine, or just stunning scenery, it’s a journey worth taking.

You can check if your dates are available here: