I’ve always believed the best way to understand what we’re recommending to clients is to experience it myself. So, when the opportunity arose to join a Tauck familiarisation cruise along the Rhine, I didn’t hesitate. What followed was eight days that reminded me exactly why I love this industry.
Our journey took us from Amsterdam through the Dutch countryside to Cologne, Koblenz, Speyer, Heidelberg, Strasbourg, and ending in Basel – a perfect introduction to the historic heart of Europe.
From the moment I was collected at Amsterdam Schiphol by a suited gentleman who whisked me away in a top-of-the-range Mercedes, I knew this wasn’t your average river cruise. Water and Wi-Fi were provided during the transfer, and my driver even carried my suitcase to check-in on departure. These touches set Tauck apart.
Life aboard MS Inspire
The welcome was seamless – within five minutes of boarding, I was settled in my cabin. That efficiency sets the tone for everything.
My cabin on Ruby Deck was spacious and modern, with thoughtful amenities, including a Nespresso machine, Molton Brown toiletries and a daily restocked fridge. The French-style balcony with sliding doors meant I could watch the world drift by from my bed – genuinely magical.
The clever touches impressed me the most. There’s a speaker system in every cabin for listening to tour guide commentary from your room – particularly useful during scenic Middle Rhine cruising; the TV has cameras positioned at the bridge, so you can admire views while listening from inside; everyone gets a personal water bottle with filling stations throughout the ship.
The crew made everyone feel immediately welcome. The first evening introduction where you meet your fellow travellers and the team creates the perfect atmosphere for solo travellers to make connections.
The atmosphere struck the perfect balance – a fun vibe where it genuinely feels like they want you to have a good time – never stuffy or forced. There are activities if you want to mix with other guests, or you can find quiet spots on the top deck to relax and admire river views. The social rhythm works beautifully – peaceful lounges during the day, then evening gatherings for pre-dinner drinks to discuss tomorrow’s adventures – often followed by live music.
The food experience
The food exceeded expectations at every turn. Breakfast offered both buffet options and made-to-order dishes, lunch in either the main Compass Rose restaurant or Arthur’s at the bow, and dinner was consistently excellent with remarkable choice – three starters, two soups, six mains, plus grill options always available.
The lobster thermidor stands out, as does the Nasi Goreng, and everything was beautifully prepared. As someone with a serious chocolate weakness, the chocolate dessert evening was pure indulgence. The drinks selection matched the food quality – proper Champagne, excellent wines including Sancerre and Châteauneuf du Pape, quality spirits, and 24-hour self-service coffee with snacks.
Excursions and experiences
While the ship was beautiful, it was the experiences that truly made this special.
The dinner at 14th-century Ehreshoven Castle was extraordinary – a moated castle setting with cocktails, dinner and string quartet performance unique to Tauck guests.
The Chef’s Signature tasting menu dinner was another highlight – formal but fun, with sommelier-chosen wines and the evening ending with music and dancing alongside the Tauck staff. That personal touch epitomised the atmosphere they create.
The Lake Lucerne and Mount Pilatus trip was breathtaking. The nine-hour journey flew by, thanks to stunning Alpine scenery and that wonderful cogwheel train and cable car combination. Tauck even provided 25 euros per person for lunch, which was a thoughtful touch.
Of all the destinations, Strasbourg captured my heart completely. The cobblestone streets, stunning cathedral, charming boat trips – everything you hope for in a European river cruise destination. The afternoon free time was perfect – explore the shops and restaurants or return to the ship to relax.
The excursion coaches are comfortable and well-equipped with onboard facilities, bottled water and little treats relating to where you’re visiting. Most days offer two options – usually walking tours or bike rides (definitely not for me, but perfect for cycling enthusiasts!).
The local guides impressed me – passionate, knowledgeable people who brought destinations to life. Rita in Amsterdam was particularly special, making art accessible to someone like me who doesn’t gravitate naturally toward galleries.
But the little extras that aren’t mentioned in the itinerary struck me most – impromptu stops at chocolatiers, surprise trips to Cologne pubs, ice creams brought to the top deck. These aren’t guaranteed because they depend on availability, but that’s what makes them special – genuine surprises that feel spontaneous rather than scripted.
The Tauck difference
Having now experienced it firsthand, I understand why clients return to Tauck repeatedly. Everything is included – no hidden extras or constant additional payment requests. The tours are expertly orchestrated with knowledgeable local guides passionate about their regions.
The level of service feels effortless but results from meticulous planning. When they say it’s a “handheld experience”, they mean it in the best way – you simply relax and enjoy.
My recommendations
This type of cruise suits multi-generational families beautifully, couples looking for a relaxed pace with cultural enrichment, and anyone who appreciates good food, excellent service and the chance to see multiple destinations without constantly packing and unpacking. You do need to be reasonably fit – there’s quite a bit of walking involved, and you might need to cross other boats if you’re not first to dock – but the pace is very manageable.
Having sold many river cruises over the years, I can honestly say Tauck delivers something special. There are so many cruise companies to choose from, but I was genuinely impressed with how well organised everything is – the facilities, excursions and guide expertise.
Pricewise, they’re similar to other five-star cruise lines, and if clients doubt the value, I can say it’s absolutely excellent. When you factor in everything that’s included – excursions, extras, guide quality – it represents money well spent.
Most importantly, guests are genuinely looked after. It’s very much a handheld experience where you can simply relax – confident everything has been thought through.
I’d recommend this to clients who value quality over quantity, appreciate cultural immersion alongside comfort, and want confidence from booking with a company perfecting these experiences for decades.
After eight days on the Rhine, I’m already planning my next Tauck experience. When you find something this good, you want to explore what else they can offer.
Sara x
