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Main › Jewish Cruises › Kosher River Cruise - Switzerland · France · Germany 2026
From $8,250
OVERVIEW
A UNIQUE RIVER CRUISE – 5 EXCEPTIONAL ACTIVE EXPERIENCE OPTIONS
Switzerland · France · Germany | Hiking & Cycling Add-Ons for All Ages
An exceptional itinerary that seamlessly combines iconic ports with a rich and meaningful exploration of Jewish history. Only 90 discerning guests will share this experience. Cruise aboard an ultra-luxury ship as you explore three remarkable countries, beloved destinations you know well, and intriguing places you’ve yet to discover. Every detail is thoughtfully curated, and the entire voyage is strictly kosher.
This exclusive sailing is available by invitation only. It promises to be an unforgettable journey.
We sincerely hope you will be with us.
This next‑generation river vessel offers space, comfort, and amenities that surpass anything currently sailing Europe’s rivers. This is an invitation‑only charter in a fully Kosher culinary experience and includes multiple dining venues including private salons.
Developed by J Gruen Travel in partnership with leading Kosher culinary experts, this bespoke experience will combine the highest standards of Kashrut with refined, contemporary cuisine.
Paired with the elegance of Transcend Connect and the timeless beauty of the Rhine and Mosel rivers, it promises to be one of the most memorable travel experiences of your life.
Led by the famed winemaker & restaurateur Eli Gauthier of Cantina Guiliano.
Thousands of delighted guests have enjoyed Eli’s acclaimed kosher restaurant in Tuscany and his wines on their Shabbat and Yom Tov tables. For this voyage, Eli will craft a series of exceptional kosher dining experiences, inspired by the regions we visit and the rich heritage of the Jewish communities along our route elevated, creative cuisine that both satisfies and tells a story.
A Strasbourg-based French native with a decade of Tuscan winemaking expertise, Eli Gauthier of Cantina Giuliano leads a premier Kosher restaurant and catering firm delivering 5-star experiences. He specializes in curating elite food and wine tourism for discerning travelers, bridging artisanal heritage with world-class hospitality.
Departures
Duration
Highlights
Notes
Activity Level
Tailor Made
Itinerary
Trace the roots of Ashkenazic Torah scholarship through the historic SHU”M towns of Speyer, Worms, and Mainz, featuring a visit to the restored Rashi Synagogue.
Walk the birthplace of modern Zionism in Basel, Switzerland, where Theodor Herzl launched the First Zionist Congress at the Stadtcasino in 1897.
Cruise the breathtaking Rhine Gorge and Moselle River, passing legendary castles, picturesque villages, and the iconic Lorelei rock.
Pay respects to Jewish giants in Frankfurt at the graves of Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch and Mayer Amschel Rothschild before touring the historic Rothschild Palais.
Experience meaningful, community-connected Shabbats in Basel and Cologne, featuring local synagogue visits, engaging lectures, and lavish kosher dining onboard.
You arrive in Zurich this morning. After Shacharit and a light
breakfast at the historic Löwenstrasse Synagogue, enjoy a short
city tour and views of Lake Zurich before continuing to Basel,
our home for the next several days. Upon embarkation, settle
into your stateroom or suite, attend the Captain’s welcome
cocktail party, and begin an exceptional culinary journey.
This evening features a lecture on the history of Swiss Jewry,
followed by a special welcome reception and gala dinner.
A day of exploration in the spiritual birthplace of Zionism,
launched in 1897 by Theodor Herzl at the Stadtcasino Basel
during the First Zionist Congress. We explore this historic city
before returning to the ship to prepare for a meaningful and
delicious Shabbos onboard.
Join a walking group to the historic Israelitische Gemeinde
Basel Synagogue (IGB) to daven with the community and
enjoy a hosted Kiddush. Return to the ship for a lavish lunch
accompanied by a community speaker. An afternoon walking
tour follows, and we set sail after Havdalah.
Early this morning, we sail the Rhine en route to Strasbourg,
home to culinary star Eli Gauthier of Cantina Giuliana. After
breakfast and a presentation on the history of the Strasbourg
and Alsatian Jewish communities, we arrive at lunchtime
for a full day of culinary and historical exploration. We sail
overnight toward the renowned SHU”M towns (Speyer, Worms,
Mainz,) that shaped German Jewry and Torah scholarship
for generations.
After Shacharit and breakfast, we begin in Speyer with a
visit to the SchPIRA Museum, the medieval Mikvah site, and
the new synagogue. A special visit to the Technik Museum
Speyer follows. By luxury coach we continue to Worms to see
the restored Rashi Synagogue and the oldest intact Jewish
cemetery in Europe. The ship meets us in Mainz, the last of
the three SHU”M towns. Back onboard, enjoy dinner and an
evening lecture — or opt to join a lively pub crawl to sample
the excellent local beers
A morning in Mainz, the last of the famed SHU”M towns,
exploring its rich Jewish past and present. We then drive
to Frankfurt to visit one of Europe’s oldest intact Jewish
cemeteries, including the graves of Rabbi Samson Rafael
Hirsch and Mair Amschel Rothschild. A docent- led tour of the
Jewish Museum Frankfurt, located in the Rothschild Palais,
follows. After lunch, we depart at 2:00 PM to sail through the
breathtaking Rhine Gorge and the legendary Lorelei, passing
picturesque villages and castles. Dinner onboard includes a
presentation by the Museum’s director.
We cruise along the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle
rivers, passing through locks en route to Cochem. Excursion
options include the famed Nürburgring driving circuit*, a
relaxing thermal spa visit*, or a tour of medieval Trier and its
fascinating Jewish history. Back onboard, enjoy a special wine
pairing dinner.
* Additional cost; advance reservation required
Overnight we return up the Moselle to dock in picturesque
Koblenz, at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle. Today’s
included tours highlight Jewish history, the charming Old
Town, and panoramic views via cable car.
We arrive in elegant Cologne, docked centrally for a two-night
stay. A deep dive into Jewish heritage includes the soon-toopen MiQua Jewish Museum and meetings with community
representatives. Enjoy time to shop along Schildergasse
before welcoming Shabbat onboard.
From our prime location, walk to the beautiful Roonstraße
Synagogue for tefilla or join the onboard minyan. After a
sumptuous Shabbat meal featuring local specialties, enjoy a
lecture and guided walking tour. Shabbat concludes at 7:25
PM, followed by a cocktail reception and Farewell Dinner.
Following early Shacharit and breakfast, we disembark
the Transcend Connect and transfer to the airport for
flights home.
RESTAURANTS
THE RESTAURANT (B/L/D)
Fine dining in an elegant, open-seating dining room
(meat dinners)
THE AFT LOUNGE (D)
Small plate regional dairy dinners.
DINING SALONS (L/D)
Enjoy an intimate dining experience for up to ten
(no charge; reservations required)
PASSED PLATES Variety of canapes on offer in the
Lounge every evening
BARISTA BAR
Specialty coffees, light fare, and delicious desserts
on demand
ROOM SERVICE Choose from a varied menu anytime
All dining options are Kosher and complimentary,
as are fine wines selected by our sommeliers.
Cocktails, wines and all other beverages
are complimentary everywhere onboard.
AFTERNOON TEA, daily canapés and hors d’ oeuvres.
Open premium bar in all bars, lounges and restaurants.
UNLIMITED SPECIALTY COFFEES, as well as soft
drinks, juices and bottled waters in our Barista Lounge
and at self service locations.
WELCOME BOTTLE OF WINE in your stateroom or suite.
IN-ROOM BAR SET-UP with soft drinks, bottled waters,
beers, and Nespresso machine.
FRESH FRUIT in all accommodations.
UNLIMITED WIRELESS (Wi-Fi) for all guests.
TWICE DAILY STEWARDESS SERVICE
and turndown service.
FRENCH BALCONY WINDOWS.
LUXURIOUS CUSTOM-BUILT MATTRESS,
fine cotton linens, a choice of firm or soft pillows.
AMPLE STORAGE in our signature glass wardrobes,
with plush terry robes, slippers and a personal safe.
AN IN-SUITE BAR with a selection of beverages.
INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT
with broadcast TV and hundreds of movie
and music choices.
LUXURY BATHROOM
with SmartGlass technology.
FRESH FRUIT replenished daily.
The entire ship is Glatt Kosher and Chalav Yisrael,
with all wines Mevushal.
A dedicated team of chef/mashgichim supervises
the kashrut, and a Sefer Torah will be onboard
for minyanim.
SUITE AMENITIES
ALL STANDARD AMENITIES, plus a private living
room with a second HDTV, a fresh floral arrangement,
binoculars, and in-room Technogym Case equipment
upon request.
HIS & HERS dual bathrooms
A SUITE HOSTESS to ensure everything
in your suite is always as you wish.
We are pleased to share the cabin options and current pricing for our
upcoming riverboat journey. This sailing features spacious, well-appointed
accommodations, refined onboard service, and an intimate atmosphere
ideal for relaxed river cruising.
ALL PRICING IN USD, PER PERSON, BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY.
CATEGORY C A B I N T Y P E SIZE PRICE (PP)
B Cabin 210 sq ft $8,250
A Cabin 210 sq ft $9,250
S2 Suite 420 sq ft $13,250
S1 Suite 420 sq ft $14,250
Gratuities included; No additional fees or taxes.
Spa treatments, items of a personal nature, and optional tours / private transfers are not included
Accommodation
At Transcend Cruises, custom group river cruises define our approach to luxury travel. Experience the first of a state-of-the-art river ship fleet purpose-built for meetings and events, launching in 2026 on the Rhine. These vessels are crafted with unparalleled attention to detail, offering customizable spaces, luxurious amenities, cutting-edge technology, and the most sustainable features on the rivers.
*Star rating standards vary from country to country.
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