Moselle River
Why Sail the Moselle?
Sailing the Moselle River provides a charming and scenic river cruise experience, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and renowned wine regions. The region is particularly known for its white wines, with Riesling being the most famous grape variety grown along the Moselle. The steep slopes of the river valley provide excellent conditions for grape cultivation. Dotted with charming towns and villages that have preserved their medieval charm, places such as Cochem, Bernkastel-Kues, and Trier offer an opportunity to explore cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and historic landmarks. The region is also home to numerous castles, such as the majestic Burg Eltz, which adds a fairytale-like quality to the landscape.
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The Moselle River, known as Mosel in German, is a river that flows through France, Luxembourg, and Germany. It is approximately 544 kilometers (338 miles) long. The Moselle River is one of the major tributaries of the Rhine River. Its confluence with the Rhine near Koblenz forms an important waterway junction in Germany.​ The source of the Moselle River is located in the Vosges Mountains of northeastern France. Specifically, near the village of Bussang in the department of Vosges. Its source is at an elevation of about 715 meters (2,346 feet) above sea level.
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The Moselle River has a rich history dating back to Roman times. Several Roman ruins and archaeological sites can be found along its course, reflecting the region's historical importance and the Roman presence in the area. The Moselle River is dotted with numerous castles, some of which are open to the public and offer panoramic views of the river and the surrounding countryside.
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All Moselle River cruise itineraries will be combined with some portion of the Rhine River.
Cruise Lines that Sail the Moselle
When Should You Sail the Moselle?
Sailing on the Moselle can be enjoyable during any season of the year. Pricing will tend to be lowest during low and shoulder seasons, though weather can be a little cooler during these time periods. But peak season brings tourist crowds and potentially hot summer days. Our preference is to sail April into early May or late September into October. If you are looking to sail during Christmas Market season, be sure to choose a sailing after markets open - typically late November into early December.
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Water level issues can crop up at at any time - read up on what causes issues and when they are most likely to occur on our Water Levels page.
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In general, the Moselle River cruise season in falls into these categories:​
January/February
Typically no sailings during this time of year.
May/June
This period is considered shoulder season.
September/October
This period is considered shoulder season.
March/April
This period is considered low season.
July/August
This period is considered peak season.
November/December
This period is Christmas Market season.
Select Countries & Cities Along the Moselle
Germany
A visit to Germany provides an opportunity to experience historic towns, splendid architecture, delicious food, and so much more. Explore eight UNESCO World Heritage sites in Trier, the charming and picturesque Old Town of Cochem, outstanding wineries in Bernkastel, and the historic charm of Koblenz.
Trier
Koblenz
Cochem
Bernkastel
France
Not many cruise lines will visit Metz, but those that do will introduce you to an enchanting town, with the largest pedestrian-only Old Town in France. While strolling along the canals, you will be able to take in buildings that date back as far as the 15th century.
Metz
Luxembourg
Luxembourg City is known for its picturesque old town, stunning fortifications, and rich history. Built on the foundations of a fortress, explore must-see attractions, from its UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Quarters to the Petrusse and Bock Casemates and National Museum.
Luxembourg City
Suggested Moselle Itineraries
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​AmaWaterways' Rhine & Moselle Delights
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Tauck's The Rhine & Moselle
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Uniworld's Rhine, Moselle & Belgium Grand Discovery
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Viking's Paris to the Swiss Alps​