CME Classical Rhine Cruise

2026 European River Retreat

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ANNUAL LEADERSHIP FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS
2026 European River Retreat – Classical Rhine Cruise

Hosted by WIMS

Embark on a luxurious voyage of empowerment and connection with our annual Leadership for Healthcare Professionals CME International River Cruise. Sail through the tranquil waters of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, exploring the picturesque landscapes of the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland. Join us for an unforgettable experience! 

On this luxurious river retreat, immerse yourself in our tailored CME program that promises to enhance professional growth and inspire educational pursuits. This floating symposium is not just a meeting of minds, but a celebration of the shared aspirations for all healthcare professionals. Whether you're planning to reconnect with classmates, planning a friend’s trip, enjoying a getaway with your significant other, or savoring some 'me time', this voyage is the perfect blend of motivational learning, gourmet dining, stunning vistas and awe-inspiring exploration.

All aboard for an unforgettable week of growth, networking, exploration, and relaxation!

CME Program & Faculty

THE JOURNEY

Explore the enchanting beauty of the Rhine River as you journey 500 miles from Amsterdam in the Netherlands, through Germany and France, to Basel, Switzerland. Sail through the Dutch IJsselmeer to the historic city of Cologne, and take a scenic detour along the Moselle River, flanked by lush vineyards. Marvel at the stunning Middle Rhine Valley, dotted with castles and the legendary Lorelei rock. Visit charming wine villages and the ancient city of Speyer, then continue to Strasbourg, the capital of the Grand Est region, before concluding in Basel, at the crossroads of France, Germany, and Switzerland.

Our all-inclusive program features exquisite haute cuisine, a unique CME education program with world-renowned medical experts, engaging lectures, entertainment, and daily local tours from Amsterdam to Basel, showcasing the rich culture and history of each destination.

Imagine watching the river flow from your cabin or one of the decks, revealing picturesque landscapes as you unwind in total comfort. The serene ambiance and personalized service aboard your CME River Retreat ship create an unparalleled oasis of relaxation. Each bright, airy cabin offers unrestricted views through panoramic glass windows with a French balcony. Experience European travel like never before, with the effortless charm of river transport!

from$4750pp/dbl

8

days

May 18 to 25, 2026

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THE SHIP & CRUISE RATES

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ITINERARY

Day 1 Mo - Embarkation Amsterdam

Day 2 Tu – Amsterdam & Utrecht

Day 3 We - Cologne

Day 4 Th – Cochem

Day 5 Fr - Koblenz & Ruedesheim

Day 6 Sa – Mannheim & Speyer

Day 7 Su – Strasbourg

Day 8 Mo – Basel – Diembarkation

* Please note mooring and casting off times are only guidelines. We reserve the right to make changes to the itineraries and excursion programs. If due to low or high water or a defective ship a section of the river is closed to travel, the ship-owner reserves the right to transport guests along this section by bus, accommodate them in hotels and /or change the course of this part of the journey. In certain circumstances it may be necessary to transfer to another ship. These situations are rare but do happen from time to time and are all part of riverboat vacations. There’s nothing anyone can do to control mother nature.

THE AMADEUS AUREA EXPERIENCE

This afternoon, embark and unpack. Enjoy a Welcome Cocktail, followed by a special Welcome Dinner. Enjoy a rousing Shanty Choir performance to end the evening. The vessel remains in Amsterdam overnight.

After breakfast, view our arrival at the beautiful cathedral city of Cologne. Explore the historic Old Town with its High Gothic architecture, the famous twin-spired Cologne Cathedral, and sample the famous Kölsch beer brewed in Cologne.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon or venture farther afield for a more active excursion to Siebengebirge National Park and the remains of Castle "Drachenfels" (Dragon Rock). After a wonderful day in Cologne, enjoy dinner on board as the vessel continues cruising the Rhine River.

This morning our AMADEUS vessel takes a special trip down the romantic Moselle River, the largest tributary of the Rhine. This area is the 5th largest German wine region with some of the steepest, terraced vineyards along the river.

After lunch, your vessel will arrive in Cochem. Explore the town, which is filled with narrow streets, twisting alleys, medieval town gates, churches and walls on your own, or discover the beauty of Cochem and visit the stunning Reichsburg Castle on a guided tour. Later in the afternoon, join a visit to a local winery and sample some of the spectacular wines produced in this region. Before midnight, the vessel continues toward Koblenz.

Early this morning, arrive in Koblenz, ideally situated at the confluence of the Rhine and the Moselle Rivers. Join this morning's tour exploring the town of Koblenz on foot. 

This afternoon, spend time on deck as we cruise the most beautiful section of the river - the legendary Upper Middle Rhine Valley. This area is registered on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its dramatic riverbanks dotted with vineyards and picturesque castles. Late afternoon, arrive in the winegrower’s town of Rüdesheim.

Choose a walking tour of the town, with a visit to the unique Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum's private collection of self-playing instruments. Or visit a local vineyard for a tasting of the local wines and a walk through the famous Drosselgasse with its wine taverns, garden restaurants, beer bars and live music venues. Back on board, your AMADEUS crew awaits your return with a delicious dinner.

Before breakfast, your vessel docks in the bustling town of Mannheim, your gate to an excursion to nearby Heidelberg, another old university city with its beautiful Heidelberg Castle.

This afternoon's call is at Speyer, a city known for its cathedral where eight Roman emperors and German kings are interred. Join us for a guided tour of one of the oldest cities in Germany and discover the secrets of the Speyer Brezel, one of Germany’s staple snacks and famously celebrated at the annual Pretzel Festival in Speyer. At night, your floating luxury hotel sets sail to Strasbourg.

This morning, we arrive in the dynamic capital of Alsace. This beautiful city's sights include the famous cathedral Strasburger Münster and the Petite France quarter, a former mill and tanner district that still maintains its medieval charm. Half-timbered houses, the Ponts Couverts, the Palais de Rohan, and the Council of Europe are among the wonders that Strasbourg holds in store for you. The Grand Island, the city center, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is connected to the rest of the city by 22 stone bridges. See Strasbourg by canal boat on this morning's guided excursion. After lunch on board, take in the views of the romantic Rhine as we sail toward Switzerland, our final destination.

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THE SHIP

“Launching in 2026”. The AMADEUS Aurea is not just a technical masterpiece but also a floating paradise for connoisseurs. Enjoy relaxing moments in 12 spacious suites with balconies or 67 bright outside cabins featuring panoramic windows. Savor culinary highlights in the elegant Panorama Restaurant or unwind on the sun deck with its outdoor pool and Lido Bar. For active moments, a state-of-the-art fitness room is at your disposal, while the “River Terrace” invites you to dream. Cutting-edge environmental technologies, such as a hybrid propulsion system and an efficient heat recovery system, make your journey not only comfortable but also sustainable. Set sail with us and experience unforgettable journeys along Europe’s most beautiful rivers. CME River Conferences doesn't just meet your expectations; we aim to create spectacular surprises that exceed what you would expect from an everyday CME Conference.

Embarkation & Disembarkation:

Embarkation (May 18 Amsterdam, Netherlands): Clients will be able to check-in and board in Amsterdam, Netherlands beginning at 14:00. Guests who arrive earlier may leave their luggage at reception beginning at 12:00 but will not be able to check-in or receive their cabin until 16:00. AMS Airport is approximately 30 minutes travel to the pier. Scheduled airport transfers will be made available in the late morning and early afternoon.

Disembarkation (May 25 Basel, Switzerland): Clients will be required to disembark by 9:30a. Transfers from boat to Zurich airport will be available. Airport is approximately 1 hour from the pier.