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

Taking a boat trip through Germany’s river valleys offers a fantastic way to see the landscape without the hassle of driving or navigating on your own. This 2-River Day-trip from Alken to Koblenz, operated by Personenschifffahrt MS Goldstück, promises a scenic and relaxed journey through the picturesque Moselle and Rhine rivers. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what you can expect — and it’s quite appealing.

What we love about this cruise is how it combines stunning river views, historical sights, and the chance to explore Koblenz at your own pace. Plus, the price of just $33 per person makes it accessible and budget-friendly. The friendly crew, the beautiful landscapes, and the opportunity for free time in Koblenz stand out as major pluses.

The one point to keep in mind is the limited time in Koblenz, which might feel a bit rushed for those wanting to explore more thoroughly. If you’re after a quick, scenic introduction to this part of Germany, this trip could be perfect. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy relaxed sightseeing, river landscapes, and cultural highlights in a manageable day.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $33, this cruise offers excellent value for a scenic day trip.
• Beautiful Scenery: Views of castles, vineyards, and mountain slopes along the Moselle, plus the confluence at Koblenz.
• Historical Highlights: Free time in Koblenz to visit Deutsches Eck, with optional cable car rides and sightseeing.
• Relaxed Experience: An easy-paced cruise with onboard commentary and friendly staff.
• Limited Time in Koblenz: Around 2.5 hours for exploring, which suits short visits but might feel rushed for those wanting a deeper dive.
• Accessibility & Practicalities: Cash needed on board, no food or drinks allowed during the cruise, but food can be purchased onboard.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Scenic Journey Through Germany’s Iconic River Valleys

This boat trip offers a relaxed way to see two of Germany’s most famed rivers — the Moselle and the Rhine — without the stress of driving. The departure from Alken, a charming village in the Moselle Valley, is a great starting point for those who want to enjoy the lush vineyards, historic castles, and steep slopes that define this region.

The Itinerary: What Makes It Special?

The cruise begins early, with departures around 9:15-9:30 am from different villages, starting in Brodenbach, Löf, and Alken. Once on board, the boat heads along the Moselle River, offering a panoramic showcase of the landscape’s best features.

Passing the lock Lehmen marks the start of the journey, with views of water mills and old castles like Wasserburg von der Leyen and Gondorf. The boat then glides past the castle Kobern, perched on a hillside, and the terraced vineyards of Winningen. These vineyards are a highlight, with reviewers noting how the steep, rewarded slopes make for impressive scenery.

One of the trip’s standout moments is crossing one of Germany’s highest bridges (A61), which adds a modern touch to the landscape. Throughout the cruise, the scenery is constantly changing — from forests and mountain slopes to riverside villages like Kobern and Oberfell.

The Confluence at Deutsches Eck

Around noon, the boat arrives at Koblenz, where the highlight for many is the Deutsches Eck (German Corner). This iconic spot marks where the Moselle and Rhine rivers meet, creating a natural spectacle. Reviewers appreciate the free time to explore this area independently, noting that it’s home to monuments like the equestrian statue of William I, celebrating German unification.

Some travelers choose to take the cable car to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for sweeping views, while others prefer wandering the local shops or enjoying the cafes and wine bars nearby. The free two to two-and-a-half hours in Koblenz offers a decent window for sightseeing, but some mention it felt a little short — a common sentiment for busy sightseeing days.

The Return Journey

Post exploration, the boat departs from Koblenz around 2:30 pm, retracing the route back along the Rhine and Moselle rivers. The return trip offers more scenic views of quaint villages like Winningen, Oberfell, and Lof, passing under the impressive A61 bridge again and finishing in Alken.

Throughout the cruise, the crew is praised for their friendliness and humor, with actual reviews describing staff as “very helpful” and “quick-witted,” making the journey all the more enjoyable. The onboard commentary enhances the experience, especially if you’re interested in local landmarks and river history.

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What’s Included and What To Consider

For $33, the cruise includes the boat ride, passing through locks, and views of historic castles and vineyards. While food and drinks are not included, they are available for purchase onboard, with reviews indicating reasonably priced beverages and snacks. This makes the experience flexible — you can bring cash for extras or indulge in what’s on offer during the trip.

Dogs are allowed, but keep in mind that the boat has stairs without lifts, so accessibility might be an issue for travelers with wheelchairs or mobility aids. Although the scenery is spectacular, the outdoor areas can be exposed to the sun, so bring sun protection if you plan to sit outside.

Authentic Experiences & Practical Details

Many reviews comment on the friendly staff and helpful guides onboard, making sure you feel comfortable and informed. One traveler appreciated the “simple but super delicious breakfast,” which hints that some small touch of onboard hospitality is available, though not specifically included in the price.

The trip is designed to be flexible, with the option to book now and pay later, and to cancel up to 24 hours in advance. This makes it easy to plan around your other sightseeing activities or day trips.

Timing & Group Size

Starting early in the morning, the cruise lasts roughly 5-6 hours including free time. Given the small-group feel, it’s ideal for those who prefer a cozy, intimate experience rather than large, crowded tours.

Why This Tour Works for Different Travelers

This boat trip is particularly suited for travelers who:

• Want a cost-effective way to see the Moselle and Rhine valleys without the stress of self-driving.
• Appreciate scenic landscapes, castles, and vineyards that define this region.
• Have limited time but want a taste of Koblenz and the surrounding beauty.
• Prefer relaxed, guided experiences with friendly staff and informative commentary.
• Are okay with a short window for exploring Koblenz and don’t mind the limited sightseeing time.

If you love photography, you’ll find plenty of picture-perfect moments along the way, from terraced vineyards to historic castles. For wine lovers, the views of rewarded vineyards at Winningen are a highlight, and some reviewers mentioned the surprisingly good prices for drinks onboard.

Final Thoughts

This 2-River Day-trip offers a charming, accessible way to experience the essence of the Moselle and Rhine rivers in a single day. The scenery is undeniably stunning, and the journey strikes a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation. The friendly crew, combined with the reasonable price, makes it a worthwhile choice for those looking to combine scenic views with a bit of history and local culture.

While the short stop in Koblenz might be a little rushed for travelers wanting a deeper exploration, it’s perfect for a quick introduction or for those with limited time. This cruise provides excellent value, fun onboard commentary, and plenty of memorable views.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This trip is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want an authentic, scenic experience without the fuss of planning their own route. It’s perfect if you enjoy river landscapes, castles, and vineyards, and prefer guided comfort over self-guided exploration. It suits families, couples, and solo travelers alike, especially those who appreciate friendly service and authentic scenery.

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to see some of Germany’s most scenic river confluences, this cruise certainly deserves a spot on your itinerary.

FAQ

Is there a specific time the boat departs?
Yes, boats depart between 9:15 am and 9:30 am from various villages, with the main departure from Alken at 9:30 am.

How long is the entire trip?
The whole experience, including the free time in Koblenz, lasts about 5-6 hours.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but food and drinks can be purchased onboard, and reviews mention reasonably priced beverages.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed, but they should be comfortable with being on a boat and the stairs, as no lifts are available.

What should I bring?
Cash is recommended for extras. Sun protection is advised if sitting outside, and since food isn’t allowed on board, bring snacks if desired.

Is this suitable for wheelchair users?
Electrically wheelchairs are not possible on this boat because of stairs and lack of lifts, so consider mobility needs before booking.

This scenic boat trip from Alken to Koblenz combines affordability, stunning views, and a touch of history — an experience that captures the essence of Germany’s river landscapes with ease and charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: