Riverside: The Perfect Cruise for Beer Enthusiasts
For beer lovers dreaming of an experience that combines the authentic taste of European brewing traditions with the comfort of a luxury holiday, there is now an unmissable opportunity: “Hops & Heritage”, the new themed cruise by Riverside Luxury Cruises.
Scheduled from July 29 to August 5, 2026, this eight-day journey along the Rhine River celebrates centuries of brewing craftsmanship, taking guests through some of Europe’s most iconic beer cities in the company of a renowned beer sommelier. A voyage through culture, gastronomy, and timeless landscapes, designed for those who see beer not just as a beverage, but as a true art form.
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“Hops & Heritage: Cruising Through Centuries of Brewing Craftsmanship” is much more than a simple cruise. It’s a carefully curated experience that offers guests full immersion into the world of European beer. Leading the voyage is James Kellow, a well-known beer sommelier, who will accompany guests through an itinerary that highlights some of the continent’s top beer capitals.
Stops include Cologne, Arnhem, and Amsterdam, each offering the chance to taste iconic brews such as German pilsners and kölsch, or the famous Dutch Grolsch. Alongside the tasting experiences, guests will uncover the stories, culture, and brewing traditions behind each sip — all set against a backdrop of scenic riverbanks, gothic cathedrals, medieval castles, and rolling hills dotted with vineyards and timeless villages.
One of the cruise’s highlights is the interactive and educational approach that Kellow brings on board. Every day, guests will be invited to join guided tastings, learn the secrets of beer and food pairing, and receive personalized recommendations to accompany dishes served at the ship’s Waterside restaurant, where meals are prepared à la minute using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients.
For those seeking an even more exclusive experience, there’s the option to book (for an additional fee) a special dinner at The Vintage Room: a refined seven-course evening where Kellow teams up with the ship’s executive chef to craft a gourmet menu inspired by the beer and culinary traditions of the regions visited.
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But the experience doesn’t stop onboard. The cruise also includes themed excursions to renowned breweries and small local producers, where guests will meet brewmasters, discover traditional brewing techniques, and of course, taste fresh beer directly from the source. These experiences are set in atmospheric locations such as historic pubs, medieval villages, and picturesque river landscapes. For enthusiasts, it’s a unique opportunity to deepen their knowledge and engage with true industry professionals in a relaxed and convivial setting.
Like all Riverside Luxury Cruises offerings, this itinerary upholds the company’s exceptionally high standards of service. The ships – Riverside Mozart, Ravel, and Debussy – offer the largest suites on the river, all featuring king-size beds, personal butler service, and an unrivaled guest-to-staff ratio. On board, guests can enjoy complimentary StarLink Wi-Fi, premium wines and spirits, unlimited shore excursions, prepaid gratuities, and even included ground transfers. For the more active travelers, bikes and e-bikes are available for self-guided city exploration — adding another layer of authenticity to the journey.
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And for those who can’t join the main departure at the end of July, beer lovers traveling the Rhine in August can still enjoy a well-stocked onboard beer bar, guided tastings, and recommended pairings throughout the month.
Riverside’s Hops & Heritage cruise represents a new way to experience beer: refined, knowledgeable, and deeply rooted in European culture and history. Merging the best of culinary tourism with the elegance of luxury river cruising, this journey is set to become the go-to experience for beer aficionados in search of something truly special.
Don’t miss the latest news, updates, and reviews about Riverside Luxury Cruises on Cruising Journal, complete with photos, videos, and special cruise offers.
