Known as the Father Rhine, this mighty waterway is packed with appeal for new-to-cruise clients and repeaters.

All the mainstream river lines offer Rhine itineraries that range from short taster cruises to voyages of a week and more taking in several countries. Some also sail down the Moselle river, which joins the Rhine at Koblenz.

One day passengers can be tasting local beers in colourful Cologne and the next cruising past vineyard and castle-lined valleys to explore wine-growing villages.

Expert view

A-Rosa River Cruises UK & Ireland MD Lucia Rowe says: "The Rhine is the perfect choice for new to river cruise customers. It provides the quintessential images of fairytale castles, picture book villages, rolling hillsides and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

"Guests can enjoy big cities such as Cologne and Amsterdam plus smaller charming towns and villages along the way.

"Most river cruise lines offer a wide range of itineraries of varying durations, so customers can choose to do a short break taster cruise or perhaps explore further on a longer trip for a week or more.

"Alongside the popular Christmas markets which are always a draw, the once a decade horticultural event, Floriade Expo, will be held in Almere near Amsterdam in 2022, and various lines are offering the chance to enjoy a day there."