Rhine River Cruise

Rhine River Cruise

Dec 1, 2027

Dec 9, 2027

ABOUT THE TOUR

Trace the dramatic final months of World War II in Europe with The National WWII Museum on an all-new, immersive nine-night voyage from Amsterdam to Strasbourg aboard Transcend Connect. WWII History for the Holidays Rhine River Cruise offers an expertly curated itinerary that blends powerful battlefield exploration with the festive charm of Europe’s vibrant Christmas markets. Accompanied by renowned military historians and authors John McManus, PhD, and James Fenelon, guests gain insight into pivotal campaigns such as Operation Market Garden, the airborne crossings at Nijmegen, and the Allied push across the Rhine into Germany. An actor from Band of Brothers also joins the cruise to connect the acclaimed series to the very landscapes where these events unfolded. Each port offers a choice of thoughtfully designed excursions allowing a tailored experience for each traveler. The exclusively chartered Transcend Connect is the perfect venue for lectures, film screenings, and taking in the panoramic views of the Rhine’s castles, vineyards, and historic towns. Holiday markets in cities like Cologne, Bonn, and Mainz add a festive component to this December voyage.

Cabins starting at $13,999, per person (based on double occupancy), plus airfare and taxes.

Travel insurance is available through our trusted partner USI – they can be reached at 800.937.1387 or at USI Travel Insurance.

Reserve your space below, call us at 800.942.5004, or email travel@wacphila.org for any questions.

Once you reserve your tour, consider offsetting the carbon emissions from your international flights. Use this Sustainable Travel International calculator to get started.

YOUR TOUR LEADER

John McManus, PhD, and James Fenelon

Military Historians and Authors

John C. McManus is a leading U.S. military historian and the first humanities professor at Missouri S&T to be named a Curators’ Distinguished Professor. He has written 15+ major books on World War II and the American combat experience, appears frequently in national media, and serves as the official historian of the U.S. Army’s 7th Infantry Regiment. A St. Louis native with a Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee, he has produced influential works on Normandy, the Battle of the Bulge, and infantry warfare, including Fire and Fortitude, winner of the Gilder Lehrman Prize. He also hosts several WWII‑focused podcasts and is currently writing a biography of General Matthew Ridgway. James Fenelon is a former paratrooper and military historian whose books Four Hours of Fury and Angels Against the Sun recount the experiences of the 17th and 11th Airborne Divisions in World War II. Drawing on his service and extensive battlefield research across Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Pacific, he writes vivid, ground‑level narratives that highlight the experiences of ordinary GIs. Fenelon contributes regularly to World War II magazine, has written for major military and aviation publications, and has served as a technical advisor for games, films, and documentaries. A University of Texas at Austin graduate, he now lives with his wife in the Texas Hill Country.

Become A Member

Donate