Celebrity River Cruises launches cruise extension stays featuring tours with local experts

Celebrity River Cruises has launched pre and post-cruise options for guests on its sailings featuring premium hotel stays and tours with local experts.

The brand is entering the river cruise market on the Rhine next year and its itineraries are already sold out but guests can now book experiences called “Before and After Stays”.

The extensions can be booked now and will be available on sailings in Prague and Budapest from 2027 and in Amsterdam and Lausanne from 2028.

Guests can book additional two or three-night stays on land and will be able to choose from at least three tour options per day.

These will focus on history, food and art, but there will also be the option of exploring destinations at the passengers’ own pace.

Tours will be provided by experts known as Local Storytellers who will lead small groups beyond traditional landmarks.

This may include visiting an artist’s workshop in Amsterdam or exploring Prague’s secret bunkers and former Cold War shelters.

Passengers can also get tips from locals, known as Destination Insiders, to access authentic experiences.

“Before and After Stays” include premium or ultra-premium hotel accommodation, daily breakfast and ship transfers.

Bookings can be made up to 60 days before the sailing date. Prices range from $600 (£450) to $1,500 (£1,100) per person on top of the river cruise price and will depend on the sailing, city and hotel option.

Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises, said: “Every element of a Celebrity River Cruises sailing is designed to bring guests closer to Europe’s culture, history and people, onboard and ashore.”

Read more: I went behind the scenes to see the new Celebrity River Cruises’ ships