Explore new ports of call on Saga river cruises

Not quite Adventure Cruising but some really good deals if you're over 50 on here today.

The beauty of river cruising is that you can jump off the ship and find yourself in some of the most fascinating destinations, from bustling Amsterdam or new-to-Saga ports of St Goar, Obewesel and Worms along the River Saar, in Germany. These incredible river cruises start from five nights on ships that are exclusive to Saga passengers and you can choose from coach or air travel.

From Saarland to Switzerland

Cruise along the picturesque River Saar on Regina Rheni II while meeting other passengers during the welcome cocktail party. Your journey starts from Merzig and continues through the Mettlach Loop until the Saar meets the Rhine, passing vineyards, castles and cathedrals. Excursions include Mainz, home to the original Gutenberg Bible, the Black Forest, Heidelberg and, of course, vineyards for plenty of wine tasting.

14 nights from £1999, departs Heathrow on September 7, 2013 or October 19, 2014

Cultural Treasures of North Holland

Visit the Wadden Islands’ beaches and explore the towns of Zwolle, Lemmer and Kampen as you sail through Holland’s waterways. Take a stroll to Edam or wander along the leafy canal banks to relax and look out for the tulips! You will also have a full day to tour Amsterdam.

Seven nights from £799, travel from Folkestone to Amsterdam via Eurotunnel on April 16, 2014 or upgrade to fly from Gatwick to Amsterdam return, with BA from £99

Medieval Gems of Flanders

Travel by coach, Eurostar or fly – the choice is yours - to embark Rex Rheni in Amsterdam. Soak up the sights of the city before sailing west to Zeeland, Middelburg, Ghent and Antwerp. Take an optional tour to Bruges and its picture-perfect market square surrounded by properties in the Flemish style. Brussels awaits before you return to the Netherlands, passing windmills along the way, passing Dordrecht, Gorinchem and Nijnegen.

8 nights from £949, departs April 28, 2014 or upgrade to fly from Gatwick to Amsterdam return, with BA from £99

Journey through the Iron Gates

Spend a leisurely day cruising on the Danube as you glide through the impressive Iron Gates. This striking stretch of river is framed by sheer cliffs dotted with greenery. Have your camera ready for this and the included tours of cities of Budapest and Vienna.

12 nights from £1949, departs Heathrow to Vienna on September 30, 2014. Additional local airport flight options available

Jazz and Wine on the Rhine and Moselle

Raise a glass to salute the best German wines as John Shilito’s Select Six entertain with a backbeat from New Orleans. Wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner on this cruise from Cologne – and there’s an opportunity to visit the Schwarze Katze and Doktor vineyards. There will also be two jazz talks for enthusiasts.

7 nights from £949 with travel from Folkestone to Cologne via Eurotunnel on August 28, 2014 or upgrade to fly from Heathrow to Dusseldorf with BA from £160 return

To the Vineyards of the Moselle and Rhine

Meander through the Saarschleife loop on this relaxing tour from Merzig to Amsterdam. You will have plenty of time to taste wine on the Moselle and visit fairytale castles.

12 nights from £1699 with travel from Folkestone, via Eurotunnel on July 19, 2014 or upgrade to Eurostar from £99 or fly from Heathrow to Luxembourg return with BA from £180

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Great European Odyssey

If you want a longer holiday this exceptional 23-night cruise takes in cultural cities including Vienna, Belgrade, Budapest and Nuremberg. Four excursions are included on this Regina Rheni II cruise as she sails along the Saar, Rhine and Danube. Further relaxation comes with three full days on the scenic Moselle River.

Price from £3599, departs Heathrow to Bucharest June 26 and September 26, 2014

Through the Rhine Gorge

On this trusted favourite cruise embark Rex Rheni in Cologne and sail via Bonn to Dusseldorf through the UNESCO-protected Upper Middle Rhine. Look out for the ruins of Burg Rheinfels, once the largest castle on the Rhine.

Five nights from £699 with travel from Folkestone to Cologne via Eurotunnel. Upgrade to Eurostar from £99 or fly from Heathrow to Dusseldorf return from £160

All holidays include UK travel service, travel insurance, full board, single cabins at no extra cost subject to availability. To book call freephone 0800 300 400 or visit saga.co.uk/rivercruises