Riverside Luxury Cruises Announces Beer & Brewing Heritage Cruise for Summer 2026

Hosted by British Beer Sommelier James Kellow

Hamburg, Germany - Riverside Luxury Cruises have announced a beer-focused river cruise for summer 2026, with British beer sommelier James Kellow hosting a seven-night voyage through some of the most historically significant brewing regions within Western Europe’s 'Beer Belt'.

Titled Hops & Heritage, the cruise takes place from 29 July to 5 August 2026, following the Rhine from Basel to Amsterdam. Calling at beer cities across Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands, the itinerary reflects a growing interest in beer tourism that places heritage, local styles and cultural context at its centre.

The 2026 sailing builds on a beer-themed press cruise hosted by Kellow in summer 2025, which introduced the concept to UK and international media. The group included beer writer Will Hawkes and beer illustrator and communicator Em Sauter, with coverage highlighting the cruise’s focus on brewing history, regional identity and beer’s place within wider food and travel culture.

Far from a simple tasting tour, ‘Hops & Heritage’ is an exploration of beer’s cultural and historical significance. Ports of call include Strasbourg, Speyer, Mannheim, Rüdesheim, Cologne and Arnhem, each representing a different chapter in the development of European brewing; from historic German lager traditions and Cologne’s Kölsch culture to the Netherlands’ long commercial beer history.

"From the Reformation to the printing press, mass literacy, and the rise of the joint stock company, the story of modern Western civilization is deeply intertwined with the European ‘Beer Belt.’" Says Kellow. "For centuries, beer hasn’t just been a drink, it’s been a catalyst for technological and social progress. Tasting classic beers in their birthplaces, paired with local dishes, adds layers of meaning and enjoyment that simply can’t be replicated" 

Throughout the journey, James Kellow will lead a series of onboard tastings and lively discussions, uncovering the stories behind Europe’s most beloved beer styles. From the ingredients that define each region to the historical and culinary influences shaping every pint, guests will gain a deeper appreciation for what’s in their glass - and on their plate. Tastings and beer-and-food pairings will be integrated into the ship’s dining programme.

On shore, guests will step inside iconic breweries, historic beer halls, and hidden gems where locals have gathered for centuries. Guided walking tours will bring the history to life, revealing how beer has shaped not just local flavors, but also the architecture, social rituals, and even the identity of each city. The cruise concludes in Amsterdam, a city with more over 750 years of brewing history, and where the beer played a key role in the birth of the Dutch nation and it’s commercial development.

Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or simply curious about the stories behind Europe’s most iconic styles, this voyage offers something for everyone. Reflecting the growing demand for immersive, story-driven travel, the cruise promises an unforgettable blend of history, flavour, and adventure.

The seven-night sailing takes place aboard the boutique luxury vessel Riverside Debussy. Further details on the itinerary and booking information are available via Riverside Luxury Cruises website.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

James Kellow is a British beer sommelier and educator based in the Netherlands, working across beer tastings, food pairing, tours and beer education. Additional images/video available on request.

Further information:

www.riverside-cruises.comwww.beersommelier.uk

Contact: jameskellow@beersommelier.uk

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