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We boarded in Koblenz for a 4 and 1/2 hour cruise to Rudesheim.  We had beautiful weather; partly sunny and warm.  We also enjoyed some good German beer along the way.

The Middle Rhine Valley stretches between Koblenz and Mainz, in central Germany. This area is full off medieval castles, historic towns and vineyards.  Below are photos of 22 of the different castles.

The rocky Rhine Valley was already a major traffic route in Roman times. During the Middle Ages, the many castles were built. Its owners levied tolls on the roads and the river, in return for protection against robbers.

Navigating the Rhine itself was also dangerous: there are many currents. Especially the Binger Loch was an obstacle. For a long time it took the power of 40 horses to tow a ship across this treacherous point.

Our cruise was with KD Cruises, http://www.k-d.de/englisch/index.html.  The total cost for an all day hop-on-hop-off ticket was $32.00 / person.  (Dollars, not British Sterling)

Signals helping boats navigate the curve in the river

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