Overnight and through the morning we sailed across the European watershed, reaching the highest point on the cruise, 406 metres above sea level, in the RMD (Rhine-Main-Danube) Canal. This man-made canal, about 140km long, joins the Danube and Main Rivers; it contains several large locks, each descending over 20 metres, and 2 aqueduct sections where the canal is above the surrounding countryside. Early afternoon we reached Nurnberg (Nuremberg), where we spent several hours exploring the city, most of which was destroyed by Allied bombing in World War II. Then back on board for the “oom-pah” band!
Here’s a few pictures from the day …
At Kelheim, we left the Danube River and travelled for 160 kilometres along the Main-Danube canal, joining the Main River at Bamberg. This section included the highest point of our journey, and several locks where we descended over 20 metres in one drop. The canal also has some aqueduct sections, where it crosses above main roads – very strange to be in a ship above a road!
At the top of the Eckersmuhlen Lock, about to descend over 20 metres.
Exiting one of the large locks on the RMD Canal. The lock door is raised to allow the ship to leave; there’s not much overhead clearance. All the sundeck equipment has been removed or lowered to deck level; the ship’s bridge (not visible in this picture) has also been lowered.
Nurnberg skyline.
Our cultural enlightenment continues, with a Bavarian Music concert on-board.
