Thursday March 28 -- After breakfast aboard ship, our groups were assembled for our respective tours. The more ambitious (and able) passengers "opted" for an excursion to Rothenburg, that included a ride along the "Romantic Road" through Franconia where they enjoyed a traditional German lunch which was highly acclaimed.
Those of us who are more cautious with our adventure, our exploration was confined to a leisurely tour of the baroque Bishop's Residenz, (Brochure spelling) one of Germany's largest and most ornate palaces and. UNESCO World Heritage site. A most enjoyable and interesting peek into the awesome power and prestige of the ruling Prince Bishops of this era.
Friday, March 29 Bamberg. We sailed through the 106 mile Main-Danube Canal, acclaimed as an engineering marvel stretching from Bamberg on the Main River to Kelheim on the Danube and comprising 16 locks. After lunch we disembarked the ship for a tour through this picturesque city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bamberg is known for its breweries and the "beer" buffs in our group enjoyed a brief afternoons "tasting" session.