From the very beginning of human civilizations, rivers have provided people with ways to transport themselves and their goods easily and economically. Europe’s Rhine is no different. Thousands of barges, boats, and ships travel up and down the river every day, making this one of the busiest rivers in the world. In the pages of this book, you’ll join these travelers as you take a tour along the Rhine from its headwaters high up in the Swiss Alps all the way to its delta at the North Sea. Along the way, you’ll serpentine along the river’s winding course passing medieval villages, grand canal systems, historic castles, and quaint villages. You’ll also find out how the countries along the Rhine are working together to protect the river’s waters for future generations. Come on aboard! Our vessel is waiting to sail.