They are locks, it is the Rhine. What were you expecting?
Early breakfast was beyond fine. The toaster was a challenge but I figured it out. Announcement of the tour to Mainz was at 8:30, for an 8:45 departure. At 8:50 Gabor said the buses were on the way. At 9:05 we were all called to the bar for an Announcement. Traffic accident was going to delay departure until after lunch. The elite eight, accompanied by a few other brave souls, went on a walkabout along the river and also viewed a “Pleasure Palace” and an old castle, built in the 1300s but bought and rebuilt in 1805. Built to impress, not to defend. Really very interesting.
After lunch we finally departed to downtown Mainz. Besides a great tour in very cold weather, we had a history-tinkling demostration of the Gutenberg press. Worth all the delays and disruptions as far as I’m concerned. We also tasted some unfermented wine-based grape juice. A first for us.
Dinner was far too much fun. The food was secondary to the conversation. We compared some Fess Parker wine I’d brought with the offered Rhone blend. Parker won, hands down. (Was there any doubt?) Also met some wonderfully interesting people from various USA locations. As I’ve lectured throughout the world, “We’re all just people”. Placing people into specific niches is an error in judgement.
Yes, the cruise has not followed routine. But we’re having fun, so who cares?
How low is the water? This photo shows. 
I as never much for abstract art. Case in point. 
Beautiful “Pleasure Palace.” 
Small Fort. To protect wives or mistresses Or both? 
Gutenberg statue. 
Balmy day in Mainz. 
Non-alcoholic drinks. Wine grapes before fermentation.