When the "Ville de Metz" docked in Trier in December 1839 as the first steamship, it marked the beginning of a new era in Moselle shipping. For almost a century, the large paddle steamers were a familiar sight on the Moselle, conveying both a sense of bustling activity and a touch of romance. Along the picturesque castles and vineyards, locals and tourists could comfortably and quickly cover the 191-kilometer stretch between Koblenz and Trier. The steamships served the Moselle winemakers for transporting their wines. The renowned historian and author of successful Moselle picture books, Karl-Josef Gilles, recalls the exciting history of Moselle steam navigation from its beginnings to its end with around 160 mostly unpublished photos from private collections, archives, and museums. This picture book invites readers on a nostalgic river cruise through the Moselle.