KD German Rhine Line is building two new ships for cruises on the Elbe River, formerly the border between East and West Germany. The ships will be operated by a new company, KD Elbe River Cruises, and are scheduled to begin service in May with four itineraries and 70 sailing dates through mid-October.

Seven-day cruises will go both ways on the Elbe between Lauenburg, near Hamburg, and the spa town of Bad Schandau, a distance of 375 miles. The ships, each carrying up to 128 passengers, will spend each night in a different port.

Fares will range from $1,275 to $1,510 for seven-day trips, $850 to $995 for five-day trips. Information: KD German Rhine Line, Suite 317, 170 Hamilton Ave., White Plains, N.Y. 10601; telephone (800) 346-6525.