8 DAYS AMSTERDAM & BELGIUM TULIP CRUISE

Day 1: Embarkation in Amsterdam

Embark your ship in Amsterdam to begin your 7N tulip adventure. Embarkation is around 3pm.

Day 2: Amsterdam to Kampen

Cruise across the IJsselmeer to Kampen, where you’ll explore the enchanting canal-laden village of Giethoorn. Nicknamed the “Venice of the Netherlands”, Giethoorn charms with fairytale-like thatched-roof farmhouses, winding canals, and quaint bridges. In the afternoon, visit the vibrant tulip fields of Flevoland or embark on a guided bike ride through the Dutch countryside.

Day 3: Bruinisse

Today, cruise through the Delta of the Netherlands before embarking on a guided tour of the medieval harbor town of Zierikzee. Explore the town’s 16th-century Gravesteen and charming harborside shops and cafes, and stop by the Oosterschelde Kering, the largest storm surge barrier of the Delta Works Project. Alternatively, join a guided bike tour through the fishing village Bruinisse, best known for its mussel farming and seafood industry.

Day 4: Ghent to Bruges

We enter Belgium, where you can choose to explore the charming medieval cities of Ghent or Bruges. In Ghent, discover charming canal-side architecture and landmarks, including the Castle of the Counts and St. Bavo’s Cathedral with its iconic Adoration of the Mystic Lamb altarpiece; or learn about the history of chocolate whilst savouring different pralines with a master chocolatier.

Alternatively, enjoy a full-day tour of Bruges (UNESCO), one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Stroll down charming streets sampling local treats, such as Belgian fries, waffles, and chocolate, before visiting the centuries-old Church of Our Lady.

Day 5: Antwerp

Continue your tour of Belgium with a walking tour of the vibrant city of Antwerp, and visit iconic landmarks such as the Steen Castle, Grote Market, Brabo Fountain, and the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of Our Lady. For a more active experience, you may join a guided bike tour.

In the afternoon, you may then choose between two delightful excursions: a visit to Floralia, Belgium’s annual spring flower show featuring nearly one million hand-planted colourful vibrant tulip bulbs, or a culinary tour to indulge in more Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer.

Day 6: Rotterdam to Kinderdijk

Arriving back in the Netherlands, we embark on a walking tour of Rotterdam to taste its local specialties and enjoy a bike ride through its best historical landmarks. Alternatively, opt for an excursion to Delft, home of painter Johannes Vermeer and stunning Delft Blue pottery, and visit the Royal Delft Porcelain Factory and Museum.

In the afternoon, we visit Kinderdijk (UNESCO), and dive into a magical world of windmills and pumping stations from the 18th century. Enjoy an exclusive experience at a private windmill by electric boat or bike, or delve into the history of US immigration with a visit to Delfshaven, where the Pilgrims set sail in 1620, before exploring the FENIX Museum of Migration.

Day 7: Amsterdam

On your last day, relax with a morning of scenic cruising before choosing between two excursions in Amsterdam. Once a year every spring, the 70-acre Keukenhof Gardens comes alive with millions of vibrant, blooming tulips in technicolour, and you may immerse yourself in the beauty of the world famous Keukenhof Gardens strolling through stunning displays of diverse tulips. Also known as the “Garden of Europe”, the Keukenhof is only open for nine weeks each year.

Alternatively, set off on a special boat tour of Amsterdam, and explore the city’s historic harbor and canals. You’ll pass by well-preserved Dutch homes and the fabled Skinny Bridge.

Day 8: Disembark at Amsterdam

Bid farewell to Amsterdam, having shored up idyllic memories of a lifetime. Disembarkation is around 9am, after which you can head to the airport for your flight home.