Discover the traditional windmills and medieval cities of Holland and Belgium on this springtime river cruise, and visit the dazzling Keukenhof flower gardens at this enchanting time of year
Explore the waterways of Holland and Belgium in springtime when the countryside explodes in a riot of colour. Sail past fields of tulips, traditional windmills and medieval cities and discover centuries of history and culture.
Explore the cosmopolitan city of Amsterdam, whose canals are connected by hundreds of beautiful bridges, then sail to Arnhem where there is the option to visit the Airborne Museum and the open-air museum. Cruise to the picturesque town of Middelburg and perhaps travel to the impressive Delta Works to learn more about the flood defences here.
Cross the border into Belgium for visits to the lovely cities of Ghent and Antwerp, with optional excursions to explore Bruges and Brussels. On returning to Holland there is the opportunity to visit the magical Keukenhof Gardens, 79 acres of breathtaking beauty, open only in the springtime.
Complimentary wine, draft beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
Tea and coffee available all day
Complimentary bottled water in cabin replenished daily
Complimentary WiFi on board
Wireless AMADEUS Audio System for all excursions
Cocktail reception, welcome dinner and gala dinner
Complimentary bicycles on board
Port taxes
Excludes
Excursions
Travel insurance
Flights and transfers - we can arrange these for you. Flight inclusive packages available from just £1499pp!
Itinerary
Day 1UK - Amsterdam (Holland)
Fly from the UK and embark ship in Amsterdam. Enjoy a Welcome Cocktail with fellow guests this evening followed by a Welcome Dinner and a performance by traditional shanty choir.
Day 2Arnhem
Discover the fascinating heritage of Arnhem, including the World War II battle operation 'Market Garden'. In the morning there is the chance to enjoy a city tour of Arnhem, and in the afternoon choose between a trip to the Open Air Museum and the Kroller-Muller Museum.
Day 3Middelburg
The picturesque town of Middelburg flourished in the Golden Age of the 17th century. Perhaps explore the town on a walking tour or drive to the Delta Works Project to learn more about this engineering marvel, followed by a visit to the lovely town of Veere.
Day 4Ghent (Belgium)
Explore medieval Ghent's famous sights including the Cathedral and the Castle of the Counts on an optional guided tour this morning. This afternoon there is the option to travel to Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or to learn about (and sample) local Belgian beer and chocolates.
Day 5Antwerp
Perhaps take the optional tour of Brussels this morning to see the Heysel Stadium, the famous Atomium and the royal residence. In the afternoon, spend time in Antwerp exploring the city's impressive architecture, including the Cathedral of Our Lady. Later, enjoy dinner with your fellow guests, while your vessel returns to the Netherlands.
Day 6Rotterdam (Holland)
This morning perhaps visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinderdijk, a lovely village with the country’s greatest concentration of windmills, or explore Rotterdam with a visit to a food hall. In the afternoon take the opportunity to see the millions of flowering tulips on a visit to the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens, one of the most magnificent public gardens in the world, and enjoy time strolling through the stunning flower displays. Alternatively, take a trip to Delft and visit the Royal porcelain pottery. This evening, the festive Captain’s Gala Dinner will provide a fitting finish to the day.
Day 7Amsterdam
Explore the beautiful canals and waterways of Amsterdam. Perhaps see the Royal Palace and the Museum Quarter on an optional guided tour this morning followed by a canal trip and a visit to a flower market. In the afternoon there is the chance to drive through the Dutch Polder landscape to the pretty fishing village of Volendam, with a trip to a local cheese farm. Alternatively, you can visit Haarlem, where you will learn more about its art, history and the Dutch lifestyle.
Day 8Amsterdam - UK
Disembark ship after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return flight to the UK.
Tulip Serenade ItineraryFor navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.