Arrive in Amsterdam. After claiming your luggage, you will be met by a representative from Vantage Explorations and transferred to the ship. After completing mandatory safety procedures, settle into your cabin, your home on the river for the next eight days. Take a moment to unwind and begin getting acquainted with the dedicated crew and your fellow travelers.
Spend your first evening soaking in the charm of Amsterdam as your ship remains docked overnight. Whether you choose to relax onboard or venture out to explore, the magic of the city awaits.
As dawn breaks over the Dutch countryside, your river cruise glides away from vibrant Amsterdam and begins a picturesque journey toward the charming harbor town of Enkhuizen. Spend a leisurely morning on deck or in the lounge as you cruise through scenic waterways, arriving in Enkhuizen by early afternoon.
Step ashore into a town steeped in maritime heritage, where your afternoon offers a warm cultural exchange during a special home-hosted experience known as Op de Koffie. Be welcomed into a local family’s home for coffee, cake, and heartwarming conversation. This delightful encounter may also include a taste of the beloved Dutch treat, the stroopwafel, a thin waffle cookie with a luscious caramel filling that perfectly accompany your coffee.
As the sun begins to set, your ship departs Enkhuizen and charts a course for Nijmegen, carrying with it the memories of an unforgettable afternoon of authentic Dutch hospitality.
As you enjoy breakfast onboard, the ship arrives in the historic city of Nijmegen. Soon after, embark on a captivating excursion through the serene Dutch countryside enroute to the breathtaking Hoge Veluwe National Park. This tranquil landscape of forests, heathlands, and gently rolling terrain sets the stage for a remarkable cultural journey.
Nestled within the heart of the park is the Kröller-Müller Museum, renowned for its exceptional collection of 19th and 20th century art. Here, you will find the world’s second largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, as well as masterpieces by Claude Monet, Georges Seurat, and Pablo Picasso. The experience continues in the museum’s stunning sculpture garden, one of the largest in Europe, where modern sculptures are thoughtfully placed among the natural surroundings. The harmonious blend of art, architecture, and nature creates a deeply enriching and unforgettable visit.
Return to the ship in time for lunch onboard as your journey continues. In the afternoon, the ship departs Nijmegen and begins a scenic voyage toward the elegant city of Antwerp. Relax and take in the picturesque views as you cruise through the peaceful waterways of the Netherlands.
Enjoy breakfast onboard before setting out to explore this dynamic and culturally rich city. Begin your discovery with a visit to the striking MAS building, where the rooftop offers panoramic views of the Antwerp skyline and the winding Scheldt River. As you gaze across the city, learn about the remarkable transformation of Antwerp North, now one of the city’s most fashionable and forward-looking districts.
Continue to the awe-inspiring Central Station, often hailed as the Cathedral of Art. Its grand architecture and intricate detailing stand as a testament to Antwerp's deep-rooted artistic and architectural heritage. The tour then leads you into the historic heart of the city, where cobbled streets guide you to the Cathedral of Our Lady. Inside this Gothic masterpiece, marvel at the celebrated paintings of Peter Paul Rubens, whose works symbolize the artistic brilliance of Antwerp’s Golden Age.
Return to the ship with a deeper appreciation for this extraordinary city. This evening, the vessel sets sail once again, bound for your next unforgettable destination.
Savor a leisurely breakfast onboard as the ship arrives in the charming town of Middelburg, the historic capital of Zeeland. Step ashore for a captivating walking tour that begins at the harbor and leads to the Market Square, where the magnificent Gothic-style Town Hall stands as a 15th-century masterpiece.
Continue along Lange Jan, Middelburg’s tallest church tower, and meander through narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional Dutch houses and inviting boutiques. Admire the town’s picturesque canals, windmills, and green spaces before concluding your tour at the lively Vismarkt, where vibrant market stalls and local delicacies await.
Return to the ship in time for lunch. The afternoon is yours to relax onboard or explore more of Middelburg at your own pace. Later this evening, the ship sets sail for the next destination on your journey.
The ship arrives in Rotterdam in the early morning, welcoming you to one of the Netherlands' most innovative and lively cities. After breakfast, set out to explore the striking contrast between Rotterdam's modern architecture and its rich historic charm. Visit some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the sleek Erasmus Bridge, the imaginative Cube Houses, and the vibrant Market Hall. This impressive, horseshoe-shaped structure with its massive glass facade is a feast for the senses. Inside, you will find a bustling food market filled with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, gourmet meats, seafood, and global street foods. As you explore, enjoy a series of tastings that highlight the market’s international flavors, all beneath a soaring, colorful mural that fills the space with energy and art.
Return to the ship in time for lunch as your journey continues toward Dordrecht, arriving by mid-afternoon. Upon arrival, venture out on an unforgettable excursion to the Windmills of Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Dutch engineering. This scenic network of 19 traditional windmills, dating back to the 18th century, showcases the ingenuity of the Netherlands' centuries-old water management system. Learn about the development of polders, the low-lying reclaimed land protected by these windmills, and gain insight into the country’s enduring relationship with the sea.
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the quiet paths of Kinderdijk, where postcard-perfect views of windmills mirrored in still waters await. Breathe in the crisp countryside air and take time to capture the beauty of the Dutch landscape. Return to the ship in time for dinner and spend the evening at your leisure. The ship sets sail later tonight as your journey continues.
As you enjoy breakfast onboard, the ship returns to Amsterdam, welcoming you back to the heart of the Netherlands. Today’s included excursion takes you on a scenic journey to the iconic Keukenhof Gardens, proudly celebrating its 75th anniversary. Travel through the idyllic Dutch countryside, where traditional windmills and charming farmhouses provide a postcard-perfect backdrop. Upon arrival, step into a world of vibrant color and fragrance as you explore the gardens’ sweeping displays of tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, lilies, roses, carnations, and irises. Keukenhof offers a truly unforgettable floral experience and stands as a shining tribute to Dutch horticultural excellence.
After your guided tour, enjoy time at leisure to wander the beautifully landscaped grounds and soak in the beauty of one of the most spectacular spring gardens in the world. Return to the ship in the afternoon, carrying with you the sights and scents of this floral wonderland.
This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner as you celebrate the memories made throughout your journey. Enjoy your final night onboard as the ship overnights in Amsterdam.
Enjoy one final breakfast onboard as your unforgettable journey comes to a close. Bid vaarwel to the crew and your fellow travelers before disembarking the vessel for your transfer to the airport and your journey home, filled with lasting memories of your adventure.
Please Note: Disembarkation begins at 930AM. We recommend you schedule your flight to depart on or after 1:30PM
Please note that while every effort is made to deliver the excursions as outlined in the itinerary, unforeseen changes may occur with little or no notice. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility.
