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 the first light of day stretches across the Dutch landscape, your river cruise gently departs from vibrant Amsterdam, beginning a serene and scenic journey toward the charming harbor town of Enkhuizen. Spend a relaxing morning on board, perhaps with a coffee in hand, taking in the tranquil beauty of the waterways as windmills, pastures, and picturesque villages drift by.
By early afternoon, your ship arrives in Enkhuizen, a storied seafaring town nestled along the IJsselmeer. As you enjoy lunch on board, soak in views of the historic harbor where time seems to slow and the scent of salt air mingles with the blooms of the countryside.
Afterward, step ashore for a quintessential Dutch experience: a visit to a local bulb grower in the heart of North Holland. Travel through a patchwork of brilliantly colored fields, where springtime transforms the land into a breathtaking mosaic of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
At the flower farm, meet a passionate, family-run team whose expertise has been handed down through generations. Enjoy a guided tour of the fields and greenhouses and learn how these world-famous blossoms are cultivated from bulb to bloom. Discover time-honored techniques, innovative sustainable practices, and the incredible care that goes into every flower.
Admire the vibrant floral displays and enjoy warm conversation with your gracious hosts. You may even wish to purchase a selection of bulbs providing a beautiful, living keepsake of your time amidst Holland’s breathtaking blooms.
Return to the ship later that afternoon, with time to explore Enkhuizen at your own pace or simply unwind on board. As evening falls and you prepare for dinner, the ship sets sail once more bound for your next unforgettable destination along the river.
As you enjoy a leisurely breakfast onboard, your ship arrives in Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands, where over two thousand years of history echo through its streets and monuments.
Today, we set out on a captivating walking tour that traces the city’s ancient past. Begin at the site of the Roman castellum, where the legacy of Emperor Trajan still lingers, and uncover layers of history in the stonework and ruins that remain. Along your route, discover remarkable relics such as sections of the 15th-century city wall, the poignant Liberation Monument, and the 10th-century St. Nicholas Church, each telling a unique story of resilience and transformation.
Wander through Nijmegen’s charming streets where historic and contemporary architecture blend seamlessly. Admire the lively Grote Markt, home to the striking Waagh building, a former weighing house dating back to the 17th century. Take a moment to admire the graceful entrance of the 13th-century Stevenskerk, a towering Gothic church that has watched over the city for centuries. Then, meander down Lange Hezelstraat, the oldest shopping street in the Netherlands, lined with boutiques, cafés, and timeless character.
This engaging walk offers a vivid and accessible glimpse into Nijmegen’s fascinating past, perfectly paced and rich with discovery.
Return to the ship in time for lunch, where a delicious meal awaits. Then, settle in for a scenic afternoon as your ship departs Nijmegen, gliding through peaceful Dutch waterways en route to your next destination, the elegant and vibrant city of Antwerp. Relax on deck or in the lounge and enjoy the serene beauty of the journey ahead.
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.
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast onboard as your ship arrives in Middelburg, the enchanting capital of the Dutch province of Zeeland. With its blend of medieval architecture, scenic canals, and old-world charm, Middelburg offers a delightful glimpse into the Netherlands' rich maritime past.
Step ashore for a guided walking tour that begins at the historic harbor and leads you into the heart of town. At the lively Market Square, marvel at the magnificent Gothic-style Town Hall, a 15th-century architectural gem adorned with ornate spires and intricate stonework.
Stroll along the base of Lange Jan, the city’s tallest church tower, and wander through a maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old Dutch homes, charming boutiques, and cozy cafés. Along the way, take in the beauty of Middelburg’s peaceful canals, iconic windmills, and green open spaces that offer quiet moments of reflection.
Your tour concludes at the bustling Vismarkt, where market stalls brim with fresh local produce, cheeses, seafood, and other regional specialties. This is an ideal place to sample the flavors of Zeeland.
Return to the ship in time for a delicious lunch onboard. The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you please. Perhaps you will relax on deck, sip a coffee in the lounge, or continue exploring Middelburg at your own pace. Later this evening, the ship sets sail once again, gently carrying you toward the next captivating chapter of 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.
