River Cruise Itinerary

1. Day 1
   DAY 1, Thursday - Depart for the Netherlands

   Thu, May 18, 2023

   Depart for the Netherlands
2. Day 2
   DAY 2, Friday - Arrive in Amsterdam

   Fri, May 19, 2023

   Welcome to Amsterdam, Holland's sophisticated and modern capital; transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to discover the many cultural sites this delightful city has to offer. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Drink and orientation meeting with your local host at the hotel at approximately 6 PM. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 2 PM
   Overnight: Amsterdam
3. Day 3
   DAY 3, Saturday - Amsterdam City Tour

   Sat, May 20, 2023

   Today's panoramic tour of 700-year-old Amsterdam introduces you to both the old and the new sections of this city. View the Royal Palace on Amsterdam's Dam Square, the King's official home-away-from-home. On to the Dutch National Monument dedicated by Queen Juliana as a memorial to the victims of WWII and to the unusual Skinny Bridge, once so narrow that pedestrians could not pass each other. Then, board a glass-top boat and cruise the winding canals for an up-close view of the stately historic homes, 16th-century warehouses and charming churches with striking bell towers. The rest of the day is on your own. Perhaps, visit the world-renowned Van Gogh Museum and explore the largest collection of his works in the world or join our optional tour and take a culinary journey of Amsterdam; tasting foods from local eateries and specialty food stores while walking along famous Amsterdam attractions
   Optional: Amsterdam Food Tour (PM)
   Overnight: Amsterdam
   Meals: Breakfast
4. Day 4
   DAY 4, Sunday - Rijksmuseum Tour & Cruise Embarkation

   Sun, May 21, 2023

   This morning visit the world famous Rijksmuseum. On your guided tour you will explore the vast collection of works from some of the world's greatest artists including the Dutch masters Vermeer and Rembrandt. This afternoon transfer to the port for embarkation. After arrival formalities, rest and relax on board. This evening, meet your Cruise Director and enjoy a Welcome Dinner as it sets the mood for your delightful river cruise
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
5. Day 5
   DAY 5, Monday - Morning in Amsterdam, Utrecht

   Mon, May 22, 2023

   Today begin your day with a free morning in Amsterdam. This afternoon, sail to the medieval town of Utrecht, dating back to the Middle Ages and explore the historic center with its centuries-old buildings and imposing Dom Tower. Afterward, embark on a canal tour and enjoy the town from the water. Return to the ship and set sail for Schoonhoven
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6. Day 6
   DAY 6, Tuesday - Schoonhoven Walking Tour, Woerden Cheese Warehouse, Delft

   Tue, May 23, 2023

   This morning, take a walking tour of Schoonhoven, located on the banks of River Lek. The medieval city is known for its silver, hence its nickname "Silver City." View well preserved medieval buildings, the Dutch Silver Museum and many silversmiths. Spend time at leisure and perhaps shop for authentic Dutch silver jewelry. In the afternoon, while the ship sails to Dordrecht, drive to Woerden and visit the historical Cheese Warehouse, where some of the finest cheeses are made. Get a glimpse into the world of cheese making, including the aging process and storage. Afterward, continue to Delft, world-famous for its exquisite blue and white pottery. On arrival, take a walking tour of the historic Old Town, encircled by canals. Wander the streets lined with old churches and beautiful brick buildings. Return to the ship in Dordrecht
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
7. Day 7
   DAY 7, Wednesday - Morning Windmill Tour in Kinderdijk, Afternoon in Willemstad

   Wed, May 24, 2023

   Begin your day with a visit to the well-known windmill park in the village of Kinderdijk. The windmills, built in the 1700s, played a vital role in the development of the country and are still in use today. During this excursion, visit a windmill and learn more about the modern technology that is now replacing their existence. Afterward, rejoin the ship and continue cruising to Willemstad, located on Holland's Diep River. The city, named after King Willem of Orange, is best-known for its well-preserved fortifications. View the Mauritshuis, De Koepelkerk Church, d'Orangemolen, a stately white windmill, and Old Town Hall. Alternatively, join the optional excursion to the Delta Works* this afternoon. After the 1953 flood in the Netherlands, the Delta Plan was created to prevent a disaster from ever happening again. Taking 30 years to complete, the storm flood barrier is considered a technical miracle. In the evening set sail to Ghent, Belgium
   *Passengers who choose this optional, will not be able to participate in the included tour of Willemstad.
   Optional: Delta Works Tour (PM)
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8. Day 8
   DAY 8, Thursday - Tour Ghent, the Historic Flanders Port

   Thu, May 25, 2023

   Discover the historic Flanders port of Ghent today, a showcase of Flemish wealth. Your tour of this medieval city includes views of the 7th century St. Bavo's Cathedral and the imposing Gravensteen Castle. At the town center, view the gigantic Belfry, a symbol of the city's independence and the Gothic-style Cloth Hall, glorifying the city's major industry. Alternatively, take the optional full day tour to Bruges*, also known as the "Venice of the North" and home to some of Europe's best preserved medieval buildings. Here, view the Lake of Love (Minnewater), the Beguinage Convent and walk along the picturesque winding cobbled alleys and romantic canals
   *Passengers who choose this optional, will not be able to participate in the included tour of Ghent.
   
   Optional: Full Day Bruges City Tour with Lunch (AM)
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
9. Day 9
   DAY 9, Friday - Antwerp City Tour

   Fri, May 26, 2023

   Today you arrive in Antwerp, one of Europe's largest and most historic port cities, where more than half of the world's diamonds are traded. Evidence of the wealth produced from trade during the 16th century can be seen in the opulent homes that line the city streets. During the walking tour, view the unique market place, surrounded by the mighty Renaissance Town hall and numerous guild halls. Visit the Cathedral of our Lady, the highest Gothic building in the Low Countries. Return on board for lunch and spend a relaxing afternoon, while sailing back to the Netherlands.
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
10. Day 10
    DAY 10, Saturday - Tour of Giethoorn, Afternoon at leisure in Lelystad

    Sat, May 27, 2023

    Begin the day with a tour of Giethoorn, a charming Dutch village in Overijssel, often referred to as the "Venice of the Netherlands" due to its many canals. Explore this fairy-tale village on foot and by boat. Step back in time as you wander the narrow footpaths. View traditional thatched farms and cottages along with wooden bridges. Enjoy a boat trip through the canals and take in the atmosphere of the village. Spend free time on your own, before returning to the ship for lunch. The afternoon is at leisure in Lelystad, the capital of Flevoland. Perhaps see the replicas of famous VOC vessels. Later in the day, the ship sets sail for Amsterdam
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
11. Day 11
    DAY 11, Sunday - Tour Brussels, Travel to Paris

    Sun, May 28, 2023

    This morning, meet your local host as you disembark your ship and travel through the countryside to reach Brussels. In Belgium's capital city, view the gigantic Atomium, that still remains from the 1958 World Expo, the Palace of Justice and the Grand Place, a recreated 15th century town square with decorated guild houses. Stroll the city center with the well-known Manneken Pis bronze sculpture before continuing to Paris. Upon arrival this evening, start the discovery of the "City of Lights", one of the world's greatest cities with its endless treasures
    Overnight: Paris
    Meals: Breakfast
12. Day 12
    DAY 12, Monday - Tour of Paris

    Mon, May 29, 2023

    Drive along the famous Champs Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe and the iconic Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris. On to the celebrated "Rive Gauche", the vivacious Left Bank where artists, philosophers, and writers in a long gone era flourished in the artistic community at Montparnasse. View the Latin Quarter, home to many of France's higher education establishments, such as the Sorbonne. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure
    Overnight: Paris
    Meals: Breakfast
13. Day 13
    DAY 13, Tuesday - Full Day in Paris

    Tue, May 30, 2023

    The day is yours to explore this exciting city independently. See spectacular views of the city, the Basilica of Sacre Coeur, and walk the winding streets to mingle with the street artists selling their wares at Place du Tertre. This evening, perhaps stop at a bistro for dinner coupled with great wine
    Overnight: Paris
    Meals: Breakfast
14. Day 14
    DAY 14, Wednesday - Depart France

    Wed, May 31, 2023

    This morning, transfer to the airport for your departure flight
    Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

River Cruise Package Includes

Special Features

River Cruise Features & Amenities

Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

Not Included:
Optional shore excursions and gratuities.

Additional Information:
Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.

Monarch Princess: Passengers arriving to Amsterdam on Day 2 should select flights that arrive no later than 2 PM.

Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. There are no elevators or chair lifts on board. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information.

While sailing with Monarch Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise's Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at: .

Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

Please note that the following inclusions may contain items that are only applicable when you purchase Land & Air. The brochure prices below are for Land Only - call us for our best deal.

Health and Safety Protocols for Gate1

Ship Information

Cabins

Life on Board

Questions & Answers