Sail through Belgium and the Netherlands as we discover the floral displays of Keukenhof Gardens, visit poignant war sites, and explore the quaint streets of Amsterdam, Bruges, Ghent and more.Don't miss the opportunity to marvel at the awe-inspiring blooms of Keukenhof. The world's largest flower garden is only open for a few months of the year, and its kaleidoscope of vibrant displays decorating the meticulously landscaped grounds promise to leave you breathless.On our voyage, we'll explore some of the region's most charming cities, such as Antwerp and Ghent, and discover one of Europe’s finest ‘old world’ cities: the delightful Bruges. Take in the beauty of Amsterdam as you glide through its enchanting canals on a glass-topped canal boat. We'll also pay our respects at the battle HQ of the British 1st Airborne Division in Oosterbeek and visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery. Those with an interest in history can also choose to embark on a poignant excursion to Ypres and Tyne Cot Cemetery, reflecting the First World War’s staggering loss of life during an unforgettable trip back in time.  This holiday is ideal for travellers with an interest in history and gardens.

1. Day 1
   Embark in Amsterdam

   Tue, Apr 15, 2025

   Embark in AmsterdamYour adventure begins in Amsterdam, as you board your five-star ship. The dedicated crew welcomes you aboard, ensuring you settle in to your extremely comfortable and well-appointed cabin. There’s time to familiarise yourself with your first-class floating hotel before experiencing the chef’s specially chosen menu for your first dinner on board.
2. Day 2
   Keukenhof & Amsterdam

   Wed, Apr 16, 2025

   KeukenhofBreakfast is an on-board institution and you’re always assured of an enticing range of choices. Then we’ll visit Keukenhof, the heart of the glorious Dutch bulbfields.On arrival, nothing will prepare you for the dazzling spectrum of colours stretched out before you in the world’s largest flower garden, covering nearly 80 acres. The art of flower planting reaches breathtaking heights at Keukenhof, a gardener’s heaven created by more than seven million tulips, daffodils and other blooms set among a beautiful landscape of shimmering lakes, ancient trees, flowering shrubs and water gardens. Towards the end of our visit, you’ll have the choice of returning to the ship for lunch or staying longer in Keukenhof to explore further and returning to the ship later in the afternoon. Free afternoon in AmsterdamReturning to Amsterdam, you’re free to explore as you wish. Amsterdam is an art-lover’s dream. You could visit the Rijksmuseum, an architectural marvel itself, it holds a magnificent collection of works by Dutch masters such as Rembrandt and Vermeer. Or, if post-Impressionism interests you more, you might prefer the Van Gogh Museum, housing the world’s greatest collection of works by this genius of a man.  For those with an interest in history, the Anne Frank Huis provides a poignant look at the war’s impact on real people’s lives. Anne’s record of the two years her family and friends spent in hiding is now a classic of Western literature, but the tiny, dark rooms put their experience into harrowing clarity. And the museum of the Dutch Resistance, the Verzetsmuseum, using personal stories, letters, artefacts, films and photographs to illuminate local resistance to end collaboration with the Nazis.After dinner, you can relax with a nightcap and enjoy the sounds of traditional Dutch music performed live on board.  Included experiences: Visit to Keukenhof Free afternoon in Amsterdam Live Dutch traditional music performance
3. Day 3
   Arnhem

   Thu, Apr 17, 2025

   Cruise towards NijmegenOne of the delights of river cruising is the enchanting experience of waking somewhere new, the water gently lapping as the ship glides almost imperceptibly along. We’re now deep in the heart of Holland, passing flower-bedecked houseboats, flocks of wildfowl and, of course, windmills!ArnhemWe’ll soon arrive in Nijmegen and from here we visit Arnhem, synonymous with the ill-fated 1944 aerial assault depicted in the film A Bridge Too Far. We’ll visit the battle HQ of the British 1st Airborne Division at Oosterbeek, now an excellent museum, and the Commonwealth War Cemetery, the final resting place of so many.Back on board, we’ll continue our passage along the Dutch waterways, before enjoying another sumptuous dinner on board, as distant lights glint on the waterfront as we silently slip by.Included experiences: Free morning sailing towards Nijmegen Visit to Airborne Museum and Commonwealth War Cemetery
4. Day 4
   Antwerp

   Fri, Apr 18, 2025

   Cruise towards AntwerpThis morning there’s a chance to relax as we sail. Having crossed into Belgium now, sit back on one of the comfortable deck chairs on the Sun deck and soak up the atmosphere of these magical waterways. Breathe in the clean air, listen to the rippling water and marvel at the captain’s skill as he calmly navigates the busy River Scheldt on our way to Antwerp.AntwerpWe’ll arrive in the city after lunch for a tour led by a local guide taking in its numerous highlights and lesser-known features.The birthplace of the Baroque master Peter Paul Rubens was once part of the Spanish Empire. Antwerp grew wealthy during its 16th-century Golden Age, when it was Europe’s largest port north of the Alps, with profits invested in the city’s Flemish art and architectural heritage, and later it became the world’s diamond trading centre. At its heart is the captivating main square – the Grote Markt – dominated by ornately gabled guildhouses, the Renaissance town hall and opulent Brabo Fountain.The rest of the afternoon is free to explore as you wish, perhaps visiting Rubens’ extravagant former home and studio, the magnificent Gothic cathedral or even the painstakingly restored train station, of such architectural splendour it is often called the ‘Railway Cathedral’. Included experiences: Free morning sailing towards Antwerp Guided tour of Antwerp
5. Day 5
   Ghent or Ypres

   Sat, Apr 19, 2025

   Today, you’ll have the choice to enjoy a guided tour of Ghent, with the afternoon free to explore or join a full-day tour to Ypres and Tyne Cot Cemetery.GhentThis Belgian treasure is bisected by a network of historic canals. Today, we'll join a local guide for a guided walking tour of the city, wandering through its many cobbled towpaths. Soak up the atmosphere as we admire the tall merchants’ houses and elegant bridges along the waterfront, and see the Saint Bavo Cathedral as we stroll along. The altarpiece, which features scenes from the Bible, is recognised as a work of art and people still flock to see the Flemish master's eye for detail and technical skill.After our tour, you’ll have the afternoon at leisure to explore Ghent further. YpresSynonymous with the horrors of the Great War and now a place of reflection, Ypres was almost flattened during the First World War as Allied and German forces fought for control of this strategically important town. After a guided tour of Ypres, there’s time to visit Flanders Field Museum and enjoy lunch in one of the local cafés.The tour concludes with a visit to the world’s largest Commonwealth cemetery at Tyne Cot, its sea of 11,961 graves reflecting the First World War’s staggering loss of life. You cannot fail to be touched by the sights and sounds of this unforgettable trip back in time. We’ll return to the ship mid-afternoon, with the chance to explore Ghent before dinner. (Please note lunch is not provided when choosing this excursion.)Included experiences: Option 1: Guided tour of Ghent, with afternoon at leisure Option 2: Guided tour of Ypres, with visit to Tyne Cot
6. Day 6
   Bruges

   Sun, Apr 20, 2025

   BrugesAfter breakfast we’ll drive to Bruges for a guided walking tour to discover the highlights of this alluring city. We’ll begin in its medieval heart, the Markt, which has served as the main market square since the 10th century. Towering 272 feet over the colourful gabled buildings framing the square is the Belfry and its 47-bell carillon.You’ll have the opportunity to climb the 366 steps to the top, the reward being a breathtaking view of Bruges and the Flanders countryside extending beyond. We’ll also visit two other notable buildings in the Burg, the city’s second main square – the elegant Gothic Stadhuis (Town Hall) and the 18th-century law courts – plus the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Another must-see is the Church of Our Lady, which houses Michelangelo’s beautiful white marble sculpture, Madonna and Child. Free afternoon in BrugesAfter lunch at leisure, the remainder of the day is free for you to explore. The Groeningemuseum and Sint-Janshospitaal are home to sublime works of art and you can find museums dedicated to Belgium’s holy trinity of beer, chocolate and frites. You can take a boat tour of the canals so you can see the city from a waterside perspective or find a café and enjoy watching the world go by. (Please note, lunch is not provided today)Tonight, the chef will prepare superb dishes for you to enjoy at the Chef's Dinner.Included experiences: Guided tour of Bruges Free afternoon in Bruges Chef's Dinner
7. Day 7
   Amsterdam

   Mon, Apr 21, 2025

   Cruise towards AmsterdamEarly risers discover the ship making effortless progress along the delightful waterways and you experience the somewhat surreal effect of cruising above the surrounding reclaimed polders – it’s almost like flying!  After breakfast, you could watch as the riverbank glides by on the Sun deck, relax with a coffee in the panoramic lounge or pamper yourself with a treatment in the onboard spa.Amsterdam canal cruiseDuring lunch we’ll arrive back in Amsterdam. There’s no better way to explore this delightful city than taking a classic glass-topped boat tour through the network of canals that infuse every aspect of life here.The tour brings a real insight into the history and everyday life of Amsterdam, a maritime, financial and cultural powerhouse uniquely located facing both the sea and the heartlands of Europe. As we glide over the calm canal waters, you’ll see a fascinating variety of typically Dutch narrow gabled buildings, bustling streets and historic bridges immortalised by the great artists, and learn about its famous canalside residents, from the tragic Anne Frank, who wrote her diaries hidden in a merchant’s house, to Rembrandt, the Dutch Old Master.Afterwards, you’re free to explore as you wish. Maybe relax in a pavement café and watch the crowds of Amsterdammers crisscrossing through the city on bikes. Looking for something a little stronger? Perhaps a tall, frothy beer from a local brewery. The city has a vibrant craft and speciality beer scene with many bars, tasting houses and breweries to choose from.The Dutch are known for their chich, yet practical design, so why not browse the city's many shops in search of fun furniture, fashion and gadgets? The city is also home to many museums and galleries – the perfect place to while away the rest of the afternoon. Or you could also stay on board to catch up on some reading - the choice is yours.After dinner tonight retire to the lounge to enjoy some well-known melodies during a guitar performance.Included experiences: Free morning sailing towards Amsterdam Canal cruise of Amsterdam A live guitar performance Personalise Your HolidayWander the Rijksmuseum in AmsterdamPrice: £23pp (2025) & £24pp (2026)Often cited as one of the best art galleries in Europe – and the world – the Rijksmuseum is a must-see, even if you’re not an art aficionado. The museum’s impressive collection of 8,000 artistic and historical objects takes visitors on a fascinating journey through 800 years of Dutch history, from the 13th century to the present day.Please note: This experience is only available to book on-board your ship, or alternatively you can book directly on the museum website https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/en/visit. Please contact us for more information.
8. Day 8
   Disembark in Amsterdam

   Tue, Apr 22, 2025

   Disembark in AmsterdamAfter breakfast this morning your friendly crew bid you farewell before you disembark.