Holland & Belgium in Bloom

Welcome to the Netherlands. Here, you will be met at the airport by one of our Emerald Cruises representatives and transferred to your contemporary Emerald Star-Ship.

Beyond Amsterdam’s storied canals, a gentler rhythm unfolds as you venture into the Dutch countryside. Included Excursion Tour to Zaanse Schans windmills Travel to the charming village of Zaanse Schans, just north of Amsterdam. It’s famous for its picturesque windmills on the edge of the water, traditional green wooden houses and artisan workshops making traditional handicrafts. This is a quintessentially Dutch town where the smell of freshly baked goods and the sight of spinning windmills offer a truly memorable experience EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour to Waterland Enjoy an active cycling tour of the pretty Waterland area, famed for its green landscapes, winding canals and charming villages. Accompanied by a local guide, it’s a relaxed ride on flat ground that will immerse you in Dutch daily life. EmeraldPLUS Clog painting on board Relax on board your Emerald Star-Ship this afternoon, as a local clog painter will come on board for a demonstration. You’ll also have the opportunity to try your hand at this unique craft.

The second-largest city in the Netherlands and the busiest port in Europe, Rotterdam is a modern multicultural hub. Its historic centre was largely destroyed by German bombing in World War II, and the subsequent reconstruction efforts utilised a patchwork of architectural styles, forever altering the city’s skyline. It is home to the tallest commercial and residential buildings in the country, a visual symbol of Rotterdam’s spirit of innovation. EmeraldPLUS Private visit to the Mauritshuis and orientation walk in The Hague Visit the royal and administrative capital of the Netherlands, The Hague. Set on the North Sea coast, the city is home to a thriving cultural and culinary scene, historical monuments, and the International Court of Justice. Within your guided tour, you’ll visit the beautiful Mauritshuis museum, home to the best of Dutch painting from the age of Rembrandt and Vermeer, including the famous Girl with A Pearl Earring. EmeraldACTIVE Cycling and tasting tour of Rotterdam Meet your local guide for a cycling tour. Travel through the historic Noordereiland district, pass the Lost Luggage Depot sculptures and stop at Fenix Food Factory for a tasting of local delicacies. Cross the Erasmusbrug to the Old Harbour and Maritime Museum area before returning to your Emerald Star-Ship. DiscoverMORE Delft Pottery Factory visit (extra expense) Learn about one of the most popular forms of earthenware in the Netherlands, Delft pottery, during a visit to a working factory. Hear about how the local people maintain this rich tradition, dating back to the 1500s. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 4 hour DiscoverMORE Royal Delft Tile Workshop (extra expense) Experience the craft of Delft Blue yourself during one of the workshops at Royal Delft. Discover how the world-famous tin-glazed earthenware is made and paint your own tile to take home.

Spend your morning in Rotterdam. Later, return to your Emerald Star-Ship at lunchtime and cruise to the small town of Willemstad, known for its well-preserved historic fortifications. Included Excursion Architectural tour of Rotterdam Uncover the fascinating architectural legacy of Rotterdam. Its reputation as the city of high-rises has historical roots, beginning with the construction of a 45-metre (148 ft) office building, the Witte Huis, in 1897, which was the tallest office building in Europe. Your local guide will explain the city’s modern skyline on a coach tour, followed by a walking tour of the Museum district and a tasting at a local market. EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour through the Dutch countryside Meet your local guide at the ship for a cycling tour. Travel across reclaimed land that is now verdant Dutch countryside, pass the city’s notable landmarks and finish back at the ship.

This morning, you’ll arrive in Belgiums largest port, Antwerp. Located on the River Scheldt, the citys large harbour provides a link to the sea. Home to the famous Baroque artist Pieter Paul Rubens, Antwerp attracts art lovers from around the world. Included Excursion Walking tour of Antwerp Enjoy a guided tour of the city centre, with its café-lined cobbled lanes. Admire the Renaissance city hall and Hat Steen, a medieval fortress built during the early Middle Ages, and one of the oldest buildings in Belgium. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore Antwerp at your leisure. DiscoverMORE Excursion to Bruges (extra expense) Known for its canals, cobblestone streets and well-preserved historic architecture, Bruges is a picturesque medieval gem. Your expert guides help you delve deeper into the history of its Gothic landmarks, bell towers and basilicas. If you wish to experience the culinary scene in your free time, try the citys famous chocolate, fries and beer. Activity level: Active, Duration: 9 hours DiscoverMORE Antwerp’s hidden treasures (extra expense) Join your local guide on a walking tour through this beautiful city known for its rich tradition of chocolate making. You’ll also enjoy a tasting and a hands-on workshop. Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours

Welcome to Nijmegen, the Roman settlement of Noviomagus and the oldest town in The Netherlands. Although its history stretches back more than 2,000 years, it also has a youthful vibe thanks to its large university, as well as beautiful scenery, lush green spaces and world-class museums. Included Excursion Walking tour of Nijmegen Join a walking tour through the town centre, exploring its architectural wonders, rich history and charming streets. From Roman relics to medieval architecture, you’ll explore the citys landmarks, including the Valkhof Park and St. Stephens Church, while learning about Nijmegen’s fascinating past. EmeraldACTIVE Cycling tour of Nijmegen Join your fellow travellers on a guided cycling tour of Nijmegen. Ride along the River Waal and learn about the city during Roman times and under the rule of Charlemagne, as well as the role Nijmegen played in World War II. EmeraldPLUS Shanty choir On board this evening, enjoy a performance from a traditional Dutch fishermen’s choir. Their songs and sea shanties celebrate the country’s rich maritime heritage. DiscoverMORE Visit to Paleis Het Loo (extra expense) Visit the Paleis Het Loo, which served as the summer residence of the Dutch royal family from the 17th century until 1975. Enjoy a guided tour of this opulent palace, where you’ll feel as though you have stepped back in time. The palace’s decorations and its spectacular gardens will captivate every visitor. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 4 hours

Arrive in Amsterdam / Zaandam again this morning. With more than 100km (62 miles) of canals lined with grand merchant houses and crossed by more than 1,700 bridges, it’s no wonder the Dutch capital is often called the Venice of the North. The city comes especially alive in spring, when its streets and parks bloom in a riot of colours. Included Excursion Visit to Keukenhof Gardens This morning, you’ll visit the iconic Keukenhof Gardens, boasting 32 hectares (79 acres) of spring-flowering bulbs. Open only from March to May each year, more than seven million bulbs are planted, including 800 varieties of tulips. This area is infused with delightful aromas and a swathe of vibrant colours. Soak in the sights of tulips, hyacinths, and orchids of every colour, creating an expertly arranged pattern of beauty. You will also see statues commissioned by world-renowned artists, each adopting the annual theme. DiscoverMORE Visit to the flower auction at Royal FloraHolland in Aalsmeer (extra expense) Wake early to visit the largest floral market in the world, the Flower Auction at Royal Flora Holland in Aalsmeer. Be amazed by the brokers working the bustling floor, where more than 45 million flowers change hands every day. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hours DiscoverMORE Hidden gems of Amsterdam (extra expense) Explore a quieter, more authentic side of Amsterdam on this relaxed and personal tour through the city’s hidden treasures. Visit the historic Jordaan area and a charming chocolate shop for a sweet treat. Continue through some of the city’s most beautiful streets to Our Lord in the Attic, a 17th-century house with a fully preserved Catholic church in its attic. Finish with a beer and snacks at a local brewery. Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours DiscoverMORE Dutch apple pie making (extra expense) Traditions and recipes have long been passed down through generations and are often kept as family secrets. Today, you’ll meet with a local who will tell you all about life in Hoorn and share a family recipe for traditional Dutch apple pie. Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hour

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests as you disembark your Emerald Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of wooden windmills and blossoming flowers with you. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.