Holland and Belgium

Tour members from across Canada depart for Amsterdam.

Upon arrival, we are transferred to the pier to begin our embarkation process. We’ll have some time to take in our new surroundings at a leisurely pace, with lunch on our own. This evening, the atmosphere on board turns festive as we gather for a Captain’s Welcome Reception and Gala Dinner. It’s a wonderful opportunity to mingle with our fellow travellers and toast the start of our voyage. 

AmaViola (7 nights)

We enjoy a scenic cruise through the IJsselmeer as we make our way toward Bruinisse. Upon arrival, we have the opportunity to choose how we wish to spend our time. One option is a guided tour of the medieval harbour town of Zierikzee, a place brimming with history, from its 16th-century stone Gravesteen to the charming shops and cafés lining the waterfront. Or we may choose to explore the powerful history of the 1953 flood disaster at Neeltje Jans. Here, we can witness the incredible engineering behind the storm surge barriers, a vital part of the Delta Works project designed to safeguard the Netherlands from the sea. For those who prefer a more active pace, a guided bike tour offers a refreshing way to explore Bruinisse.

Our journey brings us into Belgium today. We may opt for a guided walking tour of Ghent to admire its unique canal-side architecture. We visit the 12th-century Castle of the Counts and the soaring St. Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the world-renowned Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers. Those with a sweet tooth might instead prefer a hands-on chocolate workshop. After a glass of champagne and an introduction to the history of Belgian chocolate by a master chocolatier, we have the opportunity to taste various pralines and craft our own. Alternatively, a full-day excursion takes us to Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated as one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. We stroll through the iconic Grote Markt and Burg Square before visiting the centuries-old Church of Our Lady, famous for its prominent brick spire. Before returning to our ship, there is time to sample local specialties, such as traditional Belgian waffles or fries, while soaking in the atmosphere of this historic gem. 

Today we glide into Antwerp, where high fashion and the world-renowned diamond district meet centuries of medieval history. This morning offers two ways to discover the city. One option is a walking tour through the historic centre, including a visit to the UNESCO-designated Cathedral of Our Lady. This Gothic masterpiece, the largest of its kind in the Benelux region, houses four major paintings by Peter Paul Rubens. Along the way, we see the 13th-century Steen Castle, the Grote Markt, and the iconic Brabo Fountain. For a more active exploration of the city, you may join a guided bike tour. Later in the afternoon, you may choose between two experiences. Visit the Castle of Groot-Bijgaarden for the annual Floralia spring flower show, where approximately one million bulbs are hand-planted each year across the castle grounds. Or join a culinary tour to indulge in the world-famous Belgian trifecta: artisanal chocolate, traditional waffles, and local beer.

We arrive in Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands. Founded by the Romans as a military stronghold, Nijmegen offers a fascinating blend of ancient heritage and modern life. Today, we choose how to discover its unique story. One option is a guided walking tour through the vibrant historic core. History enthusiasts may prefer an Operation Market Garden tour to learn about the city’s pivotal role in the Second World War and see the iconic Waal Bridge. Alternatively, we can visit the ruins of Valkhof Castle, once an imperial residence of Charlemagne, or enjoy a scenic bike tour through the city. 

Kinderdijk is a village known for the greatest concentration of 18th-century windmills in the country. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a profound look at Dutch water management history, and we can choose to visit a private windmill by electric boat or pedal past these iconic structures on a guided bike tour. Then, we travel to Rotterdam, the "Gateway to Europe." We might choose a walking tour to discover the city's modern architecture and sample local specialties. Another choice is an excursion to Delft, the historic home of painter Johannes Vermeer and the Royal House. Here, we visit the Royal Delft Porcelain Factory and Museum to see the production of its famous blue earthenware. Or if you wish, you may explore the history of migration at the FENIX Museum and visit Delfshaven, the site where the Pilgrim Fathers began their trip to the New World in 1620. 

We enjoy a morning of scenic cruising as we arrive in Amsterdam, a city defined by its intricate network of waterways. Here, we have the choice to cruise aboard a specially designed boat, allowing us to glide beneath historic bridges and admire the elegant merchant homes lining the harbour. As an alternative, we may join an excursion to the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens. Known as the "Garden of Europe," this legendary 70-acre park is open for only nine weeks each year and showcases a spectacular display of millions of flowering tulips. We spend time walking through the colourful floral paths at our own pace. Tonight, our journey ends on a high note as we gather for the Captain’s Farewell Reception and Gala Dinner.

After breakfast, our journey draws to a close as we transfer to the airport for our return flight to Canada.

Itinerary subject to change. Please note that the cruise line may adjust the schedule at its discretion. For the most up-to-date information, refer to your final travel documents.