Boat and bike Netherlands | Tulip Tour MS Fluvius

Embarkation and check-in, where the crew will welcome you on board, takes place at 2 p.m.. As soon as all guests have arrived a short cruise will bring you to Zaandam, a spot famous for its windmills. Here, your barge will berth in the center of the city for the night. Upon arrival you can enjoy taking your new bike for a brief test ride through the surrounding area. In the evening, enjoy a short walk through the picturesque center of Zaandam.

Today, a classic spring stage through the Dutch flower country awaits you. You’ll cycle toward Keukenhof, arguably the most famous flower park in the world. Across the expansive grounds, a colorful mosaic of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and many other spring flowers unfolds. Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the park grounds, themed gardens, and pavilions. In the afternoon, hop back on your bike and ride back to Haarlem along quiet paths.

The day starts early for anyone who wants to take part in a special optional activity: At 6:30 a.m., a bus transfer departs for the flower auction in Aalsmeer, the largest of its kind in the world. Here, you’ll see how millions of cut flowers are traded at breakneck speed every day and then shipped to all corners of the globe.* Around 9:00 a.m., you’ll return to the ship, where a late breakfast will be waiting for you. Afterward, your bike tour for the day begins through one of North Holland’s most beautiful natural landscapes, the North Holland Dune Reserve. The route takes you through open dune landscapes with sandy paths, grasses, and sweeping views. With a little luck, you’ll spot Highland cattle or wild ponies. In the coastal town of Egmond, take a break near the beach before cycling on to Alkmaar. From there, the route continues inland to Alkmaar. In the evening, the ship will be moored near the city center—ideal for a stroll through the historic streets after dinner.

After breakfast, you’ll set out on your final bike tour. The route first takes you through the former windmill complex of the Schermer Polder. Your next destination is the small village of De Rijp. Historic wooden houses, a striking church, the lock, and the town hall all tell the story of the village’s rich past. You’ll then cycle on to the Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum featuring historic windmills, traditional wooden houses, and artisan workshops. You’ll tour one of the windmills and also have the opportunity to visit a cheese factory and a traditional clog-making workshop. Here, you’ll board the ship again. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely boat ride back to Amsterdam. After arriving, you’ll have time to explore the Dutch capital on your own—whether by visiting the flower market, a museum, or strolling through the shopping streets.

Disembarkation after breakfast until 9.30 a.m.: End of your trip.

• On some days, you can choose between a longer and a shorter bike tour. Please note that the shorter bike tour may not include all of the listed highlights.
• If you’d rather not bike on a particular day, you’re welcome to stay on board and relax while the ship sails to the next dock.
• On the day of arrival, you can leave your luggage on board the ship starting at 11:00 a.m.
• The distances for the recommended bike tours are approximate.
• The itinerary and route are subject to change due to nautical, technical, or meteorological reasons, or other unforeseen events.