Thanks to Titan Travel, I have recently experienced a fantastic River Cruise – Dutch Waterways and Tulips.
Onboard the MS Bellejour, my cabin was on the Rhine Deck (middle deck) and was a light, airy , with a French balcony and very comfortable. All the staff on board were friendly, courteous and most obliging.
Day 1. After flying from Birmingham Upon arrival, I embarked MS Bellejour in Amsterdam. A welcome cocktail, whilst dinner was being served we set sail for Hoorn, where the ship moored overnight.
Day 2. This morning, after an on board lecture on tulips, I enoyed on independent exploration of the compact city of Hoorn, where modern life blends with the historical townscape. The beautiful port and harbour was the shipping point of the Dutch East India Company. After lunch we sailed onwards to Enkhuizen. This evening was the Captains Gala Dinner, with a delicious 7 course meal.
Day 3. I enjoyed a full day’s excursion to Keukenhof Gardens, a 32-acre showcase of seven million flowers, set within sweeping gardens or as part of unique and inspiring f ower shows, the theme this year was Flower Power. The endless beds of vibrant tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. After returning to the ship for dinner we departed Enkhuizen and sailed to Lelystad and moored overnight..
Day 4. This morning we sailed from Lelystad and arrived arrived in Zaandam and took an included excursion to the village of Zaanse Schans. The village is filled with typical 18th and 19th century Dutch barns and houses, as well as museums demonstrating traditional Dutch crafts such as clog- and cheese-making. A highlight of any visit are the six well-preserved historic windmills that were carefully relocated here.
Day 5. This morning we departed Zaandam for Amsterdam. This morning we disembarked for an included leisurely boat tour of Amsterdam’s 17th century canals, lined with merchants’ town houses and city attractions, followed by a coach tour of the remainder of the city. This afternoon we enjoyed an independent exploration of the Amsterdam strolling along the canals edges trying not to take the wrong turn!
Day 6. After Breakfast we transferred back to Amsterdam Airport for our flight back to Birmingham.
In summary River Cruising is an ideal way of discovering new places and watching fantastic scenery go by in a relaxing atmosphere whilst enjoying good food and attentive service.
For more information on River Cruising contact Zoe Isherwood on 01162676006