Amsterdam – Gouda – Bruges by Bike and Boat

★★★★★★4.8/5 (12)
7 nights
29 miles/day
Guided from EUR € 1210
Bike and Boat Tour aboard Sailing Home, Liza Marleen, Clair de Lune, Wending or Anna Antal
Countries: Belgium and Holland
Rider Level: Recreational Electric bike tours Bike and boat tours
Book this tour
Ask a tour advisor

Amsterdam – Gouda – Bruges by Bike and Boat

★★★★★★4.8/5 (12)

Rider Level: Recreational Electric bike tours Bike and boat tours

7 nights
29 miles/day
Guided from EUR € 1210
Bike and Boat Tour aboard Sailing Home, Liza Marleen, Clair de Lune, Wending or Anna Antal
Countries: Belgium and Holland

Book this tour
Ask a tour advisor
Why book with us?

Tap above to jump to different sections of this tour

  • Unlock the essence of Holland and Belgium

    Two fascinating countries - Holland and Belgium - united along one route which combines insight into the Netherlands' Golden Age and exploration of the Flemish trade cities of the Middle Ages. Plus, of course, Holland's own world wonder - the Delta Works. As you ride, you'll notice the contrast between the green polder landscapes of water, tranquil winding roads and quaint villages, and the old world islands of Zeeland with its pastures, creeks, dikes, and dams.

    Explore the picturesque Flemish countryside between the iconic Belgian cities of Ghent and Bruges. The great rivers are a prominent feature in this part of the Netherlands and Belgium and this bike tour is your opportunity to unlock the essence of these two beautiful countries.

    The Amsterdam - Bruges (and reverse) itinerary is available on a number of boats on various dates. Please check Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Princesse Royal, Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique II (and reverse), Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique III (and reverse), Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique IV (and reverse), Amsterdam – Gouda – Bruges by Bike and Boat, Bruges – Antwerp – Amsterdam by Bike and Boat, and Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Fluvius (and reverse) for additional dates.

    • Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. ContextTravel@Flickr
    • Kinderdijk, South Holland, the Netherlands Roman Egautun@Unsplash
    • Dordrecht, South Holland, the Netherlands. Micheile_visualstories@Unsplash
    • Keukenhof, Lisse, South Holland, the Netherlands. gnuckx@Flickr
    • Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. Moyan Brenn@Flickr
    • Amsterdam - Gouda - Bruges Bike and Boat Tour
    • Gouda, South Holland, the Netherlands. CC:Ralf Roletschek
    • Kinderdijk, South Holland, the Netherlands. Giuseppe Brandiera, Unsplash

    View more photos

    Highlights

    • The 'Venice of the North', Amsterdam
    • Gouda
    • UNESCO World Heritage Site Windmills of Kinderdijk
    • Delta Works
    • Ghent
    • The 'Pearl of Flanders', Bruges

    Learn More

    Learn more about guided tours.

    Interested in adding to your itinerary? Take a look at our cycling day tours in Amsterdam and Bruges.

  • CC-BY-2.0 - Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. ContextTravel@Flickr' data-type='image'> Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. ContextTravel@Flickr
    CC0 - Keukenhof, Lisse, South Holland, the Netherlands. gnuckx@Flickr' data-type='image'> Keukenhof, Lisse, South Holland, the Netherlands. gnuckx@Flickr
    CC-BY-2.0 - Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. Moyan Brenn@Flickr' data-type='image'> Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. Moyan Brenn@Flickr
    CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Gouda, South Holland, the Netherlands. CC:Ralf Roletschek' data-type='image'> Gouda, South Holland, the Netherlands. CC:Ralf Roletschek
    CC-BY-ND-2.0 - Mussels, fries & beer - a typical Belgian lunch! E and JS Film Crew@Flickr' data-type='image'> Mussels, fries & beer - a typical Belgian lunch! E and JS Film Crew@Flickr
    CC-BY-SA-2.0 - Zierikzee, Zeeland, the Netherlands. CC:Yorg' data-type='image'> Zierikzee, Zeeland, the Netherlands. CC:Yorg
    CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Gouda Harbor, South Holland. CC:Arwin Meijer' data-type='image'> Gouda Harbor, South Holland. CC:Arwin Meijer
    CC-BY-2.0 - Tulip fields forever! Pug Girl@Flickr' data-type='image'> Tulip fields forever! Pug Girl@Flickr
    CC-BY-SA-3.0 - The famous Gouda Cheese Market! CC:Ralf Roletschek' data-type='image'> The famous Gouda Cheese Market! CC:Ralf Roletschek
    CC-BY-SA-4.0 - Ghent, East Flanders, Belgium. CC:Michielverbeek' data-type='image'> Ghent, East Flanders, Belgium. CC:Michielverbeek
    CC-BY-ND-2.0 - Waalseilandgracht in Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. Steven dosRemedios@Flickr' data-type='image'> Waalseilandgracht in Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. Steven dosRemedios@Flickr
    CC-BY-2.0 - Yellow tulips! Pug Girl@Flickr' data-type='image'> Yellow tulips! Pug Girl@Flickr
    CC-BY-SA-4.0 - Middelburg, Zeeland, the Netherlands. CC:Pjt56' data-type='image'> Middelburg, Zeeland, the Netherlands. CC:Pjt56
    CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Frikandel & fries in Holland! CC:Guus Bosman' data-type='image'> Frikandel & fries in Holland! CC:Guus Bosman
    CC-BY-3.0 - Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. Nikolai Karaneschev@Flickr' data-type='image'> Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. Nikolai Karaneschev@Flickr
    CC-BY-SA-2.0 - Dutch dining! Bruno Rijsman@Flickr' data-type='image'> Dutch dining! Bruno Rijsman@Flickr
    CC-BY-ND-2.0 - Magna Plaza, Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. Steven dosRemedios@Flickr' data-type='image'> Magna Plaza, Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. Steven dosRemedios@Flickr
    CC-BY-2.0 - Tulip fields in Holland! Pug Girl@Flickr' data-type='image'> Tulip fields in Holland! Pug Girl@Flickr
    CC0 - Herring is a favorite in the Netherlands. CC:Janericloebe' data-type='image'> Herring is a favorite in the Netherlands. CC:Janericloebe
    CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Antwerp, Belgium. CC:Maros' data-type='image'> Antwerp, Belgium. CC:Maros
    CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Lys River, Ghent, Belgium. CC:Graham Richter' data-type='image'> Lys River, Ghent, Belgium. CC:Graham Richter
    CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Middelburg, Zeeland, the Netherlands. CC:Tyxyso' data-type='image'> Middelburg, Zeeland, the Netherlands. CC:Tyxyso

    Traveler photos

    • Our guide (photo by Rowdy Canadian)
    • Our bike (photo by Rowdy Canadian)
    • Our barge (photo by Rowdy Canadian)
    • Our awesome crew (photo by Rowdy Canadian)
    • Beautiful scenery (photo by Rowdy Canadian)

    Amsterdam to Bruges

     Tour Description Daily Program 

  • Daily program

    Day 1: Arrival/Embarkation in Amsterdam (6 miles/10 km)

    The barge is moored at the Oosterdok in central Amsterdam, near the train station. Arrive on board the ship, offload your luggage in your cabin, and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea or coffee. As you rest, you'll have the opportunity to get to know your guide, crew, and fellow passengers. Embarkation is between 12:30 and 1:30 p.m., and the barge leaves the dock at 2:00 p.m.

    In the 12th Century, Amsterdam was no more than a modest settlement at the mouth of the river Amsteel, with an open connection to the sea. In those days, fishermen and craftsmen built a dam in the Amstel (now the site of the National Monument) and Amstel-re-damme was born. Amsterdam was granted a municipal charter in 1275 and has since expanded continually. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Amsterdamers were the most prosperous Europeans, and it was during this Golden Age that the famous rings of canals were dug. Powerful merchants had their abundantly ornamented mansions built here, thus manifesting their riches.

    Amsterdam is a city to be explored thoroughly, and we recommend the following places of interest: the rings of canals; the Jordaan area, with its many pubs, outdoor cafés and quaint shops; Vondelpark with its open air concerts; Leidseplein; Rembrandtsplein; the antique shops in the Spiegel district; Museum Square with the Rijksmuseum (National Museum), Stedelijk Museum (Museum of Modern Art), Van Gogh Museum and off course the Anne Frank House. Other typical features of Amsterdam are its numerous "hofjes" (almshouses), the floating flower market, and the hundreds of houseboats lining the canals. Our compact biking day tours are perfect for squeezing multiple sights like these into just a few hours! Amsterdam is inextricably related to the diamond-cutting industry, which has brought much fame to the city since the 17th Century. The palace on Dam Square is sometimes called the Eighth Wonder of the World as it was built on 13,659 piles.

    During dinner aboard the ship, the program for the next day and the global planning of the week will be discussed. After dinner, you will take to your bike for the first time!
    Overnight in Oude Wetering.

    Day 2: Oude Wetering – Gouda (28 miles/45 km)
    From Oude Wetering you will continue your tour over country roads, banks, and channels through the Green Heart and polders to the city known for its cheese: Gouda. This day is Sunday, the day many Dutch take out their bikes for a ride, and you can join them! Whoever thinks of Gouda thinks not only of cheese, pipes, stroopwafels (treacle-waffle) and pottery, but also of stained-glass windows, a fairytale-like town hall, and atmospheric canals. Gouda is a beautiful Old-Dutch city with a mostly intact city center.

    The 'St. Janskerk', Gouda’s 123-meter-long church, with its renowned 'Goudse Glazen' (leaded light windows), the beautiful gothic town hall, and the 'Waag' (a building once used for weighing cheese) are absolutely worth a visit. Furthermore, one should not forget the Goudse Kaas-en Ambachtenmuseum (Museum of Cheese and Crafts museum), the Museum of Dutch Resistance, the 'Weeshuisplein' (famous square), the Catharinatuin, patios around the city, and the Museumhaven, a harbor where historical ships are moored. As on most days, after dinner you will take a walk through the city.
    Overnight in Gouda.

    Day 3: Gouda – Dordrecht (25 miles/40 km)
    Today you will cycle along the Dutch IJssel, through the deepest lying polder of the Netherlands, Krimpenerwaard, and over narrow cycling paths to the River Lek. Here, you will cross the river by ferry to Kinderdijk, a unique and renowned monument where Holland’s largest number of historical windmills can be found. From the embankments of the River Lek, you will witness an amazing view of the 19 windmills, which are now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is where you will take a break and visit the interior of a windmill. After a beautiful tour through the Alblasserwaardpolder you will arrive at the banks of the River Beneden-Merwede.

    A modern, fast ferry will take you over to Dordrecht, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, situated at a busy crossing of fairways. Dordrecht was known as 'Thuredrech' in the eleventh century. In the year 1220, it received its municipal laws from Count Willem I of Holland. In the Middle Ages, around the year 1350, Dordrecht grew to be an important port town with staple rights, allowing ships to transport and sell their goods in its harbor.

    The fifteenth century was a time of disasters for this city: siege, floodings, and the city fire. The city survived all of its troubles and played an important role in Dutch politics. The first open State assembly with representatives of Holland was held here in 1572 in the Hof, a former Augustine monastery. This assembly can be seen as the start of Holland as an independent country as the resistance against Spain was formed here. In the sixteenth century, Dordrecht lost its leading position as a trade city to Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Then, in 1618-1619 an influential Protestant church meeting was held about the indifferences among believers of the church about its doctrine. The stricter believers won, resulting in the 'Dordtse Leerregels', known as the Canons of Dort. Another decision made during this synod was to translate the Bible from Hebrew/Greek into Dutch. This resulted in the first Dutch Bible, now known as the 'Statenvertaling'. Buildings worth a visit are the gothic church Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk, with its unfinished tower (14th Century) which has become a trademark of the city. Another eye-catcher is the Groothoofdspoort, from which one has a stunning panorama over the busy river.
    Overnight in Dordrecht.

    Day 4: Dordrecht – Willemstad – Zierikzee (33 miles/54 km)
    From Dordrecht, you will sail to the Delta area of the Dutch greater rivers during breakfast. Years ago, an open connection existed with the sea due to the many tributaries in this area.

    After the disastrous flooding in 1953, the Delta Works plan was developed and most tidal outlets were closed from the sea by dams. Most parts of Zeeland were, and still are, under sea level, and in 1953, the embankments were too weak and too low, causing this area to be at risk of flooding once in every 80 years. Now, because of the flood barriers, that chance is reduced to less than once every 4000 years.

    In Willemstad, an old fortified town, you'll start your cycle tour and ride over the Volkerakbrug (over one of the busiest locks in the world) to the former island of Goeree-Overvlakkee. Nowadays, this land is easy to reach by embankments and bridges, all part of the Delta Works of 1953 now protecting the southwestern part of the Netherlands against the rough sea.

    Just before reaching your destination of the day (Zierikzee, on the island of Schouwen-Duivenland) you will visit the Watersnoodmuseum. This museum tells the tragic events of 1953 and is built in recently renewed caissons, once used for the last closure gap. This was done in November 1953, ten months after the storm surge which broke through more than 300 embankments.

    A shorter version of today's route is offered by sailing to Bruinisse, from where the group of remaining cyclists can be joined to Zierikzee, after which the Watersnoodmuseum is visited. Zierikzee is a beautiful town and the center of the 'mussel culture'. The Zeeuwse mosselen (blue mussels) are a renowned delicacy.
    Overnight in Zierikzee.

    Day 5: Zierikzee – Middelburg (32 miles/51 km)
    On this day, you will cycle towards the North Sea, along the Oosterschelde to the Oosterscheldedam. Enormous locks are built in this embankment that can be closed during storms and high tides, protecting the southwest of the Netherlands against the sea.

    This embankment was one of the last in a series of barriers against the sea. When cycling along the embankment, one will realize why this has been one of the most difficult and costly challenges to protect the country now and in the future and to let seawater into the widespread Delta area. It is precisely why the Delta Works are referred to as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

    After this dam you will paddle to Middelburg, but not without visiting the picturesque port town of Veere. Middelburg is the lively principal town of Zeeland with many old houses, churches, a beautiful town hall, and a pleasant shopping district. Also to be found in Middelburg is the Roosevelt Academy, a liberal arts college, located in the former late-gothic town hall on the market of Middelburg.
    Overnight in Middelburg.

    Day 6: Middelburg – Ferry to Breskens – Cycle to Sas van Gent | Cruise to Ghent (28 miles/45 km)
    With the unique cycle ferry to Breskens in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen (Dutch-Flanders), you'll be getting to close to Belgium. You will arrive at the Dutch-Belgian border in Sas van Gent, the former gateway to the harbor of Ghent, through an area of small villages, creeks, bending embankments and beautiful panoramas.

    After a short journey of 1.5 hours, you will arrive in Ghent. From the pier, you can simply take the tram to the medieval center of this beautiful city.

    The city of Ghent has approximately 250,000 citizens. Its name, presumably derived from the Celtic word Ganda, means 'mouth' or 'junction'. Indeed, in the city, the rivers Leie and Scheldt merge. In 630, Saint Amand established the St. Baafsabdij, and in medieval times, Ghent grew to be one of the most important cities of Europe (with approximately 56,000 citizens in 1350) due to its linen industry. From the 14th-16th centuries, conflicts occurred in the city and battles were often fought with the Lords of Flanders.

    Ghent experienced an economic drawback from 1584 (captured by the Spanish during the resistance against King Philips II) until the nineteenth century. After this period, Ghent developed into an industrial city, with strong socialist beliefs. The old city offers many well-kept craftsmen's houses, Patrician houses and old storehouses, the Gravensteen (medieval castle), the St. Niklaaskerk (Saint Nicholas' church, dating from the year 1200), St. Baafskathedraal (Saint Bavo Cathedral from the fourteenth century, with the painting Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by Van Eyck, internationally known as the Ghent Altarpiece) and last but not least, the Belfort (Bell Tower, fourteenth century). The city center also has many squares and pleasant pubs.

    Ghent is a lively town, and although Ghent is proud of its rich past, the role of the city is no means restricted to a museum-city. Ghent is a stunning mixture of medieval buildings, chic shopping areas with beautiful mansions, old workers districts from the early twentieth century which now house hundreds of students, and busy squares where one can sit and enjoy warm summer nights.
    Overnight in Ghent.

    Day 7: Ghent – Bruges (28 miles/45 km)
    This morning you will cycle through Ghent to the scenic countryside of Oost-Vlaanderen (East-Flanders), defined by its woods, fields, small villages, and castles. From the Aalterbrug (also for the shorter route) the last part of this route takes you over the former towpath along the canal of Oostende-Gent, the oldest canal in Belgium, to Bruges.

    The impressive city of Bruges is the end destination for this brilliant bike and barge trip, with many of you likely to want to stay an extra day in this beautiful city. For exciting explorations by bicycle, you can take one of our fascinating Bruges day tours!

    Bruges is known for its production of linen that used to be distributed all over Europe. During the 14th Century, the second city wall was built, and four mills still stand upon that wall today. In the 15th Century, Bruges was under the control of the Dukes of Burgundy, who brought luxury and prosperity to the city through the growth of arts and banking. From this period much has remained: the town hall, the many 'natiehuizen' churches, and the mausoleums of Marie of Burgundy (Duchess of Cleves) and Charles the Bold.

    At the end of the fifteenth century, the Burgundy court disappeared in Bruges, marking the end of a prosperous period. In 1584, the city was concurred by the Spanish. Religious wars and the closing of the sea caused Bruges to fall into decay. Bruges developed into a poor city in the nineteenth century and missed the industrialization boom. It is partly because of G. Rodenbach's novel Bruges la Morte (1892) that Bruges rediscovered its identity as a city of growing arts and, later, a tourism center. Unmissable sights include the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk (Church of our Lady), Belort and Hallen, Gruuthusemuseum (museum of applied arts of Bruges) and the Kantcentrum (Lace Center).
    Overnight in Bruges.

    Day 8: Bruges
    End of trip after breakfast (disembark before 10:00 am).

    Surface and terrain

    The tour follows a flat terrain route.

    Boats

    Many of these barges are former working river vessels, converted specifically for this kind of passenger vacation. The barges comply with the strict safety regulations set forth by the Dutch Shipping Inspection Authorities. Do not expect a luxury cruise ship. The experience of the tour is built around guests being active cyclists, and the layout of the barge supports a social environment in common spaces.

    How to get there

    Tour start
    Nearest aiport and train station: Amsterdam, Holland

    Tour end
    Nearest airport and train station: Brussels, Belgium

    Tips on getting to and from your tour.

    Amsterdam to Bruges

     Tour Photos Dates & Prices 

  • Dates

    Sailing Home: May 9, 23; Jun 20; Jul 04, 18, Aug 01, 15, 29; Sep 12, 26; Oct 10, 2024
    Wending: May 16; Jun 06; Jul 11; Aug 08, 22; Sep 05, 19, 2024
    Liza Marleen: Jun 13; Sep 19, 2024
    Clair de Lune: May 02, 2024

    Low season: Jul 04, 2024 - Aug 15, 2024, Oct 10, 2024 - Oct 17, 2024

    Standard season: May 02, 2024 - June 27, 2024, Aug 15, 2024 - Sep 05, 2024, Sep 26, 2024 - Oct 03, 2024

    High season: Sep 05, 2024 - Sep 26, 2024

    Prices

    Sailing Home

    Per person, double occupancy Low season Standard season High season
    Standard twin cabin €1380 €1535 €1685
    Single cabin use (1 person/1 cabin) €1995 €2220 €2420

    Wending

    Per person, double occupancy Low season Standard season High season
    Standard twin cabin €1210 €1334 €1460
    Triple cabin (per person, triple occupancy) €1130 €1250 €1370
    Single use (1 person/1 cabin) €1530 €1695 €1840

    Liza Marleen

    Per person, double occupancy Standard season High season
    Standard twin cabin €1470 €1610
    Superior twin cabin €1700 €1840
    Superior triple cabin (per person, triple occupancy) €1350 €1475
    Single use (1 person /1 cabin) €2110 €2325

    Clair de Lune

    Per person, double occupancy Standard season
    Double cabin €1415
    Cabin with split-level beds €1415
    Single use cabin (1 person/1 cabin) €1485

    Bike Rentals

    Standard touring bike €110
    Electrically assisted bike €220

    Additional Options

    Gluten free or vegan meals €75

    Discounts

    Child, 0-2 sharing cabin with at least 1 full-paying adult (on base package price) 100%
    Child, 3-11 sharing cabin with at least 1 full-paying adult (on base package price) 30%

    Included services

    • 7 nights accommodations on board (including bed sheets and 2 towels)
    • Breakfast and dinner on board
    • Lunch packages when on the road
    • Road book (1 per cabin)*
    • Coffee and tea on board
    • Tour guide
    • Minimum 3 city walk with tour guide
    • Ferry fares on the route
    • Wifi in lounge and on deck (limited availability)
    • GPS tracks are available (upon request)

    *The road book (1 per cabin) includes the detailed itinerary. Although the tour is guided, if you wish to cycle any of the days on your own, you may request the GPS tracks to assist you with navigation.

    Please note that special dietary needs can be accommodated upon request. Extra fees may apply; gluten-free/Celiac/vegan/lactose-free meals are an additional €75 charge. Please inform us of dietary requirements when booking your tour.

    Bike rentals

    Bikes available to be rented (booked in advance at the time of booking) include:

    • Standard touring bike, 24-speed
    • Electrically assisted bike, 24-speed, detachable lithium-Ion battery, unisex*
    • Children's bike, child seats (rear of bike), trailer bike (one-wheeled bicycle attached to adult standard bike), bike trailer
    • Bike insurance included with bike rental

    *More about electrically-assisted bikes >

    All above bike rentals will be equipped with the following at no additional charge:

    • Helmet
    • Pannier bag
    • Lock
    • Water bottle
    • Repair kit (when cycling self-guided)

    Pedals:
    The bikes will have flat pedals. If you want to bring your own pedals, please bring your own shoes and also the necessary equipment to change the pedals.

    Helmets:
    Helmets are available with your bike rental. A helmet is required for children in the Netherlands; however, we recommend, for safety and hygiene reasons, that you bring your own helmet.

    More information about the electrically assisted bike
    Your electrically assisted bike has 24 gears, a detachable lithium-Ion battery, hand brakes, pannier bags, a good lock, water bottle and you can get a repair kit. We draw your attention to the fact that you will be held responsible for damage to or theft of the bike, as long as the bike is not on board. (the E-bike has a value of more than €2000). Never leave it unattended. Always lock it and fasten it to a fixed object, and don’t forget to remove the information panel from your steering wheel. If you didn't arrange cycle insurance when booking you can do this on board (the first day). Payment in cash is required.

    Tour Company

    Amsterdam to Bruges

     Daily program Route Map 

  • Route Map

    Maps are for information purposes only and reflect typical routes between overnight locations. They may not reflect your actual route.

    Amsterdam to Bruges

     Dates & Prices Tour Reviews 

  • Reviews

      Write a review

    • ★★★★★ Allen Terrell 4 months ago

      Great sites, good value

      We had a wonderful trip. Many Thanks to your staff, Mariam and Taylor, in helping us..

      For the price, the barge was fine, the food excellent and the barge crew terrific.

      Caution you to except overly positive reviews from passengers who all filled out reviews on the last night while receiving free champagne. Aliso, while nice, the leader was not too helpful and not much of a mechanic [4 of the E bikes were not charged on our first ride].

    • ★★★★★ Ina Graham 4 months ago

      Beautiful scenic biking

      Fun, knowledgeable guide. Great travelling companions. Amazing gourmet suppers on boat. Extremely helpful crew when husband needed medical attention.

    • ★★★★★ Adele September 30, 2019

      fantastic trip, fantastic crew

      Wonderful crew and wonderful guide Winnie! Everything was as good as described on the website or better. The Anna Antal is a modest but very comfortable boat. Because the tour was small, all 17 passengers on board all got to know each other and the staff well as we traveled together for the week. Even though the crew was working together on this boat for the first time, they worked together as a great team and made us all feel so welcome and comfortable. And the food was fabulous for the entire week. We couldn't have had a better time! thank you!

      What was the date of your tour?
      sept 14-21 2019
      How many tours have you completed?
      5
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 5/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 4/5 Hotels or boat
      • 4/5 Scenery
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 4/5 Local tour company services
      • 4/5 Route selection
      • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
    • ★★★★★ Cathy September 29, 2019

      Fantastic trip with friends!

      What a way to see the country! Our guide Winny was fun knowledgeable and open to suggestions. The crew in the Anna Antal were excellent,helpful and participated in our evening conversations and fun. I also have to say that the cook Nicole gave us amazing food!! So enjoyed by all. We would highly recommend this trip, cycling was easy and sites were wonderful! Thankyou so much

      What was the date of your tour?
      September 14-21
      How many tours have you completed?
      5
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      Much easier
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 5/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 5/5 Hotels or boat
      • 5/5 Scenery
      • 5/5 Ease of navigation
      • 5/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
      • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
    • ★★★★★ Rowdy Canadian June 14, 2019

      First group tour of any kind

      The ship crew and tour guide were very fun, knowledgeable & interesting people. The food was amazing! The guests were interesting. The accommodations were comfortable.

      What was the date of your tour?
      May11-18 2019
      How many tours have you completed?
      Never been on any tours
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with young kids, Families with teens
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • Our guide (photo by Rowdy Canadian)
      • Our bike (photo by Rowdy Canadian)
      • Our barge (photo by Rowdy Canadian)
      • Our awesome crew (photo by Rowdy Canadian)
      • Beautiful scenery (photo by Rowdy Canadian)
      • 5/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 5/5 Hotels or boat
      • 5/5 Scenery
      • 2/5 Ease of navigation
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
      • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
    • ★★★★★ Bikinggrandma September 15, 2018

      Womderful boat, great crew and food, fun time

      We enjoyed the boat and barge trip from Amsterdam to Bruges. Our guide was great; very knowledgeable about a twisting route with an occasional detour and about the sights and towns we visited. In the evening he’d take those of us who were interested on a guided tour of the city where we’d docked. We were a very compatible group. It was a bit large (23 people) for one guide but our guide managed to keep us all together and on pace. The boat Sailing Home was delightful. Very clean and ship shape. The food was fantastic. We especially liked the gourmet dinners and stories the chef Eline told us about their origins.

      What was the date of your tour?
      September 1, 2018
      How many tours have you completed?
      12
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 5/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 5/5 Hotels or boat
      • 5/5 Ease of navigation
      • 3/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
      • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
    • ★★★★★ BRAG June 26, 2018

      An Easy relaxed tour for families, beginners and seniors.

      The perfect way to experience vthe countryside, quaint villages and unique towns such as Ghent and Bruges. The crew and guide we're exceptional, always attentive and friendly. The meals were delicious, well-prepared and presented. The barge was comfortable but basic.

      What was the date of your tour?
      May 26, 2018
      How many tours have you completed?
      30+
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      Somewhat easier
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with young kids, Families with teens
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 5/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 3/5 Hotels or boat
      • 2/5 Scenery
      • 5/5 Ease of navigation
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 4/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
      • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
    • ★★★★★ Hutch September 8, 2017

      What a Great Experience!!!

      This trip exceeded all my expectations. The "Barge" was quaint (but professional), the rooms were VERY clean and comfortable with good shower. Dining area was nice and best feature was sitting deck where we all gathered after a day of biking and enjoyed a "beverage". The Crew was fantastic. Always with a genuine smile and seemed to enjoy their work almost as much as we did. The chef did an amazing job with great food and really neat presentation added to the charm. With a small "boat" we got to know all the other passengers and by the end of the week we were friends. Such a great time. Oh and by the way, the actual bike riding was good also. We saw and experienced a Netherlands and Belgium that only a trip like this could offer. Daily rides were easy enough for any cyclist and our guide could not have been more concerned that we were enjoying ourselves. He became part of our "Group" and a friend.

      What was the date of your tour?
      August 2017
      How many tours have you completed?
      8
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      Somewhat easier
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes

      • BikeTours.com staff reply from Jim Johnson, Founder and president September 10, 2017

        Hutch, thanks so much for your feedback. I'm delighted you had such a great time! As a bike tour "veteran," you really know the ins and outs and pros and cons of a bicycle tour, so I'm especially gratified to read your positive comments!

      • 5/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 5/5 Hotels or boat
      • 5/5 Scenery
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
      • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
    • ★★★★★ P111 August 18, 2017

      Great trip for casual cycler

      My wife and I enjoyed our trip through the Netherlands. Great guide. Food and accomadations above expectations.

      What was the date of your tour?
      Early August
      How many tours have you completed?
      0
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 4/5 Value
      • 4/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 4/5 Hotels or boat
      • 4/5 Scenery
      • 5/5 Ease of navigation
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 4/5 Local tour company services
      • 4/5 Route selection
      • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
    • ★★★★★ Elena October 12, 2016

      Great experience!

      Perfect way to experience a country. The staff of the boat was the best, very friendly and always trying to pleased you.

      What was the date of your tour?
      May 2016
      How many tours have you completed?
      First one
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      Somewhat easier
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      First-time bike tourists
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 4/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 4/5 Hotels or boat
      • 5/5 Scenery
      • 5/5 Ease of navigation
      • 5/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
      • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
    • ★★★★★ cyclist September 18, 2016

      Very well organized and planned

      It was very well organized and people on the boat and in the group were really super nice. Each day was a feast at night, and a treat to the eyes when it comes to biking. We went through a lot of pretty open fields, historic sights and picturesque landscapes. It was like riding through a wallpaper. It was quite easy to finish it, given the flat terrain, and was not a really hard tour.

      What was the date of your tour?
      11/3/2016
      How many tours have you completed?
      1
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      Much easier
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      First-time bike tourists, Families with young kids, Families with teens
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 5/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 4/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 5/5 Hotels or boat
      • 5/5 Ease of navigation
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
      • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
    • ★★★★★ dmoise April 27, 2016

      Highlight of our trip to Europe!

      During our long-awaited 7 week European trip, our Bike/Barge adventure was the best part. The local NL based company that organized the tour is great. From the comfy accommodations, to the well planned biking, our week was filled with memorable adventures.

      With warm and friendly fellow travelers and an outstanding skipper and crew, we enjoyed delicious meals, informative city walks, fun bike routes with some challenging weather and amazing sights on the land and water. Our biking guide led us with confidence and patience (despite widely varying experience/strength) and added important information on culture and history wherever we traveled.

      The smaller size of the barge with only 9 guest rooms, made the entire experience that much more personal. This was also the most affordable week of our vacation! We couldn't have asked for a better introduction to the Netherlands, Belgium and to the wonderful bike/barge experience. Outstanding; we can't wait to go again.

      How many tours have you completed?
      1
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      Families with teens, Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      Video: Enjoying every moment!
      • 5/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 5/5 Hotels or boat
      • 5/5 Scenery
      • 5/5 Ease of navigation
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
      • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)

    Amsterdam to Bruges

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