At a Glance
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Uncover the best of Holland and Belgium on a 8-day Active & Discovery small river cruise voyage. Immerse into some of Europe’s most beautiful cities, including Middleburg, Ghent, Brussels, Antwerp, and Rotterdam. Choose how to explore each destination from the slow pace of cruising and sightseeing to active pursuits of hiking or biking to find the perfect way to spend your day while immersing into its rich cultures.
Your cruise begins in the colorful city of Amsterdam with time to explore the city at your own pace. Set sail for Middleburg where you’ll adventure as active or relaxed as you desire from a variety of excursions. From biking to a castle, a discovery to the Delta Works or a Oyster Farm visit. Continue your voyage to Belgium and bask in the ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 7 nights’ accommodation on a twin share basis onboard river cruise vessel
- Meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage including complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
- Activities as stated in itinerary
Itinerary
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Your Suite Ship will be ready to board in Amsterdam by 5pm. Note: Flights into Amsterdam must arrive by 3:30pm. Step onboard your luxury floating home and be welcomed with cocktails, sparkling wine and canapes to begin your cruise down The Rhone. Unwind in your ensuite staterooms with large private bathrooms, enjoy cocktails with a view at the Sky Deck or simply bask in the view with your floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door with open-air balcony. Optional Tour (additional cost): Option 2: Outside the tulip season, engage on a guided excursion to Zaanse Schans, a unique neighborhood in this country that is well-known for its spectacular Dutch houses and amazing surroundings. Wander to explore the postcard-perfect landscapes, iconic windmills, and century-old houses. This evening, retreat back onboard for a mouth-watering dining affair. Indulge in the freshest ingredients boasting flavours from small farms and local producers for a healthful and innovative dining experience. Tonight, you begin your overnight voyage to the next destination, Middelburg. |
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Today, unearth the delights of Middleburg with a list of activities on offer. Active: Venture on a Guided Walk through the woods and dunes. Traverse the charming Castle Westhove, an ancient old castle, and through the picturesque farmlands of the North Sea. Discovery: Option 2: Enjoy a cultural immersion with a visit to a local family-owned Oyster farm. This iconic farm has been cultivating shellfish and crustaceans in this country since 1906. Delight your tastebuds with a lobster and oyster tasting paired with wine. Classic: Awaken your curious soul with an exciting Guided Walking adventure to uncover the charm of Middelburg. Stroll around the winding cobblestone streets and discover some of the most iconic landmarks of this city. Keep wandering through canals and get to know about the postcard-perfect city from a different point of view. Marvel at the Gothic Town Hall, a 15th-century architecture and learn about the historic importance of the town hall in Dutch East India trading. You’ll overnight cruise in Ghent. |
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Discover the countryside of Ghent in the adventure that interests you most today. Active: Embark on a thrilling bike adventure to the outskirts of the city. Pedal through the spectacular countryside roads to discover picturesque landscapes, decorated vineyards, rolling fields, and more natural phenomena. Keep riding to and find out about some lesser-known spots and hamlets in this area. Discovery: Awaken your artistic soul with an inspiring Guided Tour to Graffiti Street, where artists give wings to their imaginations by spray-can art. Have a chance to wake your inner artist up by trying something new by creating your own street art. Classic: Engage in an exclusive Guided Sightseeing Tour to Ghent, the third largest city in Belgium. Located at the confluence of the Lele and Scheldt rivers, Ghent used to be one of the richest cities in Europe during the late middle ages. Keep wandering the city streets to discover St. Bavo’s Cathedral, an 89-meter tall Gothic cathedral and marvel at its Femish artwork. Optional Tour (additional cost): Discover Burges on a full day adventure. Known as the ‘Venice of The North' meadner its canals, cobbles streets and medieval buildings and iconic landmarks of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll overnight cruise to Brussels. |
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Explore the picturesque city of Brussels your way. Active: Venture on an exciting Guided Bike Tour to the surrounding areas of Brussels, the capital city of Belgium. Pedal along the beautiful roads to discover postcard-perfect town of Laken. Marvel at Royal family estates, exotic pavillions from the world expo and serene parks and lanes Discovery: Join a chocolate-making workshop and learn how to make your own delicious candies. Craft traditional Belgian confections of pralines and mendiant from scratch and indulge in a cup of the finest hot chocolate. Classic: Explore the enchanting city of Brussels with an exclusive Guided Tour including Town Hall, a famous landmark located on the famous Grand Place. Constructed between 1401 to 1455, this iconic building is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Keep strolling around the beautiful streets to discover various landmarks including the Atomium, cafes, local bars, and shops on Lower Town Streets. Optional Tour (at additional cost): You can either enjoy a free afternoon wandering around the streets of Brussels or choose an optional guided canal cruise tour to Mechelen, a picturesque city located between Brussels and Antwerp. Discover the historical significance of the city from your own point of view. Spend the rest of the afternoon, discovering the magical city of Brussels at your leisure and admire spectacular palaces and cathedrals. Unwind back on board before enjoying love entertainment this evening. You’ll overnight cruise to Antwerp. |
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Today, choose to be as relaxed or active as you explore Antwerp with your host for today’s activities. Active: Unearth the mystery of Antwerp and its surrounding area with a Guided Bike Tour and explore centuries of history and story at every turn. Along the way, marvel at small neighborhoods and squares. Discovery: Step back in history and explore the Red Star Line Museum. Follow the footsteps of emigrants with the Red Star Line passengers. Accompany the passengers on their journey from the native village to a whole new world via Antwerp. Classic: Embark into a guided exploration to unleash the charm of Antwerp, the second-largest metropolitan of the country. Discover the Grote Market, a panoramic town square located at the heart of the city with the 16th century’s iconic buildings. Here, you can see a stunning city hall, the Cathedral of Our Lady, one of the most popular landmarks of Antwerp from the 16th century. Explore the inside of the building and see some stunning paintings by Rubens. This afternoon, spend some quality time tasting Antwerp’s best Belgian waffles and crepes. Or discover this bike-friendly city from its old wharfs to its iconic diamond district. This evening, you’ll overnight cruise to Rotterdam. |
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Today, unearth the delights of Rotterdam with a list of activities on offer. Active: Venture on a thrilling Guided Bike adventure to see the architectural marvels of the city. Bike around picturesque lanes to discover some magnificent landmarks including The Cube Houses, Market Hall, the iconic Central Station, Erasmus Bridge and the vertical city ‘De Rotterdam. Along the way, admire how historical buildings contrasting against hypermodern skyscrapers. Discovery: Wake your artistic soul up by joining a Pottery Workshop. Here, you can experience something different while getting the complete flavor of this spectacular city. Be guided by a professional painter through the process of painting Delft tile. Classic: Join a inspiring Guided Sightseeing Tour to explore the city of Rotterdam. Wander around the streets and uncover the hidden charms of this iconic Dutch city. Marvel at unique collection of cube houses innovative architecture including the stunning Erasmus Bridge and more. Retreat back on board for a delicious dinner and live entertainment as you overnight cruise towards Amsterdam. |
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Active: Venture on an exciting guided bike adventure through the picturesque countryside. Traverse rolling fields, traditional farms, and century-old villages. Discovery: Partake in a Painting Class and challenge your creative side. Make this tour memorable by learning some inspiring painting techniques. Awaken your inner artist by painting your own canvas here. Complete this discovery with an orientation walk. Classic: Experience a Guided Canal Cruise through the city’s iconic waterways where you can get to know about the Dutch capital from a different perspective. Explore the historic buildings of this region while capturing spectacular moments while you discover the top sites of this modern city. Optional Tour (at additional cost): If you are up for some adventure, be a part of an Optional Kayaking Tour through the canals of Amsterdam. Explore the charm of this enchanting city from your own point of view. You can also uncover some iconic landmarks with this kayaking tour. Keep peddling through these canals and discover old buildings and the laid-back lifestyle of this stunning city. Your guide will help you by sharing some exciting stories about Amsterdam. This afternoon, choose among the many guided optional excursions available with your Adventure Host or spend free time exploring Amsterdam at your leisure. This evening, you’ll overnight dock in Amsterdam. |
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Savour one last breakfast onboard with serene river views, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey. Bid farewell as you disembark the ship for your onward travel. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
The displayed price is a guide for per person, based on Twin occupancy for available Deluxe Staterooms or Panorama Suites or Royal Suites. Please contact us for available cabins and prices.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Amsterdam
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Amsterdam.
Holland, with its long North Sea coast, has a typically moderate marine climate. The sea's influence ensures that we are not too cold during winter, not too hot during summer, and there is always sufficient moisture in the air for a shower.
Belgium has a temperate maritime climate characterized by moderate temperatures, prevailing southerly to westerly winds, abundant cloud cover and frequent precipitation. Summers are relatively cool and humid and winters relatively mild and rainy.
The Avalon Poetry II® offers a delightfully intimate cruise setting along the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers. Like its sister ships, the Avalon Artistry II® and Avalon Visionary®, the Poetry II® features two full decks of suites featuring Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows that transform the living space into a unique Open-Air℠ Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites℠ are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, giving you the rare opportunity to wake each morning to the enchanting scenery and fresh breezes. Ship amenities:
- Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows
- Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the open-air bistro
- Fitness Center
- Non-smoking interior and staterooms
- Elevator
- Elegant, contemporary design
- Outside viewing deck
- Headsets for guided shore excursions in Europe
- Friendly, English-speaking crew and Cruise Director
- Sightseeing with Certified Local Guides
- Onboard lectures, activities & nightly entertainment
Deluxe Stateroom: Category E & D. 172 square feet. Unique features are two bay windows.
Panorama Suite: Category A, B & P. 200 square feet. Unique features are wall-to-wall Panoramic Window measuring 11'- 50% larger than industry standard, wall-to-wall Panoramic Window opens to transform the living space into a large Open-Air-Balcony and Open-Air-Balcony with spacious sitting area.
Royal Suite: Category S. 300 square feet. Unique features are wall-to-wall Panoramic Window measuring 11'- 50% larger than industry standard, wall-to-wall Panoramic Window opens to transform the living space into a large Open-Air-Balcony and Open-Air-Balcony with spacious sitting area.
Your cruise features excursion and onboard activity options. Select what interests you most so you can experience your cruise your way with 3 different activity types:
- Classic: A local expert is ready to guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations and the “must see” sites.
- Discovery: Inspiring and interactive activities designed to speak to your interests. From cooking classes, to painting workshops, allowing to spend time immersing yourself in the destination’s unique culture.
- Active: Embark on energetic excursions keeping you in motion and on the go. From a guided hiking tour, to biking, and paddling your way through scenic locales.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.