From March through May, the Netherlands dazzles with its annual display of millions of tulips and other flowers, making it worthy of inclusion on the bucket list of any plant and garden lovers.
AmaWaterways says its Tulip Time itinerary will thrill any flower aficionado, but also goes well beyond the blooms. From the medieval architectural treasures of Bruges and Ghent to the chocolates, waffles and cheeses of Belgium to the canals of Amsterdam, this eight-day sailing delivers a myriad of experiences.
More than 30 departures run from March 13 through May 5. Savings offers include stateroom savings of up to 20% and waived single supplements on select departures.
AmaWaterways’ Tulip Time cruises go beyond the blooms. (Photo Credit: AmaWaterways)
Tulips definitely take centre-stage as AmaWaterways opens the doors to several renowned gardens:
· Flevoland, Netherland’s newest province and the largest non-natural island in the world, where fields of Lelystad, Dronten, Zeewolde and Noordoostpolder are bursting with colour.
· The annual spring flower show at Antwerp’s Floralia, featuring one million bulbs hand-planted each year.
· The best known and one of the world’s largest flower gardens, Keukenhof, with its millions of flowering bulbs on 32 hectares.
Interspersed between the flower-seeing visits are excursions, bike tours and extensive sightseeing.
AmaWaterways offers more than 30 departures during ‘Tulip Time.’ (Photo Credit: AmaWaterways)
Highlights of off-ship activities include:
· A stroll among the picturesque thatched-roof farmhouses in the canal-laden village of Giethoorn, nicknamed the “Dutch Venice.”
· A guided tour of the medieval harbour town of Zierikzee where guests can choose visiting Oosterschelde Kering, the largest storm surge barrier of the Delta Works or learn the history of the Delta Works at the Flood Museum.
· A full-day tour of Bruges, one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe.
· An excursion to Delft, known as the home of the painter Johannes Vermeer, Delft Blue earthenware and the Royal House.
· The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinderdijk, renowned for having the country’s greatest concentration of windmills, all dating from the 18th century.
· Sweets lovers and those seeking more active options can enjoy a glass of champagne in Ghent while a master chocolatier talks about the history of chocolate; indulge in chocolate, waffles and beer on a culinary tour of Antwerp.
Guests wishing to spend more time in Amsterdam are welcome to add a two-night pre-cruise stay at a five-star hotel in the city of canals and enjoy guided tours of the charming city and a scenic cruise along the canals of Haarlem.