Authentic Holland

Day 1: Amsterdam | Amsterdam – Wijk bij Duurstede
Day 2: Wijk bij Duurstede – Wageningen | Wageningen – Arnhem – Doesburg, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 3: Doesburg – Bronkhorst – Zutphen – Deventer, 27 or 35 mi. (45 or 55 km)
Day 4: Deventer – Wijhe | Wijhe – Hattem – Zwolle – Kampen, 25 or 35 mi. (40 or 56 km)
Day 5: Kampen – Elburg – Harderwijk, 29 or 35 mi. (48 or 56 km)
Day 6: Harderwijk – Spakenburg – Huizen, 28 or 35 mi. (45 or 56 km)
Day 7: Huizen – Naarden – Muiden – Amsterdam, 21 mi. (35 km)
Day 8: Amsterdam

Day 1: Amsterdam | Amsterdam – Wijk bij Duurstede
Embarkation and check-in take place in Amsterdam between 1 pm and 2 pm, where the crew welcomes you aboard. Around 2 pm, the ship departs along the Amsterdam–Rhine Canal toward Wijk bij Duurstede, a charming riverside town where you’ll spend your first night.

Day 2: Wijk bij Duurstede – Wageningen | Wageningen – Arnhem – Doesburg, 31 mi. (50 km)
Enjoy breakfast as the ship sails to Wageningen, the starting point of your first cycling route. Ride through the peaceful Lower Rhine valley toward Arnhem, once a Hanseatic city and later the center of Operation Market Garden during WWII. After some free time in Arnhem, continue your ride along the river to the small Hanseatic town of Doesburg, perfect for an evening stroll.

Day 3: Doesburg – Bronkhorst – Zutphen – Deventer, 27 or 35 mi. (45 or 55 km)
Cycle first to Bronkhorst, proudly known as the smallest town in the Netherlands. Then choose between a shorter route that crosses the IJssel by ferry or a longer one that stays on the eastern bank. Both routes lead to Zutphen and continue to Deventer, known for its traditional spiced gingerbread. In the evening, join your tour leader for a guided city walk.

Day 4: Deventer – Wijhe | Wijhe – Hattem – Zwolle – Kampen, 25 or 35 mi. (40 or 56 km)
During breakfast, the ship brings you to Wijhe. From here, cycle either a shorter riverside route or a longer loop across the Veluwe to Hattem, a beautifully preserved Hanseatic town. Continue past Zwolle to Kampen, the largest Hanseatic city in the Netherlands. After dinner, explore its historic center.

Day 5: Kampen – Elburg – Harderwijk, 29 or 35 mi. (48 or 56 km)
From Kampen, ride along the Border Lakes to Elburg, a charming fishing harbor. Continue through Veluwe forests and heathlands to Harderwijk. Once the largest fish market on the Zuiderzee, today it’s a vibrant historic town well worth wandering.

Day 6: Harderwijk – Spakenburg – Huizen, 28 or 35 mi. (45 or 56 km)
Choose between a shorter lakeside route or a longer blend of woodland and shoreline. In the afternoon, pass through Spakenburg, where traditional Dutch dress is still worn. Docking destination tonight is Huizen.

Day 7: Huizen – Naarden – Muiden – Amsterdam, 21 mi. (35 km)
Ride from Huizen to Naarden, one of Europe’s best-preserved fortress towns, then onward to Muiden with its iconic waterside castle. Follow quiet paths back into Amsterdam for your final evening. Enjoy free time to explore—canals, cafés, museums, or simply watching the city in motion.

Day 8: Amsterdam
Your tour ends after breakfast. Disembarkation is until 9:30 am.

Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam
Day 2: Weesp - Wijk bij Duurstede
Day 3: Wijk bij Duurstede - Arnhem
Day 4: Arnhem - Deventer
Day 5: Deventer - Hattem - Kampen
Day 6: Kampen - Harderwijk - Spakenburg
Day 7: Spakenburg - Amsterdam
Day 8: Amsterdam | Departure following breakfast, by 9am

Day 1: Amsterdam - Weesp
Check-in begins at 3:30 pm.  At approximately 4 pm, the Merlijn will set sail for Weesp. As you navigate, you will enjoy a complimentary beverage, tour crew introduction, and tour and safety information meeting. Dinner will be served during the cruise, and afterward, upon your arrival in Weesp, stroll through this first charming city of the tour.

Day 2: Weesp - Wijk bij Duurstede
After your first breakfast on board, you will be fitted for your bike rental. This first day, cycling through the varied Dutch landscapes, is easy and pleasant. Back on board the Merlin, you sail to the day's destination,  Wijk bij Duurstede, a small town located on the banks of the lower Rhine River.  In the evening, you can stroll through the very charming city. One of the main attractions in Wijk bij Duurstede is its historic center, with cobbled streets, ancient houses, and a medieval castle tower that offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.

Day 3: Wijk bij Duurstede - Arnhem
After a sailing breakfast to Amerongen, the day's cycling begins. The route leads through the Betuwe, situated between the Waal and Rhine/Lek rivers, surrounding the Linge stream. This is a rich agricultural area famous for its fruit production. The tour ends in Arnhem, the capital of the province of Gelderland. Before or after dinner, you will have time to stroll a little more through the historic center, with cobbled streets, charming boutiques, and many examples of 19th-century architecture. 

Day 4: Arnhem - Deventer
Once again, the Merlijn will navigate as you enjoy your breakfast. You cruise the beautiful IJssel River downstream to Doesburg. This is one of the seven Hanseatic cities on the river. described by many people as the most beautiful river in the Netherlands. Your cycling route begins here, following the river to Deventer.  As well as its rich culture and history, Deventer is also famous for its culinary scene, with many local restaurants serving traditional Dutch dishes such as stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables and sausage), bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs), and poffertjes (miniature pancakes). Tonight you will enjoy your dinner at your own expense in one of the many restaurants. Your tour guide will show you the city as well as provide suggestions for dining. 

Day 5: Deventer - Hattem - Kampen
You cycle directly from Deventer to Hattem, another very charming  Hanseatic city. After your visit, you will board the Merlijn and together sail to the city of Kampen, the day's final destination. Kampen is a charming historic city with its cobbled streets, ancient houses, and Gothic-style churches. Kampen is also surrounded by lush greenery, including several nature reserves and parks,

Day 6: Kampen - Harderwijk - Spakenburg
From Kampen, the Merlijn navigates to Roggebotsluis for the start of the cycling route.  Across the water, you will see the eastern part of Flevoland, one of the new Dutch provinces. Your bike tour takes you to the Veluwe, and you will visit Elburg, a charming fishermen’s village. The Veluwe features many different landscapes, including woodland, heath, some small lakes, and Europe's largest sand drifts. Your bike tour ends in Harderwijk, another charming medieval city, located on the Veluwemeer (Veluwe lake). Here you will board the Merlijn and together sail to the city of Spakenburg. Spakenburg is one of the few places left in the Netherlands where some women still wear local traditional clothes.

Day 7: Spakenburg - Amsterdam
Your last biking day starts in Spakenburg, leading along the Gooimeer (Gooi lake) and through the beautiful area of Gooi. This is a beautiful and affluent region that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and historic architecture.  After dinner, your guide can take you on a walking tour through Amsterdam.

Day 8: Amsterdam
Breakfast, checkout, and departure. Extend your stay in Holland and reserve some time to explore the city. You might want to go on a ride along the canals, or visit the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, or Amsterdam Hermitage.

Day 1: Amsterdam
Day 2: Amsterdam - Wijk bij Duurstede
Day 3: Wageningen - Arnhem
Day 4: Arnhem - Deventer
Day 5: Deventer - Kampen
Day 6: Kampen - Hoorn
Day 7: Hoorn - Volendam - Amsterdam
Day 8: Amsterdam

Daily distances are approximately 35 mi. (56 km)

Day 1: Amsterdam
Welcome aboard! Embarkation begins at 1:30 pm. Please note that today's activities do not involve sailing or biking just yet. However, you are welcome to drop off your luggage anytime after 9:15 am. Take this opportunity to explore the city center, which is conveniently located near the docking area in the Oosterdok.

Later in the afternoon, you will gather for a welcome meeting followed by a guided walk through the charming streets of Amsterdam.

Day 2: Amsterdam - Wijk bij Duurstede
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, your boating adventure begins along the scenic Amsterdam Rijn Channel. For the next few hours, the ship will leisurely cruise along its picturesque waters. Once a suitable point is reached, the cycling begins. At this stage, the logistics will be assessed and a determination made to arrange a pickup or to continue cycling all the way to Wijk Bij Duurstede.

Wijk Bij Duurstede is a fascinating destination with its rich history as a former waterway crosspoint. You'll have the opportunity to explore its charming attractions, including a captivating castle ruin, a beautifully preserved walled inner historic city, and even a windmill. Get ready for an exciting day of exploration and adventure!

Day 3: Wageningen - Arnhem
Today is a special day for you as we embark on a thrilling cycling adventure through the expansive De Hoge Veluwe National Park, the largest in the Netherlands. This magnificent park offers breathtaking scenery and a chance to immerse yourself in nature's wonders. A stop will be featured at the Kroller-Muller Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Van Gogh Paintings. It's worth noting that this collection, once private, now belongs to a foundation, making it a truly unique experience.

After this delightful break, the journey leads to the picturesque Rhine Valley. The Iris is docked near the iconic John Frost Bridge, renowned for its association with the Allied Operation Market Garden during World War II in 1944. Take in the historical significance and enjoy the views.

Day 4: Arnhem - Deventer
Once you have enjoyed a pleasant sail along the Rhine, the ship enters the captivating IJssel, a tributary of the Rhine that flows into the former Zuiderzee, now known as the IJsselmeer (IJssel Lake).

The first stop along the IJssel is the charming town of Doesburg, which is just the beginning of many delightful towns you will encounter. It is here that you will begin your cycling adventure, exploring the town's picturesque streets and immersing yourself in its unique atmosphere.

Continuing along the IJssel, the next stop is the enchanting town of Zutphen, and the final destination for the day is Deventer, a city that will transport you back in time with its narrow streets and historical charm. Make sure to visit the town square, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink and take in the vibrant atmosphere. Best of all, the ship is conveniently docked within walking distance, allowing for a seamless transition after a day of exploration.

Day 5: Deventer - Kampen
The route leads through beautiful countryside, dikes and meadows, and along the meandering IJssel River. The destination is Kampen, once the biggest and most important town of the Dutch Hanse Cities, and still a regional center, close to the place where the IJssel flows into the IJsselmeer.

Day 6: Kampen - Hoorn
Enjoy a morning cruise before being dropped off to cycle along the dike that connects the cities of Lelystad and Enkhuizen. You will see large ship masts as you get closer to Enkhuizen. Recommended is a visit to the open-air museum, Zuiderzeemuseum, a tribute to the IJsselmeer. You'll continue on and end the day in Hoorn. 

Day 7: Hoorn - Volendam - Amsterdam
In the morning, you will embark on the final sail, which will bring you to the world-famous town of Volendam. This captivating former fishermen's village still retains its unique charm. The inhabitants, known as Volendammers, live their lives here, marrying locals and making regular visits to their parents and grandparents on Sundays. Volendam is a popular tourist destination, and you will have the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll through the town before resuming your cycling adventure to explore the countryside once again.

Prepare to be amazed at how close Amsterdam is! Despite its proximity, the surrounding countryside remains tranquil and beautiful. Following a scenic canal, you will enter the city on designated cycle paths. To return to the harbor where the IRIS awaits, you will conveniently utilize a ferry. This remarkable journey has reached its conclusion, and you will conclude your cycling experience with a delightful ride back into the lively city of Amsterdam.

Day 8: Amsterdam
Disembarkation after breakfast by 9 am.

Day 1: Embarkation in Amsterdam, sailing to Wijk bij Duurstede, 9 mi. (15 km)
Day 2: Wijk bij Duurstede - Wageningen | Wageningen – Arnhem, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 3: Arnhem - Doesburg | Doesburg – Vorden – Zutphen. During dinner, sailing from Zutphen to Deventer, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 4: Deventer - Hattem - Zwolle |  Zwolle - Kampen, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 5: Kampen - Harderwijk, 27 mi. (45 km)
Day 6: Harderwijk - Spakenburg, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 7: Spakenburg - Amsterdam
Day 8: Departure

Parts in italic are covered by the boat.

Day 1: Embarkation in Amsterdam, sailing to Wijk bij Duurstede, 9 mi. (15 km)
Embarkation and check-in between 1 and  2 pm. The mooring place of the barge in Amsterdam is Oosterdok (near the Science Center: ‘Nemo’, Oosterdok 2). If you arrive a bit early, you can leave your luggage on board beginning at noon. Please be on time as the barge will leave Amsterdam at 2:15 pm to sail over the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal to Wijk bij Duurstede on the Rhine.  This is one of the busiest waterways in Europe. It was dug to connect Amsterdam Seaport with the European hinterland. You spend the night in old Wijk bij Duurstede on the river Rhine. During the early Middle Ages, this town was a prestigious trading center. The marauding expeditions of the Vikings put an end to the flourishing period. The old city center is picturesque with its marketplace surrounded by trees. During dinner aboard the ship, the program for the next day and the overall planning of the week are discussed. Instructions on cycling and safety procedures will also be given. Time permitting, the guide will take you on a short bike ride around the town.

Day 2: Wijk bij Duursteed - Wageningen | Wageningen - Arnhem, 25 mi. (40 km)
While you are enjoying breakfast, the barge will sail to Wageningen, where, following the distribution of bicycles, you are finally off and cycling through the picturesque river valley of the Rhine. In Oosterbeek,  you can visit the Airborne Museum. You ride through the suburbs through lovely parks such as Sonsbeek and Zijpendaal to Arnhem, where you spend the night close to the center
Arnhem is the capital of the province of Gelderland. In September of 1944, the center of the town was heavily damaged by the efforts of the Allies to conquer the bridge over the Rhine(Operation “Market Garden”). The plan failed. (The battle of Arnhem has been filmed in "A Bridge Too Far"). Following the war, the city center was reconstructed to reflect its past patterns and design as closely as possible. Arnhem is generally known as the “Park City of the Netherlands” in large part due to its centuries-old city parks, which extend well into the town. Sonsbeek Park is the most important park of the city. It is located against the city’s dam walls and offers a multitude of breathtaking views with far-reaching vistas of the Rhine river on the one hand and hidden, intimate corners on the other. It contains waterfalls, a deer camp, a belvedere, and the watermill, “Arnhem”

Day 3: Arnhem - Doesburg | Doesburg - Vorden – Zutphen | Zutphen - Deventer, 28 mi. (45 km)
Today’s cycle tour takes you along the Hanseatic Town Route to the small village of Doesburg and along the IJssel to Bronkhorst, which has the distinction of being recognized as the smallest town in Holland. Guests will have two choices today – a shorter tour along the riverbank to Zutphen, or a longer bicycle trip via Vorden passing country houses, castles, and rural estates. During dinner, the ship sails to Deventer. This city is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. It is therefore not surprising that the oldest stone house can be found in Deventer (in the Sandrasteeg). Deventer is a prominent ‘Hanseatic Town'. In the Middle Ages, merchants from all over Europe came here to participate in the annual fairs.

Day 4: Deventer – Hattem – Zwolle | Zwolle -  Kampen, 22 mi. (35 km)
This morning, you will enjoy a short bicycle ride along the IJssel riverbank before boarding a ferry at Wijhe to cross the river to Hattem. The 800-year-old town of Hattem has a rich history that is still clearly visible today. Guests have the opportunity if they want, to stretch their legs with a longer bicycle trip through East Veluwe. During dinner, the ship will sail to Kampen, where you have the opportunity to go on an optional guided walking tour in the largest Hanseatic town in the Netherlands has been declared a protected townscape. Kampen retained three of its original city gates from the Middle Ages: the Broederpoort, Cellebroederspoort, and the Koornmarktpoort.

Day 5: Kampen - Harderwijk, 27 mi. (45 km)
In the morning, the barge will sail to the IJssel estuary and across the so-called border lakes of the IJssel to the fishing harbor of Harderwijk. In the 1500s, Harderwijk boasted the largest fish market in the Zuiderzee region, and it is still a fascinating old city to explore. From Harderwijk, you will cycle along Veluwe Lake, where swimming, boating, surfing, and fishing are favorite summertime activities. The longest cycle trip on the tour also takes in the woods and moorland at Elspeet. The night will be spent in Harderwijk’s lovely old fishing harbor.

Day 6: Harderwijk - Spakenburg, 28 mi. (45 km)
Today, guests have two cycling choices: a short pedal along the coast (30 km/19 miles) or a combination of the coast route and a longer alternative that also takes in adjacent woodlands. The night will be spent in Spakenburg, a village well-known for its traditional costumes.

Day 7: Spakenburg - Huizen | Huizen - Amsterdam, 22 mi. (35 km)
Once again, guests have a choice this morning. After breakfast, you can cycle to Huizen or, if you prefer to take things easier (45 km/ 28 miles), you can enjoy the scenery from the comfort of the barge. From Huizen, you will cycle to the beautiful fortress towns of Naarden and Muiden, famous for their historic castle. From Muiden, you will cycle along quiet roads to your final destination, the world-famous city of Amsterdam. The afternoon and evening are spent in Amsterdam. While you are there, take the opportunity to visit Anne Frank’s home, the Rembrandt House Museum, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, Dam Square, the very center and heart of the city or maybe you could go on a canal tour (not included).

Day 8: Departure
End of tour.

Day 1: Amsterdam | Amsterdam – Wijk bij Duurstede
Day 2: Wijk bij Duurstede – Wageningen | Wageningen – Arnhem – Doesburg (50 km/31 mi.)
Day 3: Doesburg – Zutphen (27 km/16 mi. or 44 km/27 mi.) | Zutphen – Deventer
Day 4: Deventer – Wijhe | Wijhe – Kampen (40 km/25 mi. or 56 km/35 mi.)
Day 5: Kampen – Elburg – Harderwijk (48 km/29 mi. or 56 km/33.6 mi.)
Day 6: Harderwijk – Bunschoten – Spakenburg (35 km/21 mi. or 59 km/36 mi.)
Day 7: Spakenburg – Huizen | Huizen – Naarden – Muiden – Amsterdam (35 km/21 mi. or 49 km/30 mi.)
Day 8: Amsterdam

Day 1: Amsterdam | Amsterdam – Wijk bij Duurstede
Embarkation and check-in take place between 1 and 2 pm in Amsterdam, where the crew welcomes you aboard. Around 2 pm, the barge departs along the Amsterdam–Rhine Canal toward Wijk bij Duurstede on the Rhine, your first overnight mooring.

Day 2: Wijk bij Duurstede – Wageningen | Wageningen – Arnhem – Doesburg (50 km/31 mi.)
Enjoy breakfast while the barge sails to Wageningen. From here, begin your first cycling stage through the peaceful Rhine River valley toward Arnhem, a former Hanseatic city. Spend time exploring its center or visit a museum. Arnhem was the setting of Operation Market Garden during World War II, the largest airborne operation in history, which ultimately failed due to the inability to capture the bridge over the Rhine. Continue cycling along the river until you reach the small Hanseatic city of Doesburg. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through town.

Day 3: Doesburg – Zutphen (27 km/16 mi. or 44 km/27 mi.) | Zutphen – Deventer
From Doesburg, cycle along the IJssel River to Bronkhorst, known as the smallest town in Holland. Today offers two route options: a shorter ride along the riverbank to Zutphen, or a longer loop via Vorden featuring country houses, castles, and rural estates. During dinner, the barge sails to Deventer, where you may join an optional guided evening walk.

Day 4: Deventer – Wijhe | Wijhe – Kampen (40 km/25 mi. or 56 km/35 mi.)
During breakfast, the ship brings you to Wijhe, where your ride begins. Enjoy a beautiful morning cycle to Hattem, choosing between a shorter riverside option or a longer route across the eastern Veluwe. Hattem’s rich history remains visible in its charming streets. From here, it’s a short ride to Zwolle, one of the Netherlands’ most beautiful Hanseatic cities. Continue cycling to Kampen. In the evening, an optional guided walking tour introduces you to the highlights of this historic town.

Day 5: Kampen – Elburg – Harderwijk (48 km/29 mi. or 56 km/33.6 mi.)
From Kampen, cycle along the Border Lakes to Elburg, a picturesque former fishing harbor known for summer activities such as boating and swimming. Continue through the Veluwe’s forests and heaths toward Harderwijk, where you spend the night in the old fishing harbor. In the 1500s, Harderwijk had the largest fish market in the Zuiderzee region. Today it remains a charming and lively town. Dinner is not included this evening so you can enjoy one of Harderwijk’s local restaurants.

Day 6: Harderwijk – Bunschoten – Spakenburg (35 km/21 mi. or 59 km/36 mi.)
Today offers two cycling options: a short route along the coast or a longer ride combining coastal stretches with adjacent woodlands. Overnight is in Spakenburg, known for its traditional costumes and strong fishing heritage.

Day 7: Spakenburg – Huizen | Huizen – Naarden – Muiden – Amsterdam (35 km/21 mi. or 49 km/30 mi.)
Enjoy breakfast while the barge sails. From Huizen, cycle to the fortified towns of Naarden and Muiden, the latter home to its famous medieval castle. Continue along quiet paths to Amsterdam, your final destination. Spend the afternoon and evening exploring the city—consider visiting the Anne Frank House, the Rembrandt House Museum, Dam Square, or enjoying a canal cruise.

Day 8: Amsterdam
End of your tour. Disembarkation takes place after breakfast until 9:30 am.

During days when several bicycle options are possible, not all the mentioned highlights can be visited during the shorter cycling options.