Beautiful Bruges, truly one of Belgium's most enchanting. Photo via Flickr:Andres Nieto Porras
Amsterdam is beguiling in any light. Province of North Holland in the Netherlands. Photo via Flickr:Elyktra

Amsterdam bustles with activity in Holland. Photo via Flickr:faungg's photos
4.7/5 (58 ratings)

Bruges to Amsterdam

Belgium, Netherlands Bike + Barge Tours

Bike and Boat on one of Europe’s classic bike routes

A bike and barge tour beginning in Bruges and ending in Amsterdam is intimate, nostalgic, inspiring, and exciting. The motto in Bruges is ‘feel the past under your feet’. The city’s crisscrossing canals and cobblestone streets have seen many seafaring traders since the 9th century, when this Flemish capital was founded on an inlet of the North Sea. This city retains a lively and invigorating atmosphere reminiscent of one of Jan van Eyck's 15th century masterpieces. The influences of other Flemish artists is still seen in the northern Renaissance architecture and also in the 13th to 15th century cathedrals. The large Markt Square, overseen, by the 272 foot belfry of the Belfort, lined with outdoor cafés, is a wonderful place to sit and soak up the medieval atmopher.

Leaving Bruges, you will cycle over streams and quiet country roads though Flemish's tranquil landscape to Ghent. The city's medieval red-brick gables are architecturally exquisite and the St. Bavo's Church houses an invaluable piece of art by the Van Eyck brothers, The Ghent Altarpiece: The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb (1432).

Entering Holland, your cycling itinerary will lead to the quaint villages of Goes in central Zeeland and the seaside town of Willemstad.

Your bike and boat tour will end in Amsterdam and impressively so. With over 6800 historical buildings and an endless array of canals and bridges, Amsterdam is truly a sight to see (along with Rembrandt's famous Nightwatch on display in the Rijksmuseum).

Looking for more? All of our bike and boat tours in the Netherlands are here.

Tour Dates

2016 Dates:
On the Comfort plus class boats:
Fluvius: September 24, 2016
Magnifique:  September 24, and October 8, 2016
Magnifique II:  September 17, October 1, and October 15, 2016

On the Comfort class boat:
Wending: September 24, and October 8, 2016

On the Standard plus class boats:
Anna Antal: October 1, 2016
Tijdgeest: September 24, 2016

2017 Dates:
On the Comfort plus class boats:
Elodie: July 9, 2017
Fiep: June 3 and August 12, 2017
Fleur: October 14, 2017
Fluvius: April 29, May 13, May 27, June 10, June 24, July 8, July 22, August 5, August 19, September 2, September 16, September 30, and October 14, 2017
Magnifique: May 13, May 27, June 24, July 22, August 19, September 2, September 16, September 30, and October 14, 2017
Magnifique II: May 6, May 20, June 3, June 17, July 1, August 12, and October 7, 2017
Sailing Home: June 17, July 29, and August 26, 2017
Zwaantje: August 12, 2017

On the Comfort class boat:
Gandalf: August 19, 2017
Liza Marleen: May 13, May 27, September 2, and October 7, 2017
Sarah: May 20 and July 1, 2017
Wending: July 1, July 15, and September 30, 2017
Zwaan: May 20, June 3, and June 17, 2017

On the Standard plus class boats:
Anna Antal: June 10, July 8, August 5, September 9, September 23, and October 7, 2017
Clair de Lune: July 8, 2017
Tijdgeest: May 27, July 22, August 12, September 2, September 16, September 30, 2017

Click the link to see the tour and dates for Amsterdam to Bruges

Where You’ll Stay

Different class boats are available for this tour. See dates and pricing. Click here for detailed barge information.

What’s Included

  • ON ALL BOATS:
  • Accommodations for 7 nights on board ship
  • Breakfast buffets, packed lunches, 3-course dinners
  • Coffee & tea on board
  • Tour guide (2 guides for groups of 18 or more on the Fiep and Fleur)
  • 7 speed hybrid bicycle (Sarah, Tijdgeest, Fluvius, Magnifique, and Magnifique II)
  • 8 speed Gudereit hybrid bike with pannier bag, water bottle, and helmet (Fiep)
  • 11 speed Gudereit hybrid bike with pannier bag, watter bottle, and helmet (Fleur)
  • 24 speed hybrid (Anna Antal, Sailing Home, Zwaan, and Wending)
  • 21 speed hybrid (Zwaantje) with pannier bag
  • 21 speed hybrid bicycle (Merlijn) with bike bag, helmet, and water bottle
  • Route information
  • Daily cabin cleaning (Comfort Plus)
  • Limited WiFi depending on the location and boat
  • Fees for harbors, bridges, and locks
  • ON THE MERLIJN ONLY:
  • Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and ice water
  • Lunch at the cheese farm
  • Welcome drink
  • ON THE SARAH AND TIJDGEEST ONLY:
  • Train ride on day 2
  • Transfer to Ghent on arrival day
  • Entrance fee to Kinderdijk
  • Bicycle protection

What’s Not Included

  • 1 x dinner (on the Merlijn, Fiep, Fleur, Magnifique, and Zwaantje)
  • Beverages (incl. alcohol), available on board
  • Museum entrance fees and other excursions not mentioned above
  • Aboard the Anna Antal, Wending, and Zwaan: maps for self-guided option (see pricing)
  • Trip insurance
  • Ferry fares en route

Bruges to Amsterdam Map

TourBike+Boat
TypeGuided
SkillEasy
Length8 days
From€789 Rates
Client Reviews

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Skill Level

An easy guided tour. Areas are predominantly flat with average daily distances of about 35 miles over good asphalt roads with little traffic.

Tour Boats

Day-To-Day Itinerary

Bruges to Amsterdam Map

Each boat has a slightly different itinerary. If you do not see your boat listed below, we will be happy to send you the specific itinerary.

ABOARD ANNA ANTAL, WENDING, AND ZWAAN 

Day 1: Bruges - Aalterbrug - Ghent, 13 mi. (21 km)
Day 2: Ghent - cycling to Dendermonde - sailing to St. Amands, 29 mi. (47 km)
Day 3: St. Amands - Antwerpen, 24 mi. (40 km)
Day 4: Antwerpen - sailing to Kreekraksluizen - cycling to Willemstad, 34/40 mi. (56/65 km)
Day 5: Willemstad - sailing to Werkendam - cycling to Gorinchem, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 6: Gorinchem - cycling to Vianen - sailing to Utrecht, 30 mi. (50 km)
Day 7: Utrecht - sailing to Brooklyn and cycling to Amsterdam, 24 mi. (40 km)
Day 8: Departure from Amsterdam

*All distances are approximate

DAY 1: Bruges - Aalterbrug - Ghent, (21 km)
When you arrive on board the ship you can put your luggage away in your cabin and then enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. It is also a good moment to become acquainted with the guide, skipper and crew and of course your fellow passengers.

At 2 p.m. you will start off the city walls of Bruges for a trip to Ghent. You will mostly be following the canal between Bruges and Ghent to Aalterbrug, which offers a beautiful, peaceful cycle route. After dinner you will have enough time to discover the old and characteristic city center.

The city of Ghent is proud of its rich past, but is much more than just a museum town. This lively city with its numerous squares and cozy pubs is an excellent mixture of medieval architecture, stylish shopping streets, splendid mansions, and busy little squares with outdoor cafés.

DAY 2: Ghent - St. Amands, 29 mi. (47 km)
Early Sunday morning you will cycle through the old center of Ghent. After coffee you will leave for a nice day along one of the most beautiful rivers of Europe, the Schelde.

In Wetteren, you can take a break in a real Flemish ‘staminee’ and in Berlare you will have a Belgian beer with your lunch. Next, cycle through Dendermonde, the city of the legend of the Beiaart, where you can see the magnificent city hall that is still standing. Near the small, quiet village of St. Amand, you will spend the night.

DAY 3: St. Amands - Antwerp, 24 mi. (40 km)
Along the Schelde, cycle through the nature reserve, Schausselbroek. The area has a large variety of landscape and interesting fauna. In Steendorp you will board the barge and cruise to the historical center of Antwerp. Some highlights here include: the Onze-Lievevrouwenkerk and the Rubenshuis. After exploring the city of Antwerp, you will find the barge moored in the Willemsdok, near the Museum for Modern Art (Museum Aan de Stroom), which if time permits, is well worth a visit! 

DAY 4: Antwerp - Willemstad, 34/40 mi. (56/65 km)
After breakfast, cycle to the famous Cogels-Osybuurt with monumental houses in Art-Deco, Art Nouveau en Jugendstil.

Around noon you will board the barge and sail through the impressive harbors of Antwerp and further to the Zandkreekdam in the Netherlands. On the agenda is a beautiful tour through the forests of the Wouwse plantage to Tholen, an old fishing village. Here you will meet the barge and cruise to Willemstad, an old fortified town near the Volkeraksluizen (locks) at the Haringvliet, the busiest locks of Europe.

DAY 5: Willemstad - Gorinchem, 28 mi. (45 km)
The barge leaves early so you can make a beautiful tour from Werkendam through the land of Heusden and Altena. You will follow the Bergse Maas to the fortified town of Heusden.

Loevestein Castle is situated in a unique location where the river Meuse and Waal join together and the provinces of Gelderland, Brabant, and South Holland meet. It was here, in this typically Dutch river landscape, that the knight Dirc Loef van Horne built his castle in 1360. Loevestein Castle subsequently served as a military stronghold, as the state prison from which Hugo Grotius escaped in a book chest, and as part of the Dutch Waterline. Thanks to its military past, the area surrounding Loevestein Castle is one of the least spoiled cultural landscapes in the Netherlands and a unique spot where nature and culture unite. You will visit the picturesque town of Woudrichem and take the ferry to Gorinchem where the barge will be waiting for you.

DAY 6: Gorinchem - Vianen - Utrecht, 30 mi. (50 km)
From Gorinchem you will follow the meandering river the Linge, through the Alblasserwaard to Leerdam, famous for its glass. You will visit a glaze company. Continuing on, you will cycle to Culemborg, a peaceful town situated at the Lek and you will follow the river to Vianen. The barge will cruise to Utrecht and after dinner you can take a bus to the old town's center. 

DAY 7: Utrecht - Amsterdam, 24 mi. (40 km)
During breakfast you will sail to Breukelen from where you will cycle to Amsterdam along the two most beautiful rivers of Holland, the Vecht and the Amstel.

Along the route you will find the magnificent country houses and mansions from the 18th century with their splendid, well-kept gardens. After dinner you have the option to take a canal cruise through the canals of Amsterdam.

DAY 8: Departure from Amsterdam

ABOARD THE MERLIJN: 

Day 1: Arrival in Bruges. Boarding begins at 4 PM
Day 2: Bruges or Moerbrugge - Ghent
Day 3: Ghent - Bassrode
Day 4: Baasrode - Rupelmonde - Antwerp
Day 5: Antwerp - Tholen - Willemstad - Dordrecht
Day 6: Dordrecht - Vreeswijk
Day 7: Vreeswijk - Amsterdam
Day 8: Departure from Amsterdam

ABOARD THE GANDALF, MAGNIFIQUE, MAGNFIQUE II, FLUVIUS

Day 1: Arrival in Bruges, boarding begins at 2 PM
Day 2: Bruges - Ghent,  24 mi (40 km)
Day 3: Ghent - Dendermonde/St-Amands, 24/32 mi (40/53 km)
Day 4: St-Amands - Temse - Antwerp, 28 mi (45 km)
Day 5: Antwerp - Kreekrak Locks - Tholen - Willemstad - Dordrecht, 15-28 mi (25-45 km)
Day 6: Dordrecht - Kinderdijk - Schoonhoven - Vianen, 16 to 32 mi. (25 to 50 km)
Day 7: Vianen - Breukelen - Amsterdam, 21 mi (35 km)
Day 8: Depature from Amsterdam

ABOARD THE ZWAANTJE

Day 1: Arrival in Bruges, boarding begins at 2 PM
Day 2: Bruges - Ghent,  28 mi (45 km)
Day 3: Ghent - Dendermonde/St-Amands, 24 or 32 mi (40 or 53 km)
Day 4: St-Amands - Temse - Antwerp, 25 mi (42 km)
Day 5: Antwerp - Kreekrak Locks - Tholen - Willemstad - Willemstad - Dordrecht:  15-28 mi (25-45 km)**
Day 6: Dordrecht - Kinderdijk| Kinderdink - Schoonhoven - Vianen, 30 mi. (50 km)
Day 7: Vianen - Breukelen| Breuken - Amsterdam, 21 mi (35 km)
Day 8: Depature from Amsterdam, 10 am

**Two options are offered.
Parts in italics covered by ship.

ABOARD THE FIEP AND FLEUR

Day 1: Bruges - Ghent, 10 mi. (15 km)
Day 2: Ghent - Dendermonde, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 3: Dendermonde - Antwerpen, 19 or 35 mi. (30 or 55 km)
Day 4: Antwerp - Tholen, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 5: Tholen - Willemstad - Dordrecht, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 6: Dordrecht - Vianen, 22 or 35 mi. (35 or 55 km)
Day 7: Vianen - Amsterdam, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 8: Departure from Amsterdam

ABOARD THE TIJDGEEST AND SARAH

Day 1: Arrival in Ghent. Bus transfer from Schiphol airport to Ghent included (meeting time is 12 noon)
Day 2: Ghent, train to Bruges.  Free day in Bruges. In late afternoon train to Dendermonde & short bike ride, 9 mi. (15 km)
Day 3: Dendermonde - Antwerp, 32 mi. (50 km)
Day 4: Antwerp Kreekrak Locks - sailing to Willemstad, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 5: Willemstad - Gouda, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 6: Gouda - Oude Wetering, 16 to 28 mi. (25 to 45 km)
Day 7: Oude Wetering - Amsterdam, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 8: Departure from Amsterdam 

Important note for Passengers aboard the Tijdgeest and Sarah: Due to restrictions by Belgian naval authorities, passengers are no longer allowed to remain on board while the barge motors the Belgian waterways. Non cycling participants will be required to take a taxi or public transportation at their own expense. The tour leader will provide details on board.

ALL ITINERARIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES.  DISTANCES ARE APPROXIMATE.

Be sure to check out all of our featured bike and boat tours, or our full list of bicycle tours.

Email or Call 800-951-4384 +1 570-965-2064

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Customer Feedback

  • Maria P. 3 days ago

    It was a wonderful way to see the country. Wonderful fellow travelers and the crew couldn't gave been more accommodating . So much fun!

     Reply

  • Eldon W. 2 weeks ago

    LIa is the best guide we've ever worked with - well informed, good managing people, qualified in every way; and went well beyond what she had to do in her position. All the riding - even in the rain and varied road surfaces - was extremely pleasant.

    Because Lia is an exceptional guide; on this trip one guide for up to 30 cyclists worked well. In most cases, however, I think having only one guide for this large a group - especially a group with many novice riders - is bad practice. Also, a water bottle cage and a cyclometer on the bike would have been nice.

    Boat: Magnifique

     Reply

    • Jehiel 2 weeks ago

      Hello Eldon,
      We are glad that you had a great time and think highly of Lia! We do agree that a second guide, especially for larger groups would be preferable, however, because of the nature of the tour and the fact that many people do opt for the self-guided option, having two guide for all tours isn't always possible.

      Water bottles can be easily stowed in your handle bar bag or panniers. Cyclometers aren't provided on this tour but you are always welcome to bring your own.

      Thanks again for your feedback!

       Reply

  • Judee W. 1 month ago

    Wonderful staff - the entire trip was just great! Tome, our guide was exceptional.

    Boat: Magnifique

     Reply

  • J. House 2 months ago

    Everything was A-1. I was totally surprised when our tour guide Tom managed to reunite me with my lost "zebra" luggage on a cobblestone street corner 4 days into the trip! Thanks, Tom!

     Reply

  • Barbara Kallay 2 months ago

    My husband and I had a great bike trip. Riding through the Belgium/Netherlands was delightful. The staff made the trip most memorable- Jacob (bike guide), Els (boat captain), Thomas (cook).

    Boat: Zwaantje

     Reply

  • S. Lior 2 months ago

    The most memorable part of my trip were the small towns and villages that we visited. These are places where tourists rarely venture. The people are friendly and open for conversations; willing to share their lives and experiences with us. And curious to know about us as well. I have so many wonderful memories.

    Boat: Magnifique II

     Reply

  • P. O'Hagan 2 months ago

    Having the map to tryi to not get lost was so much fun. Thank you to all the staff for making the bike barge a great activity vacation.

    Boat: Magnifique II

     Reply

  • A & M Decourcy 2 months ago

    Great trip BUT.. We decided to cycle with 6 others because we are experienced riders. We were counting on the signage being much more complete and easier to follow. At times, there was no indication of where to go. Our path just ended! Also, the bigger group, of about 18, had some inexperienced riders and we felt that riding in this large a group could be dangerous...which proved to be the case.
    In one case, a previous rider had taken the liberty to use a marker to write our path number on a sign. Thanks to him/her we were able to continue on without taking out the GPS. Had this been done on several other signs, we would not have had to find our way ...using GPS..on many occasions. There were also 4 other Europeans, who cycled as a group, who experienced the same sense of frustration as us.
    We will forward a photo to the Tripsite website. Thanks for providing a most enjoyable and memorable trip.

    Boat: Magnifique II

     Reply

  • D. Pincar 2 months ago

    I would recommend it, but with reservations. I think there should have been two guides, one to take a faster group and one for a beginner group. A few people on the trip should not have been. They were not comfortable on their bikes, and were a daily danger to whomever they were near. Something should have been done about it.
    I also would have liked to ride faster, and spend more free time in the little towns.

    Boat: Magnifique II

     Reply

  • E. Hull-parsons 3 months ago

    I have planned to contact you with feedback, but haven't. The staff was great except the guide. He was not friendly or helpful. We were all disappointed in his lack of leadership and "guiding". Of the three trips we have taken, this was the least appealing. The route was not attractive, and mostly industrial, urban or rural. We were near places we know were charming and interesting, but did not visit them. I'm left wondering if it is that tour company. For 35 people biking there really should have been more staff on the road with us. Still love you!

    Boat: Fluvius

     Reply

  • R. Oliver 3 months ago

    We sailed on the Magnifique II from Bruges to Amsterdam, 25 June to 1 July, under the able command of skipper Paul, and ride leader Tom Tiedom. It was a magnificent experience in every way, even though we had a few odd showers to contend with. This is virtually a brand new barge with upscale accommodations and amenities. We had one of the four top-side suites, which are indeed larger, and with view windows that open as opposed to port holes. Tom, the ride leader and guide, was an extremely charming, knowledgeable and humorous fellow. He provided daily briefings on the next day's ride, all of which included ample coffee and food stops, as well as providing historic info. Indeed, the entire crew were extremely courteous and helpful in every respect, and the food delicious.

    Boat: Magnifique II

     Reply

  • J. Backes 3 months ago

    Fabulous trip. Great, hospitable staff willing to please, answer questions, professional, share information. Boat was clean, comfortable, well equipped. Food was excellent and there was plenty to enjoy.

    Boat: Magnifique II

     Reply

  • M. Mathews 3 months ago

    Was a fantastic trip!!! Tom was a great guide and will recommend this to others.

    Boat: Magnifique

     Reply

  • J. Kister 3 months ago

    When I first heard of a bike & barge trip, I thought I would be sleeping on a cot under the stars! After obtaining more info, I realized we would have a comfortable room but I was very impressed with our accommodations. It was like being on a mini cruise. Food was great, tour guide was personable and entertaining, friendly staff went out of their way to make this trip extra special. We had an arranged canal boat tour complete with champagne after arriving in Amsterdam! I would highly recommend the Magnifique and this crew, for an awesome way to experience Belgium and The Netherlands.

    Boat: Magnifique

     Reply

  • L. Messing 3 months ago

    Our guide Felix, was fun, knowledgeable and intuitive. His attitude and ease of being with people made even a horrible weather day endurable. The BIGGEST bonus was having Astrid along as a trainee. She added so much to every aspect of our journey and was a treasure trove of regional information.

    Boat: Magnifique II

     Reply

  • L. Pope 3 months ago

    Had a fantastic time, would highly recommend it to others!

    Boat: Magnifique II

     Reply

  • J. Backes 3 months ago

    Exceptional staff, welcoming, friendly, informative, knowledgable. Perhaps on the rides having a buddy system so the guide doesn't need to count all the people to make sure everyone is present would be my only suggestion. I sometimes got the sense that people wanted to stop more often to take pictures and no one told them not to but then it can take time away from getting to visit town at the end of the day. Perhaps that needs to be discussed in more depth. Sometimes some of the breaks were longer than necessary. Again they were fine but took time from visiting a town at the end of the trip.

    Boat: Magnifique II

     Reply

  • R. Wood 3 months ago

    The Merlijn is a very special barge full of character and charm, beautifully appointed and owned and operated by the delightful Jantine and Henk. They along with their crew spoiled us rotten with great food and hospitality. Our bike ride was thru beautiful countryside and expertly guided and interpreted by a delightful Dutch couple, Jack and Marianne. They gave us great local insight. We thoroughly recommend the Merlijn and can't wait to return.

    Boat: Merlijn

     Reply

  • S. Fryeskul 4 months ago

    The staff at Tripsite were amazing to deal with and very helpful about everything. I would recommend this company and biking trip to anyone.
    Thank you
    S. Fryeskul
    PS: We loved the new Magnifique II !!!

    Boat: Magnifique II

     Reply

  • W. Staab 4 months ago

    Great bike leader. Have name tags for participants or for bikes to help us w names. Would like to have been brave enough to ride on my own! Some participants were not really regular cyclists. Would have been good to have a briefing re group bike rules, including spacing, passing, signaling, warnings, etc.

    Boat: Magnifique II

     Reply

  • R. Ross 4 months ago

    Loved it! The crew was great, the boat was marvelously beautiful, the food was very good, and the overall atmosphere was perfectly casual and elegant at the same time. But: They should NOT charge for coffee/tea after 4pm. If the Bar Tab could be handled at the end of the trip by credit card it would be a bit more sophisticated, but not a deal breaker.

    Boat: Magnifique II

     Reply

  • C. Powell 4 months ago

    This is one of the best trips I have ever been on. The boat was very clean, comfortable and new. The steps to the lower level kind of steep but very manageable. The staff was wonderful, especially the chef! and the bike guide! I liked the stops.The bikes were very enjoyable. I think the coffee could have been free all day instead of being charged for it after 4pm. I would love to do another trip!

    Boat: Magnifique

     Reply

  • D. Yeabsley 4 months ago

    I would have liked for the table assignments to have been mixed up a little bit so we could get to know more people. I also think the sweep should have a walkie talkie so he can let the guide know when he has missed a turn. This was a fabulous trip! The guide, staff, food, tour and accommodations were perfect!

    Boat: Fluvius

     Reply

  • K. Hadley 4 months ago

    Some wait staff could have been more accommodating. We seemed burdensome at times. Running out of food & then having to wait for more or not refilled at all was an annoyance.

    Boat: Fluvius

     Reply

    • Jehiel 4 months ago

      Hello K. Hadley,
      We are very sorry to hear this. We have since spoken with our partners on the Fluvius and they have taken steps with their staff to correct this problem. We work very hard with our local partners to provide the best experience for our guests. We hope to help you plan your next trip!

       Reply

  • T. Rosencrantz 4 months ago

    The Bruges to Amsterdam Bike Barge trip starting May 7, 2016 on the Fluvius was fantastic from the minute we step on the barge in Bruges until the day it was over and departed the barge to take the foot ferry to Central Station in Amsterdam. Our guide Guus and the boat's crew were friendly and helpful 24/7. Loved all our fellow travelers too. The bike trips each day were through beautiful countryside and centuries old cities. The food on the boat was great. The bunks were comfy and the showers always had plenty of hot water. The bikes worked well. Our guide and our maps got us where we needed to go everyday. Even the weather was perfect! Can't wait to do another trip like this!

    Boat: Fluvius

     Reply

  • C. Fligner 4 months ago

    Fabulous trip. The guide and staff were great. The biking was perfect. I would recommend highly and without reservation. Great trip. Great biking and guide and wonderful staff. The boat was very comfortable and the country was beautiful. I recommend this trip highly and without reservation.

    Boat: Fluvius

     Reply

  • Lynn McCormack 9 months ago

    Thomas our guide was excellent. It is surprising that people go on a bike trip with very little biking ability and poor fitness. We would love to go on another trip with a comparable barge.

    Boat: Magnifique

     Reply

  • Cheryle Cassidy 10 months ago

    It was our first barge bike trip and hope to take another soon. Had a great time.

    Boat: Fluvius

     Reply

  • Earl Degler 10 months ago

    I enjoyed the trip and plan on doing more in the future. The only thing that will keep me from doing more is the current unrest in the world.

    Boat: Magnifique

     Reply

  • Howard Shuster 10 months ago

    Great trip. The owners of the Merlijn were =Spectacular! We hope to find a time to travel with them again. The Barge was amazing for such a compact vessel. The rooms were surprisingly large as was the bathroom. The Barge was immaculate at all times. What a fun trip!!

    Boat: Merlijn

     Reply

  • Dean Pond 10 months ago

    The above pretty well describes our satisfaction with our trip and we recommended our friends travel through your company which they did. We intend to take another barge/bicycle soon.

     Reply

  • Philippe Tison 10 months ago

    I think the staff at Tripsite/Dutch Bike Tours should be obliged to do their bike routes once a year to pick up difficult signage. A ferry crossing as part of our schedule was not available on the day of the week we arrived and we had to do a long detour. The ferry never travels on that day at that time of the year and when I phoned the Dutch Tours hotline they didn't even know that. We were not impressed. Also, despite its 'star rating' the Velotel in Brugge is a very poor standard compared to the other hotels we stayed at. Terrible rooms and an awful location for seeing Brugge (but good for getting on the trail).

     Reply

  • Robin Bagby 10 months ago

    Barge had bugs in drains. Lots in room every night. Aldo specifically booked comfort class boat for the AC. They turned it off before 9pm every night.

    Boat: Magnifique

     Reply

  • Michael and Carol Powell 10 months ago

    We have had a few cycling vacations with the help of Tripsite over the past few years. Tripsite staff has always been accessible and helpful with travel plans and specific information we required. Thanks for making it fun and easy. We'll be back!

    Boat: Magnifique

     Reply

  • Natadha Vickery 10 months ago

    Excellent guide, staff. Very friendly and helpful. No complaints.

    Boat: Tijdgeest

     Reply

  • Christine Dear 10 months ago

    This was my second trip on the Merlijn. Brought a group with me both times. Everything was fabulous. Jentien did an excellent job as chef and Henk, as the captain, was great. Our guides were excellent and most capable in emergencies. The towns we visited we interesting and our guides were able to fill us in on the history of the area. The bikes were in excellent shape. No flats! Will definitely travel with them again.

    My experience for our group with Tripsite was also the best. Have told many about your wonderful service. Thank you!

    Boat: Merlijn

     Reply

  • Dick Shover 10 months ago

    Our barge hosts were fabulous, as was our food. Guide on the bikes also was truly wonderful. It was a great experience.

    Boat: Merlijn

     Reply

  • Mary Knapp 10 months ago

    The trip was great as were the hosts of the boat. Everything was exceptional even though it rained daily, that was not a detriment as everything made up for it.

    Boat: Zwaantje

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  • Mary Knapp 10 months ago

    The trip was great as were the hosts of the boat. Everything was exceptional even though it rained daily, that was not a detriment as everything made up for it.

    Boat: Zwaantje

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  • Ann Hodgson 10 months ago

    This was actually the second time I took this trip. I went with friends last time and this time took family to share the experience with them.

    Boat: Magnifique

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  • Kay Howarth 10 months ago

    Bruges to Amsterdam was just wonderful and would recommend the smaller group of people. Just 24 was a good number. All the staff on the Fiep were great!

    Boat: Fiep

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  • Natadha Vickery 10 months ago

    Excellent guide, staff. Very friendly and helpful. No complaints.

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  • Doug Chittum 10 months ago

    The crew of the Magnifique on the Bruges to Amsterdam barge was fantastic! Have recommended it to others already.

    Boat: Magnifique

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  • Doug Lay 10 months ago

    I thoroughly enjoyed the Bruges to Amsterdam bike/barge trip last spring. From the easy, scenic rides, to the informative, knowledgeable guide to the excellent private accommodations on board the barge, I'm already looking at booking another bike/barge trip with Tripsite!

    Boat: Gandalf

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  • Diane Denham 10 months ago

    I had an amazing time. I loved everything about it and I would recommend it to anyone. In fact I have recommended it to many many people.

    Boat: Gandalf

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  • David Rossetti 10 months ago

    We were plagued by hot weather in early June. It was pleasant before and after our trip. Not your fault. The rest was great.

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  • Allison Cook 10 months ago

    The bikes were a little beat up, but we enjoyed every aspect of the trip. My one complaint about the boat was that they shut off the AC at night and we couldn't open the portholes, so sleeping was not ideal. This year we are heading to Italy with 20 of our closest friends for the Venice to Mantova tour on the Ave Maria!

    Boat: Magnifique

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  • James Green 10 months ago

    Barge was exceptionally good. The bike tour had some very good portions and a couple of sections that were not very enjoyable. Overall it was a great trip.

    Boat: Merlijn

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  • John Ummels 10 months ago

    Cycling a wee bit fast. Most people were in fifties & sixties and I was seventy-nine.

    Boat: Wending

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  • Joanne Ross 10 months ago

    Fabulous experience. Can't wait to go again.

    Boat: Magnifique

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  • Dave Holmes 10 months ago

    The stars were the staff of the Elodie. Just wonderful.

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  • Margo Barber 10 months ago

    We've recommended this trip to lots of people. Would love to do another bike/barge trip.

    Boat: Magnifique

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  • Beda Casstevens 10 months ago

    Enjoyed every aspect of the trip.

    Boat: Zwaan

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  • Richard Kurtz 10 months ago

    Cabins were nicer than I expected. We stayed with the guide as found the routes hard to navigate and the guide knew all the great stops. Dinners were good, breakfast and lunches needed more variety by the end of the week. We had fabulous weather and loved the route. Lots to see.

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  • Lynn McCormack 11 months ago

    We really enjoyed our trip, our guide Thomas was excellent. As always with group travel, the mix was interesting and generally older than us and less fit. We have travelled with a group before but usually we are the oldest so this was different dynamics and did set the tone somewhat. Would look at a trip again when we are older or with our own group to fill the barge.
    Thanks,
    Lynn

    Boat: Magnifique

     Reply

  • Joel Benedito Junior 11 months ago

    1) In the boat is possible to rent helmet for EU$ 5/week. This renting is good for travelers that spend more time in Europe. I'm not sure if this information is available in the Tripsite's site.

    2) I ordered a E-bike for my wife. In the boat I saw that 2 kinds of E-bike are offered to the customers. My wife would love bike in a more comfortable E-bike.

    3) According to the staff of the boat, I should speak German. I don't know the source of this information. This information is used to organize the passengers in the restaurant.

    Boat: Fluvius

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  • Karen Thomas 11 months ago

    We enjoyed ourselves so much that we are already planning another bike and barge trip. It would have been nice if there were a better split in English speaking guests as most of the guests spoke German and we didn't get a chance to mingle much. Tripsite was very good to work with and we would use this company again. "

    Boat: Fluvius

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  • Diane Denham 11 months ago

    We had a fantastic trip we loved everything about it. I would recommend this trip to anyone. The people we met were so nice and helpful and friendly. Our Polish chef on the boat was fantastic.

    Boat: Gandalf

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  • Rachel Rulmyr 1 year ago

    My husband and I(in our 60"s) were on the Sailing Home a month ago with 6 friends from Bruges to Amsterdam. We had the most wonderful time. Everything about this trip exceeded my expectations. The boat, our accommodations, the food, the crew were all excellent and I can't say enough about our guide Hugo. He was amazing and really made our trip memorable. He was funny and very knowledgeable about everything we saw so we got info about the countries and the politics. I highly recommended this fun trip for all ages and biking abilities.

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  • Daniel Edwards 2 years ago

    we just returned from our trip. Brugges to Amsterdam. It was AWESOME. We had such a great time on the Gandalf with Hans. Els was our biking guide. She was terrific. It was fabulous and a great way to spend my 50th birthday!

    Thank you for everything you did to arrange this trip for us. We will be back on some other trip in the future.

    Boat: Gandalf

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  • Bonnie Johnson 2 years ago

    Not too sure what I can say that the above feedback haven't already said. We travelled as a group of 6 on the Magnifique from Brugge to Amsterdam May 31st to June 7th, 2014. Everything and everyone was top notch. We started out with Carl as our Captain but due to holidays the barges owner, Walter, took over. Not only can he handle the barge but he does a mean BBQ. Our guide Tom was perfect. With a great sense of humour and and sweet personality. There was not one person who did not get along with him. Meeka, bar tender, server, cleaner, and Peter the amazing cook finished off the crew. The barge itself was fantastic. No complaints there. The beds are extremely comfortable.

    Unfortunately one of our group was not able to complete the trip but we did meet a great group of people from all over the world.

    I am not the greatest biker but thoroughly enjoyed the whole journey and would do it again.

    Boat: Magnifique

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  • Victoria Diehl Levesque 3 years ago

    My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our Sept trip from Bruges to Amsterdam on The MS Magnifique, booked through Tripsite.com. Comfortable cabin, great food, hot tub wonderful after long days of biking! Crew easy going but always helpful and attentive. Multi national fellow passengers all good company. Definitely encourage bringing your own gel seat cover! I had an electric assist bike which I'd highly recommend if in any doubt about managing the occasionally challenging distances. Already thinking of booking another similar trip next year.

    Boat: Magnifique

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  • Loretta Dobson 3 years ago

    My husband and I did the bike and barge tour from Bruges to Amsterdam Jun 29/2013 - and had the most amazing time!! Right from my first contact with the folks at Tripsite to the end of our tour - everything was perfect. Carl the Captain, Tom the guide and all the rest of the hardworking fun loving crew were amazing. We cycled some of the most beautiful countryside, Tom was very funny and looked after everyone - the ages on our tour were 16 to 77 - and we all felt comfortable. You can go at your own speed or go strictly with the group. The Magnifique was a beautiful and very comfortable boat - I loved it and I would be very hard pressed not to choose her again for our next trip - we are hoping to do a trip during the tulip season and maybe one in the early fall:) I actually wanted to book the return trip when we cycled into Amsterdam - but we were going to a friends wedding in Italy so had to continue on:) I really can not say enough good things about Tripsite on the organization side (friendly, knowledgeable and efficient; and the the crew of the Magnifique - they were all Magnifique!!!! Can't wait to go again.

    Boat: Magnifique

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  • Larry Schmidlin 3 years ago

    Just got back from this tour yesterday and wish that I could do it all again tomorrow! Went from Brugge to Amsterdam on the Manifique. Outstanding crew with Carl as the Captain and Tom as the guide. Tom has a great sense of humor and related to everyone on the tour, with an awesome biking experience and even walking tours in the town most evenings. The folks at Tripsite was great - with lots of communication. I felt very prepared prior to leaving. I enjoyed working with Tripsite and greatly enjoyed the entire experience. Highly recommended.

    Boat: Magnifique

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  • Ruyter Aquino 3 years ago

    Travel quite different from the usual, fantastic landscapes. Traveled on the MS Magnifique, excellent service and facilities. The group guide (Tom) is attentive and competent. So you can be conducting another tour. Congratulations.               Ruyter Aquino.

    Boat: Magnifique

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  • Sailing on the Iris from Bruge to Amsterdam 4 years ago

    We booked our bike and barge trip with Pack and Pedal. We wanted a comfort plus barge and the Iris was recommended. The entire experience on the Iris was excellent. The staff were very competent and friendly, food was excellent, the guide was a great bike leader and was very knowlegable about the history and architecture of the areas we visited. I would highly recommend the Iris and Pack and Pedal. Carla at Pack and Pedal was very courteous and efficient. Booking the trip and making the trip was a top notch experience for us. We will use them again.

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  • Cheri Emahiser 4 years ago

    Our bike/barge tour to Bruge and Amsterdam in May was fantastic! Our tour leader, Tom, the boat captain, crew and accommodations aboard the Magnifique were terrific. We had a wonderful time with our fellow passengers from Norway, New Zealand, Germany, the East Coast and Switzerland. They were all such fun!

    We've traveled extensively and this trip turned out to be one of the best ever. The weather was wonderful and warm, which made for excellent bike riding and cruising on the boat in the evening. Going from Bruge to Amsterdam requires more cruising and less bike riding, we were told, but we loved every minute of our evenings on the top deck sailing through the locks.

    I hope we can book another trip with your company in the future; though this trip was so perfect, I worry that the next one wouldn't meet our expectations.

    Boat: Magnifique

     Reply

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Bruges to Amsterdam Boats + Barges

Anna Antal Photo

Anna Antal Netherlands Standard Plus Class Boat The Anna Antal is a former shuttle barge converted into a motor passenger ship in the winter of 1994-95. In 2012, the salon and cabins were renovated.The sailing area of the Anna Antal includes all Dutch, German and Belgian waterways in so far as a ship of this size can sail. She also sails on the Waddenzee, IJsselmeer and Zeeland. The Anna Antal is built according to the rules of Maritime laws and holds a valid certificate for the Rhine.

Fiep Photo

Fiep Netherlands Comfort Plus Class Boat The Fiep was converted from a cargo ship into a modern and spacious passenger ship, specifically designed for bike and barge tours in the Netherlands and Belgium. The ship has recently been renovated. There are two decks on board. On the upper deck is a lounge, a spacious seating area, a cozy bar, and a large sundeck. The dining room is located on the lower deck.

Fleur Photo

Fleur France, Netherlands Comfort Plus Class Boat The Fleur was first put into service in 2002. The owner, Jossie, had the beautifully-lined barge converted into a comfortable passenger ship, according to her own design. Her female touch is definitely recognizable by the tasteful interior and her sharp eye for detail. The whole barge radiates a homelike atmosphere.

Fluvius Photo

Fluvius Belgium, Netherlands Comfort Plus Class Boat The MS Fluvius can accommodate 36 guests. There are a total of 19 cabins with a shower and toilet, 2 low beds, air-conditioning, and individual adjustable ventilation system. 3 of these cabins are situated on the upper deck and 16 cabins are on the lower deck, 2 of which are single cabins. The salon with a bar is a large room for common use and has a semi-separate restaurant area. On the large, and partially roofed sun deck of the 70-meter long ship are comfortable tables and chairs along with a storage room for the bikes. The ship sails under the Dutch flag and has been sailing in Holland and Germany for many years.

Gandalf Photo

Gandalf Netherlands, Belgium Comfort Class Boat The beautiful MS Gandalf is a comfort class passenger ship that can accommodate 20-22 guests. Almost everything on this barge is on one level, including the comfortable salon which has gorgeous panoramic windows.

Magnifique Photo

Magnifique Netherlands Comfort Plus Class Boat The boat is 63 meters long and will be able to accommodate 32 guests. Other features include a beautiful salon with a spacious bar, a sun deck equipped with comfortable chairs, and a small whirlpool to relax in at the end of a long day of cycling. Delicious meals are served daily in the restaurant area.

Magnifique II Photo

Magnifique II Belgium, Netherlands Comfort Plus Class Boat In 2016, we saw the launch of a new premium barge, the Magnifique II, to wonderful reviews. The ship boasts a classical style with emphasis on superior comfort. Highlights of the barge include 4 upper deck suites, with cozy seating area, and lovely large panoramic windows. This ship has earned the premium designation!

Merlijn Photo

Merlijn Germany, Netherlands Comfort Plus Class Boat The Merlijn has 12 luxurious cabins with two comfortable airbeds that can be pushed together or separated, a desk, a wardrobe closet, a hairdryer, and a safe. The lounge is comfortably furnished in a modern style with a restaurant area and lounge near the bar. You can enjoy fresh air, water, and nature in all weather on the sun deck. The entire ship is climate controlled and you can adjust the temperature in your own cabin.

Sarah Photo

Sarah Belgium, Netherlands Comfort Class Boat The Sarah is a very comfortable and spacious ship. After years of use as a cargo ship, the Sarah was transformed into a passenger boat in 2002. It is a very modern ship with tasteful accommodations, a spacious lounge, and large and inviting sun deck.

Tijdgeest Photo

Tijdgeest Belgium, Netherlands Standard Plus Class Boat Built in the year 1897, the Tijdgeest was one of the first passenger barges on the river Rhine in Germany. More than 100 years later, in 1998, the ship was completely renovated and rebuild into a hotel ship. On the lower deck you’ll find the cabins, all with private facilities. A number of cabins have twin beds, while others use bunk beds. On the upper deck you'll find a very spacious living/dining room with panoramic view. An on-board computer is available for you to use.

Wending Photo

Wending Netherlands Comfort Class Boat The Wending is a former freight barge that was converted into a luxury passenger motor barge in the early nineties and completely redecorated in 2002. The barge has a spacious salon equipped with a television and music installation. It is a great place to relax after a strenuous day of cycling.

Zwaan Photo

Zwaan Belgium, Netherlands Comfort Class Boat Once a cargo boat, the Zwaan (Swan) was completely renovated and converted into a comfortable passenger barge. On board you will find seven comfortable cabins allowing a total capacity of 16 passengers.

Zwaantje Photo

Zwaantje France Comfort Plus Class Boat The MPS Zwaantje, which means "Little Swaan", is a unique and cozy Dutch passenger barge. The boat has 10 cabins with twin beds and 2 cabins with double beds. These cabins also have a bunk bed but cannot be used as a triple. Each cabin has private facilities.

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