South Holland Tour
Netherlands Bike + Barge Tours
See some of Holland’s best cities!
This bike tour in Southern Holland takes you along beautiful paths through some of Holland's most scenic countryside and each day's destination seems better than the one before. Starting and ending in Amsterdam, this tour also visits the prestigious towns of Haarlem, Leiden, Scheveningen, The Hague, Delft, and Rotterdam.
Depending on the boat, the itinerary may include a visit to Gouda, where traditional horse-drawn carriages still bring cheese to the Waag or weighing house. And don’t forget that April and May are the tulip months in Holland, and during this time (again depending on the boat) there is an opportunity to visit the Keukenhof (a park filled with hundreds of various tulips and other floral marvels) depending on your boat/itinerary.
Be sure to check out all of our Bike and Boat tours in Holland.
De Holland (prices valid as per January 1, 2018) Cabins Sep 1 Twin/lower £ 745 $ 1,341 € 909 NOK 8939 kr 8251 $ 1,073 Superior /lower £ 794 $ 1,429 € 969 NOK 9529 kr 8796 $ 1,143 Triple/lower £ 728 $ 1,311 € 889 NOK 8742 kr 8069 $ 1,049 Twin/lower for single use £ 974 $ 1,754 € 1189 NOK 11692 kr 10792 $ 1,403 Superior twin/upper £ 909 $ 1,636 € 1109 NOK 10905 kr 10066 $ 1,309 Superior twin/upper for single use £ 1089 $ 1,960 € 1329 NOK 13069 kr 12063 $ 1,568 Suite/upper £ 991 $ 1,783 € 1209 NOK 11889 kr 10974 $ 1,427 Suite/upper for triple use £ 974 $ 1,754 € 1189 NOK 11692 kr 10792 $ 1,403 De Amsterdam (prices valid as per January 1, 2018) Cabins Preseason Mid Main Late Twin/lower £ 679 $ 1,223 € 829 NOK 8152 kr 7525 $ 978 £ 745 $ 1,341 € 909 NOK 8939 kr 8251 $ 1,073 £ 778 $ 1,400 € 949 NOK 9332 kr 8614 $ 1,120 £ 728 $ 1,311 € 889 NOK 8742 kr 8069 $ 1,049 Superior/lower £ 728 $ 1,311 € 889 NOK 8742 kr 8069 $ 1,049 £ 794 $ 1,429 € 969 NOK 9529 kr 8796 $ 1,143 £ 827 $ 1,488 € 1009 NOK 9922 kr 9159 $ 1,191 £ 778 $ 1,400 € 949 NOK 9332 kr 8614 $ 1,120 Twin/lower for single use £ 909 $ 1,636 € 1109 NOK 10905 kr 10066 $ 1,309 £ 974 $ 1,754 € 1189 NOK 11692 kr 10792 $ 1,403 £ 1007 $ 1,813 € 1229 NOK 12085 kr 11156 $ 1,450 £ 958 $ 1,724 € 1169 NOK 11495 kr 10611 $ 1,379 Superior/upper £ 843 $ 1,518 € 1029 NOK 10119 kr 9340 $ 1,214 £ 909 $ 1,636 € 1109 NOK 10905 kr 10066 $ 1,309 £ 942 $ 1,695 € 1149 NOK 11299 kr 10429 $ 1,356 £ 892 $ 1,606 € 1089 NOK 10709 kr 9885 $ 1,285 Superior/upper for single use £ 1023 $ 1,842 € 1249 NOK 12282 kr 11337 $ 1,474 £ 1089 $ 1,960 € 1329 NOK 13069 kr 12063 $ 1,568 £ 1122 $ 2,019 € 1369 NOK 13462 kr 12426 $ 1,615 £ 1073 $ 1,931 € 1309 NOK 12872 kr 11882 $ 1,545 Suite/upper £ 925 $ 1,665 € 1129 NOK 11102 kr 10248 $ 1,332 £ 991 $ 1,783 € 1209 NOK 11889 kr 10974 $ 1,427 £ 1023 $ 1,842 € 1249 NOK 12282 kr 11337 $ 1,474 £ 974 $ 1,754 € 1189 NOK 11692 kr 10792 $ 1,403 Early season: April 14 and April 21, 2018
Middle season: April 28, May 5, May 12, May 19, May 26, September 1, and September 8, 2018
Main season: All other departure dates, weekly from June 2 up to and including August 25, 2018
Late season: September 15, 2018Additional dates De Amsterdam Cabins Oct 6 Sep 29 Sep 22 Twin/lower £ 524 $ 943 € 639 NOK 6284 kr 5800 $ 754 £ 565 $ 1,016 € 689 NOK 6775 kr 6254 $ 813 £ 647 $ 1,164 € 789 NOK 7759 kr 7162 $ 931 Superior/lower £ 581 $ 1,046 € 709 NOK 6972 kr 6436 $ 837 £ 622 $ 1,120 € 759 NOK 7464 kr 6889 $ 896 £ 704 $ 1,267 € 859 NOK 8447 kr 7797 $ 1,014 Twin/lower for single use £ 769 $ 1,384 € 938 NOK 9224 kr 8514 $ 1,107 £ 810 $ 1,457 € 988 NOK 9715 kr 8968 $ 1,166 £ 892 $ 1,605 € 1088 NOK 10699 kr 9876 $ 1,284 Superior/upper £ 688 $ 1,238 € 839 NOK 8250 kr 7616 $ 990 £ 728 $ 1,311 € 889 NOK 8742 kr 8069 $ 1,049 £ 810 $ 1,459 € 989 NOK 9725 kr 8977 $ 1,167 Superior/upper for single use £ 933 $ 1,679 € 1138 NOK 11190 kr 10330 $ 1,343 £ 974 $ 1,752 € 1188 NOK 11682 kr 10783 $ 1,402 £ 1055 $ 1,900 € 1288 NOK 12665 kr 11691 $ 1,520 Suite/upper £ 769 $ 1,385 € 939 NOK 9234 kr 8523 $ 1,108 £ 810 $ 1,459 € 989 NOK 9725 kr 8977 $ 1,167 £ 892 $ 1,606 € 1089 NOK 10709 kr 9885 $ 1,285 Please note aboard De Holland and De Amsterdam: Twin cabins for single use and triple cabins are limited and only on request. Please contact us and we can provide availability.
Liza Marleen
Twin bed cabin: £ 930 $ 1,674 € 1135 NOK 11161 kr 10302 $ 1,339 Double bed (extra large cabin): £ 1012 $ 1,822 € 1235 NOK 12144 kr 11210 $ 1,457 Triple Cabin: £ 856 $ 1,541 € 1045 NOK 10276 kr 9485 $ 1,233 Two bed cabin/single use: £ 1311 $ 2,360 € 1600 NOK 15733 kr 14523 $ 1,888Sailing Home
Twin bed cabin: £ 946 $ 1,704 € 1155 NOK 11358 kr 10484 $ 1,363 Single cabin: £ 1344 $ 2,419 € 1640 NOK 16127 kr 14886 $ 1,935Wending
Twin bed cabin : £ 860 $ 1,549 € 1050 NOK 10325 kr 9531 $ 1,239 Twin bed cabin/single use: £ 1028 $ 1,851 € 1255 NOK 12341 kr 11392 $ 1,481 Triple cabin: £ 815 $ 1,468 € 995 NOK 9784 kr 9032 $ 1,174De Amsterdam Early Mid Main Late Twin/lower £ 692 $ 1,245 € 844 NOK 8299 kr 7661 $ 996 £ 774 $ 1,392 € 944 NOK 9283 kr 8569 $ 1,114 £ 798 $ 1,437 € 974 NOK 9578 kr 8841 $ 1,149 £ 757 $ 1,363 € 924 NOK 9086 kr 8387 $ 1,090 Superior/lower £ 733 $ 1,319 € 894 NOK 8791 kr 8115 $ 1,055 £ 815 $ 1,466 € 994 NOK 9774 kr 9022 $ 1,173 £ 839 $ 1,510 € 1024 NOK 10069 kr 9295 $ 1,208 £ 798 $ 1,437 € 974 NOK 9578 kr 8841 $ 1,149 Twin/lower for single use £ 978 $ 1,761 € 1194 NOK 11741 kr 10838 $ 1,409 £ 1060 $ 1,909 € 1294 NOK 12724 kr 11746 $ 1,527 £ 1085 $ 1,953 € 1324 NOK 13019 kr 12018 $ 1,562 £ 1044 $ 1,879 € 1274 NOK 12528 kr 11564 $ 1,503 Superior/upper £ 856 $ 1,540 € 1044 NOK 10266 kr 9476 $ 1,232 £ 937 $ 1,687 € 1144 NOK 11249 kr 10384 $ 1,350 £ 962 $ 1,732 € 1174 NOK 11544 kr 10656 $ 1,385 £ 921 $ 1,658 € 1124 NOK 11053 kr 10202 $ 1,326 Superior/upper for single use £ 1101 $ 1,982 € 1344 NOK 13216 kr 12199 $ 1,586 £ 1183 $ 2,130 € 1444 NOK 14199 kr 13107 $ 1,704 £ 1208 $ 2,174 € 1474 NOK 14494 kr 13379 $ 1,739 £ 1167 $ 2,100 € 1424 NOK 14003 kr 12926 $ 1,680 Suite/upper £ 937 $ 1,687 € 1144 NOK 11249 kr 10384 $ 1,350 £ 1019 $ 1,835 € 1244 NOK 12233 kr 11292 $ 1,468 £ 1044 $ 1,879 € 1274 NOK 12528 kr 11564 $ 1,503 £ 1003 $ 1,805 € 1224 NOK 12036 kr 11110 $ 1,444 Twin cabins for single use are very limited.
Liza Marleen Low Standard High Twin cabin £ 893 $ 1,608 € 1090 NOK 10718 kr 9894 $ 1,286 £ 983 $ 1,770 € 1200 NOK 11800 kr 10892 $ 1,416 £ 1073 $ 1,931 € 1309 NOK 12872 kr 11882 $ 1,545 Twin cabin/single use £ 1258 $ 2,264 € 1535 NOK 15094 kr 13933 $ 1,811 £ 1385 $ 2,493 € 1690 NOK 16618 kr 15340 $ 1,994 £ 1512 $ 2,721 € 1845 NOK 18143 kr 16747 $ 2,177 Superior cabin (15 m²) for twin use £ 975 $ 1,755 € 1190 NOK 11702 kr 10802 $ 1,404 £ 1065 $ 1,918 € 1300 NOK 12783 kr 11800 $ 1,534 £ 1155 $ 2,078 € 1409 NOK 13855 kr 12789 $ 1,663 Superior cabin (15 m²) for triple use £ 824 $ 1,482 € 1005 NOK 9883 kr 9122 $ 1,186 £ 905 $ 1,630 € 1105 NOK 10866 kr 10030 $ 1,304 £ 987 $ 1,777 € 1205 NOK 11849 kr 10938 $ 1,422 Wending Low Standard High Twin cabin £ 848 $ 1,527 € 1035 NOK 10178 kr 9395 $ 1,221 £ 934 $ 1,682 € 1140 NOK 11210 kr 10348 $ 1,345 £ 1020 $ 1,836 € 1245 NOK 12243 kr 11301 $ 1,469 Twin cabin/single use £ 987 $ 1,777 € 1205 NOK 11849 kr 10938 $ 1,422 £ 1086 $ 1,954 € 1325 NOK 13029 kr 12027 $ 1,564 £ 1184 $ 2,131 € 1445 NOK 14209 kr 13116 $ 1,705 Triple cabin £ 803 $ 1,446 € 980 NOK 9637 kr 8895 $ 1,156 £ 889 $ 1,600 € 1085 NOK 10669 kr 9848 $ 1,280 £ 967 $ 1,741 € 1180 NOK 11603 kr 10711 $ 1,392 extra options
De Holland and De Amsterdam:
Electric bike (limited number): £ 78 $ 140 € 95 NOK 934 kr 862 $ 112 Gluten free or dairy free meals, payable on board: £ 41 $ 74 € 50 NOK 492 kr 454 $ 59 Canal cruise in Amsterdam, payable on board: £ 10 $ 18 € 13 NOK 123 kr 113 $ 15 Helmets, advanced reservation required: £ 8 $ 15 € 10 NOK 98 kr 91 $ 12 De Amsterdam:
Fully guided package: £ 98 $ 177 € 120 NOK 1180 kr 1089 $ 142 Liza Marleen, Sailing Home, and Wending
Electric bike: £ 66 $ 118 € 80 NOK 787 kr 726 $ 94 Helmet rental (must be reserved at the time of booking): £ 8 $ 15 € 10 NOK 98 kr 91 $ 12 Bike maps for self-guided option (advanced reservation required): £ 23 $ 42 € 29 NOK 280 kr 259 $ 34De Amsterdam:
Electric bike (limited number): £ 82 $ 148 € 100 NOK 983 kr 908 $ 118 Gluten free or dairy free meals, payable on board: £ 41 $ 74 € 50 NOK 492 kr 454 $ 59 Helmets, advanced reservation required: £ 8 $ 15 € 10 NOK 98 kr 91 $ 12Liza Marleen and Wending:
Electric bike: £ 66 $ 118 € 80 NOK 787 kr 726 $ 94 Bike maps for self-guided option (advanced reservation and payment required): £ 23 $ 42 € 29 NOK 280 kr 259 $ 34 Child bike, tag-along, bike trailer, and child seat available on request.please note
On the Liza Marleen, Wending, and Sailing Home pricing is based on fuel costs as of March 2018. If the fuel cost increase 5%, additional fees may apply (even for reservations already booked).
Rates are per person based on double occupancy.
Information to read before you book.
Travel
Fly to Amsterdam.
Local Travel
Arrival in Amsterdam, short train ride to Amsterdam center. Mooring locations vary by boat and time in boarding as well.
Climate
Check local weather conditions prior to departure. Always bring full rain gear. The average high in °F is approx. 48 (Mar), 53 (Apr), 61 (May), 66 (Jun), 69 (Jul), 70 (Aug), 64 (Sep) and 57 (Oct).
Recommended
Amsterdam City Card
Museum CardRemarks
Please be aware that you will be part of an international group of people, but your tour guide and crew members will always speak English. Fully guided packageis available on the De Amsterdam. Maximum group size is 20 people. See dates and pricing.
Tour Dates
On the Comfort Plus class boats:
De Amsterdam
Early season: April 14 and April 21, 2018
Middle season: April 28, May 5, May 12, May 19, May 26, September 1*, and September 8*, 2018
Main season: All other departure dates, weekly from June 2 up to and including August 25*, 2018
Late season: September 15*, 2018
Additional dates: September 22, September 29, and October 6, 2018
*On these dates a fully guided optional bike tour will be offered. See pricing.
De Holland
Middle season: September 1, 2018
Liza Marleen: June 2, June 16, June 30, July 21, August 18, September 1, and September 15, 2018
Sailing Home: June 9, 2018
On the Comfort class boats:
Wending: May 12*, May 26, June 9, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 28, August 11, August 25, September 8, and September 22, 2018
*Now being offered at a discount. Valid for reservations after May 7.
On the Comfort Plus class boats:
De Amsterdam
Early season: April 6, April 13, and April 20, 2019
Middle season: April 27, May 4, May 11, May 18, May 25, August 31, September 7, and September 14, 2019
Main season: All other departure dates, weekly from June 1 up to and including August 24, 2019
Late season: September 21, September 28, and October 5, 2019
Liza Marleen
Low season: July 20 and August 10, 2019
Standard season: May 11, May 25, June 1, June 8, June 15, and June 22, 2019
On the Comfort class boats:
Wending
Low season: June 29, July 6, July 13, July 27, and August 3, 2019
Standard season: May 18, August 24, August 31, and September 28, 2019
High season: September 7, September 14, and September 21, 2019
Skill Level
Easy bike and boat tour with average daily distances of ± 26 miles on flat, bike paths and well-maintained asphalt roads with little traffic. On the De Holland and the De Amsterdam, an on board tour guide will give extensive descriptions of the day’s cycling route. Guests will bike using provided route descriptions & maps. The guide will also cycle the route but does not actually guide a group. The main role of the tour guide is to provide assistance if needed during the cycling itinerary. On the De Amsterdam, on certain dates, it is possible to purchase a fully guided package. On all other boats, tours are fully guided with option for self-guided.
Where You’ll Stay
On the Standard Plus or Comfort Plus class vessels.
What’s Included
- De Holland and De Amsterdam
- Accommodations for 7 nights on board
- Complimentary drink on first evening and tour presentation
- Breakfast buffets, packed lunches, 3-course dinners
- Complimentary coffee and tea on board until 6 pm
- One live music night on board
- Guide support (please see emboldened note below)
- Printed tour information and detailed maps for cycling (one set per cabin)
- Minimum two guided city walks (Rotterdam and Dordrecht) with the tour leader
- Discounts on entrance fees and excursions as mentioned in program (Delftware factory, Kinderdijk, St. Jans Church, cheese farm in Oudewater, silversmith Schoonhoven, city hall Zaandam, and others
- Free wifi in lounge of ship
- 7-speed ladies model touring bike with hand brake equipped with pannier bag and lock
- Please note: These tours are not fully guided bike tours but rather supported by a guide who ensures the safety of riders and takes care of mechanical issues. The guide is cycling the route and can be reached by cell phone for quick assistance. On board the De Amsterdam, with more than 60 guests, a second tour assistant will be added.
- Anna Antal, Liza Marleen, Sailing Home, Wending, and Zwaan
- Accommodation for 7 nights
- Breakfast buffets, packed lunches, 3-course dinners
- Complimentary coffee and tea on board
- Cycling tour guide
- Printed tour information (one per cabin)
- Minimum of three guided city walks
- Ferry fares
- Free wifi (limited) in lounge and on deck. Surcharge applies for more than 100 MB
- Route information
- Ferry fares en route (Liza Marleen, Sailing Home, and Wending
- 24-speed hybrid touring bike equipped with pannier bag, water bottle cage, water bottle, and lock (Anna Antal, Liza Marleen, Sailing Home, Wending, and Zwaan)
- Helmet (2019)
- GPS tracks (2019
What’s Not Included
- De Amsterdam and De Holland:
- Ferry fares en routes
- Entrance fees for excursions
- Beverages (incl. alcohol), available on board
- Special diets (fee may apply)
- Helmets (available on request, reserve at time of booking)
- Bicycle protection
- Trip insurance
- Anna Antal, Liza Marleen, Sailing Home, Wending, and Zwaan
- Helmets 2018 (available on request, reserve at time of booking, fee applies, see pricing)
- Museum entrance fees (approximately €30 per tour)
- Beverages (incl. alcohol), available on board
- Maps for self guided option. See pricing.
- Bicycle protection
- Trip insurance
Day-To-Day Itinerary
All distances are approximate. Itinerary is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstance, including but not limited to weather, last minute mooring changes, and restructuring of locks or bridges.
Even though we have received some 2019 dates/pricing, we have not received the itineraries. We are told that if there are changes, they will be minor. Be sure to check back to when itinraries are posted.
Each boat has a slightly different itinerary. Check as well what is include and not included.
On the Liza Marleen, Sailing Home, and Wending
*Aboard these boats, it is possible to do the tour as self-guided with route descriptions. Please specify at the time of booking if you wish to do this. Maps are available for an additional fee. Ask us for details.
Day 1: Amsterdam, boarding begins at 1 pm and must be completed by 2:00 pm! Sailing to Spaarndam and cycling to Haarlem, 9 mi. (15 km)
Day 2: Haarlem – through the dune area – Leiden, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 3: Leiden – Delft, 30 mi. (49 km)
Day 4: Delft
Day 5: Delft – sailing to Rotterdam/ferry toKinderdijk – cycling to Gouda, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 6: Gouda – Uithoorn, 25 mi. (45 km)
Day 7: Uithoorn – Amsterdam, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 8: Amsterdam
Day 1: Amsterdam, boarding, complete by 2:00 pm; Sailing to Spaarndam and cycling to Haarlem, 9 mi. (15 km)
After arriving 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. The first part of the tour will take you by boat to Spaarndam, known as the village of Hansje Brinker, and from here take an easy bike ride into the beautiful city of Haarlem. You must be very prompt in boarding as the boat will depart the mooring shortly after 2 pm.
Back on board, the program for the next day and the rest of the week will be explained to you as you enjoy a lovely dinner.
Day 2: Haarlem – through the dune area – Leiden, 25 mi. (40 km)
Today starts with a short tour by bicycle to the center of Haarlem, where you can see some of the city's typical almshouses. Upon departure from Haarlem you may cycle to the 'Cruquiusgemaal' (Cruquius Pumping Station), one of the three steam-powered pumping stations that drained the Haarlemmer Lake between 1849 and 1852. Now a museum, it gives you an excellent idea of the Dutch 'battle against the water'. During the summer months, cycle through the dunes to the beach.
Day 3: Leiden – Delft, 30 mi. (49 km)
You leave the city and cycle South along the Vliet canal. In Voorschoten you turn westwards towards the coastline. At 'Wassenaarse Slag' you can take a break on the beach.
The Wassenaarse Slag is an entrance to the beach near the Dutch town of Wassenaar. The coastline is over 8 km long.
The route to Delft takes you along the water once again. The old center is a well-preserved medieval city with canals, a magnificent town hall, and a royal tomb in the Nieuwe Kerk. It is well worth a visit.
Day 4: Delft
Today you can enjoy the day at your leisure. You can stay in Delft and discover the old center, visit The Hague by public transport, or go to Rotterdam by bike.
Delft
Delft is a beautiful town to wander through and learn more about the famous dutch painter, Vermeer at the Vermeer Center or visit the Nieuwe Kerk. When the weather is clear the view from the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) is spectacular. A large part of the Southern Tour can be seen from here!
The Hague
The city of The Hague has wide avenues, parks and stately mansions. Possible visits are Peace Palace (housing the International Court of Justice), the 'Binnenhof' with the 13th-century 'Ridderzaal' (Knights' Hall), seat of the Dutch Government and Parliament. Every third Tuesday of September the Queen's Speech is delivered in the Ridderzaal. The Mauritshuis, a former palace, is now a famous museum with paintings by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Rubens. It also houses 'Panorama Mesdag', the largest panoramic, circular painting in the world, depicting 19th-century Scheveningen. Of the many royal palaces in The Hague, only a few are still operational. You may see the Noordeinde Palace and the Huis ten Bosch Palace.
Rotterdam
This bustling city has many architectural highlights, some interesting museums, and is the main port of Holland. Skyscrapers stand in the scaffolds and rise steadily towards the stars. On the Maas River, Erasmus Bridge is the gateway to the Kop van Zuid district. The modern architecture makes up what is known as ‘Manhattan on the Maas’. Here you can find the New Orleans and the Maastoren, the highest residential tower and the highest office building in the Netherlands. With so much of the city changing on a daily basis, it is internationally known as a city of architecture. The city also offers historical significance and some interesting museums such as the Museum Boijmans van Beuningen, where you can find Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Dali, and Dutch Design.
Day 5: Delft – sailing to Rotterdam/ferry to Kinderdijk – cycling to Gouda, 32 mi. (40 km)
The first part of today's route will be sailing through the center of Rotterdam, thus giving you the best view of the modern architecture of this city. Your cycling day starts in Kinderdijk and will take you through the Alblasserwaard,
situated in between rivers and showcasing a variety of scenery, featuring water and meadows.The many inundations and the slowly sinking surface made water management essential in this fenland. Canals and ditches were dug and windmills wereconstructed; of the latter nineteen remain today. . After a visit to one of the mills you will continue by bike, ending in Gouda. The city of ‘stroopwafels’ (treacle-waffle) and pottery, but also stained-glass windows, a fairy-like town hall, and atmospheric canals. Gouda is a real old Dutch town with a virtually intact town center
Day 6: Gouda – Uithoorn, 28 mi. (45 km)
From Gouda, you will continue your tour over country roads, banks, and channels through the Green Heart and polders to Uithoorn. Gouda is most known for its cheese but is also popular for its pipes, ‘stroopwafels’ (treacle-waffle,) pottery, and stained-glass windows. You will surely enjoy exploring its fairy-like town hall, atmospheric canals, and mostly intact city center. As on most days, after dinner, there will be plenty of time to take a city walk.
Day 7: Uithoorn – Amsterdam, 22 mi. (35 km)
Today you will cycle into a polder and along the river Waver and Amstel. Amsterdam's name derives from Amstelredamme, indicative of the city's origin as a dam of the river Amstel.
Almost without noticing, you enter Amsterdam, following the Amstel River. The extensive network of bicycle paths ensures a relatively easy way back into the city, showing you some remarkable sites in the center. Then it is time to say goodbye to your bike. Before the farewell dinner, you may want to go for a walk in town. At night there you may want to take a canal trip or go on a city walk through the center of the city.
Day 8: Departure from Amsterdam
End of the trip after breakfast.
On the De Holland and the De Amsterdam:
Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam
Day 2: Amsterdam – Breukelen | Breukelen – Utrecht, 16 or 25 mi. (25 or 40 km) | Afternoon: Utrecht – Rotterdam
Day 3: Rotterdam – Schiedam – Delft – Rotterdam, 17 - 31 mi. (28 - 50 km)
Day 4: Rotterdam – Alblasserdam with the "waterbus" | Kinderdijk – (Gouda) – Schoonhoven, 19 or 36 mi. (30 or 58 km)
Day 5: Schoonhoven - Oudewater - Utrecht, 28 mi. (45 km)| Afternoon: Utrecht - Haarlem
Day 6: Haarlem– North Sea coast – Haarlem, 25 or 31 mi. (40 or 50 km) | Evening: Haarlem– Zaandam
Day 7: Zaandem - Amsterdam, 29 or 28 mi. (30 or 45 km km)
Day 8: Departure
On days that two distances are provided, you can choose between the longer and shorter route.
Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam
Embarkation and check-in begins at 2 PM. It is possible for you to bring your luggage on board at 9:30 however, cabins will not be ready for check - in at this time. While you are in Amsterdam make sure you take the opportunity to do some shopping, visit a museum, or enjoy a canal tour (reduced price tickets available on board, until 10 PM). A canal tour is a unique way to see the capital of Holland from a different perspective. Your first night on board will be spent in Amsterdam, so you will have plenty of time to explore the city.
Day 2: During breakfast: Amsterdam - Breukelen | Breukelen - Utrecht, 15 or 25 mi. (25 or 40 km) | Afternoon: Utrecht - Rotterdam
During breakfast the boat will cruise to Breukelen. Following the distribution of bicycles, your first day of cycling is along the beautiful and winding river Vecht with its enchanting background of imposing castles, country houses, and quaint tearooms. There is simply no better way to start a bike tour. You will follow the Vecht into the center of Utrecht where you will have the opportunity to explore the Dom Cathedral tower and the beautiful center of the old village. In the afternoon you will continue by ship from Utrecht to Rotterdam, your destination for the day. In the evening enjoy a short city walking tour.
Day 3: Rotterdam – Schiedam – Delft – Rotterdam, 17 - 31 mi. (28 - 50 km)
You will cycle today via the "jenever" city of Schiedam (jenever is a traditional Dutch gin) and through the Delfland area to Delft which is famous, of course, for its blue earthenware. Visit the beautiful city center with its small canals, picturesque streets, bridges and alleys. For many guests a visit to the Delftware factories of “Royal Delft” is one of the highlights of the tour. Afterwards, you will cycle back to Rotterdam. In the evening, enjoy a short walk around the city of Rotterdam.
Day 4: Rotterdam – Alblasserdam with the "waterbus" | Kinderdijk – (Gouda) – Schoonhoven, 19 or 36 mi. (30 or 58 km)
Today you can cycle the first part or the “waterbus” will take you and your bicycle to Alblasserdam.After just a few minutes of cycling you will reach Kinderdijk (UNESCO cultural heritage, with its impressive row of 19 large windmills). You then have the choice between a longer bike tour with a visit to the beautiful cheese city of Gouda and a short bike tour through the Alblasserwaard. Bothtours end in the “silver city” of Schoonhoven, where you can visit a silversmith.
Day 5: Schoonhoven - Oudewater - Utrecht, 28 mi. (45 km)| Afternoon: Utrecht - Haarlem
Today you will cycle from Schoonhoven through the beautiful “Green Heart” of Holland via Oudewater (visit the Witches Weigh House) to Utrecht. Near Oudewater you can visit a traditional cheese farm where you can also buy delicious farm-made Gouda cheese. In the late afternoon the barge will cruise from Utrecht to Haarlem, your destination for the night.
Day 6: Haarlem– North Sea coast – Haarlem, 25 or 31 mi. (40 or 50 km) | Evening: Haarlem– Zaandam
Today you can choose from 2 bike tours. Both tours takes you through the beautiful Kennemer dunes, a national park where you can spot several bird species, Scottish Highland cows and Shetland ponies. After a visit to the seaside resorts Bloemendaal and Zandvoort you cycle through the forests and the center of Haarlem back to the ship. The longer cycling tour leads to the largest steam engine of the world, the Cruquius pumping station and back to Haarlem. During dinner your ship will cruise to Zaandam.
Day 7: Zaandam - Amsterdam, 19 or 28 mi. (30 or 45 km)
From Zaandam, your final day of cycling will take you to the open-air museum ‘Zaanse Schans’ with its beautiful windmills, traditional wooden houses, an old Dutch village, a cheese farm, and a traditional wooden clog maker. After exploring the museum continue to cycle through the recreational area of Twiske to Amsterdam. The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy everything Amsterdam has to offer. If you didn’t go for a canal tour on the first day, you will have the opportunity to do so today.
Day 8: Disembarkation in Amsterdam
Disembarkation after breakfast: End of your trip.
Parts in italics above will be covered by the ship.
Parts in italics above will be covered by the ship.
*Aboard the De Amsterdam: Departures on April 14, 21 and 28 and May 5, 2018 there is an opportunity to visit the world famous Tulip exhibition park Keukenhof in Lisse by bus/train or with train + bike. Transfers/tickets/entrance fee not incl.
*Aboard the De Holland: Departure on April 28, 2018there is an opportunity to visit the world famous Tulip exhibition park Keukenhof in Lisse by bus/train or with train + bike. Transfers/tickets/entrance fee not incl.
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South Holland Tour Boats + Barges
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.
De Amsterdam Netherlands Comfort Plus Class Boat The De Amsterdam, the former Lale Andersen, was built in 1991 but recently refurbished in 2017 and boasts both style and comfort. All 56 cabins on board are comfortably furnished and equipped with en-suite shower facilities, satellite TV, a safe, hairdryers, in-house telephone, and individually controlled air conditioning.
De Holland Netherlands Comfort Plus Class Boat The former Angela Esmee, renamed now to De Holland, is being completely renovated and will be ready to sail in 2018. The De Holland has 34 well equipped staterooms for a maximum of 68 - 72 passengers.
Liza Marleen Comfort Plus Class Boat The Liza Marleen is a luxury motor passenger barge that was completely refurbished in 1998. This robust barge is ideally suited for trips on the wider waterways. It has a beautiful salon area and spacious deck.
Sailing Home Netherlands, Belgium Comfort Plus Class Boat Built in 2001, the Sailing Home was designed specifically to provide a more attractive hotel ship during your carefree vacation. It was built to meet the latest wishes and ideas with respect to comfort and service. The experience of a lifetime: cycling through the most beautiful spots within the Netherlands while residing on a very comfortable, newly built and well-furnished ship.
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 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 France, Netherlands, Belgium Comfort Plus Class Boat The MPS Zwaantje, which means "Little Swaan", is a wonderful comfort plus 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.
see also
Holland Southern Tulip Tour Netherlands 2019On the Comfort Plus class boat:Sailing … This Southern Tulip bike and boat tour leads through some of Holland's most popular cities but also through fields of beautiful Tulips! One highlight, among …
| Tour | Bike+Boat |
|---|---|
| Type | Guided |
| Skill | Easy |
| Length | 8 days |
| From | €1135 |
Tulip Tour - 4 Day Netherlands On the Comfort Class boats: Jelmar: April 10, April … When the sun rises during Spring in the Netherlands, millions of eager bulbs also rise for the occasion. Acres upon endless acres of the most brilliantly …
| Tour | Bike+Boat |
|---|---|
| Type | Guided |
| Skill | Easy |
| Length | 4 days |
| From | €475 |
North Holland Tour Netherlands 2018 On the Comort Plus Boat:De Holland: Middle … During this bike and boat tour in Northern Holland, beginning and ending in Amsterdam, you will discover the best of what the beautiful provinces of North …
| Tour | Bike+Boat |
|---|---|
| Type | Both |
| Skill | Easy |
| Length | 8 days |
| From | €689 |
Holland in a Nutshell - a Tulip Tour Netherlands Daily from April 1 to September 30, 2018 This tour will show you everything Holland is famous for - in just one week. You will see wonderful windmills in the west and will smell the surprising scent …
| Tour | Bike |
|---|---|
| Type | Self Guided |
| Skill | Easy |
| Length | 8 days |
| From | €811 |
Dutch Highlights Tulip Tour Netherlands Daily from April 1 to September 30, 2018 This bike tour in the Netherlands also focuses on the country’s world-famous tulip fields, which display all colors of the rainbow. Cycling Holland through …
| Tour | Bike |
|---|---|
| Type | Self Guided |
| Skill | Easy |
| Length | 4–8 days |
| From | €367 |
Tulip Tour - Bruges to Amsterdam Netherlands, Belgium 2018 DatesOn Comfort Plus boat:Merlijn: May 12, … This cycling vacation takes you through the Belgian pearls of Antwerp, Ghent and on top of that, Bruges! In April and May all of Holland is blooming. …
| Tour | Bike+Boat |
|---|---|
| Type | Both |
| Skill | Easy |
| Length | 8 days |
| From | €949 |
Around the IJsselmeer Netherlands Daily arrival April 1 to September 30, 2018 This bike tour in Holland begin and ends in Edam, is a circular route that leads around the IJssel-Lake called the Golden Circle by the Dutch. Of course, the …
| Tour | Bike |
|---|---|
| Type | Self Guided |
| Skill | Easy |
| Length | 8 days |
| From | €831 |
Customer Feedback
Read reviews for all bike tours
Martha B. 7 days ago
Scenery was excellent, dinners on the boat were superb, and the guide (Peter) was friendly, helpful, and competent. Suggestion--let there be hot water for tea or coffee available any time--not just till 6PM. Also, supply plastic bags for packing lunches--or advise people to bring their own.
Boat: De Amsterdam
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Pam W. 1 week ago
This trip exceeded all my expectations. It is a wonderful way to see the country. The accommodations were very comfortable. We will be back. And recommend it to our friends.
Boat: De Amsterdam
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Dave C. 1 month ago
The De Amsterdam is more like a cruise ship than a barge, very nice cabin, very nice dining room.
Boat: De Amsterdam
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Norma B. 5 months ago
This trip has been on my bucket list for several years. I did it, just turned 70 years old. We had a lot of rain so felt we were constantly rushing or dodging the rain....no fault of yours of course. This was our first time using the bike trails so were somewhat confused but we did it. One suggestion would be to inform riders which direction to head, left or right, off the ramp. Loved it.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Adrianus S. 6 months ago
My wife and I were part of a custom tour charter excursion as sibling/spouse reunion. The cycling portion of the trip was wonderful and accommodations on board were wonderfully. Great captain, hosts, and cooks did a wonderful job. We would love to do it again!
Boat: Zwaantje
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John B. 9 months ago
Cycling gave us a good look at south Holland. Wonderful variety. Passed through peaceful farm land and enjoyed the many small towns we passed through. Getting lost from time to time forced us to interact with locals and many of those occasions turned into highlights. Found the Dutch people to be most helpful.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Gaye S. 9 months ago
It was quite an adventure! Best way to see the real country and people of Holland.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Eileen C. 10 months ago
The Southern Tour from Amsterdam in the Netherlands is a wonderful trip. It was my first time on a cycling tour and I felt that I received all the information that I needed in order to prepare and to make a wonderful experience. The route had nice a diversity between cycling and stopping in Dutch cities. The crew was very helpful and friendly, and the food was great. My bicycle couldn't have been more comfortable. I highly recommend this trip.
Boat: Liza Marleen
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Walter V. 10 months ago
A wonderful way to see the Netherlands and experience different parts of the country. Food on the barge was excellent. I do recommend you practice a lot before the trip to prevent saddle sores. Proper biking pants helps a lot.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Doyle S. 10 months ago
Most Memorable Part: The trip to kinderdijk was fantastic.
Boat: Wending
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Christa V. 10 months ago
The combination of beautiful bike routes and coming back to amazing meals each evening made for a vacation I would consider doing again.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Pak Ching A. 10 months ago
Most memorable part: Getting to know many friends from different countries.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Sian W. 10 months ago
The biking was wonderful with a great variety of landscapes and villages to see.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Thelma K. 11 months ago
I learned and saw things from the Netherlands that I had never seen before. I loved the cycling through the dunes.
Boat: Zwaan
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Daniel A. 11 months ago
This tour was the perfect way to see the Netherlands.The biking and scenery was wonderful. The staff was nice, the food was adequate, the boat could use a style update but it was clean with basic small cabins.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Azam E. 11 months ago
Boat and bike trip was our first experience. It was really amazing and well- organized one :)) we just wish to have more options for healthy food on board and choose our table at dinner time to socialize with more people than having assigned seats every night. -Thank you
Boat: De Holland
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Connie V. 12 months ago
Loved all the windmills, museum's, and bike routes. The food was delicious. Staff were excellent. I recommend to do the long routes as you get to see more.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Mike S. 1 year ago
The overall experience was excellent. We enjoyed the intimacy of a relatively small group on the boat. It allowed us to meet a number of people over the course of the week. We will definitely be returning in the future.
If I had one suggestion it would be to limit the number of days where there was a deadline to meet the boat in the late afternoon as these deadlines sometimes creates pressure to complete the route quicker than I would have otherwise chosen.
Boat: De Holland
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Jehiel 1 year ago
Hi Mike! I agree with you. We will pass this along to our local partner to see if we can remedy this. Thank you for the suggestion!
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Lauren F. 1 year ago
The most memorable parts were the wonderful roads to ride on in The Netherlands, the food was delicious, the staff members were accommodating and friendly .
We loved this barge experience so much we signed up to do Northern Holland.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Kathleen L. 1 year ago
The most memorable part was riding through the windmill countryside.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Sya C. 1 year ago
The most memorable part was the wonderful hospitality we experienced on the Zwaantje. The captain and staff were great and I could recommend them to anyone. It was a fantastic way to enjoy a siblings reunion.
Boat: Zwaantje
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John O. 1 year ago
The crew on the barge were fantastic. The trip exceeded our already high expectations.
Boat: Zwaantje
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Cornelis S. 1 year ago
We were very pleased with the bike/barge tour on the Swaantje. Being a slightly smaller boat, it took us right into the heart of the towns. Boat staff most friendly and accommodating. Our bike guide Felix was a gem. Great sense of humour and understanding of everyone's concerns.
Boat: Zwaantje
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Helen M. 2 years ago
The scenery was beautiful and the barge was lovely. The most memorable part of the trip was the people - the Dutch are friendly and helpful, and the Angela Esmee crew was exceptional!
Boat: De Holland
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Maggie C. 2 years ago
Wonderful standard of accommodation - meals quality and cabin comfort were excellent. Cheese tasting on board every evening was an unexpected bonus. The bikes are operated by a pedal break which was a new experience for our group of 7 but we adapted over the course of the trip. The cycle routes were excellent, not too strenuous and were long enough so that you really felt that you had a good day's exercise and yet there was just enough time to stop off in some of the lovely towns and villages for museum and cafe visits.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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W. Flink 2 years ago
This is our third bike and barge trip and we would come back to do another. We had a great time! The boat, the Liza Marleen, was very nice, the crew very friendly, and our bike guide informative, interesting, and a lot of fun. It was very nice going on a small size boat and the crew created a family-like atmosphere which made the trip very enjoyable. One one particularly warm and longer day, the crew handed out delicious popsicles as we climbed back aboard at the end of the day. We appreciated the all the small details like this. We tell many friends that they should do one of these Bike and Barge trips. We'll be back.
Boat: Liza Marleen
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M. Gaherty 2 years ago
Trip was outstanding however a comment. Upon our arrival on the boat, the first thing they tried to do was sell us bike insurance. We showed them the paperwork that we had paid 15 Euros. They countered that their ins was only 10 Euro and that it would be easier to settle a claim because we would not have to get reimbursed by you. We did not buy their ins but this turned us off immediately. Also, why are we paying 15 when they charge 10? This option should have been explained to us. Now the good news: boat was beautiful and we had a great room. Food was absolutely outstanding! I thought it was exceptional on Theodor Kormer but Anna Maria Agnes had them beat by a hair! And our guide, Niko, what a doll! Wish I could have taken him home with me! Prior to our trip my friends and I spent a few days in Amsterdam. While visiting museums, I lost my new jacket, new Galaxy S-7 phone and my digital camera! We retraced our steps, went to police station. I came to the conclusion that I might have left them on the tram but it was Friday, the lost and found was closed until Monday. On Day 2 of our trip, I asked Nico if he could help me by calling the tram lost and found, which he did. The next evening, he approached me with a big grin and told me that they had recovered my items on the tram. What a miracle! He wrote down the case # and gave me directions to find the lost and found. Thank you Thank you to Nico!!
One suggestion: we were given no instruction as to what the street signs meant. I know a little bit of Dutch and even I had a problem with them. I would suggest that a handout be prepared for all English speaking, showing pictures of the signs and interpretations. Also, a short session on cars vs bikes; who has the right of way etiquette ...that would be very helpful. Several times, we stopped at intersections, only to have bikers pass us or swear at us for stopping. At times, the route numbers were confusing but that was not the fault of Nico. There were some route changes, construction, which deviated from the map.
Overall, we had a wonderful time!!!!!!!!!II have already had some friends who are interested in booking a trip to Holland through tripsite.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Jan 2 years ago
Thanks for getting back to us, Maureen. Per our earlier conversation, we will be refunding you the difference. It is our policy to match the boats bike insurance price and we apologize for this inconvenience.
Regards,
Jan
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P. Watson 2 years ago
Due to the length of the cycling routes, there should have been better quality bikes. All gears should have been in working order.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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V. Silberstein 2 years ago
This was a fabulous trip! The best way to see the Netherlands is by boat and barge. This cruise far exceeded my expectations. The barge was homey and warm, the crew was so special. They took care of our every need, and did it in a friendly and caring manner. The chef was phenomenal! The value for your money was great. I would do this again in a heartbeat!
Boat: Liza Marleen
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N. Miles 2 years ago
There was initially a question with the insurance we had purchased from you. We had to purchase again on board. After it was reported to you, things were quickly resolved. We had another glorious trip with you and appreciate your help.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Lynda Vera 3 years ago
Excellent trip, guide & staff. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Only downside was the cabin or perhaps the pillow was a bit musty - had allergic symptoms/ loss of sleep during the night but was fine during the day.
Boat: Wending
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Jeffrey Douglas 3 years ago
The trip is excellent and we are now booked for our third time. However, and I know this is out of control of anyone, but our last trip was affected because of the crane accident near Gouda. This caused a rerouting of half the trip and because of that, we missed half of the sites that we wanted to see. On another note, the country should really make it illegal to dump raw sewage from the boats. This is disgusting and makes the waterways unclean. One would think that the government should do something about this and set up pumping stations. Otherwise, we really enjoy the bike/barge rides and will continue to go on them in the future.
Boat: Wending
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Doug Dowell 3 years ago
The food was spectacular on both tours. The crew and guides were excellent on both tours. In particular, having guides with expertise in the history and art of the area is much more important than expertise in cycling. We have been recommending these tours to friends and family all summer long. Thank you.
Boat: Sailing Home
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Bruce Carter 3 years ago
The route presentations by the guide were difficult to follow because they did not use a Powerpoint type presentation with a screen. This left the guest fumbling through paperwork which made the presentation difficult to understand and increased the risk of getting lost along the way.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Jean Louis Bergeron 3 years ago
On some days, we could have biked more. Very pleasant walks in the evenings.
Very small window in our room.
Boat: Anna Antal
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Ron Neesham 5 years ago
We have just returned from our holiday on the Anna Marie Agnes which we thoroughly enjoyed. The whole voyage and cycle riding was well planned and, Ida, the guide could not have been better.
We were allocated a dining table with a total of eight English speakers who all gelled from the first meal and we sometimes met at path side cafes.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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Alison Stilwell 6 years ago
It has been about 5 years since I did the Southern Tour. I have wonderful memories and have been thinking about booking another bike/barge tour for the past few years. Maybe 2012 will be the year! Never having completed a bike tour, I was happily surprised by the quality of the bikes and was always able to easily keep up with the group.
Boat: Anna Maria Agnes
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