Overview
One of our most popular, this bike and boat tour in Holland during tulip season, featuring the north and south provinces, is bursting with colors and scents.
When the Dutch spring dawns, millions of eager bulbs rise, stretch toward the sun, and blossom for the occasion. Acres upon endless acres of exquisite tulips transform ordinary fields into a colorful kaleidoscope. Having been grown in the Netherlands for more than 400 years, 1200 different varieties of these flowers are now harvested!
Did you know that during the 17th century, tulips became so highly prized that prices were sent soaring and markets crashing? This was known as Tulip Mania. Today, though Wall Street is unaware, Tulip Mania prevails.
Come and be dazzled!
Highlights
- Keukenhof - the world's flower garden
- Aalsmeer - the world's flower auction
- Leiden - the birthplace of Rembrandt
- Haarlem - the center of the Dutch flower-growing district
- Gouda - CHEESE!
- Windmills, tulips, and more
Take a look at our full list of bike & barge tours in Holland.
Itinerary
Premium Class
Iris
Day 1: Arrival aboard the Iris. Amsterdam - Utrecht
Day 2: Utrecht - Gouda
Day 3: Gouda - Leiden
Day 4: Leiden - Haarlem
Day 5: Haarlem - Alkmaar
Day 6: Alkmaar - Zaanse Schans
Day 7: Zaanse Schans - Amsterdam
Day 8: Amsterdam, end of our tour after breakfast.Average daily distance is 28 mi. (45 km).
Day 1: Arrival aboard the Iris. Amsterdam - Utrecht
The crew of the Iris welcomes you onboard at approximately 1 pm. The boat departs Amsterdam and after getting settled into your room, there is a tour briefing about the ship and the day's ride. You have the option to begin cycling in the town of Breukelen to Utrecht or stay on the boat which crosses around over the Lek, an arm of the Rhine.Day 2: Utrecht - Gouda
Your day starts with a ride to the most beautifully built, Castle De Haar, in the Netherlands where local guides will welcome you. After this visit, you will cycle to Oudewater, a medieval town with a "Heksenwaag", scales used to determine whether a woman could be a witch by measuring her weight! Oudewater was the only town in all of Europe to receive the privilege of an honest weighing process from Emperor Charles V. Because of this special dispensation, no one was ever condemned as a witch here. The day's destination is Gouda, a beautiful historic city. From The Markt, the central square with its iconic town hall to the beautiful stained-glass windows of the Sint-Jans church and from street food to the first Fairtrade street in the Netherlands, old and new meet and merge in Gouda where the most exported kind of cheese the Netherland produces originated. So yes, you will find many cheese shops here, and also stroopwafels!Day 3: Gouda - Leiden
Today is a great ride through the agricultural green heart of Holland. Although the bigger cities are within close proximity, this region remains protected and serves as a great green area with grazing cows and ducks, and willow trees. Your first stop will be at a cheese farm for a tasting and educational tour.Day 4: Leiden - Haarlem
Today needs no introduction. The Keukenhof! Made up of 79 acres of garden with approximately 7 million flowers. While the Keukenhof is mostly known for its tulips, there are also Hyacinths, daffodils, lilies, roses, carnations, and irises. Before and after your visit to the Keukenhof, your ride will also lead right through the flower-growing fields. After this highlight, you will be docked in Haarlem, a lovely town also known as "Little Amsterdam".Day 5: Haarlem - Alkmaar
From Haarlem, you will cycle through the nature reserve area behind the dunes of the North Sea on wonderful cycling paths! You will enjoy lunch at the beach. You then follow the paths and ride a bit more inland to the private garden Hortus Bulborum, the world’s most important bulb garden, preserving some 4000 varieties of heirloom flower bulbs, most of which have gone “commercially extinct.” To wander through its amazing diversity in bloom time is an unforgettable experience. Take a tour with the local volunteers who are, and they should be, very proud of their unique work.Day 6: Alkmaar - Zaanse Schans
The first stop of the day is in the historic Schermer with its polder windmills, one of the greatest projects of the Dutch to reclaim land from the water. For 3 years the Scher Lake (Schermeer) was pumped out with he help of 52 polder mills and in 1635 the lake disappeared completely. Your lunch stop will be in De Rijp, another lovely little village, on the way to the Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum that welcomes many tourists during the daytime. It is a replica of how a living and working community in the Zaan district looked back in the mid 19th century at the start of the industrial revolution. You can enjoy this, and even better, walk through it after all tourists have left! It is a magical place, so tranquil at that time.Day 7: Zaanse Schans - Amsterdam
You can cut it short or have a longer ride. Your choice! The short option will arrive in Amsterdam at lunchtime, and you can then spend the afternoon on your own!
Book tickets for the museum if that is on your bucket list!Day 8: Amsterdam
After breakfast, it is time to say goodbye to your companions, guides, and crew.Please note, the 2025 itinerary is subject to minor changes.
Comfort Class
Feniks
Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam. Boarding at 2PM, sailing to Kudelstaart, 9 mi. (15 km)
Day 2: Kudelstaart - Gouda, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 3: Gouda - Alblasserdam, ferry to Rotterdam and sailing to Delft, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 4: Delft - Katwijk - Leiden, 23 mi. (36 km)
Day 5: Leiden - visit to Keukenhof by public transport
Day 6: Leiden - via the flower bulb fields - Haarlem, 24 mi. (37 km)
Day 7: Haarlem - Amsterdam, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 8: Departure from Amsterdam, disembarkation before 10am.All distances in italics are covered by ship.
Day 1: Amsterdam - Kudelstaart | Ouderkerk - Uithoorn, 9 mi. (15 km)
When you board the ship before 2:00 pm, you can put your luggage in your cabin and enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee or tea. Become acquainted with your tour guide, the skipper and ship crew, and your fellow travellers. You will first sail from Amsterdam on the river Amstel to Ouderkerk. In Ouderkerk, you'll cycle through the polder Ronde Hoep to Uithoorn. Dinner is aboard the ship, and you'll have a meeting about the week plan and itinerary.Day 2: Kudelstaart - Gouda, 28 mi. (45 km)
From Uithoorn, you'll cycle along rural roads, along the river banks and channels. You'll be cycling through the "Green Heart of Holland" to Gouda, the city known for—you guessed it—Gouda cheese! In Gouda, be sure to try the cheese and "stroopwafels" (treacle-waffle). See the pipes, famous pottery, and the beautiful stained glass windows. Visit the charming town hall and the atmospheric canals! Gouda is a historic city, with a mostly intact center, so, after dinner, we recommend strolling through its winding streets.Day 3: Gouda - Albasserdam, ferry to Rotterdam and sailing to Delft, 25 mi. (40 km)
Leaving Gouda, you'll bike by scenic polders via Kinderdijk to Rotterdam. Kinderdijk has the largest group of windmills in the Netherlands—used until the 1950's, though the water level in the polder is now controlled by a large pumping station. After your visit to the windmills, you will take a ferry to Rotterdam, from which you'll take your ship to Delft. Delft is known for its pottery, the "Delft blue", and the Prisenhof Museum—formerly St Agatha's monastery. This convent was chosen in 1572 by William of Orange as one of his residences. It was from here that he lead the revolt against Spanish tyranny in Holland, and here that he was murdered on July 10, 1584 by a Spanish sympathizer, Balthazar Gerards. Two bullet holes in the wall of the stairs remain as evidence of this event.Day 4: Delft - Katwijk - Leiden, 23 mi. (36 km)
From Delft, you'll embark towards The Hague through "het Haagse Bosch", a large park. You'll pass the former Royal Palace of "Huis ten Bosch". If you choose to extend your tour, you will cycle on peaceful paths through the dunes to Wassenaarse Slag, where you can see the remains of the Atlantikwall. You can see five bunkers here, connected by about 3,000-feet-long brick tunnels. These tunnels now serve as a bat reserve. This extended route continues through the dunes to Katwijk aan Zee, an old fishing village with its own dialect of Dutch called "Kattuks"! Following the Oude Rijn (Old Rhine), you'll bike to Leiden where the ship is moored. You can visit any of the 14 museums here!Day 5: Leiden - visit to Keukenhof by public transport
You have the chance to visit the Keukenhof gardens today. These gardens are regarded as the most beautiful spring park in the world as the Keukenhof is where spring breaks. The various gardens and gardening styles can be found here, including the English Landscape Garden, the Historical Garden, the Natural Garden, the Formal Garden, and three special colors gardens! There are about 80 sculptures from famous Dutch artists and several other art objects— such as the collection "Surprising Tulips"—spread throughout this park.Day 6: Leiden - via flower bulb fields - Haarlem, 24 mi. (37 km)
As you leave Leiden for Haarlem, take in the scenery of the gorgeous flower beds. From March to May, these bulb fields are in bloom, beginning with daffodils, then hyacinths, tulips, and, finally, lilies! Upon arrival in Haarlem, you'll take a short tour through the city to see some historic "hofjes" (almshouses) that now often house elderly people. Haarlem is a bustling city with great shopping opportunity! Your ship will stay in the city center overnight, with a splendid view of St Bavo's Church, along with access to the Grote Markt and its many outdoor cafés!Day 7: Haarlem - Amsterdam, 25 mi. (40 km)
The day will begin with a cruise to Spaarndam. Spaarndam is a lovely village on the edge of Haarlem, whose name comes from the dam built in the Spaarne River to limit the risk of flooding from the sea. Here, you'll find a statue of Hansje Brinker, a character from an American novel that saved the country from flooding by putting his finger in the dike. From Spaarndam, the Buitenhuizen ferry will carry you across the North Sea Canal, from which you'll bike to the Zaanse Schans. The Zaanse Schans has traditional weatherboard houses, warehouses, and windmills that will make you feel as though you stepped back into the 17th or 18th century into this lively neighborhood. Visit the cheese farm, a clog-maker, or the old bakery while you're here!Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, your tour ends. Departure from the boat before 10 amFleur, La Mar, Lena Maria & Zwaantje
Day 1: Amsterdam - Spaardnam | Spaarndam - Haarlem, 3 or 8 mi. (6 or 14 km)
Day 2: Haarlem - Keukenhof - Leiden, 23 mi. (38 km)
Day 3: Leiden - Gouda, 19 or 24 mi. (32 or 40 km)
Day 4: Gouda - Alphen a/d Rijn | Alpehn a/d Rijn - Kudelstaart, 12 or 27 mi. (20 or 44 km)
Day 5: Kudelstaart - Flower auction | Aalsmeer - Amsterdam | Amsterdam - Zaanse Schans, 19 or 25 mi. (32 or 41 km).
Day 6: Zaanse Schans - Alkmaar, 18 or 24 mi. (29 or 40 km)
Day 7: Alkmaar - Amsterdam, 22 or 33 mi. (37 or 54 km)
Day 8: Departure from AmsterdamAll distances in italics are covered by ship. The Zwaantje and Fleur will have two tour guides as long as there are 18 or more guests. During days when two distances are possible, and only one tour leader is included, he/she will make a choice to guide the longer or the shorter option after consultation of the group. Not all mentioned highlights will be visited during the short bike option.
Day 1: Amsterdam - Spaarndam | Spaarndam - Haarlem, 3 or 8 mi. (6 or 14 km)
Boarding takes place between 1 and 2 pm. It is possible to bring your luggage on board earlier at 11 am but your cabin will not be ready for check-in. It is important to be on time as the boat leaves the harbor at 2:30 pm. During this first short sailing, you can enjoy coffee, tea, or another beverage, while being introduced to the crew, the boat, and the program ahead. Upon arrival in Haarlem, there is an opportunity to test your bike and to have the necessary adjustments made to ensure a comfortable ride throughout the week! Dinner will be served at 6:30 pm this evening and each evening and on most nights, a town walk will be offered by your guide.Day 2: Haarlem - Keukenhof - Leiden, 23 mi. (38 km)
Get ready to pedal through the oldest tulip fields of Holland, including a visit to the infamous Keukenhof gardens! This is the most beautiful flower garden in the world, an overwhelming blaze of colors as seven million flowering tulips rise up in a magnificent background of traditional and modern gardening architecture. It is here that Spring begins. Hyacinths, narcissus, and many other flowers dazzle as well. After being saturated with color and scent, the cycling continues, ending in the historic city of Leiden, who unabashedly boasts of its own beauty and charm. In the evening, there will be an opportunity to experience this enchanting place for yourself, strolling along the canals and alleyways, viewing the historical buildings, and, like Rembrandt himself, be inspired by its beauty.
Day 3: Leiden - Gouda, 19 or 24 mi. (31 or 40 km)
The day begins with a sailing breakfast! Imagine enjoying your morning coffee as the stunning Dutch scenery passes by! The cycling itinerary begins and leads through the ‘green heart’ of Holland. Near Zoeterwoude, you will visit the cheese farm to learn about the cheese-making process and of course, to sample the wares! Holland is not just famous for its Tulips as you will come to know! In the afternoon, you reach Gouda, famous for the Gouda cheese. If truth be told, Gouda ("How-da" as the locals say) is one of the most popular cheeses in the world, accounting for 50 to 60 percent of the world's cheese consumption, The market square here is lovely with its Gothic town hall and Saint John Cathedral, famous the world over, whose stain glass windows flood the interior with a diffused light and impress with understated elegance.Day 4: Gouda - Alphen a/d Rijn | Alpehn a/d Rijn - Kudelstaart, 12 or 27 mi. (20 or 44 km)
This morning, you stay in Gouda and will have the opportunity to do some shopping and to visit the market square with its cheese weigh house or you can visit the St. John's church. Once back on board the barge, you take off at noon enjoying a light lunch on board. From Alphen aan den Rijn, you bike through the green hear of South Holland via the Drecht River and the Amstel-Drecht channel to Kudelstaart.Day 5: Kudelstaart - Flower auction | Aalsmeer - Amsterdam | Amsterdam - Zaanse Schans, 19 or 25 mi. (32 or 41 km)
Today begins early! Coffee is served at 7 am and then at 7:15, you cycle to the flower auction of Aalsmeer, the largest of Europe. Here huge quantities of flowers are trucked in and sold every day, after which they are distributed all over Europe. Back on board, you will enjoy a late breakfast and then another cycling itinerary takes you through the ‘Amsterdamse Bos’, west of Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans, a unique hamlet where people live and work, with original houses and windmills from the Zaan River area. The hamlet is dominated by fully operating windmills, the oldest built in 1673, for grinding mustard, spices, paint, and oil and for sawing wood into planks. As you walk through the village you will see a clock museum, an old-fashioned grocery store, a house with period furniture, a clog maker, and a cheese farm and get a sense of early history in Holland.Day 6: Zaanse Schans - Alkmaar, 18 or 24 mi. (29 or 40 km)
First on the agenda is the beautiful town of De Rijp. Centuries of history are still evident here in the wooden facades, beautiful church, and town hall. From here, your ride continues across the Beemster Polder, an almost untouched open polder landscape, after which, you visit the former windmill complex of the Schermer Polder and the Schermerhorn Windmill Museum. Then it is off to Alkmaar, known as a Dutch cheese city. As you wander through the streets you'll be amazed by the beauty of Alkmaar's Old Town, with its well-preserved 17th-century buildings and narrow, winding canals! Dinner this evening will be on your own!Day 7: Alkmaar - Amsterdam, 22 or 33 mi. (37 or 54 km)
Once again, this morning, you will enjoy your breakfast as the boat cruises the Dutch canals, followed by Hortus Bulborum, a unique garden museum dedicated to the preservation of rare and historic bulbs. More than 4,000 tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other flowers are planted here. As the cycling continues, you pedal through the unique Waterland back to Amsterdam. In the late afternoon or evening, there is time for a canal tour through the famous canals of the city.Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, your adventure officially ends! Departure from the boat by 9 am.You can view all of our bike & boat tours or look at our featured trips, specials, & news.
Standard Class
Sarah
Day 1: Amsterdam - Spaardnam | Spaarndam - Haarlem, 3 or 8 mi. (6 or 14 km)
Day 2: Haarlem - Keukenhof - Leiden, 23 mi. (38 km)
Day 3: Leiden - Gouda, 22 or 26 mi. (37 or 43 km)
Day 4: Gouda - Alphen a/d Rijn | Alpehn a/d Rijn - Kudelstaart, 12 or 27 mi. (20 or 44 km)
Day 5: Kudelstaart - Flower auction | Aalsmeer - Amsterdam | Amsterdam - Zaanse Schans - Purmerand, 5 mi. + additional 21 mi. (9 + 36 km)
Day 6: Purmerand - Spijkerboor | Spijkerboor - Alkmaar, 18 or 24 mi. (29 or 39 km)
Day 7: Alkmaar - Amsterdam, 22 or 33 mi. (37 or 54 km)
Day 8: Departure from AmsterdamAll distances in italics are covered by ship. The tours on the Sarah will be accompanied by one tour guide. During days when two distances are possible, he/she will make a choice to guide the longer or the shorter option after consultation of the group. Not all mentioned highlights will be visited during the short bike option.
Day 1: Amsterdam - Spaardnam | Spaarndam - Haarlem, 3 or 8 mi. (6 or 14 km)
Boarding takes place between 1 and 2 pm. It is possible to bring your luggage on board earlier at 11 am but your cabin will not be ready for check-in. It is important to be on time as the boat leaves the harbor at 2:00 pm. During this first short sailing, you can enjoy coffee, tea or another beverage, while being introduced to the crew, the boat and the program ahead. Upon arrival in Haarlem, there is an opportunity to test your bike and to have necessary adjustments made to ensure a comfortable ride throughout the week! Dinner will be served at 6:30 pm this evening and each evening and on most nights, a town walk will be offered by your guide.Day 2: Haarlem - Keukenhof - Leiden, 23 mi. (38 km)
Get ready to pedal through the oldest tulip fields of Holland, including a visit to the infamous Keukenhof gardens! This is the most beautiful flower garden in the world, an overwhelming blaze of colors as seven million flowering tulips rise up in a magnificent background of traditional and modern gardening architecture. It is here that Spring begins. Hyacinths, narcissus, and many other flowers dazzle as well. After being saturated with color and scent, the cycling continues ending in the historic city of Leiden, who unabashedly boasts of its own beauty and charm. In the evening, there will be an opportunity to experience this enchanting place for yourself, strolling along the canals and alleyways, viewing the historical buildings, and, like Rembrandt himself, be inspired by its beauty.
Day 3: Leiden - Gouda, 22 or 26 mi. (37 or 43 km)
The day begins with a sailing breakfast! Imagine enjoying your morning coffee as the stunning Dutch scenery passes by! The cycling itinerary begins and leads through the ‘green heart’ of Holland. Near Zoeterwoude, you will visit the cheese farm to learn about the cheese-making process and of course, to sample the wares! Holland is not just famous for its Tulips as you will come to know! In the afternoon, you reach Gouda, famous for the Gouda cheese. If truth be told, Gouda ("How-da" as the locals say) is one of the most popular cheeses in the world, accounting for 50 to 60 percent of the world's cheese consumption, The market square here is lovely with its Gothic town hall and Saint John Cathedral, famous the world over, whose stain glass windows flood the interior with a diffused light and impress with understated elegance.Day 4: Gouda - Alphen a/d Rijn | Alpehn a/d Rijn - Kudelstaart, 12 or 27 mi. (27 or 44 km)
This morning, you stay in Gouda and will have the opportunity to do some shopping and to visit the market square with its cheese weigh house or you can visit the St. John's church. Once back on board the barge, you take off at noon enjoying a light lunch on board. From Alphen aan den Rijn, you bike through the green hear of South Holland via the Drecht River and the Amstel-Drecht channel to Kudelstaart.Day 5: Kudelstaart - Flower auction | Aalsmeer - Amsterdam | Amsterdam - Zaanse Schans - Purmerand, 5 mi. + additional 21 mi. (9 + 36 km)
Today begins early! Coffee is served at 7 am and then at 7:15, you cycle to the flower auction of Aalsmeer, the largest of Europe. Here huge quantities of flowers are trucked in and sold every day, after which they are distributed all over Europe. Back on board, you will enjoy a late breakfast and then another cycling itinerary takes you through the ‘Amsterdamse Bos’, west of Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans, a unique hamlet where people live and work, with original houses and windmills from the Zaan River area. The hamlet is dominated by fully operating windmills, the oldest built in 1673, for grinding mustard, spices, paint, and oil and for sawing wood into planks. As you walk through the village you will see a clock museum, an old-fashioned grocery store, a house with period furniture, a clog maker, and a cheese farm and get a sense of early history in Holland. From Zaanse Schans, it is back on the bike to cycle onward to PurmerandDay 6: Purmerand - Spijkerboor | Spijkerboor - Alkmaar, 18 or 24 mi. (29 or 39 km)
This morning you cycle to the Hortus Bulborum, a unique garden museum dedicated to the preservation of rare and historic bulbs. More than 4,000 tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and other flowers are planted here. Your cycling tour continues to Egmond at the Northsea. The tour goes through the dunes to Alkmaar. This town is known as a Dutch cheese city. As you wander through the streets you’ll be amazed by the beauty of Alkmaar’s Old Town, with its well-preserved 17th century buildings and narrow, winding canals. Dinner in town at your own accountDay 7: Alkmaar - Amsterdam, 22 or 33 mi. (37 or 54 km)
Once again, this morning, you will enjoy your breakfast as the boat cruises the Dutch canals, followed by Hortus Bulborum, a unique garden museum dedicated to the preservation of rare and historic bulbs. More than 4,000 tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other flowers are planted here. As the cycling continues, you pedal through the unique Waterland back to Amsterdam. In the late afternoon or evening, there is time for a canal tour through the famous canals of the city.Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, your adventure officially ends! Departure from the boat by 9 am.
Map
Boats & Bikes
There are several boats/dates possible for your 8 day Tulip Tour. Please visit the corresponding boat pages to read details!
- Magnifique I
Deluxe Class Boat
The totally renovated Magnifique I will join our line-up in 2024, joining her sisters the Magnifique II, III, & IV! Read More
- Magnifique III
Deluxe Class Barge
Following the success of her sister ships, Princesse Royal and the Magnifique II, Magnifique lll was launched in 2018, adding to her owner/captain's portfolio of designing and constructing deluxe ships. The partially covered sundeck with sun loungers and a hot tub provide is the perfect spot for relaxation. The tastefully decorated lounge with large panoramic windows, located on the upper deck is wonderfully inviting and the combined light-filled restaurant, bar, and lounge adds to the ambience. Read More
- Iris
Premium Class Barge
In 2005, the Iris was transformed from a cargo ship to a passenger ship. Her owner, Lenny Versteeg, has lovingly updated and maintained her throughout the years. The interior is fresh, tasteful, and comfortable. Read More
- Allure
Comfort Class Barge
In 1998, the Allure took to the water as a cruise vessel, but after undergoing a rejuvenating restyle, was transformed into a welcoming and cozy passenger barge boasting sleek lines and contemporary design. Since then, the Allure has become a staple for boat and bike tours across the picturesque regions of the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. Read More
- Feniks
Comfort Class Boat
This comfortable little vessel is the pride and joy of its captain/owner, Marius. As is true for many of our boats, the Feniks was originally built as a freighter, but then converted into a hotel passenger ship in 1992. Since then, she has undergone several renovations. Wearing her history well, you will find a welcoming atmosphere on board, a crew ready to serve, and great food showcasing local cuisine featuring fresh fruits and vegetables straight from the market to the table. Read More
- Fleur
Comfort Class Barge
This vessel was originally built to fit the smaller locks and canals in France and has been cruising the French waters ever since. Though not a large boat, the atmosphere onboard is homey and comfortable. You will love the upper deck lounge with large windows and the partially covered sun deck, the ideal place to sip a beverage, enjoy an appetizer, and passing scenery while cruising. Read More
- La Mar
Comfort Class Barge
Previously known as the Fiep, the La Mar 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. Read More
- Lena Maria
Comfort Class Barge
The barge Lena Maria is a former freight ship rebuilt in 2004 into a comfortable cruise barge. In 2020, owners Eelke and Carlijn renovated the main gathering spaces, bringing a fresh and modern look to the space. They will continue to update this vessel into 2023, the cabins will have air conditioning which will result in the Lena Maria moving up to the premium class. There is a lounge for relaxation with many windows to create an open atmosphere and allows for a nice view while motoring. There… Read More
- Zwaantje
Comfort Class Barge
The MPS Zwaantje, which means "Little Swan", is a wonderful comfort class barge. The boat has 10 cabins with twin beds and 2 cabins with double beds. A large common room with heating, air conditioning, large panoramic windows, a restaurant area, lounge corner, and a small bar are on the upper deck. Read More
- Sarah
Standard Class Boat
After years of use as a cargo ship, the Sarah was transformed into a passenger boat in 2002. The interior has been designed to take full advantage of the space with an emphasis on comfort. Read More
Inclusions
What’s Included
Magnifiques
- Accommodation for 7 nights
- Breakfasts, packed lunches, & 6 three-course dinners
- Complimentary welcome drink
- Coffee & tea are available while on board
- 7-speed city touring bike with helmet, pannier & water bottle
- Bike Protection
- Cycling tour guide (two tour guides for groups of 18 or more)
- Entrance to Keukenhof
- Entrance North Holland Dune Reserve
- Entrance Aalsmeer flower auction
- Visit an authentic Dutch cheese farm
- Route information
- GPS tracks via Ride With GPS app (sent approx. one month before tour date)
- WiFi (Due to the steel construction of the ship, signal strength and speed may not be what you are accustomed to)
- Carbon offset contribution to Justdiggit
- Accommodations for 7 nights
- Breakfasts & 6 packed lunches
- 6 dinners served with a glass of wine or beer
- Coffee & tea on board
- Daily cabin cleaning
- 8-speed city touring bicycle equipped with panniers, helmet & water bottle
- Bike Protection
- Cycling tour guide (two tour guides for groups of 18 or more)
- Route information
- Entrance to the Hortus Bulborum, Keukenhof, Cheese Farm, & the Castle de Haar
- WiFi (Due to the steel construction of the ship, signal strength and speed may not be what you are accustomed to)
- Accommodations for 7 nights
- Breakfasts, packed lunches, & 6 three-course dinners
- Complimentary welcome drink
- Coffee & tea available while on board
- Fleur: 11-speed Gudereit unisex city touring bicycle equipped with handbrakes, water bottle, lock, & pannier. Bike Protection included.
- Zwaantje: 21-seed unisex city touring bicycle equipped with handbrakes, water bottle, lock, & pannier. Bike Protection included.
- Helmets
- Cycling tour guide (two tour guides for groups of 18 or more)
- Entrance to Keukenhof
- Entrance North Holland Dune Reserve
- Entrance Aalsmeer flower auction
- Visit an authentic Dutch cheese farm
- Route information
- GPS tracks via Ride With GPS app (sent approx. one month before tour date)
- WiFi (Due to the steel construction of the ship, signal strength and speed may not be what you are accustomed to)
- Carbon offset contribution to Justdiggit
- Accommodations for 7 nights in air conditioned cabin
- Breakfast, packed lunches, & 6 dinners
- 21 speed bicycle with pannier, water bottle, and lock
- Multilingual tour guide
- Daily light cabin cleaning
- Laundry service (clothes are returned clean but not dry. Clothes can be hung midship)
- Coffee, tea, and biscuits throughout the day
- Afternoon snacks after cycling
- Entrance to the Keukenhof and Kinderdijk
- Accommodation for 7 nights
- Breakfasts, packed lunches & 6 dinners
- Welcome drink
- Coffee & tea on board
- Daily cabin cleaning
- 7-speed Velo de Ville brand touring bicycle with hand brakes, equipped with helmet, & pannier
- Cycling tour guide
- Entrance to Keukenhof
- Route information
- GPS tracks (sent approx. one month before tour date)
- WiFi (Due to steel construction of ship, signal strength and speed may not be what you are accustomed to. Surcharge may apply, depending on the amount of data used)
Iris
Zwaantje & Fleur
Feniks
Allure & Sarah
What’s Not Included
Magnifiques
- 1 Dinner (in Alkmaar)
- Drinks other than those mentioned
- Any entrance fee not mentioned as included
- Gratuities
- Travel Insurance
- 1 dinner
- Drinks other than those mentioned
- Entrance fees for museums, monuments, etc. other than those mentioned
- Gratuities
- Travel Insurance
- Drinks on board and ashore
- Entrance fees not mentioned
- Gratuities
- Bike Protection
- Travel Insurance
- Drinks other than those mentioned
- Entrance fees for museums, monuments, etc. other than those mentioned
- 1 dinner in Alkmaar
- Gratuities
- Bike Protection (Sarah & Allure)
- Travel Insurance
Iris
Feniks
Fleur, Zwaantje, Allure & Sarah
Dates & Pricing
Iris
Thursday departures
April 3, April 10, April 17, April 24 & May 1, 2025April 3 All other departures Twin/double $ 3386 £ 1719 $ 3,099 € 2010 Ft 836919 kr 305098 ₪ 8336 ¥ 339720 Mex$ 44919 NZ$ 3725 kr 24559 zł 8943 S$ 2945 kr 23880 CHF 1934 $ 2,222 $ 3807 £ 1932 $ 3,485 € 2260 Ft 941013 kr 343046 ₪ 9373 ¥ 381974 Mex$ 50506 NZ$ 4188 kr 27614 zł 10055 S$ 3312 kr 26850 CHF 2175 $ 2,498 Twin/single-use On request On request Extra Options
Electric bike rental $ 219 £ 111 $ 200 € 130 Ft 54129 kr 19733 ₪ 539 ¥ 21972 Mex$ 2905 NZ$ 241 kr 1588 zł 578 S$ 190 kr 1544 CHF 125 $ 144 Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Feniks
April 7, April 14, April 21 & April 28, 2025
Luxury twin $ 2931 £ 1488 $ 2,683 € 1740 Ft 724497 kr 264115 ₪ 7217 ¥ 294086 Mex$ 38885 NZ$ 3225 kr 21260 zł 7742 S$ 2550 kr 20672 CHF 1674 $ 1,923 Regular twin $ 2594 £ 1317 $ 2,375 € 1540 Ft 641221 kr 233757 ₪ 6387 ¥ 260283 Mex$ 34416 NZ$ 2854 kr 18817 zł 6852 S$ 2257 kr 18296 CHF 1482 $ 1,702 Bunk bed/double use $ 2308 £ 1171 $ 2,113 € 1370 Ft 570437 kr 207952 ₪ 5682 ¥ 231551 Mex$ 30617 NZ$ 2539 kr 16739 zł 6095 S$ 2008 kr 16276 CHF 1318 $ 1,514 Bunk bed/single use $ 3091 £ 1569 $ 2,830 € 1835 Ft 764053 kr 278535 ₪ 7611 ¥ 310143 Mex$ 41009 NZ$ 3401 kr 22421 zł 8164 S$ 2689 kr 21801 CHF 1766 $ 2,028 Fleur
Sunday departures
Season A: March 30, 2025
Season B: April 6, April 13, April 20, April 27, 2025Season A Season B Twin/double $ 2828 £ 1436 $ 2,589 € 1679 Ft 699098 kr 254856 ₪ 6964 ¥ 283776 Mex$ 37522 NZ$ 3112 kr 20515 zł 7470 S$ 2460 kr 19947 CHF 1616 $ 1,856 $ 3249 £ 1649 $ 2,975 € 1929 Ft 803192 kr 292803 ₪ 8000 ¥ 326030 Mex$ 43109 NZ$ 3575 kr 23570 zł 8582 S$ 2827 kr 22917 CHF 1856 $ 2,132 Twin/single-use $ 4134 £ 2098 $ 3,784 € 2454 Ft 1021790 kr 372493 ₪ 10178 ¥ 414763 Mex$ 54842 NZ$ 4548 kr 29984 zł 10918 S$ 3596 kr 29155 CHF 2361 $ 2,712 $ 4765 £ 2419 $ 4,362 € 2829 Ft 1177932 kr 429414 ₪ 11733 ¥ 478143 Mex$ 63222 NZ$ 5243 kr 34566 zł 12587 S$ 4145 kr 33610 CHF 2722 $ 3,127 La Mar
Friday departures
Season A: March 28, 2025
Season B: April 11, 2025Season A Season B Twin/double $ 2828 £ 1436 $ 2,589 € 1679 Ft 699098 kr 254856 ₪ 6964 ¥ 283776 Mex$ 37522 NZ$ 3112 kr 20515 zł 7470 S$ 2460 kr 19947 CHF 1616 $ 1,856 $ 3249 £ 1649 $ 2,975 € 1929 Ft 803192 kr 292803 ₪ 8000 ¥ 326030 Mex$ 43109 NZ$ 3575 kr 23570 zł 8582 S$ 2827 kr 22917 CHF 1856 $ 2,132 Twin/split level bed $ 2575 £ 1307 $ 2,358 € 1529 Ft 636641 kr 232087 ₪ 6341 ¥ 258424 Mex$ 34170 NZ$ 2834 kr 18682 zł 6803 S$ 2241 kr 18165 CHF 1471 $ 1,690 $ 2997 £ 1521 $ 2,743 € 1779 Ft 740735 kr 270035 ₪ 7378 ¥ 300678 Mex$ 39757 NZ$ 3297 kr 21737 zł 7915 S$ 2607 kr 21135 CHF 1712 $ 1,966 Twin/split level bed for single use $ 3755 £ 1906 $ 3,437 € 2229 Ft 928105 kr 338340 ₪ 9245 ¥ 376734 Mex$ 49814 NZ$ 4131 kr 27235 zł 9917 S$ 3266 kr 26481 CHF 2145 $ 2,464 $ 4386 £ 2226 $ 4,015 € 2604 Ft 1084247 kr 395261 ₪ 10800 ¥ 440115 Mex$ 58194 NZ$ 4826 kr 31817 zł 11586 S$ 3816 kr 30937 CHF 2506 $ 2,878 Lena Maria
Friday departures
Season A: March 28, 2025
Season B: April 4, April 11, April 25 & May 2, 2025Season A Season B Twin/double $ 2828 £ 1436 $ 2,589 € 1679 Ft 699098 kr 254856 ₪ 6964 ¥ 283776 Mex$ 37522 NZ$ 3112 kr 20515 zł 7470 S$ 2460 kr 19947 CHF 1616 $ 1,856 $ 3249 £ 1649 $ 2,975 € 1929 Ft 803192 kr 292803 ₪ 8000 ¥ 326030 Mex$ 43109 NZ$ 3575 kr 23570 zł 8582 S$ 2827 kr 22917 CHF 1856 $ 2,132 Twin/single-use $ 4134 £ 2098 $ 3,784 € 2454 Ft 1021790 kr 372493 ₪ 10178 ¥ 414763 Mex$ 54842 NZ$ 4548 kr 29984 zł 10918 S$ 3596 kr 29155 CHF 2361 $ 2,712 $ 4765 £ 2419 $ 4,362 € 2829 Ft 1177932 kr 429414 ₪ 11733 ¥ 478143 Mex$ 63222 NZ$ 5243 kr 34566 zł 12587 S$ 4145 kr 33610 CHF 2722 $ 3,127 Zwaantje
Saturday departures
Season A: March 29, 2025
Season B: April 5, April 19 & April 26, 2025Season A Season B Twin/double $ 2828 £ 1436 $ 2,589 € 1679 Ft 699098 kr 254856 ₪ 6964 ¥ 283776 Mex$ 37522 NZ$ 3112 kr 20515 zł 7470 S$ 2460 kr 19947 CHF 1616 $ 1,856 $ 3249 £ 1649 $ 2,975 € 1929 Ft 803192 kr 292803 ₪ 8000 ¥ 326030 Mex$ 43109 NZ$ 3575 kr 23570 zł 8582 S$ 2827 kr 22917 CHF 1856 $ 2,132 Twin/single-use $ 4134 £ 2098 $ 3,784 € 2454 Ft 1021790 kr 372493 ₪ 10178 ¥ 414763 Mex$ 54842 NZ$ 4548 kr 29984 zł 10918 S$ 3596 kr 29155 CHF 2361 $ 2,712 $ 4386 £ 2226 $ 4,015 € 2604 Ft 1084247 kr 395261 ₪ 10800 ¥ 440115 Mex$ 58194 NZ$ 4826 kr 31817 zł 11586 S$ 3816 kr 30937 CHF 2506 $ 2,878 Extra Options
Fleur, La Mar, Lena Maria & Zwaantje
Electric bike rental (limited number available, please reserve in advance) $ 271 £ 138 $ 248 € 161 Ft 67037 kr 24438 ₪ 668 ¥ 27211 Mex$ 3598 NZ$ 298 kr 1967 zł 716 S$ 236 kr 1913 CHF 155 $ 178 Discounted canal cruise ticket $ 30 £ 15 $ 28 € 18 Ft 7495 kr 2732 ₪ 75 ¥ 3042 Mex$ 402 NZ$ 33 kr 220 zł 80 S$ 26 kr 214 CHF 17 $ 20 Feniks
Electric bike rental $ 152 £ 77 $ 139 € 90 Ft 37474 kr 13661 ₪ 373 ¥ 15211 Mex$ 2011 NZ$ 167 kr 1100 zł 400 S$ 132 kr 1069 CHF 87 $ 99 Special dietary requests (gluten-free/dairy free) $ 135 £ 68 $ 123 € 80 Ft 33310 kr 12143 ₪ 332 ¥ 13521 Mex$ 1788 NZ$ 148 kr 977 zł 356 S$ 117 kr 950 CHF 77 $ 88 Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Flora
Saturday departures
April 5, April 19 & April 26, 2025April departures Twin/double $ 2535 £ 1287 $ 2,321 € 1505 Ft 626648 kr 228444 ₪ 6242 ¥ 254368 Mex$ 33634 NZ$ 2789 kr 18389 zł 6696 S$ 2205 kr 17880 CHF 1448 $ 1,663 Twin/double for single-use $ 3510 £ 1782 $ 3,214 € 2084 Ft 867731 kr 316331 ₪ 8643 ¥ 352227 Mex$ 46573 NZ$ 3862 kr 25464 zł 9272 S$ 3054 kr 24759 CHF 2005 $ 2,303 Triple* $ 2367 £ 1201 $ 2,167 € 1405 Ft 585010 kr 213265 ₪ 5827 ¥ 237466 Mex$ 31399 NZ$ 2604 kr 17167 zł 6251 S$ 2059 kr 16692 CHF 1352 $ 1,553 *Only suitable for a child, max. 2 cabins per tour date
Gandalf
Saturday departures
April 26, 2025April departures Twin/double $ 2535 £ 1287 $ 2,321 € 1505 Ft 626648 kr 228444 ₪ 6242 ¥ 254368 Mex$ 33634 NZ$ 2789 kr 18389 zł 6696 S$ 2205 kr 17880 CHF 1448 $ 1,663 Twin/double for single-use $ 3510 £ 1782 $ 3,214 € 2084 Ft 867731 kr 316331 ₪ 8643 ¥ 352227 Mex$ 46573 NZ$ 3862 kr 25464 zł 9272 S$ 3054 kr 24759 CHF 2005 $ 2,303 Triple cabin $ 2434 £ 1235 $ 2,228 € 1445 Ft 601665 kr 219337 ₪ 5993 ¥ 244227 Mex$ 32293 NZ$ 2678 kr 17656 zł 6429 S$ 2117 kr 17167 CHF 1390 $ 1,597 Sarah
Saturday departures
March 29, April 5, April 12, April 19 & April 26, 2025March 29 April departures Twin/double $ 2350 £ 1193 $ 2,151 € 1395 Ft 580846 kr 211747 ₪ 5786 ¥ 235776 Mex$ 31175 NZ$ 2585 kr 17045 zł 6207 S$ 2044 kr 16573 CHF 1342 $ 1,542 $ 2535 £ 1287 $ 2,321 € 1505 Ft 626648 kr 228444 ₪ 6242 ¥ 254368 Mex$ 33634 NZ$ 2789 kr 18389 zł 6696 S$ 2205 kr 17880 CHF 1448 $ 1,663 Twin/double for single-use $ 3428 £ 1740 $ 3,138 € 2035 Ft 847328 kr 308893 ₪ 8440 ¥ 343946 Mex$ 45478 NZ$ 3771 kr 24865 zł 9054 S$ 2982 kr 24177 CHF 1958 $ 2,249 $ 3510 £ 1782 $ 3,214 € 2084 Ft 867731 kr 316331 ₪ 8643 ¥ 352227 Mex$ 46573 NZ$ 3862 kr 25464 zł 9272 S$ 3054 kr 24759 CHF 2005 $ 2,303 Triple* $ 2249 £ 1141 $ 2,059 € 1335 Ft 555864 kr 202640 ₪ 5537 ¥ 225635 Mex$ 29835 NZ$ 2474 kr 16312 zł 5940 S$ 1956 kr 15860 CHF 1285 $ 1,476 $ 2367 £ 1201 $ 2,167 € 1405 Ft 585010 kr 213265 ₪ 5827 ¥ 237466 Mex$ 31399 NZ$ 2604 kr 17167 zł 6251 S$ 2059 kr 16692 CHF 1352 $ 1,553 *Only suitable for a child, max. 2 cabins per tour date
Extra Options
Electric bike rental $ 259 £ 132 $ 237 € 154 Ft 64122 kr 23376 ₪ 639 ¥ 26028 Mex$ 3442 NZ$ 285 kr 1882 zł 685 S$ 226 kr 1830 CHF 148 $ 170 Helmet rental $ 17 £ 9 $ 15 € 10 Ft 4164 kr 1518 ₪ 41 ¥ 1690 Mex$ 223 NZ$ 19 kr 122 zł 44 S$ 15 kr 119 CHF 10 $ 11 Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy
An easy, guided bike and boat tour with average daily distances between 15 and 34 miles (25 and 55 km).
Airport Info
The closest international airport to your tour start is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS).
Local Travel
From AMS airport, it is just a short train ride to Amsterdam Central Train Station, close to the center where the ships are moored. Depending on your boat, sometimes the mooring location is within walking distance, or only a short taxi ride away. In your final travel information, we will also provide details regarding public transportation is necessary.
Climate
Please note: Tulip season in Holland extends from the end of March to the beginning of May but is dependent on temperatures and the weather. We cannot predict the weather (we wish we could) so we cannot predict when the peak season will be! Please check local conditions prior to arrival. Holland is near or below sea level and experiences a Maritime climate influenced by the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean and has the perfect climate and soil for the Tulips. The Dutch have a saying “April doet wat hij wil”. It means that April does whatever it wishes to do. Keep this in mind as you pack for your cycling holiday. Though cooler in April, the sun does shine on average 177 hours. Don’t forget your layers and your rain gear!
Day of Rest
Any day can be designated a day of rest by remaining on board.
Recommended
For the Allure, Sarah, Lena Maria, Fleur, and Zwaantje & Magnifiques:
Discounted ticket for a 1-hour canal cruise through Amsterdam is available. Please book your ticket in advance and you can collect it on board on the first day of the tour. Discounted price is available for €18.Remarks
For tours on the Allure, Sarah, Fleur, Zwaantje, & Magnifiques:
You can enhance your experience by downloading the Ride With GPS app for free on your mobile phone which will then serve as your cycling navigation device and bike route mapping tool, in addition to traditional printed route notes and maps. After installing the app, you can download the tour maps and daily itineraries directly to your smartphone. The app provides voice navigation for all the routes and allows you to access your tour content anytime, even offline. About four weeks before your cycling vacation, you will receive a code in your final tour information that will grant you access to your specific tour.Important to know
Travel documents
Before you travel, please check your passport expiration and the passport and visa requirements of the country/countries you plan to visit. For US citizens, the US Department of State website is a good source of information. The Country Information tab in the International Travel section provides details about passport validity, blank passport pages required, etc.
*Important note: Please check on the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) status as once implemented, this will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.
Extra Stay
Extra time in Amsterdam is always recommended. There is so much to do and see. We advise Booking.com for researching and reserving your extra nights. You can read a detailed description of the hotels offered including a clear listing of amenities, customer reviews, and ratings.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by MPS Iris BV & Boat Bike Tours.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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