Bike & Barge Holland Tours
The Bruges - Gent - Amsterdam tour, a northbound western route, begins in
Bruges with a loop in Belgium before heading to the Netherlands. Once in the Netherlands, travel north via the coast of Zeeland. Enjoy stops in Dordrecht and Gouda, before finally arriving in Amsterdam. This route celebrates medieval Flanders region of Belgium and the coastal towns of the Netherlands.
Bruges
to
Amsterdam
Tour 7:
September 17 - October 1, 2027
Schip Josefien
The Essentials
- Scenic Route: This route celebrates medieval Flanders region of Belgium and the coastal towns of the Netherlands.
- Top Experiences: Cycle around Bruges, a day off in Gent, and making stops in beautiful Antwerp, Gouda, and Dordrecht. Exploring the beauty of medieval Flanders and coastal Zeeland.
- Activity Level: Moderate daily cycling distance (20-45 miles) on flat Dutch and Flemmish bike paths, suitable for regular riders and leisure enthusiasts. There is a short group and long group depending on how many miles you prefer to cycle daily. Or you have the option to take the day off and travel on the barge to the next destination.
- Tour Length: 14 days of immersive exploration, including 14 nights of floating accommodation and chef-prepared meals. Not included is dinner on the Bed & Breakfast night and on the final full day of the tour in Amsterdam.
- Bicycles: Included is a premium touring bicycle. 21-speed hybrid bike and your choice of a cross bar bike or a step through bike.
- Floating Home: Unpack once and travel aboard the family-operated Schip Josefien.
- Seasonal Timing: September brings cooler late-summer weather and fewer tourists. Waterproof rain gear is a must for every tour.
Your Journey
DAY 1 - FRIDAY (OPTIONAL START DAY)
Evening Arrival and Bruges Bed & Breakfast
Welcome aboard Schip Josefien in Bruges, Belgium. Check-in starts at 3:00 PM, though you can drop bags earlier while we prep your room. Your adventure begins with a cozy Bed & Breakfast stay in the city heart. Nighttime is yours to discover Bruges' charming local eateries and cityscape at your leisure.
DAY 2 - SATURDAY
Sailing North
The amazing medieval center of Bruges is on the list of Unecso World Heritage Sites
and is possibly the most renowned historic Flemish city. Here our northbound western route starts with an afternoon of biking to the historic suburb of Damme. After a city walk in Bruges the barge sails out the same night.
DAYS 3-12
Tour Adventure:
Before heading north to the Netherlands, we make a loop through Flanders, visiting Kortrijk and Ypres. Ypres, once devastated during the World War I, has been beautifully restored. Its former Cloth Hall now houses a powerful museum dedicated to the events that unfolded across the very fields you cycle through.
The route continues along the scenic Leie River valley to Ghent, one of Flanders’ true hidden gems. Birthplace of Charles V, Ghent offers a perfect setting for a rest day. Stroll its lively streets, explore museums and churches, and take in the iconic view from St. Michael’s Bridge of the city’s three towers—St. Nicholas' Church, the Belfry, and St. Bavo's Cathedral. Be sure to sample Belgium’s renowned chocolates and beers before continuing north.
In the Dutch province of Zeeland, we visit Vlissingen, Middelburg, and the historic towns of Veere and Zierikzee. A highlight is cycling across the impressive Eastern Scheldt Storm Surge Barrier, a masterpiece of Dutch water engineering.
Continuing into South Holland, we visit Kinderdijk, home to 19 iconic windmills recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The journey then leads through Dordrecht and Gouda before ending in Amsterdam, where you’ll spend your final full day.
DAY 13 - WEDNESDAY
Return to Amsterdam's Heart
A final cycle into the city and festive farewell dinner.
DAY 14 - THURSDAY
Spend the day exploring! Enjoy a final dinner in Amsterdam on your own terms.
Exploring Amsterdam
DAY 15 - FRIDAY
Final Morning and Departure
After a light breakfast, a van transfer to Schiphol Airport is provided for all departing guests by 9:00 AM. Please note that later departures or other destinations are at your own expense.
What's Included
- Twin/double cabin on a premium barge with private facilities
- Full board meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, and 3-course dinners
- Professional tour guide leading all daily cycling excursions
- High-quality rental bike with waterproof pannier and equipment
- Ferry crossings, harbor fees, and local tourist taxes
- Historical city tours and entrance fees to museums and landmarks
- Laundry Service on Schip Josefien for additional fee
- Gratuity for crew and guides
- Van transport back to Schipol Airport by 9am (earlier if needed) on the last day of the tour.
Notable Exclusions
- Arrival and departure travel to Amsterdam
- Mandatory personal travel and cancellation insurance
- Optional E-bike upgrade ($350 / tour, limited availability)
- Bar consumption and personal drinks on board
- Daily Cabin cleanings not available on Schip Josefien.