Bike & Barge Holland Tours
On the North - South Tulip Tour we cycle through the North and South Holland regions of the Netherlands. This tour is incredibly popular as it features many popular cities, windmills, dunes, islands, fishing villages, and Dutch heritage of the 17th-Century. A unique highlight of these April tours is the Keukenhof Gardens including various bulb flowers and tulips. This route journeys along the coast of North Sea and the IJsselmeer.
Tulip
North–South
Tour 1:
April 2-16, 2027
Schip Josefien
Tour 2: Sold Out
April 16-30, 2027
Schip Josefien
The Essentials
Discover the defining elements of the Tulip North-South tour, a premium 15-day cycling journey designed to showcase the vibrant heart of the Netherlands during peak spring bloom.
- Scenic Route: Featuring the bigger and more well-known cities of Holland riding along the coasts of the Ijsselmeer and the North Sea.
- Top Experiences: Visits to the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens and the 19 UNESCO windmills at Kinderdijk among many other experiences.
- Activity Level: Moderate daily cycling distance (20-45 miles) on flat Dutch 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: Specifically scheduled departures in April to ensure you experience the Dutch flora at its most spectacular peak of the bulb season. Waterproof rain gear is a must for every tour, but especially this one!
Your Journey
DAY 1 - FRIDAY (OPTIONAL START DAY)
Evening Arrival and Amsterdam Bed & Breakfast
Welcome aboard Schip Josefien at Veemkade in Amsterdam. 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 Amsterdam's charming local eateries and canals at your leisure.
DAY 2 - SATURDAY
Sailing South
Savor breakfast on the barge before we set sail at 1:00 PM sharp. Please be on board by noon with your lunch. We will enjoy a peaceful opening cruise followed by a brief afternoon cycle to test your bikes as we make our way toward the historic harbor of Volendam. We will celebrate our first evening together with a delicious group dinner served on board.
DAYS 3-12
Tour Adventure:
Your journey begins with a scenic ride through the Green Heart toward Gouda, where you can admire the medieval town hall and sample the region’s famous cheese. From there, you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed windmills of Kinderdijk, followed by a visit to Rotterdam, known for its striking modern architecture and impressive riverside bridges. The route continues to Delft, where you’ll discover the artistry behind its world-renowned blue porcelain.
As you travel onward, you’ll stop in The Hague to visit landmarks like the Peace Palace and the Mauritshuis. A relaxing rest day awaits in Leiden, offering time to explore its charming canals and local markets. The trip also includes a visit to Keukenhof Gardens, where millions of vibrant bulbs bloom in spectacular displays.
Continuing north, you’ll ride to Haarlem to see the lively Grote Markt and the Frans Hals Museum. The adventure then takes you along the North Sea dunes to Alkmaar, famous for its traditional cheese market, before heading onward to Texel Island. Finally, you’ll pedal through the historic harbor towns surrounding the IJsselmeer, completing a rich and varied cycling experience.
Please note that the itinerary is subject to change based on route closures, detours, and weather conditions.
DAY 13 - WEDNESDAY
Return to Amsterdam's Heart
A final cycle into the city and festive 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.