Essential Holland: Tulips in Spring
Picking the best time to visit Holland and Belgium is a breeze — it's tulip time! Cruise the waterways of the Low Countries at this ideal time of year on a Vantage European river cruise favorite.
Tour of Antwerp
Antwerp Walking Tour including a visit to the Cathedral; where you can can admire paintings of Peter Paul Rubens.
Canal Cruise of Bruges
Walking Tour and Canal Cruise of Bruges, along with free time to explore and try some Belgian treats on your own.
Bulb grower Farm
Visit an authentic bulb grower farm and listen to a real bulb grower discuss the flower trade business
Take a Ride on the Canals of Amsterdam
Amsterdam, often referred to as the Venice of the North, is well-known for its canal system, which you will have plenty of time to take in during your Holland cruise. Built in the 17th century, Amsterdam's canal systems remain an important transportation link, forming four concentric circles around the city. Ride along these serene canals and note the fascinating historic buildings as well as the picturesque bridges as you leisurely pass under them. Many of the riverside buildings are marked with original artwork, which helped the city's illiterate citizens find their way around back when they were built.
Keukenhof Flower Park
Keukenhof Gardens, one of the largest gardens in the world, is the premier showcase for hundreds of Dutch professional growers to display their dazzling blooms. Walk along the paths and admire the colorful explosion of more than seven million flower bulbs, some incredibly rare.
Kinderdijk Windmills: History in Motion
Windmills have protected the Dutch countryside for centuries. Of these, the most famous today are the 19 windmills of Kinderdijk. When you join Vantage Deluxe World Travel on a river cruise through Holland, you’ll enjoy an up-close view of these charming relics of Dutch history.
Kröeller Müeller Museum
Visit the Kröeller-Müller Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of Van Gogh's work as well as an vast sculpture garden.
Cooking Classes
Discover tricks of the trade during exclusive cooking workshops that showcase recipes of local favorites.
Health & Wellness During Your European River Cruise
Our tours are designed to help you get out and explore, no matter your activity level. Ideally paced and full of options, our trips put you in control, whether you want to “do it all” or unplug and do nothing. Join a walking tour to the next village, or cycle alongside a Dutch canal with one of the complimentary bikes we offer on board. Plus, you’ll have ample free time to experience the world in your own unique fashion.
Optional Extension to Brussels
After your tulip time cruise, why not visit another exciting destination in Europe? Brussels is a city of contrasts, from stately Art Nouveau to gleaming glass modernity, and you'll explore its many facets on this exciting extension. You'll stay at a centrally-located hotel, with included breakfast each morning. Discover the city's pretty squares and elegant architecture on an included half-day panoramic city tour. During your free time, consider a fascinating optional excursion to Ghent. En route to Amsterdam, you'll enjoy an included visit to Peace Palace (or Maduradam if Peace Palace is not available), which houses the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the Hague Academy of International Law, and the extensive Peace Palace Library. You'll be thoroughly pleased you enhanced your European river cruise with this magnificent extension!
Optional Extension to Paris, France
Paris never goes out of style. So, let Vantage return you — or introduce you — to this timeless capital on a romantic 3-night extension. You’ll be seduced by the city’s intoxicating allure, where every corner offers the chance to fall in love — whether with the Mona Lisa on a tour of the Louvre, or with the luscious food!/p>
Erna Hoek, Cruise Director, Holland & Belgium
Originally from the Netherlands, Erna originally studied journalism, but began a professional career as a tour guide in the U.S. after backpacking through the country on a six-month journey. Erna believes that the key to her success as a Cruise Director is her firsthand knowledge of both American and European cultures. "I can draw many comparisons between the two," she says. “Although in many ways our lives may seem the same, there are huge and very interesting differences to learn about.” Erna loves to travel and is an avid reader. "Erna was very articulate, knowledgeable and pleasant. She was accessible plus ready to answer all questions, and provided a great cultural experience because she has lived in the U.S. and the Netherlands."
Martin Kratkoczky, Cruise Director
Meet Cruise Director Martin Kratkoczky, who fills you in on some of the things you can expect on your journey.
The ms River Splendor
Unpack just once, relax, and discover the most luxurious and rewarding way to see Europe. The Deluxe ship, the
ms River Splendor, has been designed specifically for the discerning traveler, with spacious staterooms, a state-of-the-art infotainment system, gourmet international dining, themed lounges, complimentary Concierge service, and a crew-to-passenger ratio of better than 1:4.
Owner's Suite on the ms River Splendor
The 330 square-foot Owner's Suite has all the features of a Deluxe Suite, including floor to ceiling windows with remote control curtains; private airport transfers upon arrival and departure from your destination when you purchase Vantage air, laundry service, and more.
Deluxe Suites on the ms River Splendor
Make the most of your journey by upgrading to a 250-square-foot Deluxe Suite at a surprisingly reasonable price. Your Deluxe Suite includes all of the amenities of Deluxe Staterooms, plus a minibar, luxurious bathrobes and slippers, a bathroom with a shower and bathtub, and more.
Deluxe Staterooms on the ms River Splendor
Join us and unpack just once in your private stateroom. All staterooms face outside and feature a glorious view. Deluxe staterooms on the Navigator deck have French balconies, which offer the best of all worlds: grand, panoramic views and the ability to open your room to fresh river breezes — without reducing valuable interior space, the way a traditional balcony does.
Single Staterooms on the ms River Splendor
If you're traveling solo, you'll also have the choice of reserving a single cabin so you don't have to pay based on double-room rates. (Availability is limited, so reserve promptly if interested.)
