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Holland & Belgium in Bloom

Holland & Belgium in Bloom

About This Cruise

A fascinating trip through time, this wonderful itinerary acknowledges the history of working Dutch communities, dating as far back as the 13th century, before an excursion to the Storm Surge Barrier exemplifies the excellence of modern technology. Discover what attracts art-lovers to Antwerp’s intriguing medieval heart, before technicolour Amsterdam and Keukenhof Gardens create a lasting impression on the senses.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Adults only

    Emerald Destiny is an adults-only ship

  • Couples

    An adults-only atmosphere made for two

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

Emerald Destiny

Departure Date

5 April 2027

Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Duration

7 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Itinerary

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Welcome to the Netherlands. Here, you will be met at the airport by one of our Emerald Cruises representatives and transferred to your contemporary Emerald Star-Ship.

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Beyond Amsterdam’s storied canals, a gentler rhythm unfolds as you venture into the Dutch countryside.Included ExcursionTour to Zaanse Schans windmillsTravel to the charming village of Zaanse Schans, just north of Amsterdam. It’s famous for its picturesque windmills on the edge of the water, traditional green wooden houses and artisan workshops making traditional handicrafts. This is a quintessentially Dutch town where the smell of freshly baked goods and the sight of spinning windmills offer a truly memorable experienceEmeraldACTIVEGuided e-bike tour to WaterlandEnjoy an active cycling tour of the pretty Waterland area, famed for its green landscapes, winding canals and charming villages. Accompanied by a local guide, it’s a relaxed ride on flat ground that will immerse you in Dutch daily life.EmeraldPLUSClog painting on boardRelax on board your Emerald Star-Ship this afternoon, as a local clog painter will come on board for a demonstration. You’ll also have the opportunity to try your hand at this unique craft.

Netherlands

Zaandam

Beyond Amsterdam’s storied canals, a gentler rhythm unfolds as you venture into the Dutch countryside.Included ExcursionTour to Zaanse Schans windmillsTravel to the charming village of Zaanse Schans, just north of Amsterdam. It’s famous for its picturesque windmills on the edge of the water, traditional green wooden houses and artisan workshops making traditional handicrafts. This is a quintessentially Dutch town where the smell of freshly baked goods and the sight of spinning windmills offer a truly memorable experienceEmeraldACTIVEGuided e-bike tour to WaterlandEnjoy an active cycling tour of the pretty Waterland area, famed for its green landscapes, winding canals and charming villages. Accompanied by a local guide, it’s a relaxed ride on flat ground that will immerse you in Dutch daily life.EmeraldPLUSClog painting on boardRelax on board your Emerald Star-Ship this afternoon, as a local clog painter will come on board for a demonstration. You’ll also have the opportunity to try your hand at this unique craft.

Netherlands

Rotterdam

The second-largest city in the Netherlands and the busiest port in Europe, Rotterdam is a modern multicultural hub. Its historic centre was largely destroyed by German bombing in World War II, and the subsequent reconstruction efforts utilised a patchwork of architectural styles, forever altering the city’s skyline. It is home to the tallest commercial and residential buildings in the country, a visual symbol of Rotterdam’s spirit of innovation.EmeraldPLUSPrivate visit to the Mauritshuis and orientation walk in The HagueVisit the royal and administrative capital of the Netherlands, The Hague. Set on the North Sea coast, the city is home to a thriving cultural and culinary scene, historical monuments, and the International Court of Justice. Within your guided tour, you’ll visit the beautiful Mauritshuis museum, home to the best of Dutch painting from the age of Rembrandt and Vermeer, including the famous Girl with A Pearl Earring.EmeraldACTIVECycling and tasting tour of RotterdamMeet your local guide for a cycling tour. Travel through the historic Noordereiland district, pass the Lost Luggage Depot sculptures and stop at Fenix Food Factory for a tasting of local delicacies. Cross the Erasmusbrug to the Old Harbour and Maritime Museum area before returning to your Emerald Star-Ship.DiscoverMOREDelft Pottery Factory visit (extra expense)Learn about one of the most popular forms of earthenware in the Netherlands, Delft pottery, during a visit to a working factory. Hear about how the local people maintain this rich tradition, dating back to the 1500s.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 4 hourDiscoverMORERoyal Delft Tile Workshop (extra expense)Experience the craft of Delft Blue yourself during one of the workshops at Royal Delft. Discover how the world-famous tin-glazed earthenware is made and paint your own tile to take home.

Netherlands

Rotterdam

Spend your morning in Rotterdam. Later, return to your Emerald Star-Ship at lunchtime and cruise to the small town of Willemstad, known for its well-preserved historic fortifications.Included ExcursionArchitectural tour of RotterdamUncover the fascinating architectural legacy of Rotterdam. Its reputation as the city of high-rises has historical roots, beginning with the construction of a 45-metre (148 ft) office building, the Witte Huis, in 1897, which was the tallest office building in Europe. Your local guide will explain the city’s modern skyline on a coach tour, followed by a walking tour of the Museum district and a tasting at a local market.EmeraldACTIVEGuided e-bike tour through the Dutch countrysideMeet your local guide at the ship for a cycling tour. Travel across reclaimed land that is now verdant Dutch countryside, pass the city’s notable landmarks and finish back at the ship.

Curaçao

Willemstad

Spend your morning in Rotterdam. Later, return to your Emerald Star-Ship at lunchtime and cruise to the small town of Willemstad, known for its well-preserved historic fortifications.Included ExcursionArchitectural tour of RotterdamUncover the fascinating architectural legacy of Rotterdam. Its reputation as the city of high-rises has historical roots, beginning with the construction of a 45-metre (148 ft) office building, the Witte Huis, in 1897, which was the tallest office building in Europe. Your local guide will explain the city’s modern skyline on a coach tour, followed by a walking tour of the Museum district and a tasting at a local market.EmeraldACTIVEGuided e-bike tour through the Dutch countrysideMeet your local guide at the ship for a cycling tour. Travel across reclaimed land that is now verdant Dutch countryside, pass the city’s notable landmarks and finish back at the ship.

Belgium

Antwerp

This morning, you’ll arrive in Belgium's largest port, Antwerp. Located on the River Scheldt, the city's large harbour provides a link to the sea. Home to the famous Baroque artist Pieter Paul Rubens, Antwerp attracts art lovers from around the world.Included ExcursionWalking tour of AntwerpEnjoy a guided tour of the city centre, with its café-lined cobbled lanes. Admire the Renaissance city hall and Hat Steen, a medieval fortress built during the early Middle Ages, and one of the oldest buildings in Belgium. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore Antwerp at your leisure.DiscoverMOREExcursion to Bruges (extra expense)Known for its canals, cobblestone streets and well-preserved historic architecture, Bruges is a picturesque medieval gem. Your expert guides help you delve deeper into the history of its Gothic landmarks, bell towers and basilicas. If you wish to experience the culinary scene in your free time, try the city's famous chocolate, fries and beer.Activity level: Active, Duration: 9 hoursDiscoverMOREAntwerp’s hidden treasures (extra expense)Join your local guide on a walking tour through this beautiful city known for its rich tradition of chocolate making. You’ll also enjoy a tasting and a hands-on workshop.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours

Netherlands

Nijmegen

Welcome to Nijmegen, the Roman settlement of Noviomagus and the oldest town in The Netherlands. Although its history stretches back more than 2,000 years, it also has a youthful vibe thanks to its large university, as well as beautiful scenery, lush green spaces and world-class museums.Included ExcursionWalking tour of NijmegenJoin a walking tour through the town centre, exploring its architectural wonders, rich history and charming streets. From Roman relics to medieval architecture, you’ll explore the city's landmarks, including the Valkhof Park and St. Stephen's Church, while learning about Nijmegen’s fascinating past.EmeraldACTIVECycling tour of NijmegenJoin your fellow travellers on a guided cycling tour of Nijmegen. Ride along the River Waal and learn about the city during Roman times and under the rule of Charlemagne, as well as the role Nijmegen played in World War II.EmeraldPLUSShanty choirOn board this evening, enjoy a performance from a traditional Dutch fishermen’s choir. Their songs and sea shanties celebrate the country’s rich maritime heritage.DiscoverMOREVisit to Paleis Het Loo (extra expense)Visit the Paleis Het Loo, which served as the summer residence of the Dutch royal family from the 17th century until 1975. Enjoy a guided tour of this opulent palace, where you’ll feel as though you have stepped back in time. The palace’s decorations and its spectacular gardens will captivate every visitor.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 4 hours

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Arrive in Amsterdam / Zaandam again this morning. With more than 100km (62 miles) of canals lined with grand merchant houses and crossed by more than 1,700 bridges, it’s no wonder the Dutch capital is often called the Venice of the North. The city comes especially alive in spring, when its streets and parks bloom in a riot of colours.Included ExcursionVisit to Keukenhof GardensThis morning, you’ll visit the iconic Keukenhof Gardens, boasting 32 hectares (79 acres) of spring-flowering bulbs. Open only from March to May each year, more than seven million bulbs are planted, including 800 varieties of tulips. This area is infused with delightful aromas and a swathe of vibrant colours. Soak in the sights of tulips, hyacinths, and orchids of every colour, creating an expertly arranged pattern of beauty. You will also see statues commissioned by world-renowned artists, each adopting the annual theme.DiscoverMOREVisit to the flower auction at Royal FloraHolland in Aalsmeer (extra expense)Wake early to visit the largest floral market in the world, the Flower Auction at Royal Flora Holland in Aalsmeer. Be amazed by the brokers working the bustling floor, where more than 45 million flowers change hands every day.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hoursDiscoverMOREHidden gems of Amsterdam (extra expense)Explore a quieter, more authentic side of Amsterdam on this relaxed and personal tour through the city’s hidden treasures. Visit the historic Jordaan area and a charming chocolate shop for a sweet treat. Continue through some of the city’s most beautiful streets to Our Lord in the Attic, a 17th-century house with a fully preserved Catholic church in its attic. Finish with a beer and snacks at a local brewery.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hoursDiscoverMOREDutch apple pie making (extra expense)Traditions and recipes have long been passed down through generations and are often kept as family secrets. Today, you’ll meet with a local who will tell you all about life in Hoorn and share a family recipe for traditional Dutch apple pie.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hour

Netherlands

Amsterdam

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests as you disembark your Emerald Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of wooden windmills and blossoming flowers with you.Due to new restrictions on cruise ships at Amsterdam’s city docks, your cruise is now likely to embark and/or disembark at a port outside central Amsterdam. If your ship does not have a central Amsterdam docking, Emerald Cruises will provide a central Amsterdam meeting point and transfers to your ship as required. These changes are required by local authorities and are in line with our booking terms which allow changes to berthing or dock locations and ports where operationally necessary. You will be advised of the confirmed docking location prior to departure.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Overview

A fascinating trip through time, this wonderful itinerary acknowledges the history of working Dutch communities, dating as far back as the 13th century, before an excursion to the Storm Surge Barrier exemplifies the excellence of modern technology. Discover what attracts art-lovers to Antwerp’s intriguing medieval heart, before technicolour Amsterdam and Keukenhof Gardens create a lasting impression on the senses.

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Suite

Owner's One-Bedroom Suite

The Owner’s One-Bedroom Suites boast their own separate bedroom which closes off from the rest of the suite. A dedicated lounge area and outdoor balcony, complete with open-air system, allow you to enjoy the views of your surroundings whatever the weather. They also include a selection of special features including a spacious bathroom, walk-in wardrobe and Nespresso™ machine. Your complimentary mini-bar is restocked daily and you’ll have an iPad to use throughout your cruise so you can keep up-to-date with the latest news. For a more intimate dining experience, upon request, you can also order a continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats to enjoy in the privacy of your suite.

Your suite features:

  • Outdoor private balcony with open-air system
  • Separate bedroom and lounge area
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • Pillow menu
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Walk-in wardrobe
  • Complimentary in-suite mini-bar, restocked daily with wine, beer and soft drinks
  • Complimentary Nespresso™ machine
  • Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  • Four items of laundry per day
  • An invite to the top table to enjoy dinner with the senior on board team
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Use of an iPad
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Suite

Grand Balcony Suite

These generously appointed suites offer an inviting vantage point for watching the sunset. Floor-to-ceiling windows on your private balcony, complete with an open-air system and sleek glass partition, let you soak up the ever-changing landscape. Thoughtful touches include an in-suite Nespresso™ machine, mini-fridge and the option of continental breakfast served on your balcony. In the evening, savour pre- dinner canapés and sweet treats delivered directly to your suite.

Your suite features:

  • Outdoor private balcony with open-air system
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • Pillow menu
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board
  • complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar with wine, beer and soft drinks available to purchase
  • Complimentary Nespresso™ machine
  • Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  • Two items of laundry per day
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Balcony

Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

These spacious suites are ideal for uninterrupted views of the stunning scenery passing by. The innovative all-weather balcony system allows the upper part of the suite’s floor-to-ceiling window to drop down at the touch of a button and the indoor decked area allows you to enjoy the sights in all their glory. You’ll also find a mini-fridge, complimentary Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and infotainment system, a safe for your valuables and plenty of storage.

Your suite features:

  • Indoor balcony with open-air system
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar with wine, beer and soft drinks available to purchase
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Outside

Emerald Stateroom

Marrying exceptional comfort with refined and practical design, the staterooms are spacious and luxurious retreats that provide ample room to accommodate two guests. A picture window welcomes in the natural light, beautifully framing the surrounding landscape.

Your suite features:

  • Picture window
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar with wine, beer and soft drinks available to purchase
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Outside

Emerald Single Stateroom

Select Emerald Cruises Star-Ships on the Danube, Moselle, Rhine and Rhône rivers feature Emerald Single Staterooms which are specially created for solo travellers. These tastefully appointed staterooms include a wealth of quality facilities and excellent levels of comfort for an enjoyable stay.

Your suite features:

  • Picture window
  • Deluxe single bed
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar with wine, beer and soft drinks available to purchase
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

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casual

Reflections Restaurant

Our premiere on board dining spot
With open seating and elegant design, our Reflections Restaurant sets the benchmark in on board dining across our fleet of boutique Star-Ships throughout Europe and Southeast Asia. Here, savour delightful chef-prepared meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with dishes inspired by local flavours and a few favourites you may recognise from home.

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casual

The Terrace

Dine alfresco
A beautifully decked area in the forward of our European Star-Ships, The Terrace provides a lovely retreat from which to enjoy a light snack or refreshing drink. Depending on the ship, this partly indoor and outdoor space is a spectacular vantage point from which to soak up the scenery, whatever the weather. This peaceful setting is also a great spot to enjoy a drink as the wonders of the landscape pass by.

healthy

Healthy Dining

The freshest ingredients

Dine on delectable meals made with fresh, locally sourced produce.

Lunch with a view

Enjoy healthy meals while soaking in the stunning views and fresh air.

A range of dietary options

Sample amazing vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meal options^. ^Please inform your crew of any dietary requirements.

bbq

Sky Barbecue

The Sky Barbecue can be found on the Sun Deck.
Cinema, Pool Deck

Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema

Exclusive to Emerald Cruises Star-Ships cruising Central Europe and France, the innovative heated indoor pool with is a tranquil haven to swim and take in the passing river views by day. As dusk falls, the floor gently rises to cover the pool, and the space transforms into an intimate cinema or Riverside Lounge – a blissful setting to enjoy magical vistas, read, or socialise to gentle music and soft lighting. Morning stretch sessions will also invigorate you, before seamlessly transforming back into a luxurious pool for the day. Enjoy a touch of innovation on board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship in Central Europe and France with the heated indoor pool. With expansive river views, it is a tranquil setting to relax by day and on select evenings, the space transforms into a cosy indoor cinema.

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Bar, Lounge

Horizon Bar and Lounge

Peruse our extensive drinks menu from the comfort of the Horizon Bar, the principal lounge area on board our boutique Star-Ships. Fitted with comfortable seating, a well-stocked bar and dancefloor and entertainment space, this is the premier spot to relax, unwind or dance the night away at the end of another exceptional day on the river. During the day, you'll also find unlimited coffee and speciality teas here

Relax, socialise and dance the night away in the contemporary lounge and bar. On selected nights enjoy evening entertainment or simply relax and unwind with your favourite drink from the well-stocked bar. Throughout the day, you can enjoy complimentary tea and coffee, making this an inviting space to pause, connect and take in the on board comforts.

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Sun Deck

Sun Deck

Soak in your surroundings from the Sun Deck, a space for sun-seeking, sightseeing and blissful relaxation. Offering a front-row seat to the wonders of southern France; you won’t miss a thing from the comfort of your Sun Deck deckchair.

Sun Deck

Games Area and Golf Putting Green

Feel free to enjoy our games area and golf putting green. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the scenery while you challenge new-found friends.

Reception

Reception

Your warm welcome on-board begins at Emerald Destiny’s dedicated reception. Here, our friendly crew are happy to help you get the most from your time on-board – whether that’s organising the day’s excursions or arranging any special requirements you may have.

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Pool

Emerald Serenity Pool

Emerald Destiny features a range of innovative on-board features, including an infinity-style pool that transforms into an evening cinema space. Take a dip by day and catch a flick by night – two more ways to spend your downtime on the rivers of Europe.

Gym, Wellness

Fitness Area

Your well-equipped gym

Keep up your workout regime in our well-equipped, modern gym.

Pool, Wellness

Wellness Area

A space dedicated to mind, body, and soul. Stay active on board with a fitness session in the well-equipped gym, or indulge in a blissful range of relaxing and invigorating spa treatments (at an additional cost).

A relaxing massage

Unwind with a massage courtesy of our expertly trained masseuses.

A dedicated space

Settle into a professional massage therapy room designed around serenity.

Every thoughtful detail

From soft gowns to luxurious ESPA toiletries, you’ll enjoy unparalleled comfort.

Salon

Hairdressers

In need of a quick trim during your travels? On-board the Emerald Sun, Emerald Luna and Emerald Dawn, you can treat yourself at any point during your cruise with our dedicated hairdressers – perfect if you’re looking to get spruced up for a special evening.

Jogging or Walking Track

Walking Track

Stretch your legs and take in the sights as you enjoy a stroll on our purpose-built walking track. Taking you around the outside of the Sun Deck, it’s a great addition for those who like to stay active on their travels.