Dutch Springtime Cruise including Keukenhof & the Floralies in Ghent

This inviting vessel with its intimate convivial atmosphere has 54 outward facing cabins spread over three decks.

All cabins have been completely renovated and are air-conditioned. All cabins have private ensuite facilities with shower, satellite TV + In-house films, twin bed configuration + continental electricity socket (220 volts). There is a stylishly furnished lounge with bar and dance floor at the front of the promenade deck where morning coffee and afternoon tea are offered daily. The restaurant is tastefully furnished and is where all meals are taken.

Day 1: Departing this morning from your selected pick up point(s), we travel towards the coast making a service station comfort stop en route. Taking a late morning crossing to Calais, a comfort stop will be made during the journey to Amsterdam, the boarding point for this cruise, where your evening meal is included on board.

Day 2: Breakfast included on board before disembarkation for this morning’s excursion which begins with a city canal cruise in Amsterdam with audio guide, a perfect introduction to the city. Amsterdam is truly fascinating and has many peaceful canals criss-crossed by hundreds of bridges, not to mention world famous museums which vie for your attention. There will be a little free time afterwards to explore before re-joining the coach for your transfer to the picturesque & historic fishing village of Enkhuizen on the Ijsselmeer (Ijssel Lake), where you will re-join the Virginia for lunch on board. This afternoon you can either choose to discover on foot the old town with its city wall and harbour as well as many villas, canals & churches which the town is famous for.

Alternatively, a recommended visit is to the Zuiderzeemuseum (local cost) which consists of both indoor and outdoor museums. There are more than 130 authentic houses, shops and workshops in the outdoor museum where you can watch craftsmen at work. Experience everyday life from between 1880-1930 and enjoy the authentic ambiance. Dinner is included on board the Virginia.

Day 3 - Breakfast included on board before disembarkation for today’s full day included excursion to the stunning Keukenhof Gardens (entrance included). Here you can admire the exuberantly coloured flowers and delightful coloured landscaped gardens. This spectacular open-air flower exhibition serves as a permanent showcase for the bulb and flower industry, offering a wide range of attractions guaranteed to excite and delight - a treat for gardeners and non-gardeners alike! But Keukenhof offers more than just flowers and throughout the park you'll find exhibitions by Dutch artists, a variety of restaurants and sunny terraces, just perfect for relaxing.

A packed lunch will be provided today as you will not return to the boat during the day. You will be returned by coach later today to re-join the Virginia in Zaandam where dinner is included onboard.

Day 4: A leisurely day with breakfast and lunch included on board as you relax and enjoy this morning’s cruise to Dordrecht, officially the oldest town in Holland, arriving here approx. 2pm. This afternoon will be free for you to explore this town which is home to more than 1000 historic monuments, a wealth of fascinating museums, galleries and shops and charm at every turn. You might choose to visit the artwork of Dutch Masters and paintings by Rembrandt’s famous pupils at the Dordrecht’s Museum (local cost). Nowhere is the feeling of retracing the city’s startling stories more apparent than while exploring its historic harbour. This vibrant area extends along the river front and forms the backbone of the town’s old centre. Here you can walk among the former warehouses, merchant buildings and quay areas, once instrumental in powering the international trade that shaped the Dutch Golden Age. Many of these extraordinary buildings have now been transformed into quaint cafes and gourmet restaurants and shops selling artisan products. Returning to the Virginia, dinner is included on board.

Day 5: Following breakfast and boarding the coach for the homeward journey, the last included visit of this holiday is to the flower and garden festival – The Floralies in Ghent, which takes place every four years. Located in Ghent's Citadelpark, this event draws inspiration from the great artist Van Eyck. The theme for 2022 is 'My Paradise, a Global Garden'. This flower and plant exhibition showcases some of the finest horticultural treasures.

The first exhibition took place in a pub in 1809 where around 50 plants competed for the honour. Over the years the event has built up a strong reputation for itself as the must-attend exhibition of the horticultural industry in Belgium.

More than 500,000 types of plants and flowers can all be found under one roof, with the indoor gardens spanning over 1.5 hectares. It's no wonder that Ghent is regarded as the 'Flower Capital of Belgium'.

Departing here mid-afternoon we continue on to Calais for your crossing to the UK and then onwards to your original departure points.