Holland, Flanders, and Paris by Bike and Boat

Day 1: Arrival in Paris

Your tour begins in Paris, the City of Light. Upon arrival, an airport shuttle brings you to your centrally located hotel. As evening falls, enjoy an elegant dinner cruise on the River Seine, passing many of the city’s most famous landmarks as they glow after dark, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame. This memorable evening offers a relaxed introduction to Parisian life through fine food, music, and views of the city from the water. Guests wishing to explore Paris more fully may arrange additional hotel nights and transfers in advance.

Day 2: Paris – Bruges
by bus transfer

After breakfast, travel by coach from Paris to Bruges, one of Europe’s most beautifully preserved medieval cities. On arrival, your luggage is transferred directly to the Iris while your guide leads a walking tour through the historic center. Highlights include the Market Square and Belfry Tower, whose bells have marked the city’s rhythm for centuries, as well as inviting cafés and artisan chocolate shops. You may also visit the Church of Our Lady to see Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child or enjoy a canal cruise through the city’s waterways. Dinner is served on board, followed by a stroll through Bruges’ softly illuminated streets.

Day 3: Bruges – Ghent
24 miles / 39 km

After breakfast, the route leads toward Ghent, passing through quiet countryside before reaching the city’s historic heart. Ghent is a vibrant university city with a lively energy that contrasts beautifully with its medieval setting. Once among the wealthiest cities in Europe, it grew powerful through the wool and linen trade, a history still reflected in the impressive buildings lining its canals. Today, Ghent is often seen as one of Belgium’s hidden gems—compact, welcoming, and rich in understated charm. Time is available to walk or cycle along the canals, cross old stone bridges, and admire centuries-old gabled houses. A canal boat cruise offers an ideal introduction to the city, followed by free time to explore at leisure or enjoy a café by the water. Guests who prefer a guided visit may join a walking tour featuring the city’s cultural highlights, including the renowned Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers in St. Bavo’s Cathedral. The day ends with a short bike ride to the IRIS.

Day 4: Ghent – Dendermonde – St. Amands
25 miles / 40 km

Today’s ride traces the Scheldt River on an easy 25-mile stretch to Dendermonde, a charming town shaped by both waterways and centuries of history. Along the way, the landscape opens into quiet farmland and classic Flemish vistas. After stopping in Dendermonde for lunch, the route continues beside the river to St. Amands, where the IRIS awaits. The evening back on board features a Belgian beer tasting, offering the chance to sample several of the country’s renowned brews.

Day 5: St. Amands – Antwerp
22 miles / 35 km

Today’s ride leads from rural Flanders into Antwerp, Belgium’s second-largest city and a world-renowned diamond center. Antwerp flourished in the 16th century as a major port and trading hub, and its wealth is reflected in the impressive architecture around the Grote Markt. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady to see masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens, whose work is deeply connected to the city. Dinner is not provided this evening, giving you the opportunity to explore Antwerp’s diverse restaurant scene at your leisure.

Day 6: Antwerp – Tholen – Willemstad – Dordrecht
25 miles / 40 km

Depart Antwerp early by ship, sailing to Tholen, once an island community with a strong fishing tradition. From here, begin cycling across bridges and dikes that highlight the Netherlands’ remarkable water-management systems. The route follows the Volkerak Lock, part of the extensive Delta Works designed to protect the country from flooding. Continue to Willemstad, a 17th-century star-shaped fortress town whose streets still reflect its original defensive design. After time to explore, rejoin the Iris and sail to Dordrecht, the oldest city in the Netherlands, known for its canals, historic warehouses, and distinctive leaning church tower.

Day 7: Dordrecht – Kinderdijk – Schoonhoven – Vianen
30 miles / 48 km

Today showcases the classic Dutch landscape of water, wind, and wide-open spaces. Begin with a visit to Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where nineteen historic windmills line the waterways, built in the 18th century to manage water levels. Continue cycling toward Schoonhoven, known as the Silver Town for its long-standing silversmithing tradition. After exploring the town and its museum, ride through peaceful countryside to Vianen, a small walled town along the River Lek, where preserved gates and quiet streets offer a restful end to the day.

Day 8: Vianen – Amsterdam
9 miles / 15 km

The final ride leads through the Dutch heartland toward Amsterdam. Cycle along rivers bordered by historic estates, willow trees, farms, and small villages that illustrate the close relationship between land and water. There may be time for a stop at a local cheese farm before continuing toward the city. Near Amsterdam, cross by ferry and follow well-marked cycling paths back to the harbor, where the Iris awaits for the final evening on board.

Day 9: Departure from Amsterdam

After breakfast, say farewell to the crew and your fellow travelers. Disembarkation takes place around 9:00 am. Assistance is available for arranging taxis or directions to the train station. Schiphol Airport is easily reached by train from Amsterdam Central Station, with platforms located directly beneath the airport terminal.