Northern German Odyssey: Bike, Barge and Cruise

Day 1: Embarkation in Berlin/Spandau | Berlin - Oranienburg

Your journey begins with your arrival in Berlin/Spandau. Check-in 3:30 to 5pm. After you board, the Merlijn will set sail for Oranienburg, marking the start of an enchanting eight-day adventure. As you settle in, savor a complimentary beverage and get acquainted with the friendly crew. The evening unfolds with a tour and essential safety briefing. As you cruise through the picturesque inland lakes surrounding Berlin, the mesmerizing scenery and a delectable dinner on board is a fitting introduction. Oranienburg's royal history, tied to Dutch Princess Louise Henriette of Nassau-Oranien, lies just north of Berlin's city limits. While the docking spot is a bit removed from the center, the enjoyable evening stroll after dinner will showcase the highlights.

Day 2: Oranienburg - Eberswalde - Niederfinow
28 or 37 miles / 45 or 60 km

Awaken to a delightful breakfast as the barge gently glides along the Havel River to Zerpenschleuse, heralding the start of your cycling journey. Your initial destination is Eberswalde, tracing the Old Finow Canal, an ancient waterway from 1605 that linked the Havel and Oder rivers. The Merlijn awaits you in Eberswalde to continue your voyage. For the more adventurous, an extended ride to Niederfinow is an option. Tonight's mooring spot is near the Niederfinow Ship Lift.

Day 3: Niederfinow - Oderberg - Schwedt
31 miles / 50 km

A tour highlight unfolds as you traverse the oldest German ship lift at Niederfinow, a construction from 1932. Witness the Merlijn descend some 38 meters within this remarkable lift. Following the descent, your journey proceeds to Oderberg, where your cycling excursion begins. This route leads to the charming city of Schwedt, taking you through breathtaking pockets of natural beauty. Your itinerary includes a visit to the imposing Castle of Stolpe.

The Castle of Stolpe boasts one of Germany's most impeccably preserved medieval castle towers. Ascend to the rooftop for sweeping views that stretch from the National Lower Oder River Valley to Poland and encompass the lush wooded slopes of the vast hinterland. An enlightening guided tour of the castle is part of the experience. Afterward, your path winds through more scenic landscapes, leading you to the historical town of Schwedt, where remnants of the former German Democratic Republic await discovery.

Day 4: Schwedt - Mescherin - Szczecin
25 or 44 miles / 40 or 70 km

Today's cycling journey unveils the pristine wonders of nature. You'll pedal your way to Mescherin in Brandenburg state before boarding the Merlijn for a voyage into Poland. Your evening will be spent in the once-German city of Stettin, now Szczecin, Poland. Dinner tonight offers a chance to explore regional Polish cuisine at your leisure, with many restaurants awaiting your discovery.

Day 5: Szczecin - Kamminke/Usedom
22 miles / 35 km

As the day breaks, the Merlijn sets sail early, tracing the Oder from Szczecin to the confluence with the Stettin Lagoon/Stettiner Haff. After crossing the Oder's estuary, you'll navigate the magnificent Stettiner Lagoon to reach the sun-kissed island of Usedom, straddling the German-Polish border along the Baltic Sea. Commencing around 11:30 am, your cycling adventure will guide you across the island to its northern Baltic Sea coast. Here, you will have plenty of time for relaxation, swimming, or strolls through enchanting towns like Ahlbeck and Heringsdorf. Whatever you choose, this island promises an extraordinary highlight of your tour. Your evening unfolds in Kamminke, a quaint village offering a tranquil stay.

Day 6: Kamminke - Karnin - Anklam - Stolpe
22 or 34 miles / 35 or 55 km

Morning finds you cycling across the picturesque island of Usedom, with a stop en route at a small GDR Museum. In the southern reaches of Karnin, you will rejoin the Merlijn and journey down the Peene River. Those seeking more adventure can extend their bike tour to Anklam. Today's destination is the charming village of Stolpe, nestled within a natural reserve.

Day 7: Stolpe - Jarmen - Verchen - Malchin
31 miles / 50 km

After a delightful breakfast on board, your final cycling leg commences in Jarmen, another picturesque village along the river. This route again leads you through the former GDR region, with road surfaces shifting from tarmac to concrete bike paths and cobblestones. Cruising along the Peene River in the late afternoon, Malchin is reached by evening, a serene town surrounded by forests, meadows, and agricultural land. The riverbanks stretch wide, with no traffic, houses, or people as far as the eye can see. Revel in the beauty of this 'Amazon of the North' as you conclude a week of extraordinary cycling adventures. Along the way, you'll cross the expansive Kummerower See, a 20 km-wide lake, before reentering the Peene River, another highlight of your journey. Arriving at Malchin - your final destination - your wonderful farewell dinner awaits.

Day 8: Departure from Malchin

Your memorable journey concludes as you bid farewell to Malchin after a hearty breakfast, departing by 9:00 a.m.