Bike And Boat Tour Reviews page 18
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★★★★★ John Cooley June 20, 2023Great trip---but could have been better
· · Coastal Islands of Southern Dalmatia
This was a great trip, however the lead guide was difficult to get along with ---the second guide was new and fantastic. The lead guide was overly strict and a bit condescending. We did not bike one of the days because he decided since there was rain we would not cycle. That was VERY disappointing. I was on a boat bike trip in Belgium and Netherlands and we biked rain or shine. The time we started biking was a bit late too-----it did not leave much time for for activities after biking.
The saving grace for the trip was the staff was fantastic on the Yolo.
One additional note is that this should be E-bike only....there is no way for a regular bike to keep up with ebikes on the terrain on this trip. One of the passengers insisted on riding a regular bike and on two separate days had to switch bikes with the guide in the rear so he could make it. He should have been told to switch to an ebike by the guides.
- What was the date of your tour?
- June 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 3
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat harder
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Croatia
-
★★★★★ Linda Kelly June 22, 2023
Good way to travel
· · Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique II (and reverse)
Gives you a taste of Belgium and Holland. The staff was excellent. Helpful and pleasant.
Cities we visited were lovely. -
★★★★★ Patricia Barbour June 24, 2023Amazing trip!
· · Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique IV (and reverse)
We had a wonderful trip with an amazing crew who worked in unison to make all the guests feel welcome. The tour leaders, Tammy and Peter, were fantastic and had intimate knowledge of the communities and sights along the bike routes. Their personal connections provided unique experiences that would otherwise have been missed. They were patient and personable even after their very long days!
- What was the date of your tour?
- June 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- Just this one
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Belgium, Holland
-
★★★★★ Michael Parrett June 25, 2023The Best trip ever
· · National Parks of Dalmatia by Bike/E-bike and Boat
Every aspect of our tour was first rate and we would recommend this trip to everyone. From the moment we arrived at the gang plank to a couple of hours after we departed the Magellan, we were treated to first rate service by the land support staff and onboard crew. The tour, the sights and the cities visited were tremendous. The size of the tour (30), allowed us to get to know the entire group of travellers and we were fortunate to be joined by many interesting and enthusiastic adventurers . The single best aspect of our trip were our two guides, Dora and Serge. Their professionalism, enthusiasm and pride in their country made every part of the journey fun, interesting and an experience never to forget.
Regards
Beverley and Mike- What was the date of your tour?
- June 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 10
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Croatia
-
★★★★★ Elizabeth Gibson June 30, 2023A fun way to see
· · Paris Evening Bike & Boat Tour
Rudolpho was AMAZING! His love for the city and it’s history and culture made the trip all the better!
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★★★★★ Sharon Johnson July 5, 2023Sail and bike to picturesque villages and nature reserved
· · Sail & Bike to Picturesque Villages and Nature Reserves
Great experience on a tall ship sailing vessel. Food was average. Crew was very good but English translations on biking details was lacking.
- What was the date of your tour?
- June 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 10
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers
- Do you recommend this tour?
- No
- Countries included in this tour?
- Holland
-
★★★★★ Katherine Fackler-Chapman July 12, 2023
Perfect trip to combine cyclists and non cyclist friends
· · Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique IV (and reverse)
Our guides Corrie and Hetty were knowledgeable and friendly, the crew of Chris , Alexis, Hella, and Ingaborg were helpful and gave great service, and the meals from chef Michel were outstanding. We will definitely do another trip with this company. Flat terrain and e-bikes or comfortable hybrids allowed people of all cycling levels to enjoy trip, and the small size allowed all of us to make new friends!
- What was the date of your tour?
- July 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 3
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Belgium, Holland
-
★★★★★ Hally Hanssen July 19, 2023The absolute best thing we did in Paris!
Private Paris Bike Tour
HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Christian was a fantastic tour guide-- kind, knowledgeable, fun, gracious, adventurous and so delightful. We were a bit skeptical about how much our 4 boys (ages 9, 13, 15 and 17) would like yet another Paris tour (after a bus tour, boat tour and exploring on foot for hours), but our 4-hour bike tour was an absolute blast. We got to see all of the major historical sights and tourist attractions-- except Christian gave us much more context and fun information. He also took us to some beautiful hidden spots that really captured the essence of Parisian life for locals and some beauty we'd have never found ourselves with a big group. Wish we'd had another day to do a tour to Versailles with biketours.com and Christian.
- What was the date of your tour?
- July 18, 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 2
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
-
★★★★★ Mary Gallagher July 26, 2023Great biking - barge was ok
· · Provence by Bike and Boat
Biking in Provence was outstanding- but the cabin we stayed in (Cabin 1) was not satisfactory. Crew we’re great and tour leader was knowledgeable and experienced. Unfortunate about our accommodations.
- Countries included in this tour?
- France
-
★★★★★ Jon Kramp July 26, 2023
A fine tour with issues
· · Provence by Bike and Boat
The bike/boat tour started off by my not being able to initially find the boat. The route of the tour is normally serviced by two boats with the boats sailing the route in opposite directions during each week. Due to low bookings, only one of the two boats servicing the route was in operation. The boat I expected to sail on was the one that was out of service and docked and it took some time to find the boat that was in service.
The boat I actually sailed on, Caprice, is a converted cargo barge. The cabins contained the expected features for a 'standard' category passenger river vessel. However, the cabins are on the small side. The dining/lounge area was also on the small side considering that the boat was operating at full passenger capacity. Food service was very good and the crew was helpful. Snacks and drinks were available at the end of the days cycling.
The biking route and sights seen along the way were as advertised. However, there were two cycling related issues:
1) The tour description of 'There will be some hills' is correct for most days but that there were two climbs each of about 5km length.
2) All but five of the tour members selected to book an electric bike for the tour. Only one of the tour members completed the tour without the use of a non-electric bike because of the slope and length of the climbs. Booking an electric bike for this tour is recommended for most people.One day of the tour included a continuous 5km stretch of gravel surface. The tour used multiple types of roads. The major roads were all in fine condition. The smaller one lane roads, mainly used by farmers to reach the fields, were often in poor condition with pot holes common. It should be noted that all of the bikes offered on the tour were if good quality and in good repair. During the tour there was only one minor issue with any of the bikes.
It should be noted that some days on this tour were a bit long considering that temperatures were in the mid 90'sF to just over 100F range. On one day, for example, biking started about 8 AM and ended slightly before 6 PM. Hydration was an issue but the biking part of the tour included multiple stops each day to refill water bottles and/or purchase drinks.
A printed map of the biking route was not provided and is not available. Those doing the tour non-guided, only done by 2 people on selected days on my tour departure, will need to have a mobile phone to access route information.
- What was the date of your tour?
- July 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 5
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Much harder
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- France
-
★★★★★ Mary Gallagher July 31, 2023
Disappointing Accommodations
· · Provence by Bike and Boat
Recently returned from Provence bike and barge and very disappointed with cabin accommodations. Bathroom sink located in main cabin from which we heard gurgling and draining from other cabins. Also heard loud banging from floor probably due to mechanical issues due to location of cabin - farthest on the bow. Overall not suitable for guests. Crew, guide and food were great- but cabin (#1) was not acceptable.
- Countries included in this tour?
- France
-
★★★★★ Linda Ewing August 2, 2023
Provence Bike Trip into the Countryside
· · Provence by Bike and Boat
Really enjoyed the bike trip through the Provence countryside which visited several picturesque towns along the way. Our guide Alex was wonderful; she had done her homework so was able to provide us the history of what we were seeing. Plus Alex was great fun and made sure everyone was safe and comfortable while riding. Barge on-board staff was also super responsive and friendly. All the local staff was excellent!
My only criticism of the trip is the business model used by the barge company. The 'Caprice' boat itself is 'past its prime' --- old, really cramped room accommodations. We were unlucky and assigned what appeared to be the smallest double twin room that didn't even have space for the tiniest sink in the bathroom (it was installed next to my bed's pillow). In fact, all the rooms were smaller than on other barge boats I've been on. Also, the dining area was so tight you couldn't get out of your chair without your neighbor also moving. Bottomline, the company owners are squeezing too many people on the boat so they get more revenue.
- What was the date of your tour?
- July 15 - 22, 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 3
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers
- Do you recommend this tour?
- No
- Countries included in this tour?
- France
-
★★★★★ Brian Hallgarth August 7, 2023
Fantastic Bike/Barge Trip
· · Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique IV (and reverse)
This Brugge to Amsterdam bike and barge trip exceeded our expectations in many ways. The barge was deluxe, clean and comfortable and the food was good. We had an upper level stateroom and think it was worth the cost.
The biking was easy although there were very strong winds a few times. We tried e bikes. About half the riders used them. This was our first experience with e bikes but at age 66 I will rent one again although we are long time , long distance cyclists.
We did expect more independent cycling and some cycling instruction for new riders riding in a large group. However, the route was tricky with so many paths to take so we stayed in the group. The small towns and scenery were a wonderful experience. The guides and boat crew were very knowledgeable and personable.
We will look for a similar experience in the future.- What was the date of your tour?
- July 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 9
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Belgium, Holland
-
★★★★★ Maria Bachman August 14, 2023Beyond All Expectations
· · Venice to Mantova by Bike and Boat (and reverse)
This trip was beautifully executed from the minute we came on board. Our outstanding guide, Helmut made us feel welcome and was always attentive to our safety and comfort. The captain Jano was personable and we felt in capable hands with him as well as the engineer, Andrea. The food was 5 ⭐️! Sylvia and Alberto treated everyone with meals based on local traditions and mouth-watering flavors! It was easy to see that a lot of thought and planning went into creating a unique experience traveling through the countrysides of Italy. The charming tours and cappuccino stops along the way were perfectly timed and delightful. The crew fostered an ambience of comaraderie amongst the group. The social aspect of the tour made it even more memorable with lively conversations and the exchange of cultures. We could not have asked for a better vacation - already planning where to go next year!
- What was the date of your tour?
- July-August 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- This was the first one.
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Italy
-
★★★★★ Debra Lapre August 21, 20232nd Bike and Barge trip
· · Altmühl Valley and Danube River
The beginning was not as picturesque as one would have hoped. The small towns were quaint and the guide Ilsa was great. She was very knowledgeable about each town and stopped at points of interest along the way. We were vegetarians and the food was somewhat lacking. The room on the barge was nice and the bathroom a good size.
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 2
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Do you recommend this tour?
- No
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
-
★★★★★ Karen Crisp August 21, 2023
Above my expectations!
· · Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique II (and reverse)
This was our first bike and barge trip and not knowing what to expect, my husband and I were thrilled with the outcome! The Magnifique II accommodations, the ship staff, the tour guides, the meals prepared by Chef Michael were all phenomenal and will definitely look at doing more of these.
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★★★★★ Lysa Farah August 21, 2023Leaders and group made this a magical experience
· · Pearls of Dalmatia by Bike and Boat, Romantica
Not only did we have an exceptional trio of guides with us, we had an unusually small group which made usb bond so much easier. Loved getting to know the others on our boat, the Romantica, and travel around the beautiful isles of Croatia. I started off with a regular bike, able to manage the hills fairly easily, but always coming in just a bit later than those on e-bikes. There were some extra e-bikes and we decided on Day 4 to give it a try, and I was sold - it THEN became a vacation!! I didn't mind the effort pedaling uphill the minute we got on our bikes in the morning, but after pedaling on an e-bike, it's just so easy - and I didn't use the "help" that much, but when I wanted it, it was there and I didn't have to struggle at all! Sooooo nice!
- What was the date of your tour?
- May/June 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- my first bike tour
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens, Families with young kids
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Croatia
-
★★★★★ Nina G August 23, 2023Great trip!
· · Ionian Islands Multi-sport Family Cruise
Great way to have a hybrid vacation - relaxing and active. Staff is amazing, both the crew and guides.
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 1
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens, Families with young kids
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Greece
-
★★★★★ Ronald Schwarcz August 23, 2023
Extremely disappointing.
· · Sail & Bike to Picturesque Villages and Nature Reserves
The ship was terrible. Our cabin was so small that it could not accommodate two people comfortably. Also, the ventilation was poor and it was always warm and muggy. There was inadequate seating on the deck. No comfortable chaises or stairs. The Captain did not communicate well or do anything help the travelers meet and mingle. It was especially frustrating as my friend and I were the only Americans and there were no native born English speaking traveling. Unlike all other trips we were on, nothing was done to provide us information about the villages we docked at. The captain or crew did not offer to take us into towns and show us around or even recommend bars or other places to visit. There were no daily information sheets, recommendation or even maps. We were completely on our own. The food was marginal at best. The dinner portions were small. Must dinner wasn’t an”event”, everyone was in and out in around 40 minutes. In general the amenities were totally lacking. We believe that the most Americans would not be satisfied with the Sail and Bike tours offered by Bike Boat Tours. On our ship, the crew were friendly and worked hard, but it seemed that they were understaffed. As it seems that they were working a very tight budget. We only had meat was the dinner entree one night and that was at the BBQ. Two nights we had vegetarian main course. We were never taught anything about sailing except helping pulling ropes to raise and lower sails. I could go on and on, but, I will end by saying that the ship was not comfortable and nothing was done to help the travelers fully enjoy the experience.
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 10
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Do you recommend this tour?
- No
- Countries included in this tour?
- Holland
-
★★★★★ Stephen Friedman August 23, 2023
Nice trip with some areas for improvement
· · Sail & Bike to Picturesque Villages and Nature Reserves
The itinerary and sights were beautiful. The Elizabeth is a beautiful ship. The engagement of the captain and integration of the tour group left something to be desired.
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 8
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Families with teens, Families with young kids
- Do you recommend this tour?
- No
- Countries included in this tour?
- Holland
