River Cruise Itinerary

1. Day 1
   DAY 1, Saturday - Depart for the Netherlands

   Sat, May 04, 2024

   Depart for the Netherlands
2. Day 2
   DAY 2, Sunday - Arrive in Amsterdam

   Sun, May 05, 2024

   Welcome to Amsterdam, Holland's sophisticated and modern capital; transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to discover the many cultural sites this delightful city has to offer. Tonight, attend an orientation meeting with your local host at the hotel at approximately 6 PM. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 2 PM
   Overnight: Amsterdam
3. Day 3
   DAY 3, Monday - Amsterdam City Tour

   Mon, May 06, 2024

   Today's panoramic tour of 700-year-old Amsterdam introduces you to both the old and the new sections of this city. View Amsterdam's port, one of the main harbors of Dutch East India Company during the Golden Age. Continue to the former Jewish quarter with its 17th century Portuguese Synagogue, and National Holocaust Names Memorial. Pass by the 19th century neighbourhood with its classic architecture, museums, and lively squares. Then, board a glass-top boat, and cruise the winding canals for an up-close view of the stately historic homes, 16th century warehouses, and charming churches with striking bell towers. The rest of the day is on your own
   Overnight: Amsterdam
   Meals: Breakfast
4. Day 4
   DAY 4, Tuesday - Rijksmuseum Tour & Cruise Embarkation

   Tue, May 07, 2024

   This morning visit the world famous Rijksmuseum. On your guided tour you will explore the vast collection of works from some of the world's greatest artists including the Dutch masters Vermeer and Rembrandt. This afternoon transfer to the port for embarkation. After arrival formalities, rest and relax on board. This evening, meet your Cruise Director and enjoy a Welcome Dinner as it sets the mood for your delightful river cruise
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
5. Day 5
   DAY 5, Wednesday - Morning in Keukenhof Gardens

   Wed, May 08, 2024

   Depart this morning for beautiful Keukenhof Gardens, the largest and most spectacular flower gardens in the world. Explore the iconic fields of multicolored tulips stretching out over the flat Dutch landscape as far as the eye can see. Take your time to stroll around the gardens and marvel at the floral displays. Rejoin the ship for lunch on board. In the afternoon, set sail to Antwerp
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6. Day 6
   DAY 6, Thursday - Antwerp City Tour

   Thu, May 09, 2024

   Today you arrive in Antwerp, one of Europe's largest and most historic port cities, where more than half of the world's diamonds are traded. Evidence of the wealth produced from trade during the 16th century can be seen in the opulent homes that line the city streets. During the walking tour, view the unique market place, surrounded by the mighty Renaissance Town hall and numerous guild halls. Visit the Cathedral of our Lady, the highest Gothic building in the Low Countries. Rest of the day is at leisure in Antwerp, or return to the ship for a relaxing afternoon on board
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
7. Day 7
   DAY 7, Friday - Tour Ghent, the Historic Flanders Port

   Fri, May 10, 2024

   Discover the historic Flanders port of Ghent today, a showcase of Flemish wealth. Your tour of this medieval city includes views of the 7th century St. Bavo's Cathedral and the imposing Gravensteen Castle. At the town center, view the gigantic Belfry, a symbol of the city's independence and the Gothic-style Cloth Hall, glorifying the city's major industry. Alternatively, take the optional full day tour to Bruges, also known as the "Venice of the North" and home to some of Europe's best preserved medieval buildings. Here, view the Lake of Love (Minnewater), the Beguinage Convent and walk along the picturesque winding cobbled alleys and romantic canals
   Optional: Full Day Bruges City Tour (AM)
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8. Day 8
   DAY 8, Saturday - Willemstad, Afternoon Windmill Tour in Kinderdijk

   Sat, May 11, 2024

   Begin your exploration of charming Willemstad, located on Holland's Diep River. The town, named after King Willem of Orange, is best-known for its well-preserved fortifications. View some of the town's architectural landmarks; the Mauritshuis, De Koepelkerk Church, the first church built in the Netherlands specifically for Protestant worship, d'Orangemolen, a stately white windmill, and Old Town Hall. Alternatively, join the fascinating optional excursion to the Delta Works this morning. After the 1953 flood in the Netherlands, the Delta Plan was created to prevent a disaster from ever happening again. Taking 30 years to complete, the storm flood barrier, almost six miles long, stands as the final defense in the battle against the water and is considered a technical miracle. Afterward, rejoin the ship and continue cruising to Dordrecht. This afternoon, visit a windmill park in the small village of Kinderdijk on the north bank of the River Noord. The windmills, built in the 1700s, are still in use today and played a vital role in the development of the country. During this excursion, visit a windmill and learn more about the modern technology that is now replacing their existence
   Optional: Delta Works Tour (AM)
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
9. Day 9
   DAY 9, Sunday - Morning Tour of Enkhuizen

   Sun, May 12, 2024

   Embark on a morning tour of the charming city of Enkhuizen. Discover the city's historic landmarks and step into the Dutch Golden Age of the 17th century when you stroll through Enkhuizen's historic streets. Learn about the city's local culture and hear facts about the time when the Netherlands was a global trading power with Enkhuizen one of its main port cities. Conclude the tour with a visit to Zuiderzee Museum, that focuses in maritime history and cultural heritage of the Zuiderzee. Visit the exhibits and discover how people once lived in this area. Free time to explore on your own before returning to the ship. Set sail in the late afternoon
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
10. Day 10
    DAY 10, Monday - Full Day in Amsterdam

    Mon, May 13, 2024

    Spend the day at leisure to further discover Amsterdam on your own. Perhaps experience a taste of real Dutch life by renting a bike to discover the little alleyways, hidden courtyards and canal-side treasures. Rejoin the ship for lunch on board. At tonight's dinner, share wonderful memories of your cruise and bid farewell to your Cruise Director
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
11. Day 11
    DAY 11, Tuesday - Disembarkation, Tour Brussels

    Tue, May 14, 2024

    This morning, meet your local host as you disembark your ship and travel through the countryside to reach Brussels. In Belgium's capital city, view the gigantic Atomium, that still remains from the 1958 World Expo, the Palace of Justice and the Grand Place, a recreated 15th century town square with decorated guild houses. Stroll the city center with the well-known Manneken Pis bronze sculpture before continuing to Paris. Upon arrival this evening, start the discovery of the "City Of Light", one of the world's greatest cities with its endless treasures
    Overnight: Paris
    Meals: Breakfast
12. Day 12
    DAY 12, Wednesday - Tour of Paris

    Wed, May 15, 2024

    Drive along the famous Champs Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe and the iconic Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris. On to the celebrated "Rive Gauche", the vivacious Left Bank where artists, philosophers, and writers in a long gone era flourished in the artistic community at Montparnasse. View the Latin Quarter, home to many of France's higher education establishments, such as the Sorbonne. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, or join the optional tour to the Palace of Versailles and gardens where you will see classical French architecture at its most decadent
    Optional: Palace of Versailles (PM)
    Overnight: Paris
    Meals: Breakfast
13. Day 13
    DAY 13, Thursday - Full Day in Paris

    Thu, May 16, 2024

    The day is yours to explore this exciting city independently. See spectacular views of the city from the Basilica of Sacre Coeur, and walk the winding streets to mingle with the street artists selling their wares at Place du Tertre. This evening, perhaps stop at a bistro for dinner coupled with great wine
    Overnight: Paris
    Meals: Breakfast
14. Day 14
    DAY 14, Friday - Depart France

    Fri, May 17, 2024

    Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
    Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

River Cruise Package Includes

Special Features

River Cruise Features & Amenities

Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

Not Included:
Optional shore excursions and gratuities.

Additional Information:
Land/Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.

Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information.

While sailing with Monarch Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise's Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at: .

There might be last minute changes to the itinerary, if needed, prior and during the Olympic, and Paralympic games. Traffic through Paris will be restricted during the Olympic and Paralympic games in order to ensure the safety of the athletes, spectators, and workers. Public transportation such as the metro, the RER, and tram lines may still be operating, however disruptions and closures are to be expected.

Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

Please note that the following inclusions may contain items that are only applicable when you purchase Land & Air. The brochure prices below are for Land Only - call us for our best deal.

Ship Information

Cabins

Life on Board

Questions & Answers