Elisabeth

In late afternoon, you will be met by an Elisabeth crew member at the designated meeting point and chauffeured to Elisabeth, moored in the village of Jutphaas. Upon arrival, Captain David Wallace and crew will offer the traditional Champagne Welcome, complete with gourmet hors d'oeuvres and an introduction to the crew. Unpack in your cozy cabin before the first of many gourmet dinners onboard.

Cruise this morning on Holland’s “living waterways” to the historic town of Oudewater. In the 16th century, witches were believed to be exceptionally light, which enabled them to fly. It was the custom to weigh suspected witches in Oudewater on what was considered the fairest scale in the Netherlands. Your Tour Guide will introduce the Oudewater Witch Weighing House, now a museum devoted to witchcraft, followed by a tasting of locally made cheeses. Return to Elisabeth for drinks and dinner onboard.

Today's adventures begin with an optional early morning tour of the world famous flower auctions at Aalsmeer where, on a typical day, an astounding 43 million flowers are purchased for shipping all over the world. Then return to Elisabeth for a cruise to Gouda and a walking tour of this beautiful city. Admire the preserved historic buildings, attend a clog-making demonstration, and take a peek into the Gothic church of Sint-Janskerk to admire its stained glass windows. If time allows, enjoy a tasting of Gouda cheese. A gourmet dinner onboard completes this eventful day.

This morning, the journey by water continues through the Dutch countryside, followed by lunch at a canal side restaurant. Then tour nearby Keukenhof Gardens to experience spectacular displays of colorful tulips, inspirational gardens, and unique artworks...plus there is the opportunity to purchase bulbs that will recall these memories when planted in your home garden! An optional tour to the preserved village of Zaanse Schans introduces windmills and their role in Dutch culture. Return to Elisabeth for another evening of Epicurean delights onboard.

This morning, enjoy a relaxing cruise to Leiden. Savor a leisurely breakfast with charming scenery drifting slowly by. After lunch, take a tour of this ancient and historic city. Leiden’s city center is still protected by a moat, while a private cruise arranged by your Tour Guide is the best way to appreciate the smaller picturesque canals. Perhaps you’d like to experience the city by bike or explore Leiden Castle on your own. Return to Elisabeth for appetizers and aperitifs before tonight’s candlelit dinner.

Our final cruise is to the vibrant city of Haarlem, a longtime favorite Barge Lady excursion. Your Tour Guide will present an extraordinary collection of Dutch Masters paintings at the Frans Hals Museum, or perhaps browse the plentiful fashion and gift shops in the Golden Streets shopping district. As you explore Haarlem, Chef is busy preparing a special Farewell Feast. Make sure you’re back onboard in time for cocktail hour, followed by this dinner, ending your Dutch adventure in style!

After breakfast, you will be chauffeured to the designated drop off point.