A spring cruise aboard La Nouvelle Etoile in Holland reveals the tulips and gardens for which the country is celebrated.
La Nouvelle Etoile is owned and operated by the charismatic Captain Jan Meijer. Sophisticated and worldly, Jan’s lifelong passion lies in introducing barge guests to the many countries through which he cruises during the season. Jan was born into a successful Dutch shipping family; deluxe accommodations, elegant design, and glamorous style are requisites on his dapper barge.
In fact, La Nouvelle Etoile boasts a long list of premium innovations, such as an elevator, exercise room, and laundry facilities. The spacious deck is the perfect place to linger a with glass of wine, admiring the idyllic scenery as the barge gently cruises through the inland waterways of Europe. When not relaxing in the hot tub, guests can explore their cruise region by walking or bicycling along the towpaths.
Guests of course enjoy the millions of blooming flowers at Keukenhof Gardens; other memorable excursions include touring the Delft pottery factory and tasting vodka at the Ketel One distillery! Explorations of charming towns, tours of local landmarks, and visits to historical highlights are also on offer.
Gourmands thrill to La Nouvelle Etoile’s extraordinary culinary experience, which features seasonal ingredients and regional specialties, served at a table replete with elegant Wedgewood china, Christofle silver, and the finest crystal. Wines are selected from both local vineyards and New World producers, reflecting La Nouvelle Etoile’s international roamings.
In fact, La Nouvelle Etoile is very unique in that Jan begins the cruising season in Holland during Tulip Time, and then makes the journey to France via the canals of Belgium. Captain Jan spends most of the season in France, traversing many cruising regions, and then completes in the season cruising to Germany and Luxembourg on the petite Mosel River.
