Travel from Alkmaar to Delft on the Dutch waterways
In the afternoon, you will be met by a crew member of the Panache at the designated meeting point. From here, relax as you are chauffeured to the barge, moored in the delightful town of Alkmaar. A traditional champagne welcome and introduction to the crew awaits you, before your first of many gourmet dinners aboard. End the evening with a nightcap in the hot tub.
Perhaps visit the Alkmaar cheese market, before our first cruise to Zaanse Schans near Amsterdam, a place renowned for its charming wooden windmills. This afternoon, your Tour Guide escorts you to the delightful Dutch harbor town of Enkhuizen, which boasts a remarkably well-preserved historic center. Visit the fascinating open-air conservation area and museum to explore the maritime history of the Zuiderzee. Return to the barge where Chef presents a gourmet dinner onboard.
A morning cruise is the perfect time to relax on deck or take a dip in the hot tub. This afternoon's visit is to the Keukenhof, known as the “Garden of Europe”, and is one of the world's largest flower gardens. Approximately 7 million flower bulbs are planted annually, covering 72 acres. This vibrantly colorful and aromatic experience allows visitors to admire tulips, along with hyacinths, daffodils, and other spring bulbs, all in an elaborate display. Return to the barge to freshen up for dinner ashore at a local bistro.
An early morning visit brings you to the world’s largest flower auction in Aalsmeer, where some 10 billion flowers are sold every year. This morning, visit the Frans Hals Museum in the picturesque town of Haarlem, which houses a celebrated collection of Old Masters and other artworks representative of the Dutch Golden Age. Return to the barge for an afternoon cruise. Enjoy the scenery from the deck, or, upon mooring, explore the canal's path with a gentle pedal or leisurely stroll. Cocktails and canapes precede tonight's gourmet dinner.
This morning's cruise provides the perfect opportunity to laze in the hot tub, or relax on deck with cup of coffee or tea. This afternoon we take a tour of Leiden on by private boat. Home to one of the oldest universities in the country and the birthplace of Rembrandt, Leiden is full of charm and character, a perfect place to explore on a bicycle, or simply stroll the banks of the pretty tree-lined canals. Enjoy free time to explore Leiden's many local cafes, antique dealers, and specialty shops. Return to the barge for drinks and dinner.
Relax on deck during this morning's leisurely cruise to the city of Delft, once the seat of the royal House of Orange. This afternoon's sightseeing includes a visit to the Royal Delft factory, the last surviving “pottery” of more than 30 that once existed, reveals both the history and future of this beloved artisan icon. Watch the artists carefully and passionately paint the ceramics in the famous cobalt blue. Cocktails and canapes precede tonight's celebratory Captain's Dinner.
After breakfast, you will be chauffeured to the designated drop off point.
Please note: this is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions.
“The barge itself is gorgeous, and the crew was very friendly, capable, and accommodating. A sink-in leather sectional sofa offered plenty of seating in the salon. The sundeck was a great place to relax and see the sights. Cabins were spacious with good storage. Highly recommended!”
– Jack and Beth H, Panache
Are you ready to float along the charming
canals of Holland?
