By Bike and Boat in Belgium, Starting from Bruges, by Floor van Aemstel

Your bike and boat tour of Belgium begins in Bruges. Canals and ancient ramparts surround the historic city centre, which, with its numerous well-preserved buildings, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Grote Markt, which in the Middle Ages could even be reached by boat, stroll through the historic Hanseatic quarter and visit the impressive Church of Our Lady. Boarding and a welcome from the ship’s crew begin at 4.00 pm.

Before long, as you cycle out of Bruges, you’ll reach the tranquil town of Damme. At the Uilenspiegel Museum, you can immerse yourself in the history of the legend of Till Eulenspiegel, which is said to have taken place here. The route then leads to Groot Ter Doest Abbey and on to Lissewege, one of the most beautiful villages in Flanders. Once you reach the coast, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the sea, relaxing hours on the beach and a fresh North Sea breeze, before you set off on your return journey to Bruges.

Whilst you enjoy a leisurely breakfast, the boat will take you to Moerbrugge. Here, you’ll hop on your bike and follow the Ghent–Ostend Canal through the vast, almost flat landscape of Flanders all the way to Ghent. Once the second-largest city after Paris, Ghent still captivates visitors today with its historic centre and an impressive array of magnificent buildings. In the evening, you’ll cycle back to the Floor van Aemstel, which will moor for the night at the Merelbeke lock. From here, it’s about a 30-minute cycle to the centre of Ghent.

After breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to the vibrant city of Ghent and cycle first to Dendermonde. Here, it’s well worth visiting the Beguinage with its charming local history museum. A coffee break on the picturesque Grote Markt is also a great idea. Dendermonde’s landmark is the Ros Beiaard, a legendary horse said to possess magical powers. You’ll then continue your cycle tour through Belgium to Sint-Amands, following the idyllic, winding course of the Scheldt.

Your cycle and boat tour through Belgium takes you first to the Brussels–Rupel Canal. The route continues along the Rupel until you finally reach the Scheldt. From Rupelmonde, you’ll cycle at a leisurely pace towards Hemiksem. You’ll then follow the Scheldt downstream to Antwerp. This historic port city is known worldwide for its significant role in the diamond trade. Park your bike and explore Antwerp on foot. Stroll across the Groenplaats, visit the Rubens House and admire the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady.

Your cycle and boat trip in Belgium, starting from Bruges, takes you first to the charming little town of Lier. Pay a visit to the Beguinage, the Town Hall and the Zimmerturm with its striking Wonderklok before cycling along the River Nete to Willebroek. Your boat, the Floor van Aemstel, is already waiting for you.

Whilst your ship follows the Willebroek Canal today, you’ll cycle through a charming, green, hilly landscape to Mechelen. This charming town boasts more than 300 listed buildings, including eight churches well worth a visit. Your cycle tour in Belgium then continues to Vilvoorde, a charming suburb of Brussels. From here, you can reach the centre of the Belgian capital by public transport in around 30 minutes and explore this fascinating metropolis, with its cultural diversity and cosmopolitan atmosphere, at your own pace.

After breakfast and disembarkation by 09.00, your cycle and boat trip in Belgium comes to an end. You will then set off on your own return journey.