Name: The treasures of the north through Holland and Belgium (port-to-port cruise)
Brand: CroisiEurope

CroisiEurope

Known for its river cruises, CroisiEurope also offers ocean voyages on two small ships. Guests boarding the 130-passenger La Belle des Oceans (formerly Silversea's Silver Discoverer) can follow in Napoleon's footsteps, visit the hilltop villages of Balagne, and enjoy dinner at a traditional inn. Meanwhile, the 197-guest La Belle de l'Adriatique offers itineraries that take in local traditions.

Cruise Itinerary

Day 1

Brussel (Bruxelles)

Day 2

Antwerp

Belgium's second city frequently features on Dutch Waterways cruises, and it's easy to see why. Often dubbed a 'capital of cool', Antwerp is an excellent stop for cultural exploration. Spend your day spotting Art Nouveau façades, hunting for treasures in the fashion district or visiting the open-air sculpture park Middelheim. And don't miss the library at the Museum Plantin-Moretus, a UNESCO-listed site that celebrates the city's printing legacy.

Day 3

Rotterdam

Often overlooked in favour of Amsterdam, Rotterdam is long overdue its flowers. Many now consider it the Netherlands' hippest city. Bombed heavily during World War II, it has spent the decades since reinventing itself as one of Europe's most compelling centres of modern architecture. Highlights include the playful Cube Houses by visionary architect Piet Blom and the 'Horn of Plenty', a swirling digital artwork across the ceiling of the Markthal. Take in sweeping views of the city from Euromast Tower before exploring the city's maritime roots at the excellent Maritime Museums.

Days 4-7

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ lively capital, famous for its historic canals and art museums. Cruising into the city reveals a network of waterways lined with tall, narrow houses with ornate gables, a hallmark of Dutch Golden Age architecture. The city’s past as a busy trading city can be seen in its harbour and historic buildings.Exploring on foot or by bike, visitors can check out world-class museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, alongside the poignant Anne Frank House. The city’s compact centre makes it easy to wander through charming neighbourhoods like Jordaan with its boutique shops, cafés and galleries.Despite its popularity, Amsterdam maintains a relaxed vibe with leafy canals and parks offering a peaceful break from the busy centre.

Day 8

Krefeld

Day 8

Nijmegen

Discover the oldest city in the Netherlands, known for its distinctly youthful vibe. Set on the banks of the Waal, Nijmegen's history stretches back to Roman times, and there's plenty to explore. Museum de Bastei is especially intriguing, with secret passageways and even an ancient mammoth skull on display. Or take things at a more relaxed pace. Spend your time in port strolling through the Grote Markt and sipping wine from a local vineyard.

Day 9

Krefeld

Day 9

Cologne

Cologne has roots going back to Roman times. Dominating the skyline is the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s largest Gothic churches. Don’t miss a visit to see its soaring spires, intricate façades and stained-glass windows.Beyond the cathedral, Cologne’s Old Town features cobbled streets lined with colourful medieval houses, cosy beer halls and cafés where the local Kölsch beer is served. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums dedicated to Roman history, modern art and chocolate.The Rhine promenade is a good option for a relaxed walk and a chance to check out the city’s bridges.

Days 9-10

Königswinter

Days 10-11

Rüdesheim am Rhein

Day 11

Mannheim

Day 12

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is on the border of France and Germany, and its culture and architecture reflect a blend of both influences. The Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of timber-framed houses, cobbled streets and canals often called “La Petite France”.The Strasbourg Cathedral, with its intricate pink sandstone façade and astronomical clock, dominates the skyline. Strasbourg also has a reputation as a European political centre, housing the European Parliament.

Day 1

Brussel (Bruxelles)

Day 2

Antwerp

Day 3

Rotterdam

Days 4-7

Amsterdam

Day 8

Krefeld

Day 8

Nijmegen

Day 9

Krefeld

Day 9

Cologne

Days 9-10

Königswinter

Days 10-11 Rüdesheim am Rhein

Rüdesheim am Rhein

Day 11

Mannheim

Day 12

Strasbourg

Passengers

Crew

1992

Launched

2014

Last refit

15000t

Tonnage

90m

Length

10m

Width

9kts

Speed

Decks

EUR

Currency

MS Lafayette

This superb Premium ship that sails on the Rhine, was named after the Marquis de Lafayette, a great figure in French history and hero of the United States War of Independence.

All Prices

Customer reviews

Reviews

Fantastic

Went on the Danube Cruise had a great time so interesting. All the staff were so friendly and helpful especially with my husband and his mobility scooter. The food was delicious. Couldn’t ask for better

CroisiEurope MS Modigliani