Belgium Cruises

Experience the Charms of Belgium with CruiseAway

Welcome to Belgium, a unique mosaic of cultures, art, and exquisite cuisine nestled in the heart of Europe. A cruise to this picturesque destination offers you the chance to sample delicious chocolates, experience the delightful charm of medieval towns, and explore stunning architecture, including the iconic **Grand Place** in Brussels. Fun fact: Belgium is home to over 200 different kinds of beer and is famous for its waffles! With easy access to both historic cities and beautiful countryside, a cruise through Belgium is a fantastic way to soak in the region’s vibrancy, rich history, and culinary delights.

Must-Visit Harbours in Belgium

When sailing to **Belgium**, the following harbours are sure to dazzle and captivate your travels:

• Zeebrugge (Bruges): Known as the “Gateway to Bruges,” Zeebrugge is a vibrant port with easy access to the enchanting city of Bruges. Once there, stroll along the city’s picturesque canals, visit the **Belfry of Bruges** for scenic views, and don’t miss the chance to indulge in some authentic Belgian chocolate! Insider tip: Hire a bike to explore the scenic countryside, or take a boat tour on the canals for a unique perspective.
• Antwerp: A bustling hub of culture and creativity, Antwerp boasts rich history and stunning architecture. Visit the impressive **Cathedral of Our Lady**, where you can see works by the famous painter Rubens. If you’re a fashion enthusiast, Antwerp is known as a fashion capital, so be sure to explore its trendy boutiques. Pro tip: Don’t forget to sample a local specialty: **Antwerp’s hand-cut fries**, served with a variety of delicious sauces!
• Brussels: While not a direct cruise port, Brussels is easily accessible from both Zeebrugge and Antwerp. It’s the capital and heart of Belgium, bursting with history and vibrant culture. Explore the magnificent **Grand Place** and visit the **Manneken Pis** statue. If time allows, check out the **Royal Palace** or indulge in some famous **Belgian waffles**. The city’s efficient public transport system makes navigating quick and easy!
• Bruges (Canal Port): Another must-visit is Bruges itself, where you can hop on a boat tour through its charming canals or visit the **Groeningemuseum** to view exquisite Flemish art. Don’t skip the chance to climb the **Belfort** tower for stunning panoramic views! Insider tip: Explore the hidden alleyways and squares that offer a peaceful respite from the bustling city centre.
• Ostend: This vibrant coastal city is known for its stunning beaches, historic buildings, and seafront promenade. While exploring, visit the **Fort Napoleon** or the **Wellington Racetrack** for something unique. For a leisurely experience, take a stroll along the coast and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants. Pro tip: Try the **Ostend mussels**, a local delicacy!

The Best Times to Cruise Belgium

For cruising to **Belgium**, the ideal times to visit are from **April to June** and **September to October**. During these months, temperatures typically range from **15°C to 22°C**, providing comfortable weather for exploring. Spring brings blooming flowers and festive events, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage. The summer months of **July to August** can see warmer temperatures of around **25°C to 30°C** but are also accompanied by larger tourist crowds. This can impact availability and prices, so plan accordingly!

Cost of Cruising in Belgium

Curious about pricing? A one-week cruise to **Belgium** usually ranges between **$1,500 and $3,000**, with two-week cruises averaging **$3,000 to $5,500**. For those seeking an upscale experience, luxury cruises typically start around **$5,500** for one week. The most economical time to cruise tends to be during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, whereas summer months are typically pricier due to demand. Dining typically costs around **$20 to $40** per meal depending on the location, with street food options offering wallet-friendly alternatives.

Major Cruise Lines Operating in Belgium

• Cunard: This prestigious cruise line has a fleet of **four ships**, with **three** operating itineraries to **Belgium**. **Queen Mary 2** and **Queen Anne** frequently make the journey, typically departing from **Southampton** or **Hamburg**. Cunard is renowned for its elegant ambiance, exceptional service, and classic cruising experience, offering onboard features including sophisticated dining and enrichment programs.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With **20 ships** in their fleet, **six** sail to **Belgium**, particularly **Norwegian Sky** and **Norwegian Dawn**. Departing mainly from **Southampton** or **Le Havre**, this cruise line is celebrated for its “freestyle cruising” concept, granting guests the freedom to dine whenever and wherever they want, greatly enhancing overall guest satisfaction.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships** and **six** that visit **Belgium**, **Crown Princess** and **Coral Princess** are popular offerings. Primarily departing from **Southampton** or **Fort Lauderdale**, Princess Cruises is well-regarded for its superb service and a wide range of engaging onboard activities tailored for cruisers of all ages.
• MSC Cruises: This cruise line operates a considerable fleet of **23 ships**, with **two** offering itineraries to **Belgium**. The **MSC Preziosa** and **MSC Virtuosa** typically depart from **Southampton** or **Hamburg**. MSC is known for its engaging family-friendly options and vibrant onboard entertainment, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all ages.
• P&O Cruises: Comprising **seven ships**, **six** of them cruise to **Belgium**, including **Aurora** and **Arcadia**. Most often departing from **Southampton**, P&O Cruises has earned a reputation for its welcoming service and commitment to offering enriching experiences at sea, ideal for both novice and seasoned cruisers.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of **eight ships**, **three** sail to **Belgium**. The **Sirena** and **Vista** are popular choices, often departing from **Southampton** or **Amsterdam**. Oceania is renowned for its gourmet dining experiences, featuring a range of culinary options and high-end service, ensuring a luxurious journey for discerning guests.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This luxury cruise line features **six ships**, with **four** that visit **Belgium**. The **Seven Seas Voyager** and **Seven Seas Mariner** depart primarily from **Southampton** or **Antwerp**. Regent is known for its all-inclusive approach, offering exceptional service, gourmet dining, and premium beverages, making every guest feel pampered.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: With **11 ships**, **five** cruise to **Belgium**, including **Viking Sky** and **Viking Saturn**. Departing often from either **Bergen** or **Barcelona**, Viking Ocean Cruises is celebrated for its cultural enrichment offerings and high-quality itineraries, allowing for deep local experiences while cruising.
• Silversea: This line operates **13 ships**, with **two** offering itineraries to **Belgium**—the **Silver Shadow** and **Silver Dawn**. Most frequently departing from **Belfast** or **Copenhagen**, Silversea delivers a luxurious cruising experience that prioritizes personalization and exquisite onboard service to its guests.
• Viking River Cruises: With **63 ships**, **two** head to **Belgium**, particularly **Viking Vali** and **Viking Kvasir**. Most often departing from **Antwerp** or **Amsterdam**, Viking River Cruises offers intimate experiences and a unique perspective on the quaint towns and cities along European rivers, enhancing the enjoyment of every port visited.

Explore Alternative Regions

If you’re considering cruising to **Belgium** but want to explore more, check out these regions:

• Western Europe: Discover iconic cities, rich history, and cultural treasures throughout countries like France, Germany, and across the UK.
• Northern Europe: Immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, stunning fjords, and vibrant coastal cities—perfect for adventure seekers!
• The British Isles: Experience charming towns, dramatic coastlines, and the fascinating culture of England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
• Southern Europe: Enjoy sun-soaked beaches, delicious cuisine, and historical sites across countries like Italy and Spain.
• The Caribbean: For a completely different getaway, the Caribbean offers breathtaking beaches, lively festivities, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

A cruise to **Belgium** offers a wealth of cultural experiences paired with stunning scenery, delectable food, and friendly locals. Why wait? Start planning your dream cruise holiday with **CruiseAway** now and create memories that will last a lifetime!