Benelux Cruises

Explore the Fascinating Benelux Region with CruiseAway

The Benelux region, comprising **Belgium, the Netherlands**, and **Luxembourg**, is a treasure trove of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. A cruise through this vibrant area allows you to effortlessly explore charming cities, taste delicious local cuisine, and admire picturesque countryside views. With a blend of medieval towns and modern urban centres, cruisers can enjoy the best of both worlds! Fun fact: The Benelux has some of the highest bike ownership rates in the world, making cycling a popular way to explore the region’s charming streets. A cruise is an excellent way to experience the beauty and diversity of Benelux, all while indulging in top-notch amenities aboard a luxury ship.

Top Harbours to Visit in Benelux

Planning a cruise to the Benelux? Here are five must-visit harbours that will offer enriching experiences:

• Amsterdam, Netherlands: Famous for its beautiful canals and vibrant atmosphere, Amsterdam is a must-visit port. Explore the **Van Gogh Museum** or take a scenic boat tour of the canals. Don’t forget to visit the **Anne Frank House** for a poignant glimpse into history. Insider tip: If time permits, rent a bike to discover the city like a local!
• Rotterdam, Netherlands: Known for its modern architecture, Rotterdam offers a unique contrast to other historical cities in the region. Check out the iconic **Erasmus Bridge** and visit the bustling **Markthal** for local delicacies. Pro tip: Head to **Kunsthal Rotterdam** for impressive art exhibitions; it’s a must for art lovers!
• Zeebrugge (Bruges), Belgium: A short trip from Zeebrugge brings you to Bruges, a picture-perfect city filled with medieval charm. Don’t miss the **Belfry of Bruges** and a scenic canal cruise to take in the stunning architecture from the water. Insider tip: Try some local Belgian chocolates as a sweet treat while walking around the cobblestone streets!
• Dover, England: This historic port offers breathtaking views of the famous **White Cliffs of Dover**. While in town, visit **Dover Castle**, a remarkable fortress with stunning views of the surrounding area. If you’re keen for a bit of adventure, explore nearby **Canterbury** for its beautiful cathedral and quaint streets, easily reached by a short train ride.
• Cologne, Germany: Just a short distance from the Benelux region, Cologne boasts an iconic cathedral, the **Kölner Dom**, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also explore the **Old Town** for charming shops and delicious local cuisine. Pro tip: Sample some traditional **Cologne Kölsch** beer from a local brewery for a true taste of the city!

The Best Times to Cruise Benelux

The ideal time to cruise the Benelux region is during the shoulder seasons of **April to June** and **September to October**. Temperatures during these months range from **12°C to 22°C**, providing pleasant weather for exploring the sights. The summer months (July to August) can see temperatures rise to **25°C and higher**, but it can also be crowded due to tourists. Keep in mind that springtime offers lovely blooming flowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage, making either shoulder season an excellent choice!

Cost of Cruising in Benelux

If you’re considering a cruise to Benelux, expect to pay approximately **$1,500 to $3,000** for a one-week standard cruise. A two-week cruise may range from **$3,500 to $6,000**. For a luxury experience, figures can start around **$5,000** for a one-week holiday. The cheapest times to book your cruise usually fall in the shoulder seasons, while prices can be highest during the summer months. Additionally, dining out can cost around **$25 to $45** per meal in local restaurants, depending on your choice of dining establishments.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Trips to Benelux

• Holland America Line: With a fleet of **11 ships**, **four** sail to Benelux, with **Nieuw Statendam** and **Rotterdam** leading in itineraries. Most cruises depart from **Sydney** or **Rotterdam**. Holland America is known for its enriching onboard experiences and focus on cultural immersion, making it a fantastic choice for cruisers looking to dive deeper into local customs and practices.
• CroisiEurope: Featuring a fleet of **38 ships**, **13** venture to Benelux, with the **MS Lafayette** and **L’Europe** among the top. Departures primarily take place from **Amsterdam** or **Strasbourg**. CroisiEurope focuses on river cruises, thus providing a unique perspective of quaint towns and historical sites connected by waterway.
• Cunard: Cunard has a fleet size of **four ships**, with **three** offering itineraries to Benelux, particularly **Queen Mary 2** and **Queen Anne**. These cruises often depart from **Southampton** or **Hamburg**. Cunard is famous for its luxurious ambience and traditional sea voyages, ensuring a classic cruising experience with top-tier dining and service.
• MSC Cruises: Boasting **23 ships**, MSC has **three** offering cruises to Benelux, with **MSC Preziosa** and **MSC Poesia** among the favourites. Departures typically take place from **Southampton** or **Hamburg**. MSC is well-known for its family-friendly atmosphere and engaging onboard entertainment options, making it perfect for cruisers of all ages.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line features **20 ships**, with **six** offering trips to Benelux. Notable vessels include **Norwegian Sky** and **Norwegian Dawn**, departing mainly from **Southampton** or **Le Havre**. Norwegian Cruise Line stands out for its freestyle cruising concept, which allows for a relaxed onboard experience and flexible dining options.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking River Cruises: With a whopping **63 ships**, Viking operates **32** that visit the Benelux region. The **Viking Gersemi** and **Viking Hervor** frequently depart from **Amsterdam** or **Basel**. They are known for their intimacy and immersive itineraries, offering a deep dive into the cities’ cultures as they cruise along rivers in the region.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Featuring **six ships**, with **four** sailing to Benelux, including **Seven Seas Navigator** and **Seven Seas Voyager**. Departing mainly from **Southampton** or **Amsterdam**, Regent is synonymous with all-inclusive luxury cruising, offering exceptional services and gourmet dining that elevates the cruise experience significantly.
• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of **eight ships**, three offer itineraries to the Benelux region, with **Sirena** and **Vista** being the most popular. They often depart from **Southampton** or **Amsterdam**. Oceania is acclaimed for its culinary excellence, with gourmet dining experiences crafted by top chef partners, ensuring that every meal is a highlight of your journey.
• Silversea: Including **13 ships**, **two** cruise to Benelux with **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Shadow** most frequently departing from **Southampton** or **Copenhagen**. Silversea offers all-suite accommodations and an unparalleled staff-to-guest ratio, ensuring that your experience is both exclusive and personalized.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: With **11 ships**, five of which sail to the Benelux region, like **Viking Neptune** and **Viking Sky**. Departures generally occur from **Bergen** or **Barcelona**. Viking Ocean Cruises focuses on cultural enrichment and immersive experiences, allowing passengers to delve into history while enjoying modern luxury onboard.

Explore Alternative Regions

If the Benelux region has captured your interest but you’re also curious about other destinations, check out these five alternatives:

• Northern Europe: Rich in history and breath-taking landscapes, Northern Europe offers beautiful fjords and stunning city tours that will enchant any traveller.
• Western Europe: Famous for its iconic historical landmarks and vibrant cities, Western Europe blends modernity with rich tradition, perfect for culture enthusiasts!
• Eastern Mediterranean: This area features gorgeous coastlines, ancient ruins, and robust cultures, offering a delightful contrast to the Benelux experience.
• Caribbean: Known for sun-soaked beaches and warm hospitality, the Caribbean invites relaxation while exploring a rich tapestry of island cultures.
• Germany: Delve into Germany’s charming towns, delicious beers, and cultural marvels, perfect for any traveller keen on history and scenic views.

Whether it’s the rich history or delicious local cuisine, a cruise to the Benelux region promises something special for everyone. So, why not take the plunge? Book your unforgettable cruise adventure with **CruiseAway** today!