Netherlands Cruises

Explore the Beautiful Netherlands with CruiseAway

The **Netherlands** is a captivating destination, rich in history and culture, boasting breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities. A cruise to this picturesque country offers you the chance to revel in its enchanting canals, tulip fields, and remarkable architecture. Cruisers often find highlights such as the stunning **Amsterdam** canals, the iconic windmills of **Kinderdijk**, and the artistic treasures housed in the **Van Gogh Museum**. Fun fact: the Netherlands is home to over **1,000** windmills, and Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Opting for a cruise is a perfect way to discover the country’s beauty while enjoying the comforts of your ship, seamlessly navigating from one magnificent port to the next.

Must-Visit Harbours in the Netherlands

When you embark on a cruise to the **Netherlands**, several stunning harbours await your exploration. Here are five highlights:

• Amsterdam: The heart of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is famed for its intricate canal system, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene. While here, you can visit the **Anne Frank House** or admire masterpieces at the **Rijksmuseum**. If time allows, hop on a canal cruise to soak in the city from the water. Insider tip: Grab a bike and cycle through **Vondelpark** for a taste of local life!
• Rotterdam: Known for its modern architecture, Rotterdam is a vibrant city steeped in history. Don’t miss the magnificent **Markthal**—a market hall that offers a feast for the senses. You can also visit the **Cube Houses**, a unique architectural project capturing the spirit of innovation. Insider tip: Head to **Euromast** for panoramic views of the city—it’s especially magical at sunset!
• Kinderdijk: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a collection of **19 historic windmills**, built in the 18th century. A visit here provides a picturesque glimpse into Dutch history and engineering. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the dikes and enjoy the serene countryside views. Pro tip: Visit the area in spring when tulips are in bloom for breathtaking photo opportunities!
• Zeebrugge (Bruges): While technically in Belgium, Zeebrugge serves as a gateway to the fairy-tale city of Bruges. Wander the cobbled streets, admire the medieval architecture, and take a boat tour through the canals. Make sure to visit the **Belfry of Bruges** for stunning city views. Insider tip: Don’t miss out on tasting authentic Belgian chocolate from local chocolatiers!
• Utrecht: A hidden gem, Utrecht offers charming canals, wharves, and a delightful café culture. The **Dom Tower**, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, provides a rewarding climb and excellent views of the city. Visit the vibrant **Museum Speelklok** for an intriguing look into musical clocks and mechanical instruments. Pro tip: Explore the unique wharf cellars that line the canals, many of which now house cafés and shops!

Best Times to Cruise the Netherlands

The best time to travel to the **Netherlands** typically spans **April to June** and **September to October**. During these months, temperatures range from **10°C to 20°C**, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and enjoying the spring bloom of tulips or the autumn’s warm colours. Summer (**July to August**) can bring temperatures above **25°C**, with more tourists flocking to the popular sights. While the weather is pleasant, the crowds can be overwhelming and prices may peak. Visiting in spring or autumn usually offers more budget-friendly options and a less crowded experience.

Cost of Cruising in the Netherlands

For those contemplating a cruise to the **Netherlands**, anticipate costs roughly between **$1,500 to $2,500** for a **one-week standard cruise**, while a **two-week adventure** may range from **$3,000 to $5,000**. Luxury cruises will generally start around **$5,000** for one week. As with most travel destinations, the most economical time to cruise is during the **shoulder seasons**, with **July and August** being the most expensive months to sail. For dining, you can typically budget approximately **$15 to $40** per meal, depending on whether you opt for casual dining or a sit-down restaurant experience.

Major Cruise Lines Serving the Netherlands

• Holland America Line: This esteemed cruise line operates **11 ships**, with **four** offering itineraries that include the Netherlands. **Nieuw Statendam** and **Rotterdam** are popular choices for cruising here, departing mainly from **Sydney** or **Rotterdam**. Holland America Line is known for its impeccable service, culinary experiences, and enrichment programs that immerse guests in local culture.
• CroisiEurope: With an impressive fleet of **38 ships**, **13** sail to the Netherlands. Notable vessels include **L’Europe** and **MS Lafayette**, departing frequently from **Amsterdam** or **Strasbourg**. This cruise line is distinguished by its river cruise offerings, which allow more intimate exploration of charming towns and hidden gems along the waterways.
• MSC Cruises: Featuring **23 ships**, **three** head to the Netherlands, with **MSC Preziosa** and **MSC Poesia** being the most frequently assigned. Departures primarily occur from **Southampton** or **Hamburg**. MSC is well-regarded for family-friendly amenities and a variety of dining options inspired by the Mediterranean and international cuisines.
• Cunard: With a luxury fleet of **four ships**, **three** focus on the Netherlands, including **Queen Anne** and **Queen Victoria**. Departing mainly from **Southampton** or **Hamburg**, Cunard excels in providing an elegant cruising experience with sophisticated dining, exceptional service, and a rich tapestry of onboard entertainment options.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line has a fleet of **20 ships**, with **four** that sail to the Netherlands. **Norwegian Sky** and **Norwegian Prima** are among the options, departing typically from **Southampton** or **Copenhagen**. Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its flexible “freestyle cruising” concept, allowing you to dine and unwind on your schedule.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking River Cruises: With a fleet size of **63 ships**, **32** trek to the Netherlands, including **Viking Gersemi** and **Viking Hervor**. Departures from **Amsterdam** or **Basel** are common. Viking River Cruises is famous for its intimate, culturally enriching experiences, allowing guests to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations while enjoying luxurious river cruising.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Operating with **six ships**, **four** offer itineraries in the Netherlands. **Seven Seas Navigator** and **Seven Seas Mariner** frequently depart from **Southampton** or **Amsterdam**. This luxury cruise line is praised for its all-inclusive luxury experience, where everything from dining to excursions is covered, providing the ultimate in convenience and comfort.
• Oceania Cruises: Featuring **eight ships**, with **two** that cruise to the Netherlands, namely **Sirena** and **Vista**. These often depart from **Amsterdam** or **Reykjavik**. Oceania Cruises is known for its culinary expertise, offering guests a chance to taste local delicacies and gourmet experiences onboard.
• Silversea: With a fleet of **13 ships**, six often operating in the Netherlands, including **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Shadow**. These cruises typically depart from **Southampton** or **Copenhagen**. Silversea focuses on an ultra-luxurious experience, with spacious suites, award-winning dining, and exclusive shore excursions tailored for a cultured adventure.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: The line boasts **11 ships**, with **five** that visit the Netherlands, such as **Viking Neptune** and **Viking Sky**. Departing typically from **Bergen** or **Barcelona**, Viking Ocean Cruises is known for its immersive itineraries and onboard educational programs that bring destination cultures to life.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re intrigued by the Netherlands but want to explore other fascinating destinations, consider these regions:

• Germany: Explore the beautiful landscapes of the Rhine River, charming towns like Heidelberg, and cosmopolitan cities such as Berlin and Munich. Germany is perfect for history lovers and wine enthusiasts alike!
• Northern Europe: Discover a variety of stunning landscapes and rich experiences, including the vibrant cities of Scandinavia and breathtaking fjords of Norway.
• Western Europe: Renowned for its rich history and culture, this region offers a variety of picturesque cities and breathtaking sights, ideal for cultural exploration!
• Canary Islands: For those wanting some sun, the Canary Islands provide a perfect tropical alternative with stunning beaches and diverse landscapes.
• British Isles: Discover the charm of the British Isles with attractions ranging from historical sites to vibrant cities, offering a unique taste of local life and culture!

With so much to offer, a cruise to the **Netherlands** is an exciting adventure filled with beautiful sights, cultural experiences, and enchanting moments waiting to be discovered. Ready to book your journey? Explore your options with **CruiseAway** and set sail for an unforgettable holiday!