Experience the vibrant charm of Belgium and the Netherlands during the rejuvenating season. From Amsterdam's canals to Bruges' belfry, explore the highlights of both countries. Enjoy walks amidst tulip-filled Keukenhof Gardens, discover picturesque villages like Veere, Hoorn, and Enkhuizen, and immerse in local culture in Antwerp, all while cruising these water-defined landscapes. This journey offers a glimpse into historic towns and medieval city centers, with art and garden enthusiasts finding delight in guided museum tours and springtime blooms.
Includes
10 Day Uniworld Boutique River Cruise
9-night cruise in a classic riverview stateroom on River Duchess
Unlimited premium spirits and wines on-board, including fine wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks, specialty coffee and tea, and mineral water
8 days of excursions, including “Choice Is Yours” options, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
Onboard entertainment and enrichment
All gratuities on-board
Onboard fitness centre and wellness classes with a certified wellness instructor
Use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks for onshore use
Shipwide internet and wi-fi access
Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio- headset system on all shore excursions
Excludes
Flights
Arrival / departure transfers
Visas
Travel Insurance
Items of a personal nature
Extras
Note
The itineraries presented are subject to modification due to water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors. Every effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but changes may still be necessary throughout the cruise. This day-to-day schedule is subject to change. Your final day-to-day schedule will be provided onboard on the first day of your cruise.
Highlights
9-night cruise onboard River Duchess
All meals onboard
Unlimited premium spirits and wines on-board
Carefully curated excursions
Itinerary
Day 1: Amsterdam, Embark
Arrive at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.
Day 2: Amsterdam
The Netherlands’ largest city, Amsterdam, has been an international port and financial center for 400 years. Your day begins with a morning visit to the Fabrique des Lumières. Later, see the sites by canal boat.
A special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.
Day 3: Zaandam
Sitting just north of Amsterdam is the quieter town of Zaandam, beloved for its traditional green cottages, windmills, craft shops, and quirky modern touches.
Day 4: Hoorn
Discover the town of Hoorn’s seafaring past, where the swashbuckling derring-do of Dutch explorers will come to life on a guided walking tour of this historic locale.
Day 5: Nijmegen
For your choice of excursions today, visit the Kröller-Müller Museum, which is home to 97 works by native son Vincent van Gogh as well as other notable artists and sculptors. Or opt for a walking tour of Nijmegen.
Day 6: Rotterdam
Rotterdam is thoroughly modern—you’ll soon understand why it’s sometimes called “Manhattan on the Meuse”: The Maas Tower, the Montevideo, the Millennium Tower and the spectacular Erasmus Bridge make for a dazzling skyline. Begin your day by exploring this modern city on a Dutch culinary stroll, with a stop at the architectural milestone, Market Hall. Erected in 2014, it’s known for its futuristic look and unique culinary offerings. Later, head to Kinderdijk to discover why windmills are such an iconic symbol of Holland; marvel at their engineering and learn about their role in changing the course of Dutch history.
Day 7: Veere,Ghent
Your ship docks this morning in the quaint Zeeland village of Veere, which will be your base for explorations of this charming town. A harbor village on the shores of the Western Scheldt, Veere may be a small town now, but its stately 15th-century town hall tells of a grander past. For three centuries it was the bustling center of the wool trade with Scotland; the wealth from this trade built the splendid church with its tall and ornate steeple that dominates the village, as well as the handsome mansions on its main street.
Day 8: Ghent (Bruges)
Your first day in Belgium offers you the chance to visit one of two national gems: beautiful Bruges, the capital of West Flanders and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, or fascinating Ghent, the capital city of East Flanders, whose long history does not weigh on its vibrant present. Belgium’s second largest city, Ghent abounds in medieval architecture, but there’s nothing museum-like about the city. It’s lively and brims with cutting-edge boutiques and galleries.
Day 9: Antwerp
It may be the diamond capital of the world, but Antwerp is also known for a number of other sought-after cultural gems, including Golden Age art and Belgian beer, waffles and fries. Visit Antwerp’s striking Cathedral of Our Lady, with its UNESCO-designated belfry and its historic surroundings, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, hop on the metro and experience the city like a local.
A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.
Day 10: Antwerp, Disembark
Disembark the ship in Antwerp. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Brussels International Airport for your flight home.
Ship info
River Duchess
The River Duchess, a jewel in the crown of Uniworld's river fleet, captivates discerning travelers with its impeccable features, enticing destinations, and diverse accommodation options. This floating boutique hotel, with its charming ambiance, promises an unparalleled river cruising experience. Boasting an array of luxurious features, the River Duchess combines classic elegance with modern amenities.
Prices are per person twin share, include discounts, and are subject to availability and rate of exchange changes. Offers above are a guide only and will vary depending on departure date, our guide price is based on the cheapest departure within the stipulated season and availability is correct at time of loading. Visas may be necessary and insurance is essential. Pentravel and Tour Operator terms and conditions apply, and can be requested. Excludes flights, transfers, visas, travel insurance and anything not mentioned. Savings are not valid on all itineraries and/or departure dates, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. High season supplements and block out dates may apply, pricing varies pending departure date. Package excludes flights. You can do optional free-time add-on experiences in your free time and pay for them as you travel (additional costs apply).
Uniworld reserves the right to withdraw promotional offers and adjust savings anytime. All savings / discounts mentioned have already been included in the advertised price.
2026 Early Booking Savings
SAVE 10% on all stateroom categories. Book by 30 June 2025 to be eligible for this offer. Note: Reduced pricing shown above is inclusive of Early Booking Savings discount. The remaining balance is due 120 days before departure, or immediately if booking within 120 days of departure and applies to full-fare bookings across all stateroom categories. All rates and savings are quoted in South African rand and vary based on itinerary and departure date. Savings are applicable solely to the cruise-tour portion and exclude airfares and optional add-ons. Discounts are applied sequentially, with fixed savings deducted prior to any percentage-based discounts.
Offer is capacity controlled and may be modified or withdrawn at any time. Other restrictions may apply. These packages are based on CASH price. E&OE;.