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Bike & Boat: Historic Hanseatic cities
Bike Tour: Bike & Boat: Historic Hanseatic cities - 8 days
The Hansa Highlights Tour leads you through the heart of the Netherlands, a landscape shaped over thousands of years by the many rivers and streams that weave through it.
Your route follows the Rhine Valley and its stunning tributary, the IJssel River, passes through the border lakes region, and brings you to captivating cities and villages including Amsterdam, Arnhem, Deventer, Kampen, Harderwijk, and Elburg. With its flat terrain stretching along the 125 km IJssel Valley, this tour is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy relaxed cycling along the region’s numerous winding paths. The area’s natural beauty is truly striking, as are the historic Hanseatic towns that thrived in the Middle Ages when the IJssel served as one of Europe’s major trade routes. Another highlight is the chain of border lakes, lying between the “old” land—home to charming harbor towns—and the “new” land of Flevoland, which was once seabed before being reclaimed in the 1950s and 1960s. Here, you will pedal at an easy pace through several picturesque fishing harbors where life seems to slow down. For many Dutch people, this lesser-known region ranks among their favorite places to cycle.
Depending on the ship and departure date, this trip can be: standard or premium
You cycle independently (standard)
During this trip there is an expert and experienced tour leader on board. He or she will discuss the next day’s cycling routes on a daily basis and provide you with tips and information about the route. You will cycle the tours independently and at your own pace using a detailed cycling map, GPS directions via the free Ride With GPS app and printed route descriptions (available on board). The tour leader will also cycle the routes, so they will be riding nearby and can be reached by phone in case of emergencies, problems or questions.
Fully Guided (premium)
Accompanied by a competent, professional and multilingual tour leader, you and the group will visit interesting sights and places on the daily cycling tours. During the bike tour, they will explain the local history and culture behind the things you encounter along the way. You can also choose to ride individually with the help of the Ride with GPS app and our cycling map (available on board).
Embarkation and check-in in Amsterdam. The crew welcomes you on board between 1 and 2 p.m. At approximately 2 p.m. the ship sails from Amsterdam on the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal to Wijk bij Duurstede, a town on the Rhine River. Here, you will spend your first night aboard the ship.
While you are enjoying breakfast, the ship sails to Wageningen. From this town, your first cycling tour of the week takes you through the lovely valley of the Lower Rhine river to the city center of Arnhem, the former Hanseatic city. Here you can spend some time; stroll through the shopping streets, grab a terrace or visit a museum. During World War II, Arnhem was the battle scene of Operation Market Garden, the largest airborne operation in history. It ended in a failure, as the inability to capture a bridge over the Rhine River resulted in the destruction of the British 1st Airborne Division.
Then continue your bike tour further along the river until you reach the small Hanseatic city of Doesburg. It is definitely worth taking a stroll through this Hanseatic city after dinner.
Standard: Doesburg – Zutphen – Deventer 45/55 km
From Doesburg, there are two cycling options to get you to Zutphen and Deventer. Both options first go to Bronkhorst, a seeming hamlet that’s proud to be the smallest town in Holland. From Bronkhorst, the shorter option takes you by ferry to the western bank of the IJssel river, whereas the longer option stays on the eastern bank. Both options lead you through the countryside to Zutphen. The tour ends in Deventer, a city known for its delicious spicy gingerbread. In the evening, your tour leader offers a short, guided walking tour of the city. Make sure to join!
Premium: Doesburg – Zutphen 27/44 km | Zutphen – Deventer
From Doesburg the cycling tour takes you first along the IJssel to Bronkhorst, which has the distinction of being recognised as the smallest town in Holland. Guests will have two choices today – a shorter tour along the riverbank to Zutphen; or a longer bicycle trip via Vorden passing country houses, castles and rural estates. During dinner the barge will sail to Deventer where you have the option of a short guided walking tour in the evening.
During breakfast the ship will take you to Wijhe, where your bicycle ride begins. In the morning you will enjoy a nice bicycle ride to Hattem. You can choose a short option along the banks of the river or opt for a longer ride across the east Veluwe area. Hattem has a rich history, which is still clearly visible today. Leaving Hattem, it is only a short ride to the city of Zwolle, one of the most beautiful Hanseatic cities. From Zwolle you continue to Kampen. After dinner, you can enjoy the most interesting sights in this largest Hanseatic town in the Netherlands.
From Kampen, our cycling tour leads along the Border Lakes to the fishing harbor of Elburg. Here, swimming, boating, surfing and fishing are favorite summertime activities. From Elburg the cycling tour continues through the woods and moorlands of the Veluwe to lovely Harderwijk, where the night will be spent in its old fishing harbor. In the 1500s Harderwijk boasted the largest fish market in the Zuiderzee region. Today, it is still a lovely old city very much worth exploring.
Standard: Harderwijk – Spakenburg – Huizen 45/56 km
Again, you have two routes to choose from. A shorter bike ride along the coast of the Border Lakes, or a combination of the coast route and a longer alternative that runs through adjacent woodlands. In the afternoon you will pass Spakenburg, a fishing village well-known for its traditional costumes that are worn to this day. Docking destination for today is Huizen.
Premium: Harderwijk – Bunschoten – Spakenburg 35/59 km
Today guests have two cycling choices: a short pedal along the coast or a combination of the coast route and a longer alternative that also takes in adjacent woodlands. The night will be spent in Spakenburg, a village well-known for its traditional costumes.
Standard: Huizen – Naarden – Muiden – Amsterdam 35km
Huizen is the starting point for a ride to the beautiful fortress towns of Naarden and Muiden. The latter is famous for its historic castle on the waterfront. From Muiden you will cycle along quiet roads to your final destination, the world famous city of Amsterdam. You have the afternoon and evening to spend in the Dutch capital any way you like. Seize the chance to do a canal tour, to visit Anne Frank’s home or any of a number of world renowned museums around the Museumplein. Or just enjoy looking at everyday life in this bustling city.
Premium: Spakenburg – Huizen | Huizen – Naarden – Muiden – Amsterdam 35/49 km
During breakfast you can enjoy the scenery from the comfort of the barge. From Huizen you will cycle to the beautiful fortress towns of Naarden and Muiden, famous for its historic castle. From Muiden you will cycle along quiet roads to your final destination, the world famous city of Amsterdam. The afternoon and evening are spent in Amsterdam. While you are there take the opportunity to visit Anne Frank’s home, the Rembrandt House Museum, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, Dam Square, the very centre and heart of the city or maybe you could go on a canal tour.
End of your tour: Disembarkation after breakfast until 9.30 a.m.
Prices per person – 2026
DE NASSAU - Standard
|
Cabin type |
For |
Season A |
Season B |
Season C |
Season D |
Season E |
|
Twin cabin lower deck
|
2 pax |
€ 799, - |
€ 899, - |
€ 1.069, - |
€ 1.249, - |
€ 1.379, - |
|
Twin cabin lower deck for single use (max. 2)
|
1 pax |
€ 1.198,50 |
€ 1.348,50 |
€ 1.603,50 |
€ 1.873,50 |
€ 2.068,50 |
|
Superior twin lower deck
|
2 pax |
€ 949 - |
€ 1.049, - |
€ 1.219, - |
€ 1.399, - |
€ 1.529, - |
|
Superior double lower deck
|
2 pax |
€ 949, - |
€ 1.049, - |
€ 1.219, - |
€ 1.399, - |
€ 1.529, - |
|
Single lower deck
|
1 pax |
€ 979, - |
€ 1.099, - |
€ 1.299, - |
€ 1.519 |
€ 1.649, - |
|
Twin or Triple upper deck
|
2 pax |
€ 1.049 - |
€ 1.149, - |
€ 1.319, - |
€ 1.499, - |
€ 1.629, - |
|
Double upper deck
|
2 pax |
€ 1.049, - |
€ 1.149, - |
€ 1.319, - |
€ 1.499, - |
€ 1.629, -
|
Tour Dates 2026:
Departures on Saturday: De Nassau
- Season A: on Oct. 3 and 10
- Season B: on Sept. 26
- Season C: on Sept. 19
- Season D: on May 2 and 9; July 11, 18 and 25; August 1, 8 and 15 and Sept. 12
- Season E: on May 16, 23 and 30; June 6, 13, 20 and 27; July 4; August 22 and 29 and Sept. 5
FLORA & LENA MARIA - Premium
|
Cabin type |
For |
Season A |
Season B |
Season C |
|
Twin cabin lower deck
|
2 pax |
€ 1.429, - |
€ 1.689, - |
€ 1.589, - |
|
Twin cabin lower deck for single use
|
1 pax |
€ 2.143,50 |
€ 2.533,50 |
€ 2.383,50 |
|
Double cabin lower deck
|
2 pax |
€ 1.429, - |
Not available |
Not available |
|
Double cabin lower deck for single use
|
1 pax |
€ 2.143,50 |
Not available |
Not available |
|
Single lower deck
|
1 pax |
Not available |
€ 2.139, - |
€ 2.039, - |
Tour Dates 2026:
Departures on Saturday: Flora
- Season A: on July 18 and 25; on Sept. 12
Departures on Friday: Lena Maria
- Season B: on May 8 and 22; on June 5, 12 and 19
- Season C: on Sept. 25
Standard ship: De Nassau
De Nassau is a cozy medium-sized river cruise ship. In the winter of 2018/19 the salon and restaurant on the upper deck, and the front “superior” cabins on the lower deck, were refurbished to create a more spacious and luxurious interior. The ship sails with Dutch management under the Dutch flag, and has always been a very popular match for various tours in Holland.
Description of the cabins:
The lower deck features 21 twin cabins. There are 11 regular twin cabins (9m²) at the back and middle of the lower deck, each with two single low beds (200x80cm) and 1 single cabin (8m²) with a single bed. At the front of the lower deck are nine newly-renovated “superior” cabins (9.5–11.5 m²). Two superior cabins feature a double bed (200x160cm), while the other seven feature two separate beds set together as a hotel-style bed (200×160 cm). If requested in advance, these hotel-style beds can be arranged as two separate single beds (200x80cm). All lower deck cabins have a small window that can be opened.
The upper deck offers 12 twin cabins (9m²): 10 cabins with two single low beds (200x80cm), and two with a double bed (200x140cm). All upper deck cabins have a window that can be opened.
All 33 cabins aboard De Nassau have an individual climate control system, mini-safe, small wardrobe, hair dryer, 230V sockets and a private bathroom with shower, toilet and basin.
Description of the ship:
De Nassau has a large salon with large panoramic windows on the upper deck that combines the restaurant, bar and a lounge area. Wi-Fi is available. On the partially covered sun deck, chairs and sun loungers invite for a stay. Here you can relax, have a drink and enjoy the scenery while sailing. Bicycles are stored on a separate part of the sun deck.
Facts about the ship:
- Length: 72 m
- Width: 8,6 m
- Crew: 12
- Cabins: 33
- Pass.: 65 (max.)
Premium ship: Lena Maria
Step aboard the Lena Maria, an elegant and warmly furnished 45-meter motor passenger ship, specially designed for unforgettable sailing and cycling holidays. This premium vessel combines the comfort of a luxury cruise ship with the personal atmosphere of a boutique hotel. Thanks to its modest size, the Lena Maria can dock in the most picturesque small harbors – often right in the heart of historic towns – offering you a new scenic backdrop every day.
Description of the cabins:
The Lena Maria accommodates up to 26 guests in 12 – 14 tastefully decorated cabins: twelve spacious twin cabins (10,5 m²) with two separate beds and, as from 2026, two single cabins (9 m²) with one single low bed. All cabins feature a private en-suite bathroom with a modern shower, ample storage space, air-conditioning, safe, hair dryer, windows that can be opened, and of course, complimentary Wi-Fi. The cabins are divided into three quiet sections on board, ensuring extra privacy and restful nights.
Description of the ship:
The inviting salon on the upper deck is the social heart of the ship. Enjoy delicious meals, a good glass of wine at the cozy bar, or a quiet moment in the lounge area. Large windows offer panoramic views of the passing landscape. Through the French doors, you step onto the spacious front deck – a perfect place to relax in the sun or under the shaded canopy. The entire ship is air-conditioned and Wi-Fi is available throughout.
Facts about the ship:
- Length: 45 m
- Width: 6,6 m
- Crew: 4
- Cabins: 12-14
- Pass.: 24-26 (max.)
Premium ship: Flora
The Flora is a small, cozy and comfortable passenger barge, which has successfully been sailing the Green Heart of Holland tour for several years now. The ship was renovated in 2007. The Flora is a very popular small river barge for boat and bike tours.
Description of the cabins:
The Flora has eleven twin cabins (8 m² – 86 sq.ft.), ten with two separate single beds and one with a double bed. In two of the cabins, a bunk bed for children up to age 12 (weighing no more than 40 kg) is available upon request. Each cabin has a private shower, toilet and basin. The small windows in the cabins can be opened, and the cabins have central heating. Furthermore, in each cabin you will find a mini safe. A hairdryer is available upon request.
Description of the ship:
The lounge, nostalgically furnished, offers an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. In the lounge, you will find the bar and dining area. Wi-Fi is available. On nice evenings or while cruising, you can enjoy the scenery from the sun deck.
Facts about the ship:
- Length: 40 m
- Width: 6 m
- Crew: 3
- Cabins: 11
- Pass.: 24 (max.)
If you have special dietary wishes (vegetarian meals, lactose intolerance or gluten-free diet), then please indicate this when you book your tour. Vegetarian meals are always available, but we need to know in advance; in all other cases we will check the possibilities for the tour of your choice. In some cases, a small fee for preparing special meals will be charged. This mainly applies to lactose or gluten-free meals. Unfortunately, we cannot offer vegan meals. This is because the kitchens in our ships are not large enough to guarantee that the food can be prepared completely vegan. The available space on board is limited, so the chefs cannot store the necessary tools and supplies to prepare vegan food.
- Cycling route distances in the travel program are approximate.
- On some days you can choose between a longer and a shorter cycling route. Please note that on the shorter routes you may not be able to visit all the highlights mentioned.
- If you prefer not to cycle on a particular day, you’re welcome to stay on board and relax while the ship cruises to the next landing place.
- The tour itinerary and route are subject to possible changes due to nautical, technical or meteorological reasons, or other unforeseen events.
- On the arrival day, you can leave your luggage on board the ship from 11.00 am.
- Detailed cycling maps, route tips and a GPS app are available for guests who wish to cycle individually and at their own pace. The tour guide is always available via cell phone in case of questions, breakdowns or emergencies.
Included in this tour:
- 8 days/7 nights
- 7 x breakfast
- Packed lunches
- 6 x 3-course dinner (Lena Maria & Flora)
- 7x 3-course dinner (De Nassau)
- Coffee and tea on board (Lena Maria & Flora) / Coffee and tea on board till 4 p.m (De Nassau)
- Welcome drink
- Use of bed linen and towels
- Daily cleaning of the cabin
- Climate-controlled cabin
- Daily briefings
- Fully guided cycling tours (Lena Maria) /Semi guided cycling tours: independent cycling (De Nassau and Flora)
- Some short walking tours
- Fees for ferries (Flora & Lena Maria)
- Cycling map (1 per cabin)
- GPS tracks
- Use of a helmet (only Lena Maria)
- Biodegradable water bottle
- Use of a waterproof pannier bag
- Entrance airborne museum (only Lena Maria)
- Visit Dutch cheese farm (only Lena Maria)
- Guided walk Deventer (only Lena Maria)
- Wi-Fi is available in restaurant
- Carbon offset payment to the non-profit organization Justdiggit
Excluded from this tour:
- 1x Dinner (Lena Maria & Flora)
- Drinks
- Coffee and tea on board after 4 p.m. (De Nassau)
- Bicycle rental or E-bike rental
- Rental helmet (De Nassau & Flora)
- Personal insurances
- Gratuities (at your discretion)
- Fees for ferries (De Nassau)
- Entrance fees and excursions (not mentioned under inclusions)
- Transfers to/from the docking place
- Parking fees
- SGR Insolvency protection
- Giving Back to Nature (one per booking)
Additional services:
Ship: De Nassau & Flora
- Rental bicycle: € 91 per week
- Rental E-Bike: € 252 per week (only on request, limited number available)
- Helmets: A helmet can be rented for € 10 per week, only on prior reservation and payment.
- Limitation of liability (damage) rental bicycle € 14/week (only bookable in advance, more information here)
- Limitation of liability (damage) rental e-bike € 28/week (only bookable in advance, more information here)
- Parking own bicycle: € 14 per week (only a limited number of parking places available: pref. reservation by booking)
- Parking + charge station own E-Bike: € 28 per week (only a limited number of parking places available: pref. reservation by booking)
- Canal cruise Amsterdam: Ticket for a 1-hour canal cruise through Amsterdam – special price for our guests: € 19 (at the ticket desk approx.: € 22). Please book your ticket in advance and you can collect it on board of your ship on the first day of the tour.
- Parking in Amsterdam (valet parking): for more information, please contact us
Ship: Lena Maria
- Rental bicycle (incl. helmet): € 105 per week
- Rental E-Bike (incl. helmet): € 273 per week (only on request, limited number available)
- Parking own bicycle: € 14 per week (only a limited number of parking places available: pref. reservation by booking)
- Parking + charge station own E-Bike: € 28 per week (only a limited number of parking places available: pref. reservation by booking)
- Parking in Amsterdam (valet parking): for more information, please contact us
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Bike & Boat: Historic Hanseatic cities
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