Belgium Canal Cruise & Bike

Arrive in Ghent and board your hotel barge in the early evening. Settle into your cabin before meeting the crew over a welcome drink, followed by dinner onboard.

Meals:  D

This morning, step ashore in Ghent for a guided walk through the heart of the city. Explore its historic centre and admire the rich medieval landmarks, including Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the Gothic belfry, the Cloth Hall, and the Graslei and Korenlei, finishing with an exterior view of the impressive Counts’ Castle. Formerly the capital of the County of Flanders and the birthplace of Emperor Charles V, Ghent reveals its rich history at every turn. You’ll then have time at leisure to explore the city at your own pace before stopping at a local brewery to sample a traditional gruut beer. Afterwards, return to the ship at Gavere-Asper, or nearby, in time for lunch. In the afternoon, join us for a guided tour of Bruges and a brewery visit. Drive to Bruges (approximately 1 to 1h15 by coach from Ghent). Its art collections, pleasant atmosphere, romantic aura and architectural appeal are just a few highlights of the “Venice of the North”, gem of Flanders and a must-visit in Northern Europe. A prosperous maritime city in the 14th century, Bruges retains from that era an elaborate, elegantly discreet architecture. Afterward, visit a brewery and enjoy a tasting. This brewery’s history began in 1856. After many years and six family generations, it is now a dynamic brewery true to its roots, offering authentic Bruges beers. After the excursion, we will rejoin the boat at Oudenaarde. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay.

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning, discover the charm of Oudenaarde on a guided tour through this historic Flemish city. Stroll through its character-filled streets and take in architectural landmarks including the impressive Town Hall, its two principal churches, the birthplace of Margaret of Parma, the Boudewijnstoren and the elegant 18th-century meat market. With more than a hundred protected monuments, Oudenaarde’s rich past reveals itself at every corner. An urban hike leads you through its most attractive quarters and notable sites, followed by free time to explore at your own pace. Later, visit a local distillery to learn about the traditional production of jenever, gin and whisky, finishing with a tasting. Later, rejoin the ship as we cruise onward to Péronnes-lez-Antoing. Find a comfortable spot on the Sun Deck and take in the passing scenery as we glide through Tournai before reaching our evening mooring. Once docked, you may wish to enjoy a gentle walk ashore before we remain in port overnight.

Meals:  B,L,D

Spend the morning cruising along the Nimy-Blaton-Péronnes Canal, an important waterway linking the Canal du Centre with the Scheldt River since its opening in 1955. Arriving in Mons early afternoon, you’ll visit the Château de Beloeil, often called the Belgian Versailles, home to an exceptional collection of 15th to 19th century artworks, a library of more than 20,000 books and manuscripts, and fine 17th and 18th century French furniture reflecting the achievements of the castle’s family lineage. Continue to the Chant d’Éole estate, born from a partnership between Belgian farmers and renowned sparkling wine producers, where modern techniques honour Belgian tradition. A guided visit reveals the journey from vine planting to bottling, culminating in a tasting of three signature spirits, Brut Blanc de Blancs, Rosé Brut and Elixir Saint-Georges. Return to Mons where we remain in port overnight.

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning, explore Mons on a guided food-focused walk through a city where history and modern life blend seamlessly. From the lively Grand-Place to the historic heart of town, your guide shares stories, cultural insights and local anecdotes as you discover the flavours that define the region. Along the way, enjoy tastings of four local specialities, offering a delicious introduction to the city’s culinary heritage. Return to the ship for lunch before we cruise along the Canal du Centre towards Strépy-Thieu. We remain in port overnight.

Meals:  B,L,D

Begin the day with a remarkable passage as our barge ascends one of Belgium’s impressive boat lifts. Using two independent caissons, this engineering feat carries vessels across a 75m (240 ft) height difference in under 35 minutes, replacing four former lifts and two locks. We then continue along the Brussels-Charleroi Canal, navigating the monumental Ronquières Inclined Plane, constructed between 1960 and 1968 to streamline what was once a series of 14 locks, before cruising onward to Halle. This afternoon, travel by coach to Brussels for a guided tour of the Belgian capital. In the historic centre, explore the magnificent Grand-Place, framed by ornate guildhalls and the striking City Hall with its richly decorated façade and soaring tower. You’ll also see the iconic Manneken Pis and wander through the elegant Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries. You’ll then step inside a traditional chocolate workshop to discover the story of chocolate, from its Mayan origins to the artistry of modern Belgian chocolatiers, with an opportunity to observe the craft firsthand. Return to the ship in Halle before gathering on board this evening for a festive gala dinner.

Meals:  B,L,D

Enjoy breakfast on board this morning before disembarking at 9:00 am in Halle.

Meals:  B