PRICE
$3550-$3950
per person
Explore Europe's Low Countries by Bike & Boat!
Experience the charm of riding a bicycle through Belgium & Holland on our exciting, all-inclusive* 8 day, 7 night tour... all from the comfort and convenience of a floating luxury hotel!
Cycle to, and around, classic Euro destinations such as Amsterdam, Dordrecht, Antwerp, Ghent, & Bruges. Take in the beautiful -and very flat- countryside featuring charming villages, a visit to a real Dutch cheese farm, windmills.
- Explore Amsterdam
- Visit Antwerp, a city famous for its vibrant nightlife
- Discover Ghent
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historical center of Bruges
- Special Cultural & Culinary Experiences Curated by BRAG
- Camaraderie of BRAG Community participants!
This trip is suitable for all levels of cyclists. Average daily mileage is about 30 flat miles. Non-riders are also welcomed.
*All meals, accommodations, standard bike rental with helmet, ground transportation, tours/entrance fees, BRAG Jersey & BRAG Ride Guide all included. Does not include flights or alcohol. E-bike, tandem bike rentals extra.
BRUGES TO AMSTERDAM
DAY 1
DAY 1
Arrival in Bruges
MORNING
Travel from Amsterdam to Bruges.
AFTERNOON
Board your home for the week between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. The BRAG Boat eagerly awaits your arrival at the Bruges harbor. At 2 p.m., we'll have a warm welcome meeting with the friendly crew. Get ready for an exciting adventure as we fit your bicycles and take a delightful 6.7 mile test-ride through surrounding Bruges.
EVENING
Enjoy a delicious dinner aboard the boat and afterwards, our knowledgeable guide will accompany you on a charming stroll through the heart of town.
DAY 2
DAY 2
Bruges to Ghent
MORNING
Begin your cycling journey by pedaling through the picturesque Belguim countryside along the Ghent canal, heading towards Ghent.
AFTERNOON
While in Ghent, be sure to take the time to explore the treasures of this historic city through a delightful afternoon stroll. Discover the enchanting illuminated streets of Ghent's medieval center, a must-see experience. Marvel at the incredible architectural splendor that awaits you in the heart of the city, a testament to its former glory as the second largest European city during the Middle Ages, surpassed only by Paris.
EVENING
For the evening, the ship will dock near Ghent in a charming suburb, just a short 30-minute bike ride from the city center. Before dinner, enjoy a delightful guided tour of the historic city aboard a small canal boat.
DAY 3
DAY 3
Ghent to Sint Amands
MORNING
In the morning we'll hang out in Ghent. Afterwards we'll travel 31 miles to St. Amands, with an option to hop on the boat at mile 25.5.
AFTERNOON
Prepare for a captivating mid day adventure as you pedal downstream through a tapestry of landscapes along the ever-changing tidal Schelde River. This scenic route will lead you to the picturesque town of Dendermonde, nestled at the merging point of the Dender and Schelde rivers. The awe-inspiring beauty of the Schelde landscape is an undeniable highlight of your journey. The ship's pace will adapt to the ebb and flow of the tides as you make your way from Dendermonde to St. Amands
EVENING
In St. Amands your floating hotel eagerly awaits for a tranquil evening docking.
DAY 4
DAY 4
St.Amands to Antwerp
MORNING
Today we trace the path of the Schelde river, meandering through the scenic Temse region en route to the vibrant city of Antwerp. Throughout history, the Schelde river has played a pivotal role for various civilizations, including the Romans, Vikings, Spanish, and even Napoleon. Today, it stands as a picturesque waterway, offering a perfect setting for unforgettable bike and barge journey.
AFTERNOON
Welcome to Antwerp, our destination for the day, a bustling harbor city renowned for its role in handling up to 80% of the world's rough diamonds. It is also the birthplace of the legendary painter, Sir Peter Paul Rubens. Antwerp boasts a plethora of captivating attractions, including the Renaissance marvel of City Hall, the enchanting City Square known as Grote Market, the magnificent Onze-Lieve-Vrouwe Cathedral, and the captivating medieval fortress of Steen Castle. Get ready to explore these remarkable highlights that make Antwerp truly extraordinary.
DAY 5
DAY 5
Antwerp to Tholen
MORNING
In the Morning the ship departs Antwerp with you on board. It sails along the scenic Schelde-Rhine Canal, crossing the impressive Kreekrak lock system, dropping us off in Tholen.
AFTERNOON
Pedal through the charming "Wouwse Plantage" forest to Tholen, a picturesque village with a rich history as a former island amidst Zeeland's streams. After Tholen you can jump on the ship or pedal your way to Willemstad, a fortified village. Afterward, rejoin the ship for a delightful afternoon sail to Dordrecht, one of the Netherlands' oldest cities.
EVENING
In the evening, enjoy a guided walk through Dordrecht while immersing yourself in the captivating history of the Netherlands.
DAY 6
DAY 6
Tholen to Vianen
MORNING
Today, kick-start your tour by boarding the "Waterbus," a swift ferry that whisks you and your bicycle to Alblasserdam in just 10 minutes. From there, a short bike ride will lead you to the renowned village of Kinderdijk. Capture the moment at one of its remarkable UNESCO-listed windmills (don't forget your camera!). These 18th-century marvels were built to drain water from the Alblasserwaard polder.
AFTERNOON
Your cycling route continues through Schoonhoven, eventually bringing you to Vianen, a charming fortified town nestled along the Lower Rhine.
EVENING
After a delightful dinner, take your time to leisurely explore the town before settling in for the night.
DAY 7
DAY 7
Vianen to Amsterdam
MORNING
After a delightful breakfast, the ship will set sail to Breukelen, where your exhilarating final day of cycling begins.
AFTERNOON
Traverse the enchanting Vecht River, renowned for its stunning mansions, charming castles, and grand houses surrounded by sprawling gardens. Pedal through the idyllic villages of Nieuwersluis, Loenen, and Vreeland before reaching Nigtevecht, where a visit to a traditional cheese farm awaits. From there, cycle through the historic town of Muiden and onward to the vibrant city of Amsterdam
EVENING
Reunite with the barge for the last time in the bustling Amsterdam harbor for your final night aboard the ship.
DAY 8
DAY 8
Amsterdam
MORNING
Final Breakfast on the Boat and check out is at 9:30am. Transportation to the airport arranged or opt to continue your stay in Amsterdam.
The BRAG Boat is one of the most luxurious cruisers on Dutch and Belgium waters. With 18 cabins and room for 38 people, our ship will exclusively house our group and the ship's crew.
All cabins feature en-suite facilities (shower & toilet), individually regulated AC, 220/230 volt electric outlets, flat screen satellite TV, a small safe, fresh air ventilation, and hair dryer.
Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship and smoking is prohibited.
The ship's crew speaks Dutch, English and German
Transportation to and from the Airport is included. Flights are not included.
All meals are included on this trip. Coffee and tea are available (and included) onboard our boat throughout the day. Beer, wine, liquor, and soft-drinks are excluded, but available for purchase.
Meals are substantial and healthy. Breakfast is served as a buffet. During breakfast, you can make you own packed picnic lunch for our bike tour. Each evening, we will be treated to a three-course dinner.
Activities along the way include:
- Fully-guided cycling tours
- Some short walking tours
- Various wine, cheese, chocolate, beer tastings
- Red Star Line museum in Antwerp
- Ferry rides
- Canal trip through Ghent
Ride Guide Including a detailed itinerary and schedule of all events
Flights are not included and should be booked individually by each participant.
Please note your flight to fly into Amsterdam may arrive on the following day, plan accordingly to arrive on the correct day. The shuttle to Bruges leaves at 10am from Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam on the first Thursday of your ride.
If you arrive earlier or leave later, you can enjoy Amsterdam on your own!
Once we are 30 days out and have everyone's flight info we will send pickup instructions.
We will provide your ground transportation in Europe from the Amsterdam airport to the port in Bruges.
Flights are not included.
We highly recommend utilizing the rental bikes that are included in the trip costs. Flying and ground transport with a bike can be costly and inconvenient. You'll want to be hassle free for maximum fun!
If you do fly with your bike, you must be able to assemble and disassemble your bike yourself.
We have e-Bikes, tandems, and family cycling options available upon request for an extra fee.
Standard bike rental is included with your trip!
While cycling we will split up into 2 - 3 groups depending on the group size and rider speeds. There will be a leader of your group and a sweeper for the entire ride as well as SAG. Please stay with your group and do not deviate from the group's route. All the routes are available via GPS on Ride With GPS. Please note due to changing conditions we may have to reroute.
To get turn by turn directions on your phone, download the app via the Google Play store or App Store. Either log in or create an account for the app. Then after you have created a login, you will be provided a link to the event and all the routes will be under your events tab after you click on the link.
This event will take place on public right of ways, paths, and roadways. We ask motor vehicles to share the road, so we must extend the same courtesy. As much as possible we travel on low traffic roads, however we will need to travel on roads with higher traffic volume from time to time. Please review the BRAG Safety Pledge you were required to sign to participate in this BRAG event.
YOU MUST STOP AT ALL STOP SIGNS AND RED LIGHTS!! Obey all traffic control devices and exercise caution crossing railroad tracks and road crossings!
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- You are responsible for your own safety - BRAG assists as much as possible in ensuring a safe ride, however you are in control of your ride and safety. Hazards are always being created and note we can not warn participants of every potential or existing hazard. Cycling can be a dangerous sport - take safety seriously!
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- The roadways and paths we will travel will more than likely present more hazards than the roadways you are accustomed to in the US. There will be gravel, potholes, marked and unmarked speed bumps, animals, motorists, and a myriad of other hazards that will require your complete attention when riding in order to stay safe.
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- You must obey all traffic laws and traffic control devices.
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- Wear a helmet and ensure your gear is properly functioning.
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- Communicate with other cyclists to keep each other safe - please yell, when appropriate, "car back", "car up", "rider on", "rider off", etc. Communicate about hazards such as RR tracks, pot holes, rumbles, debris in the road, cracks, animals, etc. Do not yell "CLEAR" as what is clear for you may not be for others.
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- Visibility - See and be seen, wear bright clothes, reflective clothing and use lights.
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- Bicycle lanes and shoulders - please use them when possible and safe to do so.
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- Report dangerous motorists and cyclists.
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- In the event of rain, the road and road tires can be slick and brakes can slip. Normal conditions may become more hazardous, especially rail road tracks.
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- In the event of lightning, take appropriate action and exercise caution.
This is a ride, not a race. We encourage you to stop and smell the roses and get a true taste for the the local culture!
- Always ride on the right and pass on the left
- Through traffic always has right-of-way over traffic turning left or right on equal roads
- Cyclists may only ride alongside each other if they do not impede other traffic
- Highways are forbidden for cyclists
- Biking on the sidewalk is FORBIDDEN (please dismount)
- Front & Rear lights should be turned on at dusk and in the dark
- Change of direction should be indicated using arm signals
- Small children should be transported in a special baby saddle, with enough support/space for their hands, feet, back. Please order baby saddle well in advance
BRAG BIKE & BOAT FAQs
To see what's included, click here.
Yes, please bring them along! Everyone is welcome to ride the boat, hop off and do things, and participate in the activities outside of riding bikes.
You may opt to chill on the boat while the rest of the group is cycling. Ebikes are also available.
Change of Plans? Registrants have until May 1, 2024 to cancel and request a refund. After this date, no refunds will be given. No exceptions. You can purchase insurance on your trip when you register to protect your registration fee in the event of an emergency.
In the event the border closes or the trip is no longer possible, we will offer a refund less Bikereg services fees.
We don't speak it either! We have local guides and knowledgeable people who are bi-lingual. An English-speaking native is always close by. Also, the google translate app is great for text and translating. You will be just fine only knowing English.
- A good attitude and appetite for adventure!
- Passport.
- Water Bottle.
- Active Clothing for Cycling, Walking, Sightseeing, etc.
- Temperatures are pretty pleasant this time of year. Keep an eye on the forecast!
- Casual clothing for dining and hanging out on our boat.
- Backpack to carry the items you want to keep with you while cycling.
- A phone with an international option. Check your plan. eSims are available for download in most of Europe
- Swimsuit if you'd like to enjoy the hot tub on our boat.
- Euros. You can acquire Euros at the Schiphol airport in Amsterdam.
On a luxury-class river boat!
The best thing about BRAG is the community of riders. Many come alone and leave with riding buddies for life. You will never ride alone on BRAG. The group is small and participates in all activities together so you will get to know everyone by the time you leave.
Absolutely, on BRAG Amsterdam, the miles are flat, and few. Ebikes are also available for extra cost.
Drop us a line on our contact form or ask the BRAG community on Facebook, or shoot us a line at news@brag.org
We highly recommend renting a bike. Flying with a bike is a hassle and you want to be hassle free! If you do fly with your bike, you must be able to assemble and disassemble your bike yourself.
Good news! We have already reserved your rental bike and it is included in the cost of this trip. Let us know if you'll need an eBike, tandem, or other options.