Bruges (Zeebrugge)

Explore the captivating Belgian gems of Antwerp, Brussels, and Ghent, boasting a wealth of art history and medieval architecture.

Note: This program includes a lot of walking.

DAY 1 – July 30, 2026

Disembark the ship in Zeebrugge, Belgium and meet your guide. Embark on a journey to Antwerp, a city renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and sparkling diamonds. You’ll start with a visit to the breathtaking Antwerp Central Station, often called one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, where you’ll enjoy a perfect photo stop to capture its grandeur.

Next, take a short, guided walk through the Rijfstraat, the heart of Antwerp’s famous Diamond Quarter, where you’ll discover the history and craftsmanship behind the city’s legendary diamond trade.

Continue with a transfer to Suikerrui and a guided stroll through Antwerp’s Golden Streets, exploring charming boutiques and historical landmarks. A highlight is a visit to a diamond dealer, offering an insider’s perspective into the dazzling world of diamonds.

For lunch, indulge in a classic Belgian delight at Désiré de Lille, where you’ll savor a freshly made Belgian waffle.

In the afternoon, continue to uncover Antwerp’s key highlights on foot, including its rich architectural heritage and cultural landmarks. The tour concludes with a sweet treat—a stop at The Chocolate Line, the shop of renowned chef Dominique Persoone, where you’ll sample exquisite Belgian pralines.

Proceed to your hotel for check-in and a chance to refresh before the start of the evening program.

Meet-up in the hotel lobby before taking a short walk to the OLVK Church, a beautiful and historic venue known for its serene ambiance. At the church, experience an exclusive private organ demonstration, where the magnificent sounds of this traditional instrument fill the space, creating an unforgettable and intimate musical performance.

Following the performance, take a short walk to Fiera, a renowned restaurant recognized by Gault & Millau with a prestigious 12/20 rating. There, indulge in a three-course dinner, savoring a menu crafted with culinary finesse, blending local and international flavors in an elegant atmosphere.

After dinner, it’s a relaxing stroll back to the hotel where you will spend the evening.

DAY 2 – July 31, 2026

After breakfast, settle any incidentals and then check out. Begin your day with a scenic drive to The Hague, the political heart of the Netherlands and a city rich in culture and history.

Upon arrival, enjoy a sightseeing tour of this stately city, where you'll discover landmarks like the Peace Palace, the Binnenhof (Dutch Parliament), and charming streets lined with elegant architecture.

Next, take a short walk to the Mauritshuis, a world-renowned art museum housed in a beautiful 17th-century building. Start your visit with a welcoming glass of champagne, setting the tone for a delightful experience. A guided tour will lead you through the museum’s stunning collection, including masterpieces like Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and works by Rembrandt and Rubens.

After this immersion into art and history, enjoy some free time in The Hague to explore the city's boutiques, cafes, or perhaps one of its parks. Take the opportunity to have lunch at your leisure in one of the city’s many excellent restaurants.

In the afternoon, a drive to IJmuiden offers the chance to relax and take in the scenic Dutch landscape. You’ll arrive in Ijmuiden in time to continue your cruise.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program details and the timings indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

DAY 1

8:15am Disembark the ship, meet your guide

8:30am Begin the drive to Antwerp

10:00am Photo stop at Antwerp’s central station

10:30am Guided walk through the Rijfstraat (Diamond quarters)

11:00am Short transfer to Suikerrui

11:30am Guided walk along the Golden Streets and visit of a diamond dealer

12:45pm Lunch at Désiré de Lille for a Belgian waffle

2:00pm Guided walk with the highlights of Antwerp and stop for a praline at the Chocolate Line

3:30pm Check in at your hotel

5:45pm Meet in the lobby

6:00pm Short walk to the OLVK Church

6:15pm Private Orgel demonstration at the OLVK Church

7:15pm Short walk to Fiera (Gault & Milau 12/20)

7:30pm 4-course dinner at Fiera or similar venue

9:30pm Short walk back to hotel

9:45pm Arrive back at hotel

Overnight at Sapphire House Hotel or similar hotel

DAY 2

AM Breakfast at the hotel, settle incidentals and check out

9:00am Drive to The Hague

11:15am Sightseeing tour of The Hague

11:45am Short walk to Mauritshuis

12:00pm Welcome glass of champagne and guided visit of the Mauritshuis

1:30pm Free Time in The Hague for lunch on own

3:30pm Drive to IJmuiden

5:00pm Arrival in Ijmuiden and reboard the ship

Weather:

Daily high temperatures in Antwerp and its surrounds at this time of the year are approximately 23°C (73°F)

What to bring:

Light loose comfortable clothing, good walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, umbrella in case of rain, medications, camera, charger

Documents:

This program takes place between Belgium and the Netherlands.

A valid passport is required for travel in Europe.

Please refer to your local embassies for any visa requirements for your nationality

Currency:

The Euro.

USD are rarely accepted.

Electricity:

In Belgium the supply voltage is 230V. We recommend having a universal travel adaptor for electric devices.

Accommodations:

Sapphire House Antwerp, Autograph Collection

Lange Nieuwstraat 20/24, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium

Phone: +32 3 201 03 70

*We will only substitute the hotel in unforeseen situations. If the hotel is substituted, it will be similar and with equal ratings and standards and guests will be notified in advance. If guests are not notified of any changes before departure, then the hotel listed in this program will be used.

Program Includes:

•One night at Sapphire House or similar hotel including breakfast

Ruby Superior Room with King Bed or Emerald Twin (two beds)

•All meals and samples per the itinerary

•All tours and entrances per the itinerary

•English-speaking guide throughout

Program excludes:

•Any meals not listed above

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, room service, laundry

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.