Canals to Culture: Gay River Cruise from Amsterdam to Brussels

Amsterdam, with its enchanting canals and vibrant neighborhoods, is a city like no other. Travelers will spend three unforgettable days here during Pride weekend, when the entire city bursts into life with color, celebration, and an overwhelming sense of joy. Whether it’s exploring the historic Anne Frank House, taking in the city’s artistic flair, or cruising along its iconic waterways, Amsterdam offers something for everyone. And, of course, no visit during this time would be complete without diving into the Pride festivities, where the streets—and even the canals—are alive with parades, parties, and an atmosphere of pure inclusivity and love.

Even for those who’ve visited Amsterdam before, experiencing it during Pride weekend is on another level. The city is a whirlwind of energy, but there’s also a luxurious retreat waiting. The ship will be docked right in the heart of Amsterdam, offering a peaceful escape with rooftop loungers, an on-board restaurant serving gourmet dishes, and a lineup of entertainment to keep the fun going even when you’re not out exploring. Think of it as an oasis in the midst of the city’s excitement—always ready for you to retreat, recharge, and enjoy.

The stay in Amsterdam lasts from Friday morning until Sunday evening, perfectly timed to soak in the absolute best of the Pride celebrations before setting sail for the next stop on the journey—Kinderdijk.

After an exhilarating Pride weekend in Amsterdam, the adventure continues with a peaceful overnight journey to Kinderdijk. As the ship glides into this UNESCO World Heritage site by morning, travelers will awaken to the stunning sight of 19 beautifully preserved windmills, framed by tranquil waterways and the serene Dutch countryside. This stop offers a chance to slow down, step back in time, and learn how these remarkable engineering feats have kept the Netherlands’ lowlands dry for centuries. It’s the perfect spot for capturing breathtaking photos, taking leisurely walks, and simply soaking in the quiet beauty after the vibrancy of Amsterdam.

Following a relaxing morning exploring Kinderdijk, the journey continues downriver to Dordrecht—a city where history comes alive on every cobbled street. Dordrecht’s medieval charm is unmistakable, with highlights such as the towering Grote Kerk and its picturesque harbor inviting exploration. Wander through the vibrant markets, indulge in local treats at cozy cafes, and lose yourself in the storybook streets that have been preserved for centuries. It’s an afternoon filled with discovery, providing a harmonious balance of culture, history, and relaxation.

Welcome to Brussels, the vibrant capital of Belgium and the heart of the European Union! This dynamic city offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, making it the ideal final stop on this extraordinary river cruise. From the moment you step ashore, there’s so much to explore. Start at the iconic Grand Place, a breathtaking square surrounded by ornate guild houses and the majestic Town Hall. Just steps away, the charming Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert await, filled with upscale boutiques and cozy cafes. And of course, no visit to Brussels is complete without a stop at the quirky Manneken Pis statue, embodying the city’s playful spirit.

For those with a sweet tooth or a love for local flavors, Brussels offers plenty of indulgence. Dive into some famous Belgian waffles, rich chocolates, and savor the classic dish of mussels with fries. If you’re a politics enthusiast, a visit to the European Parliament is a must, while the stunning Parc du Cinquantenaire provides a peaceful place to stroll and take in the city’s beauty. As the sun sets, head to the lively Ixelles or Saint-Géry neighborhoods for a drink and a taste of Brussels’ diverse nightlife.

As the final day of this incredible river cruise, Brussels provides the perfect farewell. The journey concludes on the morning of the 8th day, with guests disembarking by 10:00am. For those staying longer in this captivating city, there’s plenty more to discover. And for those departing today, an airport transfer is included, ensuring a smooth end to a trip filled with cherished memories, new friendships, and unforgettable moments.

Good morning, Brussels!  We’ve arrived in the vibrant capital of Belgium and the capital of the EU, which offers a delightful blend of unique history, great little shops and restaurants, and even a great gay scene too. There’s plenty to see and experience here, including the iconic Grand Place, a stunning square surrounded by ornate guild houses and the impressive Town Hall. Stroll through the nearby Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert for upscale shopping and charming cafes. Don’t miss Manneken Pis, the quirky statue embodying the city’s playful spirit. For a taste of local cuisine, you absolutely must try some waffles, chocolates, and mussels with fries. Explore the European Parliament area if you’re interested in politics, or wander through the beautiful Parc du Cinquantenaire. End your visit with a drink in the lively Ixelles or Saint-Géry neighborhoods, soaking in Brussels’ unique atmosphere.

Brussels offers the perfect finale to our unforgettable river cruise and it’s here that our journey concludes on the morning of our 8th day.  Are you staying longer here in Brussels?  Great idea!  There’s plenty to explore.  But if you’re departing from Brussels airport today your airport transfer from the ship is included.  We’ll be saying our goodbyes together and disembarking the ship by 10:00am on this day, full of memories of a fabulous time together.

● 226 sq. ft. (21 sq. m.)  ● Double vanity in bath  ● Spa-like shower  ● Spacious sitting area  ● Large closet with safe ●  Infinity Balcony ● Make-up Counter

● Larger Stateroom ● 172 sq. ft. (16 sq. m.) ● Single vanity in bath ● River-facing queen bed (convertible to 2 twin beds) ● Some with connecting staterooms

● 151 sq. ft. (14 sq. m.) ● Accommodates up to 2 guests ● Single vanity in bath ● Wardrobe with mini-safe ● Queen bed convertible to 2 twin beds

● 140 sq. ft. (13 sq. m.) ● Accommodates up to 2 guests ● Single vanity in bath ● Wardrobe with mini-safe ● Queen bed convertible to 2 twin beds

What’s the Climate Like on This River Cruise?
The weather during this river cruise varies as you travel through the Netherlands and Belgium. Expect mild to warm temperatures during the day, perfect for exploring the cities and countryside, with cooler evenings, especially on the water. Amsterdam and Rotterdam are typically mild in the summer, while Ghent and Bruges can feel a bit cooler, especially in the evenings. Light, comfortable clothing is ideal for daytime, but be sure to pack a jacket or sweater for evening strolls or rooftop lounging on the ship.

What’s the Currency?
Throughout the trip, you’ll be using the Euro (EUR) as the currency in both the Netherlands and Belgium. Credit cards are widely accepted in most places, including shops, restaurants, and attractions. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases, tipping, and local markets. ATMs are readily available, but starting with about 100 EUR in cash is recommended to cover any immediate expenses.

Do I Tip in the Netherlands and Belgium?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in both countries. At restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (around 5-10%) is a common courtesy. For guides, drivers, and other service providers, a tip of around 5-10 EUR per day is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for excellent service. Onboard the ship, staff gratuities are already included in the cruise package, so there’s no need to worry about additional tips unless you want to offer something extra.

What Plugs Are Used?
Both the Netherlands and Belgium use type C and F plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. If your devices aren’t compatible with these plug types, be sure to bring an adapter. A universal adapter is always a good idea to keep your devices charged throughout the trip.

Is This Trip LGBTQ+ Friendly?
Absolutely! Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Ghent, and Brussels are known for being some of the most LGBTQ+ inclusive