Bruges (Zeebrugge), Belgium
Zeebrugge is the gateway to Bruges, the capital of the Belgian province of West Flanders. Bruges was a wealthy city during medieval times when trade with Baltic ports flourished. The Zwin River, connecting Bruges with the North Sea, slowly began to narrow, marking the end of the city's great trade period. Today, visitors flock to Bruges to enjoy the charming, well-preserved medieval architecture lining the old and narrow roads and canals and to see some of Western Europe's finest artistic masterpieces.
- DateJul 30
- Depart7:00 PM
Overland
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.
Price: $1,499 per guest based on double occupancy.
Land program promotions are per person for guests 1 and 2 for one pre- or post-cruise program only, subject to terms.
Excursion Highlights
Filter Excursions
- 4.75 Hours
- Strenuous Activity
- #ZEE-001
- Zip from the pier to central Bruges by coach, then set out on foot with your seasoned guide in the lead.
- Amble winding, narrow streets where ancient gabled buildings share the scene with tree-lined canals.
- See iconic landmarks like the Belfry Tower, spectacular Town Hall and the Chapel of the Holy Blood.
- Experience a completely different view of Bruges on 30-minute small-boat cruise along its canals.
- Use some free time to grab a bite, shop for local crafts or chocolate, or just soak up more of Bruges’ medieval character.
- 8.0 Hours
- Moderate Activity
- #ZEE-002
- Journey by coach to Brussels for a comprehensive panoramic orientation tour.
- Encounter landmarks like St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Basilica of Koekelberg, the Atomium, Centenaire exhibition halls, Palais Royal, and triumphant Parc du Cinquantenaire.
- See the EU Parliament building, walk through breathtaking Grand Place, and visit tiny Manneken Pis.
- Head into the streets of Old Town on foot for an unhurried walking tour with your guide.
- Enjoy free time during the day for shopping, independent sightseeing and seeking lunch on your own.
- 8.0 Hours
- Moderate Activity
- #ZEE-003
- Express your independence and keen traveler instincts by creating your own day in Bruges.
- Begin with a coach transfer to the entrance of the old city, accompanied by your escort.
- Make use of your escort’s local knowledge to help get your day’s itinerary sorted out.
- Once oriented, head out and spend a marvelous 6 hours or so exploring this medieval showplace.
- Be sure to return for pickup at the pre-set time and place for the coach trip back to the ship.
- 4.0 Hours
- Moderate Activity
- #ZEE-005
- Express your independence and keen traveler instincts by creating your own Bruges experience.
- Begin with a coach transfer to a convenient spot, accompanied by your escort.
- Make use of your escort’s local knowledge to help get your visit agenda sorted out.
- Once oriented, head out with about 2 free hours to spend exploring this medieval showplace.
- Be sure to return for pickup at the pre-set time and place for the coach trip back to the ship.
- 5.0 Hours
- Strenuous Activity
- #ZEE-006
- Zip from the pier to historic Bruges by coach, then set out on foot with your seasoned guide in the lead.
- Amble winding, narrow streets where ancient gabled buildings share the scene with tree-lined canals.
- See iconic landmarks like the Belfry Tower, spectacular Town Hall and the Chapel of the Holy Blood.
- Learn a few tasty secrets as a local chocolatier demonstrates the art of crafting Belgian chocolates.
- Take some free time to shop for lace or chocolate, or just soak up more of Bruges’ medieval character.
- 6.0 Hours
- Strenuous Activity
- #ZEE-007
- After a half-hour coach transfer, embark on a guided walk through Bruges’ UNESCO-listed center.
- Visit picturesque squares, cobbled streets lined with medieval Brick Gothic buildings, and see
- onic landmarks like the Belfry Tower, Town Hall and the Chapel of the Holy Blood.
- Board a canal boat for a relaxed sightseeing cruise along Bruges’ atmospheric waterways.
- Find the lunch of your choosing, shop for souvenirs and people-watch on Walplein Square.
- 4.75 Hours
- Strenuous Activity
- #ZEE-010
- After a half-hour coach transfer, embark on a guided walk through Bruges’ UNESCO-listed center.
- Visit picturesque squares and cobbled streets lined with medieval buildings, and see iconic landmarks like the Belfry Tower, Town Hall and the Chapel of the Holy Blood.
- Take a deep dive into Belgium’s beer culture at a seminar and tasting session at a local café.
- Learn about the vast range of brews made in this country and their connection to the Belgian culture.
- Enjoy free time to shop Bruges for its fine lace, delectable chocolates and – of course – beer.
- 8.0 Hours
- Strenuous Activity
- #ZEE-012
- Travel by panoramic coach to Ghent and then Bruges.
- See top landmarks in each city on guided walks through their well-preserved historic districts.
- In Ghent, experience the famous “Row of Three Towers” bridge view and go inside St. Bavo’s to see the priceless Adoration of the Mystic Lamb altar.
- Stroll along Bruges’ winding cobbled lanes and canals, admire the Belfry Tower and Town Hall, and pass by the romantic Lake of Love.
- Enjoy shopping for lace, chocolate and other Belgian delicacies.
- 5.0 Hours
- Moderate Activity
- #ZEE-013
- Enjoy a scenic coach drive to Ghent, about an hour away across the Flemish countryside.
- Board a canal boat and set out on a relaxed cruising tour of the city and its landmarks.
- See the Chinese Teahouses, Castle of the Counts, the Old Fish Market, Ghent’s original port quays, Old Guildhalls and Fish Market, and more.
- Stop and ramble on foot awhile in the city center where cafés, shopping and chocolates are at hand.
- 7.0 Hours
- Strenuous Activity
- #ZEE-014
- Travel to Ypres and surrounding Flanders to visit several poignant wartime sites and monuments.
- Pay your respects to an entire generation of soldiers maimed or killed in the endless, indecisive World War I battles fought here.
- See the cemetery where a Canadian medic was moved to write the immortal poem, In Flanders Fields.
- Visit the In Flanders Fields Museum, presenting the stories of the war’s ordinary participants in an extraordinary way.
- Break for lunch on your own and some free time in central Ypres.
- 9.0 Hours
- Strenuous Activity
- #ZEE-015
- Recognize the devastating impact of World War I, especially on Belgium.
- Visit a memorial to the WWI troops killed in Belgium whose remains were never found.
- Visit another war memorial that honors the Canadian troops killed in France in WWI.
- 4.75 Hours
- Strenuous Activity
- #ZEE-001SG
- Zip from the pier to central Bruges by coach, then set out on foot with your seasoned guide in the lead.
- Amble winding, narrow streets where ancient gabled buildings share the scene with tree-lined canals.
- See iconic landmarks like the Belfry Tower, spectacular Town Hall and the Chapel of the Holy Blood.
- Experience a completely different view of Bruges on 30-minute small-boat cruise along its canals.
- Use some free time to grab a bite, shop for local crafts or chocolate, or just soak up more of Bruges’ medieval character.
- 6.0 Hours
- Strenuous Activity
- #ZEE-007SG
- After a half-hour coach transfer, embark on a guided walk through Bruges’ UNESCO-listed center.
- Visit picturesque squares, cobbled streets lined with medieval Brick Gothic buildings, and see
- onic landmarks like the Belfry Tower, Town Hall and the Chapel of the Holy Blood.
- Board a canal boat for a relaxed sightseeing cruise along Bruges’ atmospheric waterways.
- Find the lunch of your choosing, shop for souvenirs and people-watch on Walplein Square.
- 5.0 Hours
- Moderate Activity
- #ZEE-GG1
- Observe offshore wind turbines up close from a boat that provides a unique perspective .
- Learn the benefits of wind power and why Belgium is so committed to its development .
- See how the power from the offshore wind turbines is transported to shore .
- 5.0 Hours
- Strenuous Activity
- #ZEE-GG2
Help keep Zeebrugge’s coastline free from debris during a beach clean-up and then take the collected material to a facility that will convert it into green energy. The exact beach will be chosen the day of the excursion, but you can be sure it will be one of Zeebrugge’s most beautiful and popular stretches of sand. After about an hour of cleaning the beach, you will drive to nearby Oostende, where the collected debris will be taken to Biostoom, a biosteam plant that produces sustainable energy from waste. During the insider’s tour of the facility, you will gain an understanding of the fascinating process that creates green energy from household trash. You will learn how the debris is sorted and combusted in an eco-friendly way that makes enough steam to drive a generator and produce electricity. Steam power is just one of the sustainable energies that have made Belgium a leader in green energy.
- 5.0 Hours
- Strenuous Activity
- #ZEE-GL1
- Bicycle through the bucolic countryside on a flat road that prohibits motorized vehicles.
- See iconic windmills, charming cottages and small boats in the canal that the road follows
- Ride among local bicyclists between Bruges and the village of Damme.
- 4.75 Hours
- Moderate Activity
- #ZEE-GL2
- Explore atmospheric areas of Bruges that are typically unknown to all but the locals.
- Cross landmark canals that gave Bruges its nickname, the Venice of the North.
- Watch a demonstration of lace making, a trade that has flourished in Bruges for centuries.
- 4.0 Hours
- Light Activity
- #ZEE-AC1
- Enjoy the fairytale-like atmosphere in medieval Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Pause on the way to snap photos of the 18th-century windmill Sint-Janshuismolento.
- Explore Market and Burg squares and visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood in the latter.
- See attractions ranging from a 14th-century almshouse to a huge wall of beer bottles.
- Tour Bruges’ most iconic shopping street with a guide and then explore independently.
- 4.0 Hours
- Light Activity
- #ZEE-AC2
- Enjoy the fairytale-like atmosphere in medieval Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Pause on the way to snap photos of the 18th-century windmill Sint-Janshuismolento.
- Explore Market and Burg squares and visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood in the latter.
- See attractions ranging from a 14th-century almshouse to a huge wall of beer bottles.
- Tour Bruges’ most iconic shopping street with a guide and then explore independently.
- 7.0 Hours
- OTHER
- #ZEE-PVT
- 4.0 Hours
- Light Activity
- #ZEE-C04
- Travel in a private vehicle reserved for your party only.
- Follow your own itinerary and visit only attractions you choose.
- Proceed at whatever pace is most comfortable.
- Rely on your personal driver and guide for assistance.
- 8.0 Hours
- Light Activity
- #ZEE-C08
- Travel in a private vehicle reserved for your party only.
- Follow your own itinerary and visit only attractions you choose.
- Proceed at whatever pace is most comfortable.
- Rely on your personal driver and guide for assistance.
- 4.0 Hours
- Light Activity
- #ZEE-M04
- Travel in a private vehicle reserved for your party only.
- Follow your own itinerary and visit only attractions you choose.
- Proceed at whatever pace is most comfortable.
- Rely on your personal driver and guide for assistance.
- 4.0 Hours
- Light Activity
- #ZEE-M04A
- Travel in a private vehicle reserved for your party only.
- Follow your own itinerary and visit only attractions you choose.
- Proceed at whatever pace is most comfortable.
- Rely on your personal driver and guide for assistance.
- 8.0 Hours
- Light Activity
- #ZEE-M08
- Travel in a private vehicle reserved for your party only.
- Follow your own itinerary and visit only attractions you choose.
- Proceed at whatever pace is most comfortable.
- Rely on your personal driver and guide for assistance.
- 8.0 Hours
- Light Activity
- #ZEE-M08A
- Travel in a private vehicle reserved for your party only.
- Follow your own itinerary and visit only attractions you choose.
- Proceed at whatever pace is most comfortable.
- Rely on your personal driver and guide for assistance.
- 0.0 Hours
- Light Activity
- #ZEE-STT
To ensure that your shoreside experiences are as convenient and enjoyable as possible, we are delighted to offer a complimentary shuttle between your ship and the city center in every port where the ship is not docked within walking distance of the city center. This service runs continuously, aligning perfectly with your ship’s in-port schedule. Best of all, there’s no need to reserve your seat in advance. Simply make your way to the designated stop to board your shuttle, and you’ll be whisked away to the heart of the city. Additional information and schedules can be obtained by visiting the onboard Destination Services Desk during your voyage.
- 4.0 Hours
- Light Activity
- #ZEE-V04
- Travel in a private vehicle reserved for your party only.
- Follow your own itinerary and visit only attractions you choose.
- Proceed at whatever pace is most comfortable.
- Rely on your personal driver and guide for assistance.
- 8.0 Hours
- Light Activity
- #ZEE-V08
- Travel in a private vehicle reserved for your party only.
- Follow your own itinerary and visit only attractions you choose.
- Proceed at whatever pace is most comfortable.
- Rely on your personal driver and guide for assistance.