Easy biking with E-Motion in Waterland
Exploring the northern Rhine and the Meuse aboard the river cruise ship SENA promises a delightful blend of sustainable cruising, cycling adventures, and cultural excursions. Travelling through Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium, you'll encounter some of the most captivating cities in Northern Europe, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Antwerp.
The landscape along the route is characterized by lush green marshlands, picturesque polder landscapes, and scenic coastlines, offering flat, enjoyable cycling routes along rivers, canals, and through charming countryside. The cities you'll visit are steeped in history and cultural richness. Amsterdam and Rotterdam are vibrant, cosmopolitan hubs with a blend of tradition and modernity, while Antwerp boasts perfectly preserved medieval splendor and is renowned for its Flemish masterpieces by artists such as Jan van Eyck, Peter Paul Rubens, and Jacob Jordaens.
After each day of exploration, you'll retreat to the comfort of your cabin aboard the ship, where you can unwind and enjoy the passing river scenery. Dining on board is a delightful experience, with included drinks adding to the pleasure of your cruise.
Overall, this e-bike cruise offers a perfect combination of active exploration, cultural immersion, and relaxed cruising along Europe's enchanting waterways.
Highlights
- 5 guided bike tours along the Rhine and Maas & beyond the river banks
- Glorious cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Antwerp
- Eventful and easy cycle routes through polder and river landscapes
- Accommodations on the SENA, state of the art cruise ship
- Stress-free battery-assisted cycling with a support vehicle
In Amsterdam, the UNESCO-listed canal belt with its charming gabled houses and houseboats is a sight to behold, offering a unique glimpse into the city's historic architecture. Rotterdam, on the other hand, showcases modern architectural marvels, with its city center transformed by star architects over the past two decades. Guided tours in both cities provide insight into their architectural evolution and cultural significance.
Antwerp, known as a "Stad aan de Stroom" (City by the River), boasts a noble history shaped by the diamond and wool trade. Explore its Old Town with a knowledgeable guide, taking in landmarks such as the Grote Markt, the imposing City Hall, and the Rubens House. Admire the Renaissance gabled houses and visit the largest church in Flanders as you immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this vibrant city.
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Itinerary
Day 1: Cologne
Day 2: Rotterdam - Delft - Hoek - Rotterdam | 38 mi. (60 km)
Day 3: Amsterdam - Ijssel Sea - Amsterdam | 38 mi. (60 km)
Day 4: Antwerp by night - No Biking
Day 5: Antwerp - Mechelen -Antwerp | 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 7: Nijmegen - Ooijpolder - Nijmegen | 23 mi. (37 km)
Day 7: Duesseldorf City Tour |19 mi. (30 km)
Day 8: Departure or extension in Cologne
*All distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change, at times without prior notice. Some waterways may be subject to occasional closures due to drought, storms, floods, canal or lock repairs, or other unforeseen circumstances that make navigation unsafe or impossible. The captain reserves the right to make any changes deemed necessary.
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Day 1: Individual Arrival to Cologne
Your river cruise embarks from the historic cathedral city of Cologne. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted with a welcome drink aboard the SENA at 3:00 p.m. For your convenience, we are offering a bus shuttle service every half hour from Cologne's main train station to the dock, starting at 2:30 p.m.
At 5:00 p.m., the SENA sets sail, gliding downriver towards Netherland. If the weather permits, you can enjoy the departure from Cologne on the sun deck, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of the city's famous cathedral, the towering spires of its Romanesque churches, and the modern harbor district. Afterwards, gather for dinner onboard, marking the beginning of your adventure on the river. It's the perfect way to unwind and settle in for your first night aboard the ship. Afterwards, gather for dinner onboard, marking the beginning of your adventure on the river. It's the perfect way to unwind and settle in for your first night aboard the ship.
Day 2: New & old Rotterdam & Delft | Approx. 38 miles / 60 km
Today, we delve into the heart of Dutch democracy as we explore Rotterdam, a city that seamlessly blends its rich maritime heritage with cutting-edge modernity. Renowned as Europe's foremost transshipment hub and boasting the title of the third largest port globally, Rotterdam's urban landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation since the relocation of its port to the coast. The cityscape now stands as a testament to contemporary architectural innovation, earning Rotterdam the moniker of "Maashatten" due to its impressive skyline reminiscent of Manhattan. At the heart of Rotterdam's architectural marvels lies the iconic Erasmusbrug, a monumental bridge spanning the Maas River since 1996. Affectionately referred to as the "Swan" by locals, this architectural masterpiece serves as a symbol of Rotterdam's modernity and innovation. Another highlight of our visit is the Rotterdam Market Hall, a marvel of contemporary design that has captured the imagination of visitors since its inauguration in 2014. Immerse yourself in Rotterdam's vibrant cultural life as we uncover the city's storied past and celebrate its dynamic present, where tradition and innovation meet in a harmonious blend of old and new. Our cycle tour takes us from Rotterdam via Delft to the coast in Hoek. In Delft, you will experience a canal cruise, during which you will also be told the history of Delft porcelain.
Day 3: Amsterdam, Waterland & Ijsselmeer | Approx. 38 miles / 60 km
Today we embark on a journey away from the vibrant energy of Amsterdam and immerse ourselves in the tranquil landscape of the Isselmeer on an exciting e-bike tour. We start on board a ferry and cross the calm waters of the Amstel with the iconic Amsterdam Tower and the Eye Film Museum in view. Once on the other side, we hop on our e-bikes and ride through the charming neighborhood of Old Holland before heading to Broek in Waterland, a pristine nature park. On the way through this idyllic landscape, we are greeted by picturesque canals, bridges and historic farms. The flat terrain offers panoramic views that seem to stand the test of time, with sprawling fields as far as the eye can see. Along the way, we meet traditional Dutch farmers working their land, adding to the timeless charm of the region. As we cycle through the picturesque villages of Broek, we feel as if we are immersed in a bygone era, where life is quiet and the architecture is reminiscent of another time. Protected by miles of dykes and punctuated by charming pumping stations, this area has developed into a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts on land and water. At the end of the day, we return to the ship for a delicious dinner, review the day's adventures and enjoy the memories we have created.
Day 4: Antwerp by night | No Biking
Nestled within the city lies the largest church in Belgium, the Cathedral of Our Lady, a majestic testament to Antwerp's golden age during the 16th century. At that time, Antwerp reigned supreme as the economic powerhouse of Northern Europe, its prosperity reflected in the soaring tower of the cathedral and the opulent splendor of its market square. The historic old town of Antwerp, centered around the cathedral, exudes a unique charm, with lavishly decorated guild houses and a rich artistic heritage that includes renowned names like Rubens, van Dyck, Snyders, and Jordaens. As we explore the city's cobblestone streets and picturesque squares, we'll immerse ourselves in its vibrant history and cultural legacy.
Day 5: Flemish Masters in Antwerp & Gothic in Mechelen | Approx. 22 miles / 35 km
Today promises a rich cultural experience as we explore another of Flanders' most important cities. Our day begins in Mechelen, where the towering Gothic cathedral of St. Romuald dominates the skyline and is a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage. Mechelen is known for its carillon school and invites us to get to know its musical traditions and cultural heritage. From Mechelen, we set off on a picturesque cycle tour through the idyllic landscapes of Flanders back to Antwerp. On traffic-free roads, we meander past a former abbey, a picturesque church and tranquil lakes, enjoying the quiet beauty of the countryside. Our guides have prepared a delicious picnic for us to enjoy the flavors of the region in the embrace of nature. Our cycle route then takes us along meandering rivers and tranquil canals, giving us glimpses of the region's industrial past and natural splendor.
Day 6: Nijmegen and Ooijpolder | Approx. 23 miles / 37 km
The Hanseatic City of Nijmegen is the oldest city in the Netherlands. The Romans had already established a significant fort (castellum) here. The cycling route takes you away from the city and into the stunning natural beauty of the Ooijpolder. This expansive area is a magnificent example of a river meadow landscape, characterized by wide-open spaces, lush greenery, and the constant presence of water. The polder is a crucial habitat for wildlife, particularly water birds, making it a fantastic spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. As you pedal, the route guides you past picturesque dyke houses, traditional dwellings nestled securely on the elevated dykes. These homes offer a glimpse into the local architectural style and the unique way of life adapted to the low-lying Dutch terrain.
Day 7: Between Rhine River Waves and Gehrys Skyline | Approx. 19 miles / 30 km
The capital of North Rhine-Westphalia has more pubs than residents, and a new nightlife hub has sprung up next to the old town: the Media Harbor. During the day, Frank Gehry's office towers dance there, and in the evening, hipsters and office sharks do the same. Two world stars are responsible for the city's reputation: one is the Neanderthal, the epitome of primitive man. The other belongs to Düsseldorf just as much as photography, art, trade fairs, and fashion: Andreas Gursky, the most famous student of the photography class at the art academy. On this tour you will cycle for miles along the river that has such a profound influence on Düsseldorf and starts right in the center of Düsseldorf at the dock of the SENA.
You will encounter the water for the first time when you cycle over the Golden Bridge in the Hofgarten. Below you, the waters of the Northern Düssel still flow. But just a few hundred meters later, you will already have the Rhine in view. You will ride over the imposing Oberkasseler Bridge and marvel at the city panorama. You may even see a few sheep grazing on the Rhine meadows. From now on, the river remains faithfully by your side as you roll along the well-developed bike paths on the Rhine dike. At the northernmost point of the route, you switch to the other side of the river and enjoy the panoramic views from there. Before cycling back to the River Cruise Ship, you cross the Rhine twice more. Then you will have truly seen the mighty river from all perspectives.
Day 8: Departure Cologne
In the early morning, your ship docks in Cologne, marking the conclusion of your memorable journey along the Maas. As you bid farewell to the enchanting river landscapes and vibrant cities, you have the opportunity to relish one last hearty breakfast on board, savoring the flavors and reminiscing about the unforgettable moments shared with fellow travelers. As the journey draws to a close, we bid you farewell at Cologne Central Station at 12:00 p.m., where you'll also receive your luggage for departure. Depart with cherished memories and newfound appreciation for the art, history, and beauty discovered along the Maas, carrying the spirit of adventure with you on your onward journey.
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We kindly ask for your understanding that changes to the timetable and program may occur. Factors such as high and low tide, maintenance work, and waiting times at locks and bridges can necessitate adjustments at short notice. In rare instances of high or low tide or force majeure, certain parts of the route may need to be covered by alternative transportation such as bus or train. Additionally, in individual cases, hotel accommodation may be required. Rest assured, our priority is to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey, and we will strive to minimize any disruptions to your experience. Thank you for your flexibility and cooperation.
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E-BIKE TRIP - ROUTE ASSESSMENT: The total distance by e-bike is approx. 138 Miles (222 km). The low-traffic cycle paths or small side streets along the IJsselmeer, the Rhine and the canals are almost without gradients. Wind can be tiring right on the Dutch coast. Then you can change to our escort bus at any time.
