Signature Tulip Time River Cruise 2025

Experience the beauty of springtime as you embark on a captivating river cruise starting in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, Netherlands.  This ancient city, with a rich history spanning 700 years, invites you to immerse yourself in its timeless charm, characterized by iconic architecture, charming cafes, and a plethora of restaurants. Your journey takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Holland and Belgium, making it an ideal adventure for those with a passion for gardens and nature.

Enthusiasts of flora will be treated to an enriching experience with onboard lectures led by a seasoned expert who will delve into the captivating realm of botany and the fascinating world of plants.

As you sail through Rotterdam’s bustling harbor, renowned as the busiest port globally, you’ll be captivated by its maritime energy. For those enamored by gardens, the visit to Keukenhof, known as the “Garden of Europe,” will be an absolute delight. Spanning 70 acres of lush parklands and serene lakes, this garden boasts a spectacular display of colors, hosting nearly 7 million blooming bulbs that paint the landscape in vibrant hues.

Your journey continues to Antwerp, Belgium’s second-largest city, where centuries-old history in diamond trading harmoniously coexists with a blend of ancient structures, monuments, and modern architecture. In the charming city of Ghent, Belgium, a local expert will guide you through its storied past, including an exploration of the magnificent St. Baaf’s Cathedral.

The voyage then leads you back to the Netherlands, where the town of Middelburg, once a pivotal trading hub, invites you to relive its historical grandeur. The Gothic Town Hall, Abbey Tower, and bustling Market Square are enduring testaments to its opulent past. Alternatively, you can choose to visit the captivating Flood Museum, which offers poignant stories and visuals from the historic flood of 1953.

INCLUSIONS & HIGHLIGHTS

  • 7-Night Elegant River Cruise Accommodations
  • Included excursions with certified local guides.
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship.
  • 24-hour self-serve beverage station.
  • Premium coffees, cappuccinos, and lattes
  • Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks with every lunch and dinner
  • Daily Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, sweet treats and sandwiches
  • All meals
  • Complimentary bottled water daily.
  • Daily full buffet breakfast with made-to-order egg station and hot and cold menu items
  • Captain’s welcome and farewell receptions and dinners with sparkling wine and canapés
  • Women’s Travel Club Tour Host

ITINERARY

  • Day 1 – Welcome to Amsterdam

    Welcome to Amsterdam. Your Suite Ship is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Amsterdam must arrive by 3:30 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5:00 pm. Your day in Amsterdam is free to explore at your leisure. You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to beautiful Zaanse Schans where you’ll see a wonderful collection of well-preserved historic windmills and Dutch houses. Enjoy dinner and explore the ship on your first night on board.

    Accommodations: Avalon Passion or Expression (2025)

  • Day 2 – Amsterdam

    You will get the choice among the many Guided Optional Excursions available. . Get up early today, not to miss the opportunity to visit the world’s largest flower auction. Then explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam’s “Golden Age.” Take some free time to explore Amsterdam’s colorful streets and canal houses, galleries, and shops, OR Access Amsterdam’s secret gardens hidden behind the brick façades – a unique opportunity as they are normally closed to public.

    Accommodations: Avalon Passion or Expression (2025)

  • Day 3 – Rotterdam Keukenhof Gardens

    This morning cruise through Rotterdam harbour. Then you will have a choice of two different excursions. Join a full- or half-day Guided Tour of breathtaking Keukenhof—known as the “Garden of Europe”—for its 70 acres of lush parkland, lakes, and the world’s largest flower gardens—with more than seven million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths as well as other bulbs, planted each year, OR: Experience Rotterdam by foot with your Adventure Host.
    Take some free time to relax on the harbor-side in Rotterdam with an artisan beer, a slice of appeltart (Dutch apple pie), and a koffie verkeerd, a typical Dutch drink of half coffee, half milk. Take a bike from your ship to explore Rotterdam and the surrounding area.

    Accommodations: Avalon Passion or Expression (2025)

  • Day 4 – Antwerp, Belgium

    Gothic Cathedral, Crêpes, and Waffles in Artful Antwerp. Take a Guided Tour of this sophisticated city to visit the central Grote Markt, lined with 16th-century guildhall houses. You’ll also see the beautiful city hall, the Cathedral of Our Lady with its stunning altarpiece paintings by Rubens.

    You may choose to visit a Botanical Garden, where you will admire an amazing variety of plants, tree and flowers.
    Alternatively, you may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to the nearby capital, Brussels—considered home to the European Union, and admire its magnificent palaces and cathedrals.
    You might prefer to take time on your own to indulge in Antwerp’s signature Belgian waffles and crêpes—or explore this bike-friendly city from its old wharfs to its legendary diamond district. This evening, join your garden expert for a botany lecture onboard.

    Accommodations: Avalon Passion or Expression (2025)

  • Day 5 – Ghent

    You’ll have time for an early-morning walk to explore the architecture and canals of Ghent—“Belgium’s best-kept secret.” Today you will have another choice of excursions, explore Ghent—“The Diamond of Flanders”—with a Guided Sightseeing Tour of this showcase of medieval Flemish wealth. You’ll visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral—with its remarkable Flemish artwork, or visit the Zwin Nature reserve with its unique landscapes and birds.

    Accommodations: Avalon Passion or Expression (2025)

  • Day 6 – Middleburg, Holland

    Join a Guided Walking Tour of the historic merchant city of Middelburg—with its 15th-century gothic Town Hall. You’ll learn about the spice trade of this Dutch harbour capital of Zeeland, its prosperity in the Dutch East India Company trading, and origins as a stronghold city. Enjoy its winding cobbled streets and canals that circle Old Town. Spend some free time biking or walking through Middelburg to sample Babbelaar cookies, fries, or beer before cruising to Veere.
    In Veere, join a Guided Tour of the Delta Works, the largest flood-protection system in the world, and a miracle of modern technology.

    Accommodations: Avalon Passion or Expression (2025)

  • Day 7 – Willemstad

    Enjoy a guided walking tour of Willemstad and discover its many beautifully restored buildings from the 17th and 18th Century. Later, enjoy a Cheese Tasting on board as you prepare to sail to Amsterdam.

    Accommodations: Avalon Passion or Expression (2025)

  • Day 8 – Depart Amsterdam

    Time to say good-bye to Amsterdam and wonderful new friends. You will be transferred to the airport after breakfast.

Show full itinerary

Prices are subject to change and availability. Space is limited, and activities and specific hotels are subject to change. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. In the event of water level problems or maintenance on the locks on stretches of any river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motor coach. Included visits and special features are subject to change. If a change is necessary, a substitute will be offered.

DETAILS & PRICING

Rates

Category E – Fixed Window (On Request)

Double Occupancy: $3495 CAD per person sharing a cabin
Single Occupancy: $5979 CAD per person your own cabin

Category D – Fixed Window (Full)

Double Occupancy: $3744 CAD per person sharing a cabin
Single Occupancy: $6365 CAD per person your own cabin

Category B – Panorama Suite – Open Air Balcony (On Request)

Double Occupancy: $5194 CAD per person sharing a cabin
Single Occupancy: $8612 CAD per person your own cabin

Category A – Panorama Suite – Open Air Balcony

Double Occupancy: $5244 CAD per person sharing a cabin
Single Occupancy: $8690 CAD per person your own cabin

If you would like the double occupancy rate but don’t have a roommate, we will match you with a suitable roommate. The single occupancy rate will give you your own room. Single occupancy may be limited. CAD = Canadian dollars. USD = United States of America dollars. Conversion to USD is approximated by current exchange rates and is subject to change. You will be charged in CAD, and your bank may charge a slightly different rate or fee.

Payment of $250 is due at the time of booking.
The final payment is due on January 31, 2025.

All payments are non-refundable Please see the full terms and conditions. Prices are subject to change and availability.

Activity Level

Low-moderate activity
This is a fairly relaxed tour. Some walking while visiting areas and a few shorter walking tours.

Group Size

Minimum: 10 members
Maximum: 18 members

Exclusions

  • International Airfare
  • Visa and passport handling fees
  • Meals not listed in itinerary
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Gratuities on personal purchases
  • Optional Activities
  • Expenses of a Personal Nature
  • Early check-in and late check-out of hotel
  • Airport transfers
  • Shipboard gratuities if minimum number of passengers not met

Tour Host

Women’s Travel Club tours are hosted tours. Your tour host is in addition to local tour guides. Your Women’s Travel Club tour host is your tour concierge and there to make sure every part of the tour runs smoothly. Our trained hosts are seasoned travelers who are with you every step of your tour so that you only have to worry about enjoying yourself and having fun.
The Women’s Travel Club Tour Host for this tour is TBA.

Roommate Matching Policy

Roommate matching is done as a courtesy, and while most matches result in wonderful friendships, success is not guaranteed. If during the tour you decide you would no longer like to share a room with your roommate, you will need to request (and pay for) a single room at all accommodations. This can be shared between the two people in the room if it is a mutual decision. If you are a very light sleeper or snore, you may want to consider getting your own single room.

Flight Information

The Women’s Travel Club recommends booking flexible or refundable air tickets when possible.
Arrive to Amsterdam International Airport Schiphol; AMS must arrive by 3:30 PM
The recommended earliest arrival time is 8:30 a.m. Must be on ship by 5:00 p.m. for safety exercise The ship sails at 6:00 p.m. Cabins will not be available until 4:00 p.m.
Depart from Amsterdam International Airport Schiphol – AMS – last operating departure transfer is by 3:30 p.m.
If you would like assistance booking international flights for your tour, please use the form below. The Women’s Travel Club Flight Desk will work with you to arrange the best options.
Our Flight management fee is CAD 100.00 + HST, per tour.
Flight Quote

Travel Insurance:

Out-of-country medical insurance is required. We strongly recommend that you obtain cancellation and interruption insurance to protect your investment.
Use this link to request an insurance quote.

Insurance Quote

ACCOMMODATIONS

Avalon Expression

Experience the epitome of river cruising luxury aboard the Avalon Expression, a distinguished member of Avalon’s acclaimed Suite Ships fleet. Unveiling two expansive decks adorned with Panorama Suites, this vessel redefines elegance with its wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, creating the exclusive Open-Air Balcony—a hallmark of river cruising innovation.

Boasting a generous 200 square feet, the Panorama Suites surpass industry standards by over 30%, providing an unmatched setting to greet each morning with breathtaking views from the comfort of your window-facing bed. Revel in the lavish space, sprawl out on your indulgent Comfort Collection bed, and let the world unfold before you as you gracefully cruise along.

Onboard, indulge in the Panorama Bistro, offering an alternative light dining experience. Stay active in the Fitness Center, stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi access, and bask in the open-air allure of the Sky Deck. The expansive deck features premium lounge chairs, a rejuvenating whirlpool, and the Sky Bistro, where light al fresco lunches enhance the cruising experience.

Express your individuality and embark on a journey tailored to your preferences aboard the Avalon Expression—where luxury meets the freedom to cruise in style.

Category D and E

  • Comfort Collection Beds
  • Luxurious mattress toppers
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • European-style duvets
  • Soft & firm pillows
  • Extra blankets
  • Choice of bed configuration
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • Premium Hairdryer
  • L’Occitane bath products
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
  • Easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
  • Alarm clock
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Well-stocked minibar
  • Complimentary filtered water
  • In-room safe
  • Individual climate control
  • Elegant, contemporary design
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • Two windows
  • Full shower with glass door
  • Writing desk and chair
  • Lighted makeup mirror
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • One Queen-Sized Bed or Two Twins
  • USB Ports

Category A and B

  • Comfort Collection Beds
  • Luxurious mattress toppers
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • European-style duvets
  • Soft & firm pillows
  • Extra blankets
  • Choice of bed configuration
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • Premium Hairdryer
  • L’Occitane bath products
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
  • Easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
  • Alarm clock
  • Make-up mirror
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Well-stocked minibar
  • Complimentary filtered water
  • In-room safe
  • Individual climate control
  • Elegant, contemporary design
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • Marble countertops in bathroom
  • Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
  • 6-person sitting area
  • Full shower with glass door
  • Writing desk and chair
  • Lighted makeup mirror
  • Sofa
  • Coffee table
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • One Queen-Sized Bed or Two Twins
  • USB Ports

** Occasionally, due to situations beyond our control, specific hotels may change. Any accommodation changes will be to a similar hotel.

FAQ's

Through our own clients and networking clubs we have realized a general desire for women to travel but they don’t always have a companion. We developed the Women’s Travel Club for these women to have a fun and safe group to travel with. We offer a wide range of destinations, so that there is something for everyone.

We have women of all ages, with the average being 45 to 65 years. However, we do have regular travelers anywhere from 30 years to over 80 years of age.

We do not include international flights in the price of our tours. Not including the cost of international flights in the cost of the tour allows members the flexibility to get the flight schedule, price and class of service that best suits them. The Women's Travel Club flight desk will be happy to help arrange your international flights.

Yes, we always negotiate the best possible single supplement rate for our trips. Single spots fill quickly and may be limited so we suggest you book early for a single spot.

Yes, each of our booking forms has an area for you to request to be matched with a roommate. We get some general information that will help us match you with a great new friend. If a roommate is not initially available you may have to book in as a single and then change to double occupancy when a roommate is available.

No, at this time a travel visa is not required for Canadian or US Citizens to travel to Amsterdam. However, travel requirements may change at any time. Please visit your governments travel recommendations page. Canada - Canada Travel Recommendations & Information USA - USA Travel Recommendations & Information

April is a nice spring month in Amsterdam. Days are starting to get warmer with an average of 13°C (56°F).

Signature Tulip Time River Cruise 2025

Apr 24 - May 01 2025

Tour Level: Signature Tours,
Tour Type: Cruises,
Activities:

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