Dordrecht, The Netherlands

  • Scenic aerial view of historic Dutch city

Dordrecht is the oldest city in Holland. Throughout the city, there are hundreds of historic monuments and landmarks, including the Grote Kerk and the 13th-century Augustinian monastery known as Het Hof. The picturesque waterways and decorative bridges of Dordrecht exude a bygone era and are best explored on foot. The inner-city harbors are centuries old and lined with grand warehouses that have now been transformed into elegant homes. With a relaxed atmosphere and a plethora of quaint cafés and shops, Dordrecht oozes old-world charm.

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

  • Skyline of Rotterdam with Erasmus Bridge

Rotterdam stretches across a maze of natural and artificial waterways. With its location at the mouth of the New Meuse River and easy link to the Rhine and Central Europe, it is Europe’s largest port, earning it the nickname “Gateway to Europe.” Much of it was destroyed during World War II, yet it stands today as one of the continent’s great cities of art, architecture and innovation, boasting a lively culture and many museums. With a pleasant river orientation, Rotterdam’s spacious new inner city is a pleasure to explore; its shop-lined Lijnbaan district was Europe’s first pedestrian shopping precinct.

Shore Excursions

Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.

Aerial view of marina and cityscape

Historic Dordrecht

Discover the famous landmarks that dot the historic neighborhoods of Dordrecht, the oldest city in Holland.

Included
Aerial view of marina and cityscape

Historic Dordrecht

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes      

Famous Sights of Holland’s Oldest City

Discover the famous landmarks that dot the historic neighborhoods of Dordrecht, the oldest city in Holland. Granted city rights in 1220, Dordrecht played an important role in trade, politics and religion for many centuries. Meet your knowledgeable guide and set off on foot for the city’s older sections. Your leisurely walk will take you past many warehouses and mansions, as well as several notable buildings. See the Groothoofdspoort, the former city gate located at the confluence of three rivers, as well as “Het Hof”—a medieval monastery that showcases the history and culture of The Netherlands. Admire the Gothic Grote Kerk, with its unfinished tower, and the classical facades of the Augustijnenkerk church and Stadhuis (City Hall). Afterward, you may choose to spend more time in the city exploring at your leisure or walk back to your awaiting ship.

* Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.
Blue and white ceramic plates and vase display

Historic Dordrecht & Delft

Explore the cities of Dordrecht and Delft, then learn about the history and production of Royal Delft pottery.
Blue and white ceramic plates and vase display

Historic Dordrecht & Delft

Duration: 9 hours      

Canal Cruise, Dutch Treat and Royal Delft Factory

Explore the cities of Dordrecht and Delft, then learn about the history and production of Royal Delft pottery. In Dordrecht, board a boat and enjoy a water-level perspective of the city and its landmarks during a tour through the inner and outer canals. Enjoy a taste of poffertjes—traditional Dutch treats resembling small, fluffy pancakes. Enjoy free time before lunch at a local restaurant before embarking on a scenic drive to Delft. Upon arrival, take a guided stroll through the Old Town. After free time to explore Delft at your leisure, visit the Royal Delft, the last remaining earthenware factory from the 17th century. Creator of a highly sought-after style of pottery since its founding, this renowned manufacturer still uses the same centuries-old production methods today. Gain insight into the process and admire beautiful examples of tin-glazed bowls, plates and flower vases.

* Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.
Caramel being poured onto waffle

Historic Gouda & Stroopwafel

Try your hand at making Holland’s famous stroopwafel during a culinary workshop and enjoy your own creation.
Caramel being poured onto waffle

Historic Gouda & Stroopwafel

Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes      

Explore City Sights and Sample Your Own Sweet Creation

Try your hand at making Holland’s famous stroopwafel during a culinary workshop and enjoy your own creation. Embark on a scenic drive to Gouda, a city steeped in history dating back to the 12th century. During your walk with your guide, view St. John’s Church and the weigh house where goods, especially cheese, were weighed to levy taxes. You will also stop to see the Gothic Town Hall building; if there are no events taking place, visitors are invited to step inside and admire the grand mayor’s office. Though Gouda is perhaps better known for its cheese, one of its best kept secrets is the stroopwafel—two wafer cookies bound together with a layer of toffee syrup. During a workshop, you will learn how to make these sweet treats and enjoy a taste of your creation before returning to your awaiting ship.

* Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.