Roundtrip Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Tulips & Windmills

From $2,799
|
10 Days
|
8 Guided Tours
|
2 Countries

- Roundtrip Amsterdam, The Netherlands

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Day 3

Day 3

Scenic Sailing: Ijsselmeer

Journey across the Ijsselmeer, once known as the Zuiderzee. This remarkable artificial body of water, one of the largest lakes in Western Europe, formed after the inland sea here was closed off from the North Sea by construction of the 20-mile-long Afsluitdijk dam in 1932. As you sail, you may see to the east the province of Flevoland, made up of three polders of land that were reclaimed when the Ijsselmeer formed. To the west, fertile Dutch farmland hugs the lake, despite the shores’ proximity to the major metropolitan city of Amsterdam.

Journey across the Ijsselmeer, once known as the Zuiderzee. This remarkable artificial body of water, one of the largest lakes in Western Europe, formed after the inland sea here was closed off from the North Sea by construction of the 20-mile-long Afsluitdijk dam in 1932. As you sail, you may see to the east the province of Flevoland, made up of three polders of land that were reclaimed when the Ijsselmeer formed. To the west, fertile Dutch farmland hugs the lake, despite the shores’ proximity to the major metropolitan city of Amsterdam.

Enkhuizen, The Netherlands

Originally a small fishing village, Enkhuizen grew into a prosperous harbor before joining the Hanseatic League. During the 17th century, the city flourished as a center of maritime trade and shipbuilding. The silting up of the Zuiderzee at the end of the century ended this golden era; the sea eventually became an inland lake, cut off from the North Sea, with the completion of a dike in 1932. The era’s wealth and prosperity remain evident in several impressive landmarks, including the Drommedaris, a former city gate and watchtower, and the striking Gothic-style Zuiderkerk.

Originally a small fishing village, Enkhuizen grew into a prosperous harbor before joining the Hanseatic League. During the 17th century, the city flourished as a center of maritime trade and shipbuilding. The silting up of the Zuiderzee at the end of the century ended this golden era; the sea eventually became an inland lake, cut off from the North Sea, with the completion of a dike in 1932. The era’s wealth and prosperity remain evident in several impressive landmarks, including the Drommedaris, a former city gate and watchtower, and the striking Gothic-style Zuiderkerk.

Enkhuizen by Foot

Explore the historic sights of Enkhuizen during an informative walking excursion.

Zuiderzee Museum

Explore a traditional village showcasing the culture and maritime history of the Zuiderzee region.

Tulips & Windmills

Journey through the dreamy Dutch countryside to a tulip farm and stop to view historic windmills.

Enkhuizen Villages & Lakes by E-bike

Cycle through the picturesque countryside and view the lakes and villages near Enkhuizen.

Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.