On this cruise we visit Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent and Bruges exploring Belgium’s charming waterways at a leisurely pace. We also visit Dordrecht in Holland where we can visit the magnificent Windmills of Kinderdijk. Relax in your roomy cabin, tuck into delicious locally inspired menus and get to know like-minded travellers as you discover all that this beautiful region has to offer.
Day 1 WEDNESDAY We travel to Dover for the Channel crossing to France. We make our way to Brussels and join the MS Lafayette at around 6pm. Enjoy a cocktail with the crew before dinner.
Day 2 THURSDAY This morning, we have an included guided coach tour of Brussels where we can discover the city’s most famous landmarks, and visit a chocolate factory. Upon our return we cruise towards Antwerp along one of the oldest navigable waterways—the Willebroek Canal—to the Scheldt River. We arrive in Antwerp in the evening and remain in port overnight.
Day 3 FRIDAY Antwerp is something of a hidden gem. Its medieval streets and Renaissance monuments tend to be overshadowed by its reputation as a centre of the diamond trade and as the world's fifth-largest port. Discover its historic centre on one of the optional excursions before returning for lunch as we cruise gently towards Ghent.
Day 4 SATURDAY This morning, uncover the highlights of Ghent where its historic centre feels like an open-air museum, where typical Flemish architecture reveals a rich medieval heritage. In the afternoon there is the option to travel by coach to Bruges, one of the most beautiful cities in Flanders.
Day 5 SUNDAY We navigate the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal towards Veere where there is the option to visit the Delta Works to see the largest flood protection system in the world, located along the Dutch coastline. Tonight, we cruise towards Dordrecht.
Day 6 MONDAY Join an optional excursion to the Windmills of Kinderdijk and learn how the Dutch have tamed the surrounding water for more than 1,000 years This evening, relax as we cruise towards Brussels with our Farewell Gala Dinner.
Day 7 TUESDAY Breakfast on board before disembarkation. We make our way to Dunkirk to take our afternoon sailing to Dover, where we travel by coach and taxi to our homes.
This superb Premium ship is named after the Marquis de Lafayette, a great figure in French history. The MS Lafayette is 90m long and 10m wide and can accommodate 82 passengers, in 43 double and single cabins, spread over two decks. Cabins have TV, safe, hairdryer and air conditioning. Located on the upper deck is the restaurant, where all meals are served during the cruise (set menu), and the lounge / bar with a dance floor. There is no lift, and main deck cabins are accessed downstairs.
