From Amsterdam to Bruges by bike & boat - it's magnificent!

Easy level cycling. The route is flat and easy on quiet roads (bike paths and quiet side roads). Stages of 40km/24.9mi per day on average (between 35 and 55km/21.7 to 34.2mi depending on the day), at your own pace, and which leaves you time to enjoy the many visits possible along the way. On most stages, you have the choice between a longer and a shorter route (note that if you choose the shorter route, you may not be able to visit all the places mentioned in the program).

90% of the route is on a cycle path: a real pleasure!

Nothing to carry but a small bag with your day's belongings and your picnic.

Registration possible for a single person (single cabin required in this case).

8 days / 7 nights / 6 days of cycling.

You will receive maps and tourist signs on board the boat. This route is done using an application to download on your mobile device or GPS, we provide you with all the information before departure. Every day, a tour leader is at your disposal for explanations. The guide does the stages every day, you can choose to follow them or be in total freedom! Please note that the group is international and the main language is English.

Accommodation

In the cabin (different types). Towels and bed linen are provided.

Types of cabins:

MAGNIFIQUE I

Lower deck

• 12 twin cabins of approximately 11m², 2 separate beds side by side
• 4 junior suites of approximately 15m², 2 beds next to each other forming a queen size bed

MAGNIFIQUE II

Lower deck

• 12 twin cabins of approximately 11m², 2 separate beds side by side
• 1 luxury cabin of approximately 13m², 2 separate beds side by side with lounge area

Upper deck

• 4 suites of approximately 14m², 2 separate beds side by side, lounge area and bay window (partially opens)

MAGNIFIQUE III

Lower deck

• 14 twin cabins of approx. 12m², 2 separate beds side by side
• 2 single cabins of approx. 7-9m²

Upper deck

• 5 suites of approximately 16m², 2 separate beds side by side with lounge area and bay window (partially opens)

MAGNIFIQUE IV

Lower deck

• 8 twin cabins of approximately 12m², 2 separate beds side by side

Upper deck

• 10 suites of approximately 16m², 2 beds pushed together forming a queen size bed with lounge area and bay window (partially opens)

Meals

You are on full board (dinner in Bruges or Antwerp not included). Breakfast and dinner (3-course menu) are taken on board the boat. For lunch, you can make your own picnic in the morning with the fresh and local products at your disposal.
Vegetarian dishes are available on board (at no extra charge). For other special diets (gluten-free, lactose-free or other) we can offer you adapted dishes with an extra charge of €35.

*Please note: any special diets or allergies must be reported at the time of booking! Please let us know at the time of registration if you have any food allergies or special diets; we will do our best to adapt your meals.

Start

On Day 1 at 2pm Amsterdam or Bruges (Departing from Bruges, the boat stays in port for the night. Departing from Amsterdam, the boat leaves at 2:30pm for Vianen).

End

On Day 8 in Amsterdam or Bruges; Drop-off scheduled until 9:30am after breakfast.

Bike rental

MAGNIFIQUE I - MAGNIFIQUE II - MAGNIFIQUE III - MAGNIFIQUE IV
The rental bikes are unisex hybrid bikes from the Azor brand (unisex model), Shimano 7 speed, back braking, gel saddle (adjustable) provided with a lock.

There are a few electric bikes available on board (on request). These are Azor Steps bikes with Nexus 7 speeds, 4 levels of support and handlebar brake only. It is supplied with a lock (or similar brand).

Other types of bikes are available (tandem, child bike, child seat, etc.) in limited numbers. Bike rental is optional; you can bring your personal bike (hybrid or electric) in limited numbers. But you must reserve a parking space for a hybrid bike or a parking lot and charging station for an electric bike (limited availability for a small supplement). For safety reasons, it is no longer possible to charge the batteries of your own e-bikes in the cabin. The crew will tell you where on deck/on board you can recharge your battery. In this case, the crew and Grand Angle cannot be held responsible in the event of damage, loss or theft.

Wearing a helmet is not compulsory in the Netherlands (although we recommend it). No helmets are available on board; they must be pre-booked at registration.

Trip Starting Destination

This tour starts in Bruges, Belgium or in Amsterdam, Netherlands depending on the details of your specific itinerary.

Trip Ending Destination

This tour ends in Bruges, Belgium or in Amsterdam, Netherlands depending on the details of your specific itinerary.

Access to Bruges:

By Plane
Bruges has a small international airport (OST) - Ostend-Bruges Airport

Brussels (Zaventem - BRU) International airport (All information for passengers | Brussels Airport) is about 1 hour and 50 minutes from Bruges by train. There is one train per hour. Please check train schedules on https://www.belgiantrain.be/en/

By Train: Bruges Central Station (Stationsplein).
The port is not far from the train station. To reach the port from the station:
By bus: line 6, stop "Brugge haven".
By taxi: approx. €17 (Bruges Taxi Service: +32 (0) 50 – 334455).

By Car
Parking in Bruges | Visit Bruges
Stationsplein (Bruges main station): recommended.
Price: approx. €6.10 / day; Guarded parking.
Ring Street, next to the harbour
Price: free; unattended parking; little space.

Access to Amsterdam:

By Train
Amsterdam Centraal station, you can find more information on the Nederlandse Spoorwegen | NS or SNCF Connect : Book your train tickets to France and Europe websites.

By Plane
Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam (AMS) is very well connected to Amsterdam Centraal train station. There are direct trains between the airport and the train station, the journey takes an average of 20 minutes. Price: around €5. You can buy the tickets at the airport (vending machines, NS station).

By Car
From all directions: you are on the Centrum Ring Amsterdam motorway (A10). Continue to the North slip road (Noord). To pier no. 6: Take exit S116 and go over Nieuwe Leeuwarderweg in Centrum / Noord to Buiksloterweg. Go to the boat by car to unload your luggage, then you will go to park. You can park in the car park near Amsterdam Centraal station or book a car park through our intermediary (car park with Valet). Details and prices will be given to you in your travel packet.

Swimming

Many of our trips lend themselves to swimming, during the stage or at the end of the day. It would be a shame not to take advantage of it. However, we would like to point out that you are the only judges of the advisability of a swim; These swims are therefore under your responsibility and at your own risk.

Acting for Responsible Tourism - ATR label

Since 2012, Grand Angle has been a member of ATR, the leading association for more responsible tourism. We design our trips—on foot, by bike, or on snow—to invite everyone to discover the world differently: with curiosity, respect, and kindness.

Active on the board of directors since 2018, we contribute to advancing industry practices toward greater purpose. Specifically, we ensure:

• Transparency in our practices and pricing
• Respect for our partners and local communities
• Environmental preservation on each of our trips

We also share the values of the Traveler’s Ethical Charter, which encourages simple actions to protect the places visited and foster meaningful encounters.

For more information on the ATR association: www.tourisme-responsable.org

Travelife Partner

Since 2025, Grand Angle has been recognized as a Travelife Partner, an international label that certifies our responsible practices regarding the environment, ethics, and sustainable management—both within our company and with our partners, as well as in the organization of our trips.

This label, the second level of a rigorous international certification, confirms our concrete actions in favor of responsible tourism. We are actively working toward the next level, Travelife Certified, in line with our Sustainable Development Policy.

It is the client’s responsibility to arrive prepared with the items listed below to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Clothing checklist

The following items are required for this trip unless otherwise noted. When packing, think layered clothing systems that work together and can be easily added or removed.

• Cycling Shoes – sport shoes that are comfortable for cycling in.
• Socks – one pair for every day or two days of the trip. Sport specific padded socks, no cotton please!
• Sun Hat – wide brimmed hat or baseball cap/bandana combo
• Cycling Gloves – padded gloves used specifically for cycling.
• Cycling Shirts – non-cotton, breathable short sleeve and/or long sleeve shirts (Note: long sleeve shirts provide better sun protection)
• Cycling Pants & Shorts – nylon pants AND shorts, zip-offs or leggings
• Windbreaker Layer – a lightweight wind resistant jacket or pullover
• Warm Top – mid-weight sweater or pullover of wicking material such as merino wool, fleece or polypropylene
• Insulating Jacket – down-fill or synthetic-fill insulated “puffy” jacket or warm, lightweight fleece jacket (Note: this item may not be needed in summer months)
• Rain Gear – waterproof jacket and pants or high-quality poncho, breathable fabric such as Gore-Tex® or coated nylon. For the pants look for side zippers that will easily allow pulling them over footwear.
• Casual Clothing & Footwear – comfortable clothes and shoes to wear in the evening after activities.

Important Note: Please, no cotton hiking/cycling clothes. Synthetic clothing is very efficient in drying quickly. Merino wool material clothing is also efficient in drying quickly, is comfortable to wear and has the advantage of not developing a bad odor after use.

Gear checklist

• Saddlebag – If choosing to use a rental bike on this trip, a saddlebag is included with rental.
• Personal Luggage – small duffel bag, suitcase or backpack – for extra items and casual clothes.
• Cycling Helmet – (Note: not mandatory for this trip but highly recommended) comfortable fitting, with rain cover. If choosing to use a rental bike on this trip, a helmet can be included with the rental.
• Hydration System – 2+ liters capacity, either water bottles or bladder/hose system (if planning to wear a backpack during cycling) and an additional water bottle
• Lunch Kit – Plastic bowl, box or plate, cutlery (spoon, fork, knife) to use for picnics
• Headlamp – preferably with an L.E.D. bulb that works with AA or AAA batteries (Note: always test headlamp before trips and travel/pack without batteries in device)
• Picnic/Lunch Kit – knife, plate or bowl, box with closeable lid, utensils, etc.
• Phone & Charger – local sim card or international plan may be needed. Consider bringing a small power bank to use to recharge devices during trip activities.
• Map or Phone Holder – Not included with the rental
• Waterproof Travel Case or Pouch – used to keep important documents (i.e. passport, health/travel insurance, etc.) & phone safe from weather/water
• Sunglasses, Sunscreen, & Lip Balm
• First Aid Kit – see first aid kit suggestions below*
• Personal Toilet Paper Kit – most public restrooms outside of lodging will have toilet paper available, but it is good to be prepared with a personal toilet paper kit to potentially use during portions of this tour. Along the trail, there may be the need to use natural settings for toilets (i.e. digging catholes, etc.) when there are no public toilets available. Kits should include toilet paper, wet wipes, sanitizer & sealable plastic bag(s) for carrying out used paper/wipes.
• Toiletries
• Contact Lenses & Glasses – if wearing contact lenses, please also bring back-up pair of glasses and contacts.
• Prescription Medication – with emergency back-up supply
• Money – It is good to have some local currency, often smaller local businesses do not accept credit cards and/or prefer cash. Some public restrooms require small amounts of cash to use.

Optional items

• Backpack – a small sized comfortable pack with a waterproof cover. Taking a backpack is useful as it makes it easy to carry your belongings when you go on a short walking trip along the way. If your bike has a rack system this bag can be easily attached or even packed within a saddlebag.
• 2-3 Face Masks; 1-2 Over-the-counter Rapid Antigen COVID-19 Tests (Note: recommended but optional)
• Travel Power Adapter – Electric power voltage on the boat is 230 V / 50 Hz and the plugs are C type
• Support Braces – consider bringing any joint braces that may be currently needed or from past injuries (i.e. knee, ankle, elbow, etc.)
• Sleep Mask & Ear Plugs
• Bug Repellent
• Quick Drying Towel or Bandana(s)

First aid kit suggestions

After years of experience planning adventure travel around the world, we've learned that anything can happen, and every traveler should carry a basic personal first aid kit. We want to ensure our guests are well-prepared and make smart informed travel decisions. In many of the places we operate trips, it may be challenging to find certain medications and/or first aid supplies, and sometimes common items you desire may not be available in the destination you are travelling. That's why it's good to be prepared and carry a small supply of first aid supplies, any prescription medication, and/or over-the-counter medications you may require during your travels.

We recommend discussing your travel plans, vaccination requirements, and any medication usage with your primary healthcare provider before embarking on our trips. This helps ensure you have a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Here is a basic list of what we think makes a good personal travel first aid kit:

• Medications – Brands of your choice, all medications should be either prescribed directly by your doctor or discussed with a doctor prior to use.
• Electrolyte Replacement/Drink Mix – brand of choice
• Creams – Antibiotic ointment, Anti-Itch: Hydrocortisone, Arnica
• Eye Problems: Dry/Itchy – Eye drops
• Feminine Hygiene – Tampons
• Wound Care – a various pack of bandages, antiseptic swabs
• Blister Care – blister kit made up of items of your choice
• Sun Protection – sunscreen, SPF lip balm
• Various Items – Athletic tape/”KT Tape”, Nail clippers, Tweezers, Small bottle of hand sanitizer, Sewing kit (clothing/button repairs), Disposable surgical gloves (1-2 pairs)

Packing for travel

It is recommended that you prepare your items in the following manner for your travels to this trip.

“Carry-on Bag(s)” - This is the bag you will bring with you on the plane. We recommend all your pertinent information be in this bag (passport, travel documents, etc.) as well as your most important gear items (footwear, jacket, prescription medication, etc.) in case any checked luggage items become lost or delayed.

“Checked Bag(s)” - This bag will be checked and contain the rest of your personal items (clothing and gear, etc.).

Important Note: Again, it is recommended to either wear or pack in your “Carry-on Bag” the main gear items you need for this trip vs. putting them in your checked “Travel Bag” (in case luggage is delayed). Lost or delayed luggage has become more common in major airports for international travel since the global pandemic.

Luggage management during trip

During this trip, the packing system needs to be in 2 bags.

Extra Luggage - “Checked Bag(s)” & ”Carry-on Bag(s)”: This bag will contain all the items you want to bring along on the trip. It will be transferred by vehicle to your lodging, and you will have access to it at the end of each day of activity at hotels, but not throughout the day. Extra luggage is allowed on this trip.

Saddlebags/bike bag (not provided unless adding bike rental): All guests will need a bike saddle bag, which they will be responsible for carrying during trip activities. Items in this bag should include anything you may need throughout the day during the trip. (i.e. rain gear, warm layers, water, sunscreen/lip balm, snacks/food, camera/phone, etc.)

To Transport Your Belongings (while cycling):

If you don’t have a saddlebag & rack on your personal bike, bring a 30-40L backpack with a waist strap to carry what you need for the day (i.e. rain gear, warm layers, water, sunscreen/lip balm, snacks/food, camera/phone, etc.) as you cycle. If you have a rack on your bike, you can attach your bag with the help of bungee ropes or paracord. Rented bikes are equipped with a saddlebag where you can store your belongings. You should still bring a small backpack with you, so that you can easily take your belongings with you when you are visiting attractions along the route.

Countries: Netherlands and Belgium, EU members
Capital: Amsterdam and Brussels
Largest cities: Amsterdam and Brussels

Documents

Travellers from the European Union, including children, need a valid identity card or passport. Check with the authorities in your home country for the conditions of entering this destination.

Health/Insurance

Do not forget your card and/or policy details for your health insurance and/or travel insurance.

Telephone code: + 31 (Netherlands) and + 32 (Belgium).

Central European Time (CET/UTC+1) and Central European Summer Time (CEST/UTC+2) during daylight saving time.

The climate of the Netherlands and Belgium is temperate and subject to maritime inflows, resulting in mild summers, quite rainy, and winters that are cooler than cold. The ideal time is May, which is probably the least rainy season, and when flowers invade the landscape. Autumn is also very pleasant, especially for visiting Amsterdam and strolling along the canals. Avoid winter if you don't like strong winds, mist and cloud-darkened landscapes.

Dutch and French. English is spoken on the boat and in other tourist areas.

The Netherlands and Belgium are Member-States of the European Union and use its uniform currency – the Euro €. As is the case with other Member-States of the E.U. uses eight coins as follows: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1 and 2 Euros. The banknotes are issued in the following denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euros. Currency exchange rates are clearly displayed in every bank that accepts currency exchange, while credit card holders may acquire money from the ATMs of the collaborating banks. Banks are generally open for the public Monday through Fridays, during local office hours. They are closed on Public Holidays. Euros can also be exchanged for notes of other foreign currencies at exchange offices that are situated at the airport and certain main ports, in the larger cities, as well as at many tourist destinations. A passport is required when exchanging currencies.

Four boats sail on this trip: the Magnifique I, the Magnifique II, the Magnifique III and the Magnifique IV.

The new (renovated and expanded) top-of-the-line barge Magnifique I will join the fleet in 2024. The Magnifique has a capacity of max. 32 people in 16 cabins. 12 twin cabins (approximately 11m²); 4 junior suites have queen size beds (two single beds pushed together and measure approximately 15 sqm). All beautifully decorated cabins are located on the lower deck and have en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, mini safes and hairdryers; The windows cannot be opened for security reasons.

The upper deck has a tastefully furnished lounge, restaurant, lovely bar and lounge with seating areas, air conditioning, TV and large panoramic windows. Wi-Fi is available. Large glass doors open onto the beautiful partially covered teak wood sun deck, with chairs and tables, located between the saloon and the wheelhouse. The bikes are stored on the foredeck.

This luxurious boat was built in 2015/2016. It is 63 meters long and 7m20 wide and can accommodate 34 passengers. The lower deck has 12 standard two-person cabins (approx. 11m², 2 beds side by side).

The upper deck has 4 very beautiful suites (approx. 14m², 2 beds side by side, small lounge area and large panoramic bay windows). The portholes in the lower cabins are fixed (for safety reasons), the suites on the upper deck have 2m windows (one can be opened). All cabins are equipped with shower, toilet, air conditioning, flat screen TV, a small safe and a hairdryer. On request we can add a bed in 2 cabins of 2 and a suite (bunk beds).

It is on the upper deck that you will find the lounge (restaurant and bar) where you will find at your disposal a flat screen TV and Wifi access (unlimited). Some parts of the teak deck are covered and there are tables and chairs to help you make the most of the cruise. You will also have a jacuzzi and deckchairs at your disposal.

Boat Map

Decks and Cabins

Single Cabin standard

Standard twin cabin

Standard Triple Cabin

Suite for 2 people

A stunning 67-meter boat, built in 2018, with 14 stunning cabins on the lower deck (2 beds, bathroom, satellite TV, small trunk and hairdryer). The 5 suites on the upper deck also have a small lounge and large windows. The restaurant is located on the upper deck, close to the lounge/bar. The jacuzzi is located on the terrace deck.

Upper deck - 5 suites of 16m², 2 separate beds, small living room and large window.

Lower deck - 14 twin cabins of 12m², 2 separate beds, fixed portholes, 2 single cabins of 7-9m².

Triple cabin: Possibility of adding a 3rd bed (for children only up to 15 years old) in one of the twin cabins and in one of the suites.

The saloon welcomes you on the upper deck with its restaurant and bar areas; 2 flat screens will show you the exact position of the boat during the stay. Enjoy a moment of relaxation in the jacuzzi or on the deckchairs on the upper deck.

Boat Map

Decks and Cabins

Standard twin cabin

Suite for 2 people on the upper deck

The MAGNIFIQUE IV (launching in April 2020). It can accommodate 36 passengers in 18 cabins and sails under the Dutch flag.

All cabins have a bathroom and toilet, air conditioning, a flat screen TV, a small safe and a hairdryer. There are 10 suites (approx. 16m², 2 separate beds side by side with lounge area and bay window (partially opens) and 8 standard cabins (approx. 12m², 2 beds side by side). You will find the 10 suites on the upper deck. They are equipped (in addition to the bathroom and toilet) with a small lounge area and a bay window.

The saloon welcomes you on the upper deck with its restaurant and bar area; 2 flat screens will show you the exact position of the boat during the stay. Enjoy a moment of relaxation in the jacuzzi or on the deckchairs on the upper deck.

Boat Map

Decks and Cabins

Suite for 2 on the upper deck

Restaurant, lower deck

Lounge and bar, upper deck