Southern Holland by Bike and Boat

Easy level cyclist. The route is flat and easy, on quiet roads (bike paths and quiet side roads). Stages of 30km/18.6mi per day on average (between 20 and 58km/12.4 to 36mi depending on the day), at your own pace, and which leave you time to enjoy the many possible visits along the way. On some days, you can choose between a longer route and a shorter route. Please note that on the shorter routes, you will not be able to visit all the mentioned highlights.

Itinerary

90% of the route is on a cycle path.

Nothing to carry, only a small bag with your belongings for the day and your picnic.

Possibility to register from one person (cabin only mandatory, in this case).

8 days / 7 nights / 6 days of cycling.

Departure Period

Departure on a Saturday or Sunday, from the end of March to the beginning of October.

You will receive on board the boat: maps and tourist indications (in English). This route is done using an application to download on your mobile or GPS. We provide you with all the information before departure in the form of a digital file. Every day, a tour leader is at your disposal for explanations. The guide does the steps 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.

In the cabin (different types depending on the boat). Towels and bed linen are provided. Types of cabins:

- Twin cabins of approx. 10-11m² with 2 separate beds - Twin cabins of approx. 11m² with 2 separate beds - Suites of approx. 15m² with 2 beds that can be separated - 2 single cabins on board DE ARKONA

You are on full board (7 breakfasts, 6 picnics and 7 dinners). 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. 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.

Day 1 in Amsterdam from 14:00 to 16:30. You can bring your luggage from 11:00 am.

Day 8 in Amsterdam; Disembarkation scheduled until 9:30 am after breakfast.

Please note, that places on board the boats are very limited and our bike-boat trips are quickly sold out. We therefore advise you to book as early as possible to ensure that you can go on one of these stays.

Bike rental

The rental bikes are unisex hybrid bikes from the Gazelle Chamonix and Velo de Ville C100 brand (women’s model), Shimano 7 speed, handlebar brake, gel saddle (adjustable) provided with a lock and a pannier. All bikes have 28" frames. Other smaller bikes are available on board. Some larger bikes (men’s model, for people over 190 cm tall) are also available.

Hybrid Bike

There are a few electric bikes available on board (on request). These are CEB 200 Nexus City Bike bikes with 7 speeds, 4 levels of support and handlebar brake only (or similar brand), supplied with a lock and a pannier. Wearing a helmet is not compulsory in the Netherlands (although we recommend it). You have the option to rent one when you sign up.

E-Bike

Personal bike: you have the possibility to come with your personal bike (hybrid or electric), in this case fees are applied. For safety reasons it is not possible to charge the battery of the electric bike in the cabin, the crew will inform you on site of the place provided for this purpose. The crew and Grand Angle cannot be held responsible in the event of damage, loss or theft of your personal bike.

By Train

https://www.ns.nl/en (accessible in anglais) or https://www.sncf-connect.com/fr-fr. Amsterdam Centraal Station.

By Plane

Schiphol Airport 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). Taxi: TCA Taxicentrale, +31 (0) 207777777. BBF Schiphol Taxi, +31850653670.

Park your car

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 file.

Swimming

A number of our trips lend themselves to swimming, either during the stage or at the end of the day. It would be a shame not to take advantage of them. Please note, however, that you are the sole judge of whether or not to go for a swim, and that you do so under your own responsibility and at your own risk.

Responsible tourism

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, with our partners, and in the organization of our trips.

This label, the second level of a rigorous international certification, attests to 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.

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.

• 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. Not included with the rental unless specifically requested
• 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.

• 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 E 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)

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)

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 becomes 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 and more common in major airports for international travel since the global pandemic.

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.

Country: Netherlands Capital: Amsterdam Population: 17,108,800 (Approx.)

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.

Netherlands: +31

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

German and English on the boat, some English is usually spoken in tourist areas away from the boat.

The Netherlands is a 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.

The DE AMSTERDAM is a boat about 95m/312ft long. The boat has 56 cabins for a maximum capacity of 112 passengers. All cabins have a window.

Lower Deck Cabins:

The lower deck has 30 twin cabins (11m²). All cabins are equipped with air conditioning, TV, small chest of drawers, small safe, hairdryer, 230 and 115V socket, 2 separate beds and a shower room with toilet. All cabins have a window that can be partially opened.

Upper Deck Cabins:

The upper deck has 18 twin cabins (11m²) and 8 suites (15m²). Suites have the same amenities as other cabins but are more spacious and have minibars and balconies instead of windows. The beds in the suites are pushed together to form a single large bed but can be separated to form a twin.

Restaurant and Lounge:

The DE AMSTERDAM has a large restaurant area on the lower deck. The saloon on the upper deck has a large window. The bar is located next to the lounge. WIFI is available in the living room with limited access.

Outside: The upper deck is equipped with chairs and deckchairs so you can enjoy your cruise. The interior of the boat is non-smoking; there is a smoking area on the upper deck only.

DE AMSTERDAM

The ARKONA is a new 83m/272ft long boat. It was completely renovated in 2018 with a focus on comfort and elegance. It has two levels of decking, a beautiful dining area and a partially shaded sundeck making it the perfect place to relax after a day of cycling.

All cabins have air conditioning, TV, small safe, hairdryer, 230V socket and a private bathroom with shower and toilet. All twin cabins (11m²) are equipped with two separate single beds. One of the separate beds can be turned into a sofa during the day.

Lower Deck Cabins:

The lower deck has 33 twin cabins with a window that - for safety reasons - cannot be opened.

Upper Deck Cabins:

The upper deck has 12 identical twin cabins (11m²) with large windows that can partially open. It also has 2 single cabins with a small double bed (140 cm) and a panoramic window with the upper half that can be opened.

Restaurant and Lounge: The ARKONA has a large lounge where the restaurant and bar are located. Wifi is available in the living room with paid access. It also has a spacious terrace.

ARKONA