Flanders
About Flanders
Taste the sweetness of bountiful Flanders
Known for its wonderful chocolates and gourmet cuisine, the Flanders region of coastal Belgium is rich in culture and natural beauty — windmills, meadows, marshes, sandy beaches and bustling cities replete with Gothic architectural grandeur. Evidence of the past is everywhere on canal boat vacations in Flanders whilst you encounter one looming castle after another!
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Nieuwpoort is our base in the Flanders region, situated on the coast with access to lovely sandy beaches. From Nieuwpoort, you can head south and visit the town of Ieper (6hrs from Nieuwpoort) where many head to pay their respects to those who fell in the Great Wars. Or you can head east where famous and pretty Bruges can be reached in 6hrs, and lively Ghent a further 6hrs cruising from there.
Travel connections
- 16km from Oostende (OST)
- 104km from Lille (France) (LIL)
- 125km from Brussel-Zaventem (BRU)
- 16km from Oostende station
- 10km from Veurne
Sounds interesting? Find out More
Nieuwpoort is our base in the Flanders region, situated on the coast with access to lovely sandy beaches. From Nieuwpoort, you can head south and visit the town of Ieper (6hrs from Nieuwpoort) where many head to pay their respects to those who fell in the Great Wars. Or you can head east where famous and pretty Bruges can be reached in 6hrs, and lively Ghent a further 6hrs cruising from there.
Travel connections
- 16km from Oostende (OST)
- 104km from Lille (France) (LIL)
- 125km from Brussel-Zaventem (BRU)
- 16km from Oostende station
- 10km from Veurne
Sounds interesting? Find out More
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Flanders map
Le Boat Base
Canal
Navigable river
No navigation beyond this point
No license or experience required
Never handled a boat? You don’t need a license or prior experience to be the captain of your own houseboat. Our base teams will show you everything you need to know before you set off safely on your houseboat cruise.
The perfect boating region for…
History & Heritage
Flanders reflects its history and heritage in its abundant cathedrals and palaces. While you’re in Ghent, admire the Cathedral of St. Bavon. Ascend St. Michael’s Bridge for fantastic views of the medieval city. Ypres, also spelled as Ieper is famous for its World War I museums.
Swimming
The gorgeous beaches of Neiuwpoort and Oostende draw thousands of travelers every summer for fun in the sun on the North Sea. Take a dip in the surf and then relax at a waterside bistro! Linger at a refreshing lake on your riverboat cruises in Flanders!
Gastronomy
Flanders gastronomy will tantalize you! Try vlaamse stoofkarbonaden stew, a favorite in Belgium. It’s a lot like beef bourguignon, but it’s made with beer instead of red wine. Or try konijn in gueze (rabbit prepared with gueze beer). And don’t forget the world-famous pralines chocolates for dessert!
Family
Have fun with the kids at Bellewaerde Park in Ypres with its amusement rides and rare animals. Brielmeersen Park in Deinze features mini golf and a bamboo labyrinth! The kids’ll also love the beach and munching too much chocolate on Flanders river cruises in Belgium!
Beer Tasting
Belgium is famous for its beers: champagne, lambic, tripel, dubbel and more! Try a Flemish red on your beer tasting vacations in Flanders! The Straffe Hendrik Brewery in Bruges offers tours and tasting, and the Dulle Griet Bar in Gent has a menu of 250 brews!
Interactive map of Flanders
Le Boat base
Point of interest
Route suggestions
To help you get an idea of how far you can travel in the time you have, here’s a selection of routes to and from our bases in this region. You dont have to stop at all the places listed or follow the route exactly. So long as you return your boat to your end base by the date you’ve booked – you’re free to enjoy your cruise however you like. For a comfortable pace, allowing you time to regularly stop and explore, we’d recommend an average of 2 – 4 hours cruising each day.
Please note: Any route suggestions and itineraries on the Le Boat website are examples only and any of the suggested potential routes, attractions, restaurants, towns, villages or sections of the waterway included in them may not always be open or accessible at time of cruising.
= Click the arrow icon on each route suggestion, to flip the 'card' and reveal more details.
The Beautiful Bruges Short Break
The Beautiful Bruges Short Break
Nieuwpoort RETURN via Bruges
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Overview
You marvel at the network of waterways that lace inland away from the sea. The cruise options seem limitless as you leave the golden beaches of Nieuwpoort behind and head out bound for Bruges, the Venice of the North, on wonderful river cruises in Belgium. Almost immediately you’re struck with the country’s cosmopolitan charm — elegant castles, pretty bridges, and waterside cafés galore!
Top highlights:
- Strolling along the beach of Nieuwpoort
- Exploring the military fortress in the sand dunes of Ostend
- The restored Gruuthusemuseum in Bruges
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation
- Nieuwpoort: Nieuwpoort is a lively and cosmopolitan city on the seaside, popular with families and has a 2km long promenade. Take a walk along the beach, and feel relaxed by the wind and the sound of waves. A pretty town to have a break.
- Ostend: Ostend is a big city on the seaside whose history is built around intensive fishing. You can visit several monuments here, like a old stronghold built by Napoleon. Take time to visit the museums, and have a bite at one of the nearby restaurants.
- Bruges: The architecture in the medieval center of Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, makes this city one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Small enough to explore on foot, by carriage or canal boat, there are many museums to see, along with good restaurants and shops.
The Little Flanders Short Break
The Little Flanders Short Break
Nieuwpoort RETURN via Ypres & Veurne
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Overview
The buglers gather before you under the Menin Gate Memorial in Ypres, and you listen as they play the Last Post to honour the soldiers who died in World War I. The bugling has been a tradition since 1928, and you find it moving. Flanders river cruising is like that. The past emerges at every turn in historic cities, looming castles and waterfront bistros where you sip a Flemish red!
Top highlights:
- Strolling along the beach of Nieuwpoort
- Visiting the reconstructed buildings of powerful Ypres
- Butter biscuits and whipped cream-filled pastries in Diksmuide
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your holiday:
- Nieuwpoort: Nieuwpoort is a lively and cosmopolitan city on the seaside, popular with families and has a 2km long promenade. Take a walk along the beach, and feel relaxed by the wind and the sound of waves. A pretty town to have a break.
- Veurne: Veurne is a welcoming city with the characteristic local architecture. Visit the church of Sainte-Walburge and its garden, the city hall, and the pavilion of spanish officers.
- Ypres: Ypres is a beautiful and welcoming city full of history. The Hall Aux Draps is a beautiful building worth visiting and don’t miss the zoo in Bellewaerde Park.
- Diksmuide: In Diksmuide, you will enjoy visiting the gothic church of Saint-Nicolas, especially La Pièta, behind the City Hall. Other great sites include the Beguine and the Yser Tower in Diksmuide.
The Peace Cruise
The Peace Cruise
Nieuwpoort RETURN via Ypres & Bruges
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Overview
Belgium river cruises transport you deep into the past. Fascinating museums reveal archaeological, artistic and even culinary history, such as the Museum of the Bakery in Veurne. Ypres and Diksmuide feature Belgium’s bloody World War I history. As you cruise, the peace of the present serenity on the water captivates you, regardless of the tumult of the past.
Top highlights:
- Strolling along the beach of Niuewpoort
- Visiting the reconstructed buildings of powerful Ypres
- Butter biscuits and whipped cream-filled pastries in Diksmuide
- The restored Gruuthusemuseum in Bruges
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Nieuwpoort: Nieuwpoort is a lively and cosmopolitan city on the seaside, popular with families and has a 2 km long promenade. Take a walk along the beach, and feel relaxed by the wind and the sound of waves. A pretty town to have a break.
- Veurne: Veurne is a welcoming city with characteristic local architecture. Visit the church of Sainte-Walburge and its garden, the city hall, and the pavilion of spanish officers.
- Ypres: Ypres is a beautiful and welcoming city full of history. The Hall Aux Draps is a beautiful building worth visiting and don’t miss the zoo in Bellewaerde Park.
- Diksmuide: In Diksmuide, you will enjoy visiting the gothic church of Saint-Nicolas, especially La Pièta, behind the City Hall. Other great sites include the beguine and the Yser Tower in Diksmuide.
- Ostend: Ostende is a big city on the seaside whose history is built around intensive fishing. You can visit several monuments here, like an old stronghold built by Napoleon. Take time to visit the museums, and have a bite at one of the nearby restaurants.
- Bruges: The architecture in the medieval center of Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, makes this city one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Small enough to explore on foot, by carriage or canal boat, there are many museums to see, along with good restaurants and shops.
The Chocolates and Lace Cruise
The Chocolates and Lace Cruise
Nieuwpoort RETURN via Bruges & Ghent
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Overview
Your mouth waters as you and your friends hunt a candy store in Bruges, the capital of West Flanders. The fragrance of chocolate fills the air, and you surrender to the urge to indulge! Belgium captivates you as you travel through beautiful country settings into medieval cities like Ghent with its impressive Gothic architecture.
Top highlights:
- Strolling along the beach of Nieuwpoort
- The restored Gruuthusemuseum in Bruges
- The medieval architecture of Ghent
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your holiday:
- Nieuwpoort: Nieuwpoort is a lively and cosmopolitan city on the seaside, popular with families and has a 2 km long promenade. Take a walk along the beach, and feel relaxed by the wind and the sound of waves. A pretty town to have a break.
- Ostend: Ostend is a big city on the seaside whose history is built around intensive fishing. You can visit several monuments here, like an old stronghold built by Napoleon. Take time to visit the museums, and have a bite at one of the nearby restaurants.
- Bruges: The architecture in the medieval center of Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, makes this city one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Small enough to explore on foot, by carriage or canal boat, there are many museums to see, along with good restaurants and shops.
- Deinze: Deinze is a delightful little town with many shops and attractions. The Brielmeersen Park has beautiful footpaths, along with a large children’s playground, mini-golf and a giant bamboo maze.
- Ghent: Ghent, the pearl of Flanders, was once the second largest city in Europe after Paris. No other city in Belgium has as many monuments and important buildings as Ghent. The historic center is ideal to explore on foot – don’t forget to take your camera!
The Turrets and Tapestry Long Break
The Turrets and Tapestry Long Break
Nieuwpoort RETURN via Bruges, Ghent, Kortrijk & Oudenaarde
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Overview
You browse in the chic boutiques in Ghent, explore the castle, and then continue on your way, feeling content in the embrace of the scenic Belgian countryside. It seems every town tempts you to stop and shop! Your Belgium river cruises eventually bring you to Oudenaarde, famous for its tapestry making and good restaurants. After dinner, you seek out Belgian brews!
Top highlights:
- Strolling along the beach of Nieuwpoort
- The restored Gruuthusemuseum in Bruges
- The medieval architecture of Ghent
- The Broel towers of Kortrijk
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Nieuwpoort: Nieuwpoort is a lively and cosmopolitan city on the seaside, popular with families and has a 2 km long promenade. Take a walk along the beach, and feel relaxed by the wind and the sound of waves. A pretty town to have a break.
- Ostend: Ostend is a big city on the seaside whose history is built around intensive fishing. You can visit several monuments here, like an old stronghold built by Napoleon. Take time to visit the museums, and have a bite at one of the nearby restaurants.
- Bruges: The architecture in the medieval center of Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, makes this city one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Small enough to explore on foot, by carriage or canal boat, there are many museums to see, along with good restaurants and shops.
- Deinze: Deinze is a delightful little town with many shops and attractions. The Brielmeersen Park has beautiful footpaths, along with a large children’s playground, mini-golf and a giant bamboo maze.
- Kortrijk: Kortrijk is a beautiful and historic city, where you will discover the Broel towers – among many other buildings and monuments that make up this town’s magnificent local architecture.
- Bossuit: Bossuit is a charming little village where you will enjoy a walk and a visit to the old castle, built in the 17th century.
- Oudenaarde: Oudenaarde is famous for its carpet weaving and tapestry. You can discover this history in details at the museum, and the fabric factory exhibits in typical tapestries. The Broodstraat, Nederstraat, Einestraat and Hoogstraat are the main pedestrian streets that have kept all the charm of the old medieval streets.
- Ghent: Ghent, the pearl of Flanders, was once the second largest city in Europe after Paris. No other city in Belgium has as many monuments and important buildings as Ghent. The historic center is ideal to explore on foot – don’t forget to take your camera!
The Peace Short Break
The Peace Short Break
Nieuwpoort RETURN via Ypres
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Overview
Nieuwpoort is a lovely seaside town where you can have a walk and taste seafood speciliaties in front of the sea. Then cruising to the South, you’ll discover the history and patrimoine of Belgium in the charming towns of Diskmuide and Ypres, famous for its museums and its World War II monuments. Don’t miss out on trying some chocolates and local beer along the way!
Top highlights:
- Strolling along the beach of Nieuwpoort
- Butter biscuits and whipped cream-filled pastries in Diksmuide
- Visiting the reconstructed buildings of powerful Ypres
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Nieuwpoort: Nieuwpoort is a lively and cosmopolitan city on the seaside, popular with families and has a 2 km long promenade. Take a walk along the beach, and feel relaxed by the wind and the sound of waves. A pretty town to have a break.
- Diksmuide: In Diksmuide, you will enjoy visiting the gothic church of Saint-Nicolas, especially La Pièta, behind the City Hall. Other great sites include the Beguine and the Yser Tower in Diksmuide.
- Ypres: Ypres is a beautiful and welcoming city full of history. The Hall Aux Draps is a beautiful building worth visiting and don’t miss the zoo in Bellewaerde Park.
Added on 15 July 2024
We took the Le Boat tour in Belgium from June…
We took the Le Boat tour in Belgium from June to July 2024. Rik from Westhoek Marina at Nieuwpoort was an exceptional guide. He provided us with many useful travel tips, and we greatly appreciated the staff members’ helpfulness and positive attitude. When one of our suitcase wheels broke, Rik even went out of his way to drop us off at the Nieuwpoort bus and tram station. We loved every little town (especially Bruges and Ghent, but Diksmuide and Ieper were also interesting and beautiful in their own way. We completed both Route 1 and Route 2. Thanks to the Belgium team—this was such a great holiday!
Added on 11 July 2024
Good and easy to around on bicycle. Restaurants plentiful
Good and easy to around on bicycle. Restaurants plentiful
Added on 10 July 2024
We rented a new boat which worked perfectly. The staff…
We rented a new boat which worked perfectly. The staff , waiters, mechanics, reception , booking agent were all amazing, friendly and no issue was too small or too big to fix. Thank you for a wonderful holiday .
Added on 14 May 2024
LeBoat personnel are awesome. The Chief and Bieke were immensely…
LeBoat personnel are awesome. The Chief and Bieke were immensely helpful. The boat was as advertised. There were no hidden fees or costs to worry about.
Added on 13 November 2022
Lovely scenery and canals, and interesting cities and towns along…
Lovely scenery and canals, and interesting cities and towns along the way. The boat was well equipped, maps were good and the LeBoat staff always there when we had a question or a problem.
Added on 2 November 2022
I loved the route and the towns we visited. Bruges…
I loved the route and the towns we visited. Bruges is incredible.
Added on 17 October 2022
The base was clean and well organized. Groceries were convenient.…
The base was clean and well organized. Groceries were convenient. Neptune’s served a delicious meal of local fare upon our arrival. Everything was perfect. We toured Nieuwpoort by bike while we waited for the rest of our crew to arrive.
Added on 17 May 2022
Cruise route excellent, river and canal beautiful and full of…
Cruise route excellent, river and canal beautiful and full of wildlife. Boat was good although showing signs of age. Lack of moorings needed care
Added on 4 May 2022
Everything from start to finish was excellent. Staff in particular…
Everything from start to finish was excellent. Staff in particular really knew their stuff dnd communicated well with us both in advance of and at the start of our trip.
Added on 3 October 2021
very nice, interesting location! we did travel in cities and…
very nice, interesting location! we did travel in cities and nature. it was wonderful!
Added on 19 May 2021
Very comfortable boat, we liked the sun deck a lot!…
Very comfortable boat, we liked the sun deck a lot!
We slept very well, didn’t expect that 😉, as it was a new experience for us, out of our ‘comfort’ zone.
Added on 9 September 2020
Diksmuide is a beautiful small town. Ieper is interresting to…
Diksmuide is a beautiful small town. Ieper is interresting to visit.
Added on 24 August 2020
Nice weather, beautiful region
Nice weather, beautiful region
Added on 24 August 2020
Beginner-friendly route, and very easy to navigate.
Beginner-friendly route, and very easy to navigate.
Added on 28 July 2020
The weather was extraordinary good, which dramatically helped
The weather was extraordinary good, which dramatically helped